57 32 1900 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/c6236e8929d6504bb90c6f813b740458.PDF 51e61cab176aad11797f4a3ddfa1297a PDF Text Text STANDARD FREIGHTSHlP/> between •s'l,'; ,. '_/y--i, ••'.,' Ray McKay, who passed away August 9, is shown speaking at the dedication of the Paul Hail Center for Maritime Training and Education in 1991. Atlantic, - The SlU has negotiated a new three-year standard contract with the shipowners group, the American Maritime Association, that will be presented for approval to SlU members this month • Paged '-^i.-^.^-;.,'-.'-.:; •:•^'•• r-' pi. Ray McKay, AMO Head, Dies at 68 'M. 1993 STANDARD TANKER AGREEMENT bclwecii WON Lakes and Inland Waters District. AFL-CIO and Contracted Companies Raymond T. McKay, president of AMO-Dlstrict 2 MEBA, who guided his organization to a position of strength in the U.S. maritime industry, passed away August 9. A forward-looking trade unionist, McKay had a long and close working relationship with the SlU going back more than 40 years. ' l3' .- • •• • .. • . . •. ; ..-r - \ • Paged /• '.i: Hefr >'irv^ •J," • / -p- v • • -. �2 S2AFARERSL0G SEPTEMBER 1993 President's Report Senate Panel Told That Re-Hagging Will Cost Nation Mere Than Dollars Our 'Economic and Strategic Future' ' tf. YA-..V-. • '•'• V •!,..?« li;^' .'.V A Senate subcommittee heard testimony from maritime labor Representing more than 80 trade unions made up of more and shipping representatives as than 14 million members, the AFL-CIO serves as the voice of well as a fellow senator that im­ working people in the United States. The mediate attention from the Clin­ AFL-CIO has long held that a strong, viable ton administration is needed to U.S.-fleet is a good thing for America's keep the U.S. flag flying on coneconomic and security interests and as such tainerships belonging to Seais a good thing for American workers. Land and American President So when the AFL-CIO Executive Council met last month in Chicago, it issued a state­ Lines (APL)., The Senate Merchant Marine ment on the subject of the future of U.S. Subcommittee called the August shipping that did not mince words. "The 5 hearing after the two SlU-conU.S. government appears to be on the verge tracted companies filed applica­ Michael Sacco of dismantling what remains of the tions during the summer with the American merchant marine," opened the From left, listening to testimony during the hearing are Sens. Trent Maritime Administration statement adopted by the full council, Lott (R-Mlss.) and John Breaux (D-La.). (MarAd) to transfer 20 vessels "Maritime policy is in chaos," the statement charged. (13 from Sea-Land and- seven The AFL-(CIO statement, adopted unanimously by the coun- from APL) to a foreign-flag The uniort president continued commercial fleet and only hope cil which is made up of 33 international union presidents and registry. The two companies had by saying such a re-flagging that ships will somehow appear in the AFL-CIO's president and secretary-treasurer, urged Con­ been threatening to make such a move could not be viewed as just a national emergency," Breaux gress and the Clinton administration to choose a course "that move since early 1992 unless a a private business decision. "It is added. will not only preserve but rebuild a strong maritime industry national maritime policy was The senator acknowledged the very much the business of the that is so essential to the nation's economic and strategic fu­ enacted. administration's attempts to public, and bad business at that." ture." Appearing as the first witness. reduce the national debt. "While Joining Sacco at the witness Moreover AFL-CIO support for the American merchant I appreciate Senator Barbara Mikulski (Dthe fiscal restraints table were Timothy Brown, presi­ marine casts a different light on the issue. The labor federation Md.) began the attacks on the dent of the International Or­ we are operating under, the cost speaks for working Americans, no matter their occupation— American companies' registering ganization of Masters, Mates and of saving this vital industry is teachers, construction workers, actors and actresses, health care their vessels offshore. "I am ap­ Pilots; Gordon Ward, president of negligible. The cost of not saving employees, workers in manufacturing and mining, among palled at the idea of our leading District No. 1 PCD Marine En­ it, on the other hand, is tremen­ others. When the AFL-CIO says America must have a mer­ shipping companies re-flagging gineers Beneficial Association; dous," Breaux said. chant fleet, it is speaking for millions of Americans who have under a foreign flag," Mikulsia When industry officials were and Jerome Joseph, executive no direct connection with the maritime industry. But those told the panel. "I am, frankly, ap­ asked by the subcommittee why vice president of the American Americans do have a stake in an America that is not dependent prehensive at the idea that the they were seeking to re-flag their Maritime Officers, District 2for her strategic interests on uncertain allies. Those Americms next time our country is called to ships, John Snow, chairman and MEBA. do have a stake in an America that has a U.S.-flag presence in war, we will be dependent upon chief executive officer of Seainternational shipping trades, thereby ensuring the nation's Merchant Fleet Needed some other country's goodwill to Land's parent company CSX, economic security. In opening the hearing. carry our troops and our weapons respond^ "We have no incen­ The AFL-CIO recognizes the essentiality of a U.S.-flag fleet Senator John Breaux (D-La.), die to the nation's interests. It is high time those entrusted with the to the conflict." subcommittee chairman, noted tive under the current system to 'Wake-Up Cair nation's public policy do the same. Insofar as the Seafarers is that "every flag officer that I have invest in the U.S.-flag fleet. We The senator stated she wanted spoken to over the past 20 years don't want to re-flag, but we have concerned, we will be doing everything within our power to "to send a wake-up call to the has acknowledged the impor­ no option with our responsibility make sure that policy-makers at all levels recognize that the president, the secretary of tance of the U.S.-flag commercial to shareholders to take the actions world's largest trading nation is only an independent superdefense and the secretary of fleet to our security. And I con­ we are proposing." >ower as long as the Stars and Stripes is firmly planted on the transportation. I do not believe we tinue to hear that from the people lighseas. American Crews 'Better' can afford to let this vital industry responsible for fighting the wars. Breaux asked Snow what as­ sail off into the sunset." "It's the 'white collared policy surance Americans will have that The Loss of Ray McKay She called on the administra­ gurus' that don't think we need a foreign crews will sail into war We in the SIU are going to miss Ray McKay, a man with tion to offer a plan that would zones with supplies for the U.S. whom Seafarers enjoyed an intimate trade union relationship ensure a U.S.-flag reserve fleet armed forces. for decades. Brother McKay's death last month is a severe or military purposes, provide dif"The only honest answer is blow for everyone who cares about the American merchant erential payments for U.S.-flag there is no absolute assurance," marine—seamen and shipowners alike. He was a man who shipping companies to compen­ Snow said. never gave up on the U.S. merchant marine. His union's for­ sate for milita^ reserve functions The subcommittee chairman ward looking training program is testimony to his determina­ and protect the jobs of thousands then asked if American merchant tion to keep the U.S. flag on the high seas. of American merchant mariners. mariners "are better than those He was a man who never accepted defeat. He always "Everyone is talking about Representing the Clinton ad­ you will use from foreign planned for tomorrow. Brother McKay was a wonderful guy to reinventing government and I ministration tiefore the subcom­ countries." be fighting alongside of. think it might be time to reinvent mittee Is Joan YIm, the acting It will be a long time—if ever—that we see his likes come the merchant marine," Mikulski maritime administrator. Continued on pt^e 8 our way again. But we can be comforted by the satisfaction of told the panel. "We need to be having known and worked with him—that he was one of ours. able to have the flexibility to be He leaves a solid legacy and great memories for those of us able to respond around the world, who had the advantage of comradeship with him. We will al­ even if it's for peacekeeping, for ways respect his memory. delivery of humanitarian help and any number of other things." MSC Head Inspects Union's Training Facility Costs to Country Mount She was joined in opposition to the re-flagging effort by SIU President Michael Sacco. He pointed out the cost to the country if the 20 ships are re-flagged. "The result will be hundreds of jobs that will be lost, a major reduction in our nation's strategic sealift capability, a reduced Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.) praises the U.S. merchant marine's American presence in ports efforts In recent military conflicts. around the world, a loss of tax revenues and a worsening of our September 1993 foreign trade deficit," Sacco told Volume 55. Number 9 the subcommittee. "Maritime assets are more The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published than just a collection of ships. monthly by the Seafarers Intemational Union; Atlantic, They are also people—highly Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) skilled people, adept at the spe­ cialized nature of their craft, who 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Georges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional mailing by virtue of their citizenship and offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the professional conunitment offer Seafarers LOG. 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md. unquestioned loyalty to their 20746. F F 6 country. "Certainly the military views Communications Department Director and Editor, Jes­ Vice Admiral Michael Kalleres, head of the Military Seallft Com­ its crewmembers as an integral sica Smith; Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate mand, meets an englneroom upgrader during his visit to the Paul Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; As­ component of itsoverall strength. Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education on July 23. sociate Editor/Production, Deborah A Hirtes; Art, BiU Kalleres also toured the union's manpower facility andshipfiandling So too should ship operators," Brower. simulator, as well as talked with Seafarers during his visit. Sacco stated. fii �'WB' ;'^^ V.. SEPTEMBER 1993 SEAFARERSLOG 3 3-Year Standard Pact Announced Gains in WageSy Out-Patient Care; Pensions Uncapped •Mm A new three-year standard tions which was brought about by by boarding union officials to health care coverage and other payments are based on the freightship and tanker contract the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 SIU members on ships calling at benefits available to Seafarers Department of Labor Bureau of embodying beneficial gains in (CPA '90). The new contract U.S. ports. and their families. Labor Statistics Consumer Price wages, pensions and medical calls for an extensive training cur­ All the recommendations from Index (CPI) which tracks infla­ Extended Negotiations benefits as well as certain work riculum for Seafarers who sail on tion in the American economy. While the previous standard these venues were compiled and rule changes has been negotiated tankers. The COLA payment goes into crafted into a bargaining position by the Seafarers International In addition to changes brought labor agreement with the for the union as negotiations effect if the CPI rises above 5 Union, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and about by regulatory concerns, the American Maritime Association began last spring. percent by a full percentage point. Inland Waters District. union and the company addressed for both tankers and freightships Fractions betvyeen 5 and 6 percent Wage increases: 3-4-4 The agreement, reached last shipboard work procedures in an expired June 15,1993, the terms can be carried to the next year. of that contract were extended The pact raises base wages 3 The cost of living adjustment month with deep sea operators in effort to build in flexibility while the management group known as maintaining strict safety prac­ through the middle of August by percent effective July 1, 1993. A measured by full percentage agreement of both negotiating 4 percent increase begins on July the American Maritime Associa­ tices. points will be added to the base parties. The contract talks, which 1, 1994 and another 4 percent tion, calls for a cumulative base wage, premium overtime and offThe work rule changes in the wage increase of 11 percent over new contract increase the ver­ began in the spring, thus extended raise kicks in on July 1,1995. The watch penalty rates. 1993 raise is retroactive to July 1 the next three years and extends satility and skills of Seafarers and into the summer. Criteria for Registering out-patient medical benefits to encourage shipowners to have Increased Pensions which allows Seafarers who have In conjunction with the new sailed on vessels covered by the the dependents of Seafarers. routine maintenance take place Possible standard agreement to apply for contract, the union's shipping The new contract allows the while the vessel is under navigation See page 4 the wage increase back to that rules have been amended to ^ow board of trustees of the Seafarers or in operation at a port instead of a Seafarer to register for shipping Pension Plan to lift the $1,000 per having it done in a shipyard. In preparing for the negotia­ date. at any union hall without present­ The penalty on-watch rate will month maximum limit, paving tions, the union carefully ing a drug test certificate or a ben­ Membership Contract Vote the way for higher pensions for reviewed the contract reconunen- go up 3 percent in the first year of The entire contract package dations made by Seafarers in the contract, effective July 1, zene-test certificate. This will Seafarers who retire in the future and who meet the eligibility re­ will be presented to Seafarers for minutes of shipboard union meet­ 1993. All other Overtime and allow a Seafarer to register approval during union meetings ings, in minutes of monthly mem­ penalty rates will remain the same without having to wait out the quirements of the program. period of time between taking the Under the pact—which covers held on Tuesday, September 7, bership meetings at the varioiis for the life of the contract. tests and obtaining the results and the period of June 16, 1993 to 1993. On this day, the pact will be halls, in communications to the Vacation time remains at cur­ June 15, 1996—the manning presented at the regularly contracts department and in ses­ rent levels, but Seafarers will see clearances. However, the Seafarer will be levels currently in force are scheduled headquarters meeting sions with Seafarers attending higher vacation pay as it is in­ responsible for having proof that at Piney Point, Md. which begins retained. classes to upgrade their skills at dexed to base wages which are Negotiators for the union and at 10:30 a.m. At 1:00 p.m. on the the Lundeberg School. upped under the new agreement. he or she has passed the drug same day, special meetings on the the companies also addressed is­ Included in the pact is a cost- screening and benzene testing at The union also culled the sug­ sues that have come up as a result contract will be concurrently held gestions raised in a series of con­ of-living-adjustment (COLA) the time the job is called and the Seafarer throws in for the work. of the sweeping regulatory at every union hall. ferences held in 1991 sponsored provision for the second and third The pact will also be presented by the Seafarers Plans on the years of the agreement. COLA regime governing tanker opera­ Continued on page 6 /I..;' . •if ft . Meditml Coverage Extended Per Dependents of Seafarers The spouses and children of Seafarers who are employed by shipping companies that are signators to the SIU's standard con­ tract are eligible for a wide range of out-patient benefits as a result of the new three-year pact negotiated by the union. During this round of contract deliberations, the union was determined to secure out-patient coverage for dependents because the membership had sent a strong and clear message of interest in this benefit through communica­ tions to SIU headquarters and Under the New Medical V^fcii?baJ:vy'A•, •;. .-;•. t ^v''4-^V.*'r.-'^ •' The benefit of having dependent out-patient care covered for a large part by the Seafarers Welfare piem can be seen in tire following examples: Bosun Joe Smith's wife, Sally, feels sick and has a fever, chest pains and a rash. She oes to the doctor. The doctor examines her, orders a chest x-ray, a Blood test and other lab work Including a culture of the affected area of skin. The doctor gives Sally a prescription, tells her he will call her and to make an appointment In two weeks to ensure she is completely recovered. In two Weeks, Sally jreturhe to the doctor, he examines her and pronounces her reooveiWd. Here is a breakdown of what would have been covered by the Seafarers Wei^e Plan prior to this contract and what Is paid now. ^rvice Cost Covered BySWP in Past Covered BySWP Now* 1st doctor visit $65.00 $0 $52.00 X-ray $25.00 $0 $20.00 Blood test, iab work $50.00 $0 $40.00 Prescription $10.00 $0 $0.00 2nd doctor visit $65.00 $0 $52.00 * The Seafarers Welfare Plan will cover out-patient dependent medical care at a level of 80 percent of reasonmsle and customary costs which are determined by the general price for the service. The out-patient dependent benefits are subject to a once-a-year $50 deductible per individual. In this case, if this had been Sally's first claim submitted to the Seafarers Welfare Plan in the year, $50 would have been deducted from the amount listed in this column. recommendations at the Seafarers Plans conferences on benefits. Negotiated through the stand­ ard agreement is an increased contribution on the part of the contracted companies which are signators to the pact to the Sparer plans. As a result of these additional monies, the board of trustees of the Seafarers medical plan, known as the Seafarers Welfare Plan, has voted to put in place a series of out-patient benefits for dependents of Seafarers, subject to all the rules and regulations Chief Cook Diane Brown has a ten-ydar old son. Bill. Bill falls out of a tree and appears to have injured his arm. Diane rushes him to the emergency room where he sees a doctor, has x-rays taken of his arm and is treated for a broken arm. Diane is told to take Bill to their family physician in a month. As Bill's arm is on the mend, he visits the family doctor three times. In two of those visits the doctor orders x-rays. In the third session at the doctor's office, six months after the initial injury, the physician says Bill's arm is fully repaired and he no longer needs to be checked for it. Here is a breakdown of what would have been covered by the Seafarers Welfare Plan prior to this contract and what is paid now. Covered Cost Covered Service BySWP BySWP In Past Now* ER doctor** $100 $100 which govern the program. 'M: m Hospitalization Covered Until this contract, only Seafarers themselves were eligible for out-patient health care services under the benefits provided by the Seafarers Wel­ fare Plan. While dependents of Seafarers have always enjoyed 100 percent of reasonable and customary coverage by the Seafarers medical plan for emer­ gency room and hospital room and board, doctors' office visits and diagnostic services provided on an out-patient basis were not covered by the plan. Dating from June 16,1993, the effective date of the new labor agreement, dependents of Seafarers can receive medical care on an out-patient basis and the Seafarers Welfare Plan will cover a large share of the cost. ii'r • ".'.iV • M ./'SS. •• fi •: ' $100 80 Percent Covered Under the terms of the plan, 80 ER tests** $100 $100 $100 percent of the reasonable and cus­ tomary charges for out-patient $0 1st Dr. visit $50 $40 health care services to dependents of Seafarers will be paid by the 1st Dr. X-rays $100 $0 $80 ' plan subject to a $50 per year deductible for each dependent. 2nd Dr. visit $50 $40 $0 Among the out-patient ser­ $56 2nd Dr. X-rays $70 $0 vices now covered by the Seafarers Welfare Plan for de­ 3rd Dr. visit $ 50 $0 $ 40 pendents of Seafarers are doctors' The Seafarers Welfare Plan will cover out-patient dependent office visits, diagnostic tests con­ medical care at a level of 80 percent of reasonable and customary ducted on an out-patient basis, ined by costs which are determined b\ the general price for the service. The out-patient dependent benefits are subject to a once-a-year $50 pre-natal care and follow-up care deductible per individual. In this case, if this had been Diane's first for a wife of a Seafarer, pediatric claim for Bill, $50 would have been deducted from the amount listed care and routine check-ups of in this column. ••Emergency Room Continued on page 4 •-V-' •;v- • •I ''t • �4 SEPTBUBBt /A99 SBVAREIISLOe Monthly Pension Payment Cap Lifted Active Seafarers who retire after June 16, 1993 may be eligible to receive pensions higher than $1,000 per month as a result of the new standard con­ tract reached with the SIU's con­ tracted deep sea operators. In the past, the monthly pen­ sion was capped at $1,000 per month. The lifting of the maximum ceiling is made possible through higher contributions brought about in the new pact to the Seafarers Plans on the part of its contracted operators. In turn, the board of trustees of the Seafarers Pension Plan is able to amend the program to allow eligible Seafarers to earn more retirement income. In determining if the pension plan can take on increased out­ lays, the Seafarers Pension Plan utilizes the services of an outside actuary, a trained professional who specializes in calculating the funds needed today in order to meet the future obligations of the retirement program. The services of an actuary were employed in calculating the Under the Uncapped Pension Service-Time Formuia The lifting of the $1,000 maximum monthly payment will allow qualifying Seafarers who retired after June 16, 1993 to receive a higher norma/ pension. Here are some examples of what the change in the pension plan benefit means: John Rodriguez is an FOWT who is retiring at the age of 65. He has credit for 8,840 days of service. As a seaman who has reached the age of 65 with 5,475 days of seatime, John is eligible for the basic pension of $600 per month. But because the plan allows for $15 more a month for every 120 days after the 5,475 service time has been met, John is eligible for a larger pension. Also because the plan allows a day-and-a-quarter-day credit for every day of seatime after the first 3,000 days have been met, John is credited with 8,840 days although in actuality he sailed less days than this number indicates. With his 8,840 days of service, John can now receive $1,020 per month. Here are some additional examples of what an eligible Seafarer can earn as a monthly pension using the sen/ice time formula before and after the new pact took the cap off the pension's monthly payment: uncapping of the pension in order to ensure that Seafarers currently on pension and those who will take retirement benefits in the fu­ ture will be protected from having a plan that cannot meet its obligations. The removal of the cap on the monthly pension does not change any of the procedures for apply­ ing for the retirement pay. Addi­ tionally, eligibility requirements, and the rules and regulations governing the plan remain the same. A Seafarer applying for retire­ ment benefits will calculate his or her pension using one of the two formulas allowed by the plan — a wage-based determination or the computation of service time. The Seafarers Pension Plan will help in the figuring of what an eligible Seafarer can receive under either formula. The amount the Seafarer will be awarded is the one that is higher. For those Seafarers retiring after June 16, 1993 and who qualify for a higher than $1,000 a month pension, the joint and sur­ vivors annuity benefit will also be higher than what it would have been prior to the lifting of the cap. (The joint and survivors annuity is an option available to a retiring Seafarer who wishes to have his spouse continue receiving his pension benefits after he dies.) Seafarers planning to retire in the near future are advised to con­ tact the Seafarers Pension Plan for assistance in calculating potential retirement income. Re­ quests can be made through any union hall or by contacting the Seafarers Pension Plan at 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Under the Uncapped Pension Wage-Based Formula Bob Lin is a 59-year old QMED. He has 8,760 days of service and in the last ten years of shipping, Bob's average of the highest base wages he earned in any five years in a row comes to $30,000. To determine his wage-based pension. Bob divides his 8,760 days of seatime by 365 and calculates that he has 24 years of service. He then multiplies 24 by 2 to find his percentage credit, which comes to 48 percent. He then takes his average base earnings of $30,000 and multiplies it by 48 percent to find his yearly benefit. It comes to $14,400. By dividing this by 12, Bob arrives at his monthly benefit of $1,200 per month. Under the new system Bob is eligible to receive the $1,200, whereas prior to this contract 'his monthly retirement pay would have been capped at $1,000 per month. Here are some additional examples of what an eligible Seafarer can earn as a monthly pension using the wage-related formula before and after the new pact took the cap off the pension's monthly payment: Allowable Monthly Average Base Percentage Average Base Days of Monthly Benefit Earnings Earnings Credit Service/ Benefit Now Multiplied by Years of Prior to Percentage Service This For Yearly Contract Benefit 5,475 15 years 15x2 = 30 % $35,000 $35,000 X 30% = $10,500 $875.00 $875.00 Actual Days of Seatime Credited Days* Before This After Contract June 16 7,300 20 years 20x2 = 40 % $28,000 $28,000x40% = $11,200 $ 933.33 $933.33 4,980 5,460 6,324 7,668 8,052 8,532 9,012 9,492 5,475 6,075 7,155 8,835 9,315 9,915 10.515 11,115 $600 $675 $810 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 8,030 22 years 22x2 = 44% $32,000 $32,000 x 44% = $14,080 $1,000.00 $1,173.33 8,760 24 years 24x2 = 48 % • $39,000 $39,000 X 48% = $18,720 $1,000.00 $1,560 8,760 24 years 24 X 2 = 48% $20,000 $20,000 X 48% = $9,600 $ 800.00 $800 9,125 25 years 25x2 = 50% $30,000 $30,000 X 50% = $15,000 $1,000.00 $1,250 t $600 $675 $810 $1,020 $1,080 $1,155 $1,230 $1,305 *The plan allows credit for 1.25 days of service for every one day of actual seatime after 3,000 days if it took place after June 16,1984. Medical Coverage Extended to Seafarers' Dependents Continued frontpage 3 babies of Seafarers, physicals and vaccinations at any doctor's of­ fice. The new out-patient benefit plan does not extend to prescrip­ tion drugs. A Visit to the Doctor When a spouse or a child of Seafarer visits a physician's of­ fice for a health-care related ser­ vice, the Seafarers Welfare Plan will cover 80 percent of the cost, subject to the annual $50 per year per family member deductible. The deductible is applied the first time a claim is filed for each in­ dividual family member in any given year and will continue to be applied until totaling $50 in any given year. For purposes of coverage under the Seafarers Welfare Plan, a doctor's office visit can be for any of the following purposes—a check-up, a treatment for an ill­ ness, the seeking of a diagnosis, care for an injury, minor surgical procedures, among others. Doctors often are. not sole practitioners, but work from a health care complex such as a clinic or a health maintenance or­ ganization (HMO) or a preferred provider projgram (PPG). The Seafarers medical plan will recognize a doctor's visit at any of these kinds of establishments as covered by the plan. The SIU and the Seafarers Welfare Plan encourage Seafarers and their families to use the designated PPOs of the Seafarers medical program. However, Seafarers and their de­ pendents may seek medical ser­ vice from their own doctors and health care institutions. The Seafarers Welfare Plan has chosen a PPG in each city where an SIU hall is located. These PPGs are first class hospi­ tals and clinics which have be­ come familiair with Seafarers, their families and the peculiarities of the maritime industry. Thus these PPGs are well-equipped to meet the health care needs of Seafarers and their families. (For the name of the PPG in his or her area, a Seafarer can call the local union hall.) Diagnostic Tests Gften, a physician examining a patient will seek the assistance of test results in making a diag­ nosis. A doctor has a wide variety of tests he or she can order. Many of these tests can be done outside of a hospital facility on an out-patient basis. For ex­ ample a doctor's office might take a blood sample and have a laboratory review it or a doctor associated with a PPG may ask that the tests be done at an on-site laboratory. Also covered under the new out-patient benefit program for dependents of Seafarers are diag­ nostic tests. Among these are xrays, sonograms, mammograms, blood tests, cultures, MRIs and scans. Pre-Natal/Well Baby Care The Seafarers Welfare Plan has traditionally paid the first $300 of health care costs as­ sociated with a spouse's mater­ nity in full and thereafter picked up 80 percent of the maternity-re­ lated reasonable and customary expenses. The medical plan also has covered hospitalization costs associated with the newborn's delivery. Now, the plan will also cover the kind of health care associated with the nine months of pregnan­ cy and the costs of regular check­ ups for the infant. The pre-birth health care needs of the mother and unborn child require regular doctor visits and periodic tests. The plan will cover 80 percent of the reasonable and customary costs of pre-natal care for a spouse of a Seafarer (subj^t to the $50 de­ ductible). Following the infant's birth, the Seafarers Welfare Plan will jiay for 80 percent of the reasonable and customary costs of the baby' s follow-up care (sub­ ject to the $50 deductible). Peri­ odic doctor's visits for check-ups ensure the baby is healthy during the critical stages of early growth. Under the new benefits. Seafarer family members can have their annual physicals con­ ducted at the location of their choice. When the physicals are done outside of a designated SIU clinic, the Seafarers Welfare Plan will cover 80 percent of the cost, subject to the $50 per year, per person deductible. Seafarer can first submit his or her claim to his or her medical plaii. Gnce the spouse's health in­ surance plan has processed the claim, it can be submitted to the Seafarers Welfare Plan. In turn, the Seafarers medical plan may then pay the remaining portion of the bill which has not been covered by the spouse's health care plan, or it may provide credit towards the $50 deductible up to the maximum allowed by the plan's rules and regulations. If a child of a Seafarer and a spouse with his or her own medi­ cal coverage is the patient, the health care plan to which the Vaccination/Immunization claim should first be submitted is The fees associated with im­ the one of the parent who has the munization and vaccination ser­ earliest birthday in the year. vices and supplies for all dependents of Seafarers will also National Health Care be picked up in part by the The new standard pact recog­ Seafarers Welfare Plan. Eighty nizes the need for a national percent of the reasonable and cus­ health care policy to make access tomary costs of these services and to medical services fair in this supplies will be provided by the nation and to bring soaring costs Seafarers medical plan, subject to under control. A provision in the the $50 annual deductible per contract states that in the event of family member. a national health care system being enacted by Congress and If Spouse Has Other Plan signed into law by the president, In the case of a household with the union and its contracted two income earners, the spouse of operators will work to ensure that a Seafarer is likely to have health Seafarers and their families con­ care coverage of his or his own. If tinue to receive the high level of this is the case, the spouse of the benefits they currently enjoy. �*>*•" 1993 SEAFMEiaiM 5 AMD President Raymond McKay Dies mm'i -.» <<5 . • ' ll'u . R I' • -Cj* " •; AYMCM)T.MCKAY, was loaded with ammunition. forces with MEBA Local 101 kngitiie president of During the war, he acquirer Under the terms of the merger the American his engineer's license. His first agreement, the BME retained its Maritime Officers voyage as an engineer was cut offshore contracts and had juris­ (AMO) District 2 short when a German submarine diction for the Great Lakes. of the Marine Engineers Benefi- torpedoed his vessel, the SS With the merger effected, cial Association (MEBA) Fairfield City, off the coast of McKay became an officer of passed away in a Miami hospital Florida. National MEBA. He continuec on August 9 due to heart failure. to serve as an officer of National Rises Up the Ranks He was 68 years old. McKay MEBA until his death. After the war, McKay joined had served since 1957 as the As an officer of National the Brotherhood of Marine En­ MEBA, McKay worked with president of the union. In his tenure as head of the gineers (BME), a licensed en­ the leadership of the other dis­ union, McKay dedicated his ef­ gineer union initiated by two tricts of the union in advancing forts to building a premier union Seafarers International Union the interests of the American of American seagoing officers. officers—Harry Lundeberg and merchant marine and working SIU President Michael Paul Hall. BME became an af­ for government policies tha Sacco, speaking at a memorial filiate of the Seafarers Interna­ provided for a strong U.S.-flag service for McKay remembered tional Union of North America fleet. the AMO president as a fighter, (SIUNA) in 1949. Hall and Lun­ National MEBA President deberg considered the BME a Gordon M. Ward, in a com­ a builder and a friend. "He was a fighter for what he vital alternative to a marine en­ munication to the officers, believed, who could be counted gineer union with pockets of members and staff of McKay's oh no matter how difficult or communist domination. union upon the latter's death, McKay's first position with noted that National MEBA "has daring the cause happened to be," Sacco said at McKay's the BME was as a patrolman. He lost a strong leader and a good funeral mass. "Ray was a then worked for the BME's friend." builder, a contributor who al­ newly-established benefit Dij3trlct2MEBA ways did more than his fair plans. In 1957, McKay was elected In 1960, in a reorganiza|tiid!i share to help make maritime a president of the BME and be­ of MEBA, the former BM^nd better industiy for his member­ came a vice president of the MEBA Local 101 forces be­ ship. Above all, Ray was a true, came District 2 MEBA with From his position as head of the AMO-District 2 MEBA, Ray McKay true friend—that rarest of com- SIUNA. The BME ranks grew McKay as its head. District 2, as worked for a vital U.S.-flag shipping industry. modities in this uncertain adding members from off­ it came to be known, successful­ world." Succeeding McKay as presi­ shore vessels as well as har­ ly organized Great Lakes and and known for its profes­ tween the needs of his member­ dent of AMO is Michael R. bor crafts on the Atlantic, seagoing officers. With the escalation of the sionalism and advanced training ship and the health of the in­ McKay, his son, who had been Pacific and Gulf coasts. Shortly after the 1957 merger Vietnam conflict in the mid- equipment, including its dustry. serving as the union's secretaryOne of those who sat across of the AFL and the CIO, the two 1960s, District 2 and the SIU Simulation Training and Re­ treasurer. search (STAR) Centerfrom McKay at the negotiating labor federations in the United met the need for increased man­ regarded as the world's most table was Gene Rose, president Sailed In WWII States, Hall—then president of power in the sealift surge by The native New Yorker the SIUNA—and McKay creating a joint training program advanced ship simulator sys­ of Bay Tankers whose ships sail began his seafaring career prior entered in behalf of BME into to assist seamen in preparing for tem. (See article on page 14.) with AMO members. As District 2's training pro­ "This is a tragic loss to the to World War H as an un­ merger discussions with the U.S. Coast Guard exams for gram has expanded, it has of­ industry, especially at this very licensed mariner in the en- Marine Engineers Beneficial various licensed and unlicensed fered many Seafarers an critical juncture," Rose said. gineroom. Hours before the Association (MEBA), noting shipboard positions. opportunity to move up the "Ray knew the bottom line, and That program proved to be Japanese surprise attack at Pearl that MEBA was free of any hawsepipe, earning marine the bottom line is jobs. the beginning of District 2's Harbor on December 7, 1941, communist sectors. through the school's "It's also a personal loss, be­ the vessel on which McKay was In 1959, the BME merged training and upgrading pro­ licenses program. cause I respected Ray, admired serving sailed out of the port. It into National MEBA, joining gram, now located in Dania, Fla. him and enjoyed him as a per­ Continued Growth son. District 2 has continued to A Trusted Trade Unionist grow. In 1992, District 2 MEBA McKay also committed his changed its name to American Maritime Officers-District 2 energies to supporting other MEBA, representing the in­ workers in their trade union creased membership growth in struggles and to building federa­ the union within dl areas of tions of maritime unions. In 1990, he chartered the shipboard operations. Greater South Florida Maritime The union, in the past 20 years, has been able to secure Trades Council. As president of new jobs for its members aboard this organization, he was able to commercial and military work with and commit resour­ ces to help fellow trade chartered vessels. As president of the union, unionists in the area. The coun­ McKay gained the respect of cil was very active in assisting management as a tough but trade unionists who had lost AMO has its roots in the Brotherhood of Marine Engineers, chartered as an affiliate of the SIUNA in 1949. responsible negotiator who In this 1959 photo, Ray McKay is swom into office for a second consecutive time. From the left are Gordon struck the necessary balance be­ Continued on page 14 Spencer, McKay, John Regan and W. Gammill while E. Goldsmith administers the oath. ' " • -Av- \ rfA" • i;-A •. •;'-y "0- ''' : -rtl;. r': / / Throughout his career as a rnaritime trade unionist, Ray McKay was Involved in virtually marine labor. Also participating are SIU President Paul Hall (second from left), ILA every ^ue of concern to waterfront workers. In this 20-year-old photo, McKay (second Pr^esident Teddy Gleason (third from left) and Herb Brand (left), who worked closely rom right) joins a meeting to discuss a,maritime-related issue with representatives of with Hall. m ... ^ V ;-. .... ..... ... "'ir �'-'-y ,.v. 6 ; •w-.-w -- r .•4'- -f - •;-fi SEAFARERS LOG SEFTEMBER 1993 recognizes the work of the John whether in the deck, engine, or Hopkins Center for Occupational steward department—is as safe Environmental Health. Tlie pres­ a working environment as possible. The hours, wages and working tigious medical center was con­ conditions set out in the standard tracted by a Seafarers Welfare Plan specially constituted steer­ freightship and tanker agreement ing committee made up of union apply to Seafarers sailing on ships and company representatives to operated by companies who To ensure compliance with the freightship agreement. conduct a detailed study of the belong to the American Maritime Continued from page 3 In light of increasingly strict essential functions that make up Association. CPA '90, the work schedule of An in-depth training program day workers in the deck and en­ security requirements of shipboard work. for all crewmembers who ship on gine departments may be shipyards and port terminals and Application of Pact The center's team of tankers will be put into effect at modi fled or changed. (Not all SlU-contracted com­ the consequent liability issues, physicians and professionals in the union's Lundeberg School of The general rules of the con­ the agreement says that a Seafarer the field of occupational panies are signators to the stand­ Seamanship at the Paul Hall Cen­ tract have been amended to in­ will no longer be used for medicine conducted a year-long ard contract and Seafarers are ter for Maritime Training and clude under customary duties the gangway watch when the vessel advised to consult with the union study in which they interviewed Education in Piney Point, Md. maintenance of vessel equipment is in these locations and that the Seafarers in person and via ques­ hall on the labor agreements as­ and machinery. Although this has company can hire an outside tionnaires and observed first­ sociated with any shipboard job.) Extensive Training The primary company parties A joint committee made up of generally been among the duties security guard in the place of the hand shipboard work. After to the standard freightship agree­ compiling the data, the team union representatives. Seafarers, of Seafarers, it was put in writing gangway watchstander. ment are Sea-Land Service, Inc.; The new pact adds Columbia, determined the essential func­ shipowners and specialists in in this contract to secure this work Waterman; and Puerto Rico tanker regulations will develop for unlicensed crewmembers in Venezuela and Central American tions of work in each of the three Marine - Management, Inc. Sig­ countries to the list of voyages shipboard departments—deck, the curriculum over the coming the future. natory companies to the tanker which require six months of con­ engine and steward. year. Once in place, all Seafarers contract include Maritime Over­ Work Rule Changes shipboard work who wish to ship on tankers must Descriptions of the work rule tinuous onboard seas and OMl. Safety Program on the part of a seaman in order to take the course. changes put into effect by the new A separate labor agreement is In recognition of the It is projected that the tanker pact follow. These provisions en qualify for transportation expen­ dangerous nature of shipboard in effect on American President course will be instituted next courage the np-keep of a ship ses. work and the need for constant Lines and Matson Navigation Other minor modifications year. The union will advise all while it is in operation, thus vigilance in safeguarding life and vessels. This contract is have been made in the area of members through union meetings eliminating the need for limb, the union, the Lundeberg negotiated by the SlU's Pacific and the Seafarers LOG of the shipowner to commit a vessel to work rules and will be available School, the Seafarers Welfare District Unions—made up of the to Seafarers at the membership dates the course will be offered a shipyard for this function. Plan and the contracted com­ Sailors' Union of the Pacific for meetings held on the contract at and the time period by which each Maintenance work in certain panies will work together to the deck department; the Marine Seafarer sailing on a tanker must areas of the house will be per­ the union halls and on the ships. develop a shipboard safety program. 'iremen' s Union representing en­ have evidencfe of having com­ formed at straight time when per­ It will be the goal of the pro­ gine department seamen; and the Tanker Tour of Duty pleted the Lundeberg School formed between the hours of 8:0( Rated positions above entry gram to reduce the incidence of SlU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and tanker course. a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday level will now ship on a tanker for onboard injuries to Seafarers and nland Waters District for through Friday. Chipping, a 16-month period in allotments to ensure that their workplace— steward department Seafarers. Second-Hand Smoke In an effort to make a safer sougeeing, scaling, priming and of four-months-on-two-monthsshipboard environment by not brush painting all quarters, pas­ off. After this period, the job goes subjecting non-smokers to sageways adjacent to all quarters, back to the rotary shipping system. second-hand cigarette smoke, dining areas, lounges, laundries, Base wages increase 3 percent this year retroac­ smoking will only be allowed in the galley, pantries and ship's of­ Emergencies and Permanents The permanent ratings may tive to July 1,4 percent in 1994 and another 4 per­ designated areas. The crew fices will be compensated at cent in 1995 now request an emergency relief lounge ^d crew dining areas will straight time. Seafarers serving as for 30 days without forfeiting be smoke-free areas. Seafarers Welfare Plan will cover 80 percent of If the wheelhouse is a desig­ helmsmen while a vessel is un­ their position. the cost of out-patient health care services for de­ The transportation expenses nated smoking area, the derway under automatic steerage pendents of Seafarers — including doctors visits, diagnostic tests, pre-natal care, well-baby care, helmsman or quartermaster will can now perform routine main­ incurred with leaving and return­ to the vessel will be the ing vaccinations and immunizations, subject to a $50 tenance on the bridge, bridge be permitted to smoke except responsibility of the Seafarer with annual deductible per individual covered wings and flying bridge. In order while maneuvering. to ensure a safe working environ­ the permanent rating. The Monthly pension cap of $1,000 has been removed, Day Workers ment, such work cannot be done Seafarer taking the relief position opening the door to higher pensions for Seafarers On vessels with at least one on stagings or aloft. Additionally, similarly will be responsible for retiring after June 16,1993 who meet the eligibility bosun/watchstander and five able no mate is allowed to relieve the lis or her own transportation ex­ requirements and who qualify under either the seamen (ABs), the bosun may be helmsman, except in an emergen­ penses. wage-based or service-based formulas a designated day worker and two cy. Permanent ratings have the ABs may be assigned to the job of On watch penalty rate goes up 3 percent retroac­ Wipers and QMEDs may now right to, one 30-day emergency tive to July 1 an AB/deck-maintenance. This assist the 'deck department with relief in a 12-month period. designation of duties is similar to docking and undocking opera­ Permanent ratings who leave Comprehensive tanker training courses to be es­ what has been in place on tankers tions. This work will be compen­ the vessel for medical reasons tablished at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training for the past three years. sated at straight time if performed will be allowed to return to the and Education The two ABs who become during regular working hours. same ship and position after ob­ converted to day workers will get Overtime pay kicks in after eight taining a fit-for-duty status as Proof of drug screening and benzene certificate to the corresponding increase in hours on any calendar day and on ong as he or she has not been off be shown at the time of shipping instead of when registering wages. In the case of a Green weekends and holidays. the vessel for more than 120days. Ticket AB this could be near $200 Day worker QMEDs can now Shipboard safety program will be developed Federal Regulations a month in base pay; for a Blue chip, paint and sougee for up to The contract has been Ticket AB the additional money three hours per day during normal Vacation time remains at current levels, but could reach $350 per month base working hours. This change amended to reflect changes Seafarers will realize greater vacation pay be­ paybrings the tanker pact in sync with brought about by regulations is­ cause it is indexed to increased base wages sued by the U.S. Coast Guard on drug testing and the law enacted Cost-of-living-ad]ustment provision for second and by Congress last year known as third years of the agreement the Americans with Disabilities Act Seafarers can vote on the entire contract package at SlU The term "disabled" has been Provision in the new contract states that in the meetings scheduled for Tuesday, September 7,1993. event that a national health care plan is enacted, removed from the contract. The the union and its contracted operators will work to The agreement will be presented at the regularly no-discrimination language of the ensure that Seafarers and their families continue scheduled headquarters meeting at Piney Point, Md., pact now states that shipboard receiving the high level of benefits they currently which begins at 10:30 a.m. employees cannot be dis­ enjoy At 1 p.m. that same day, special meetings on the contract criminated against on the basis of physical or mental disabilities. It will be concurrently held at every SlU hall. Permanent ratjngs may request 30-day also states that all Seafarers will emergency relief without forfeiting position The pact also will be presented by boarding union officials be qualified to perform their shipto SlU members on ships calling at U.S. ports. Protection from second-hand smoke loard duties. In this regard, the new pact 3-Year Pact Reached, Retroactive to June 16 Contract Highlights Contract Vote on Sept 7 . ' A �: --'V- •."; '•*• r - •• • • • •: .'r ;-..^ ^ . ^ --.i'm- ••: -ij.-", • • • >•>;:- y -- SEPTEMBER1993 SEAFARERS LOG 7 Inland Shipping Resumes en the Mississippi River Barges Md riverboats are sail­ ing the upper Mississippi River after two months of layup created hy record-breaking floods along the river and its tributaries. The high waters affected riverhome operations in nine midwestern states. News reports have estimated the loss to barge com)anies at between $3 and $4 milion a day. The opening of the Mississippi followed towboat test mns con­ ducted by the U.S. Coast Guard. As a result of the test tows, the Mississippi River reopened in mid-August with some restric­ tions from Minneapolis to Cairo, lU. During the worst of the flood­ ing, most of the navigable rivers Alton Belle deck department members rinse off the mud left behind in the midwest north of Cairo by the flood waters. The bridge leading to the Belle has since been were closed and thousands of bar­ taken down, and normal operations of the riverboat have resumed. ges were tied up riding out the smaller loads being allowed on usual routes on the Mississippi flood. Both the Missouri River and the Missiouri and Illinois rivers. River. Normal operations for the SlU-contracted company would the Illinois River opened later in have 16 or 17 tugs .§ailing. The Tugboats Underway August for slow, restricted traffic company plans to get more boats Seafarers are sailing on 14 Oronly. The maximum tow size was underway as river conditions gulf boats that have resumed their 15 barges on the Mississippi, with warrant. Steamboats Shift Routes The, SlU-contracted Delta Queen Steamboat Company con­ tinued operations on the lower Mississippi River and other tributaries despite flooding on the upper sections of the river. The company adjusted the itineraries of the Delta Queen and Mississippi Queen so that the steamboats could keep sailing down the rivers. The St. Louis to St. Paul, Minn, cruises on the upper Mississippi were rerouted to the Ohio or other heartland Happy to be back aboard the Orgulf tug Omegaare Cook Betty Adams rivers. The Mississippi Queen was and Lead Deckhand David Rice. diverted to the Tennessee River valley, sailing from Chattanooga, Tenn. on the Tennessee River to Memphis, Tenn. on the lower Mississippi. With a Memphis to Cincinnati departure in late August, the steamboat began series of Ohio River cruises. The Delta Queen also cruisec through Tennessee with the main ports being Chattanooga and Nashville on the Cumberland River. The company announced that the Delta Queen still plans to dock in St. Louis in late Septem­ ber. "The only thing that Will keep us from being docked on the St. Louis riverfront on September 20 is if the river is still so high that we can't get our steamboat stacks under the bridges," a company spokesperson stated. Deckhand James Tomczak and Cook Betty Gibson report to work aboard the Jim Ludwig when the Orgulf tug resumed regular opera­ tions on the Mississippi River. Riverboat Resumes Cruises The Alton Belle Riverboat Casino has resumed its regular cruise schedule up the Mississipissippi River. During" the flood, the Belle continued operations while at dockside using a bridge to safe­ ly carry passengers over the flood waters to the Alton Landing. The ramp has been disassembled and operations are back to normal. While the Mississippi is still well above flood stage, the water has receded back into its banks. Seafarers who work in the deck department have been busy clean­ ing the Belle and the surrounding areas. There is tons of mud and sludge that we have been working to clean up for the last few weeks. It ranges from six inches to up to two feet deep. We have success­ fully cleaned the promenade and the ramps but there is still a lot of sludge in places like the parking lot," deck department member Lonnle Partridge told a reporter from the Seafarers LOG. Partridge and other deck department members have been cleaning the Alton Belle and Landing using three-foot pumps and two-foot fire hoses. I think the smell is the worst part of our clean-up efforts. At times it is unbearable," Partridge added. With the reopening of the Mis­ sissippi and the area bridges. Belle business is steadily climb­ ing. The first weekend the river)oat resumed sailing operations there were more than 1,200 guests on board for several cruises. That is only 200 short of the vessel's 1,400-person capacity. Seafarers Return to River Boatmen Keep Sharp Watch for Changing Conditions SIU boatmen once again are moving cargo and passengers along the upper Mississippi River after the waterway and several of its tributaries were closed for nearly two months because of flooding. "Everybody is happy to be moving again," stated Captain Ralph Hawkins from the bridge of the Alton Belle Riverboat Casino in Alton, 111. Although flood waters kept the vessel tied to the Alton Land­ ing for weeks, the casino still was open for business with crewmembers reporting for work. The situation was not the same aboard SlU-contracted Orgulf tugboats. Summer normally is the busiest time of year for the com­ pany. As many as 17 of the Cin­ cinnati-based company's 21 boats would be sailing on the in­ land waterways. At the height of the flooding, Orgulf had tied up Captain Ralph Hawkins of the Alton Belle overlooks a calmer 15 of its vessels. Mississippi River after the floods. 'Good To Be Back' "It's good to be back," noted passed Dubuque, Iowa. "I had Deckhand Greg Camel, who never witness^ anything like this returned to work aboard the Pieter before." The deckhand stated the crew Fanchi in mid-August. The McComb, Miss, resident of the tug, which was pushing a experienced the river just as the full load of 15 barges, had dif­ flooding began in late spring ficulty guiding the vessel through which he compared to seeing it the locks because of the rising waters and increasing currents. return to its banks in August. One attempt took three tries with "We could see pieces of hous­ die full crew called out to help ing and campsites floating past," Camel recalled of the spring catch lines on the stem and head, voyage aboard the tug when it he said. Since returning. Camel described the river as calmer, but still treacherous because of the swift current. The Fanchi was northbound for Minnesota when Camel talked with theSeafarers LOG. "We still have to stop at night because of the conditions," he said. "No one is sure where shallow spots may occur because of silt and top soil that has been washed into the river." Deckhand Adam Shacknai reported similar conditions aboard Orgulf s Ed Renshaw. Crew Taking Precautions "We are using tree lines and houses to see how high the river went," the Memphis resident noted. He added the crew is taking precautions, but the "river ap­ pears to be clean, but muddy." Neither Camel nor Shacknai reported seeing any major debris left in the upper Mississippi. Downriver in Alton, Hawkins resumed piloting the Alton Belle on its six-mile cruises in late August. "There is a little driftwood left in the river and the current is swifL but we're able to sail safe­ ly," he said. Hawkins explained thecurrent normally passes through Alton at one-half mile-per-hour. Present­ ly, he estimate the flow at be­ tween six and six-and-a-half miles-per-hour. The only thing he saw con­ gesting the river was "the barges and tows backed up to go through the locks." The riverboat is ap­ proximately one mile north of the Melvin Price Lock and Dam. Deck Gang Praised As noted earlier, the riverboat remained open for business all through the flooding. Hawkins said the crew of the Alton Belle did "a great job" of the making sure the vessel stayed in sailing condition. "The deck crew would pull driftwood from our temporary bridge (which connected the Alton Belle Landing to dry ground) on the average of six to eight hours each day," Hawkins recalled. "At times, full sized trees would be among the debris. "They would use a john boat and rope to pull everything away. It was somewhat dangerous work, but they took every precau­ tion and we never had any problems. All of us are proud of them." Regarding the riverboat itself, the captain said the current was not strong enough to allow the debris to damage the vessel. Some of it would jam under the Alton Belle, but the crew would take the boat out without pas­ sengers and let the debris drift out. In his 20 years on the Missis­ sippi (18 as a towboat captain and the last two with the Alton Belle), Catching up on papenwork is Hawkins said he never had seen Deckhand Adam Shacknai. • f, —en-----.-—r— the river as wild as it was this summer. "There is no comparing this flood to any other floods I have seen on the river. The Mississippi should be a quarter-mile wide as it passes [Alton]. It was eight miles wide at the flood's height when the Mississippi and Mis­ souri merged." The Mississippi exceeded the Alton's 21-foot flood stage on June 7 and crested at a record 42.7 feet on August 1. •C/: -"'L.'r '•K - :{:• •ti v- �8 SEPTEMBER 1993 SEAFJI8E8SL0G Document Ignites Protest Senate Passes Clinton's Delicit'Cutting Budget Foreign-Flag interests Push Their Agenda Through iiero 'Reinvent GevT Group 'fi ^ ^ • The handiwork of foreign flag interests apparently found its way into Vice President A Gore's National Performance Review (NPR) and has been claimed to be the work of one staff member assigned to the fivemonth-old White House pro­ gram. Ensconced in the document o the NPR, a review process estab­ lished by President Clinton to find ways to make govemmen agencies more efficient, are recommendations that would vir­ tually wipe out U.S. shipping. Entitled "Congress Should Deregulate the U.S. Maritime In­ dustry," the document calls for eliminating any of the existing government programs which ad­ vance a U.S.-flag fleet, clearing the way for control of the U.S. maritime trades by foreign inter­ ests. The Senate in August passed (Under current law, the top tax President Clinton's budget rate of 31 percent applies to reconciliation plan, with Vice single people who earn more President A1 Gore casting the than $53,500 and couples earn­ tie-breaking vote, paving the ing more than $89,150. The way for the plan to become law. new law creates a 36 percent The action followed a similarly tax rate on the $115,000 and $140,000 groups. It also creates close vote in the House. The agreement, hammered a 39.6 percent rate for either out in a House-Senate con­ singles or couples earning more ference, is designed to cut the than $250,000.) budget deficit by $496 billion. The average family will pay The maritime industry less than 10 cents a day in new scored two important victories taxes, all from the increase in with the budget's passing. In its the federal gas tax. original deficit-reduction pack­ Those earning more than age, the House had approved $200,000 (about 1.3 percent of both a 50-cent-a-gallon inland the taxpaying population) will waterways fuel tax and another account for more than 8() per­ tax based on the energy content cent of the new taxes. The bill of fuel, known as British ther­ also raises the top corporate in­ mal units (Btu). But the SIU, come tax rate from 34 percent along with other maritime in­ to 35 percent, retroactive to terests and energy users, lob­ January 1,1993. bied heavily against both Some low-income workers proposals, stating they would will pay less in taxes under the be unfair. The Senate removed due to an expansion of the plan, both ideas from consideration earned income tax credit. For and instead approved a 4.3example, a single parent who cent-a-gallon tax on gasoline. supports two children, is a renter and earns $19,0()0 per Wealthy to Pay Most year, will experience a federal Opponents of the budget tax decrease of almost $600 in plan have claimed that it is little 1994 compared with this year. more than a massive tax hike The plan includes many other which primarily will be changes from current law, in­ shouldered by middle-class cluding increased taxes on some Americans. But in fact, most people's Social Security Americans will see only a nominal change in their federal benefits, several revisions for income taxes. Only single wage people who own small busi­ earners making more than nesses, changes in the alternative $115,000 and couples earning minimum tax, a bigger tax break more than $140,000 will see a for people in Ae r^ estate busi­ jump in their income taxes. ness, and many others. Overhauling L S Maritime Policy industry is a hodgepodge of subsid regulation and taxation that makes a mockery of sensij ble industrial policy. r* CM n f «r«n uan •• hmei Mr* • iliM m Or, (Mc for supporting hodgepodge of subsidies, protectionism and regula-1 tion that are a "mockerv to sensible .industrial poUcyJ' Hollings Fights Back The document's unexplained A White House program to "reinvent govemment" known as the release to the public last month, National Policy Review adopted a report that obviously comes from touched off a storm of protest anti-U.S. merchant marine lobbyists. The work of foreign-flag shipping from the Senate, the independent advocates is apparent in a number of areas, including reports which Federal Maritime Commission surfaced in the press. (PMC) and the maritime industry. Meanwhile, the leaking of the "Whoever is responsible for it has columns of James Bovard, a free­ document seemed to have caused questionable motives, at the very trader associated with ultra-con­ servative, anti-government considerable embarrassment in east." The most striking thing about groups. the administration. the NPR document is that it The PMC, in its rebuttal of the Senator Ernest Hollings (Dmakes no effort to conceal its document, said the cited material S.C.), angered by the implica­ source of information, freely lift­ in the NPR document is "inac­ tions of the document, ing verbatim the work of foreigncurate and incomplete and con­ immediately introduced legisla­ flag lobbyists and proponents. tain wholly incorrect allegations tion that would create a commis­ The majority of the NPR and misrepresentations." sion to review maritime policy. document's citations excerpt the The independent govemment Hollings charged that if the NPR work of three vigorous opponents agency said die document "makes proposals are adopted "there of a strong American fleet of unwarranted assumptions ... and would be nothing left of the U.S. which at least two have been in presents as support for its positions maritime industry." His bill, he the employ of foreign-flag ship­ flimsy and ane^otal evidence of a said, would "ensure that the issue ping interests. highly selective nature." of maritime reform is given fair The NPR document borrows The PMC response said it was consideration." leavily from the work of Allen "disturbing" that an analysis of The Hollings legislation was erguson, an economist who has U.S. shipping would be done "oh swiftly cosporisored by Senators )een urging Congress to undo the basis of hasty, one-sided John Breaux (D-La.), chairman of U.S.-flag slupping since the late analysis, mischaracterizations the Senate Merchant MarineSub­ 1950s. and errors" and the adoption "as committee; John Kerry (DIt also quotes Rob Quartel, a absolute tmths the rejected argu­ Mass.); Barbara Mikulski mouthpiece for foreign-flag inter­ ments of the past." (D-Md.) and Charles Robb (D- ests who while serving as a com­ The r^ommendations of the Va.). missioner with a government NPR will be released officially on 'Absurd on Ks Face' agency, the PMC, attacked U.S. September 7, according to a SIU President Michael Sacco govemment maritime programs. spokeswoman of the vice presi­ called the paper "absurd on its Quartel immediately upon leav­ dent contacted by the Seafarers face," adding, "it so clearly bears ing the PMC went to work for a LOG. Until that time, no working the imprint of forces inimical to foreign-flag shipowner. paper of the administration pro­ Also citi^ by the NPR docu­ gram is a final proposal, she U.S. interests that it cannot be taken seriously." He said ment are statements from the said. Shipyard Workers Approve Representation Seafarers Ed Len, DEU (left), and Dave Dunklin, QMED, hold up a message for Avondale employees as they leave work. Workers at the shipyard voted this summer to go union. Cost of Re-Fiagging Would Re Severa, Panel Told Continued from page 2 "There is no doubt that there is a much, much higher probability of success of being able to be where we're needed and operat­ ing effectively where we need them with U.S. crews," Snow responded. Both Breaux and Senator Trent Lott (R-Miss.), the subcommittee's ranking minority member, expressed their dis­ pleasure that neither Defense Secretary Les Aspin nor Transportation Secretary Pederico Pena appeared before the subcommittee. "We are in a SIU President Michael Sacco tells the Benate panel that re-flagging serious crisis in America's will cost America money, jobs and respect mantime mdustry and this issue // ^ y.y : / deserves the highest attention from our highest officials," Breaux said. Acting Maritime Ad­ ministrator Joan Yim, who repre­ sented the Department of Transportation at the hearing, noted MarAd was awaiting a decision from the White House regarding various options con­ cerning maritime revitalization made by the agency to the president's National Policy Council. (In one of his first acts after being sworn in. President Clinton created the council to review and make recommendations about various government functions and policies. The council is com­ ./ posed of representatives from all departments of the federal govemment.) Breaux asked Yim if Pena had made a specific recommendation to the president. She said what Clinton received was a combined effort written by several members of the council. "Please understand my frustration. No one can tell me what the [maritime revitalization] recommendation was?" he asked of Yim. "That's correct," she answered. When Breaux asked if Pena's own recommendation received any support from the council, she stated she did not know. �r..^ -.«jci<iT -•,. ^:i?.i;-..^v .;i.-. , _ ^.'' 1993 Hasan Rahman enjoyed all aspects of the steward recertlfication training. Here he presents his latest culinary specialty. :-'i SEAFARERS LOG -•. f i Mew RecerUfieil Stewanfo: l^tgiading ls tite Way to Go Reflecting on their careers and on the courses they have taken at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, the 11 Seafarers who last month graduated from the SIU's steward recertification program all emphasized the importance of members continually upgrading their skills. As members who have com­ pleted the highest curriculum avail­ able to Seafarers who sail in the steward department, they spoke from experience. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship "offers you a way to better your careers and your lives," Francisco Rosich stated at the graduation ceremony, which took place during last month's membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. Like most of the other new recertified stewards, Rosich, 52, has upgraded several times at the Lundeberg School. For 61-year-old Hazel Johnson, however, this was his first time at the school. "I'm glad I Anally got here," said the 32-year member of the SIU. "It was even better than I expected. The new lab is the most modern one I've ever seen, the computer training was fantastic and the instructors are great." Comprehensive Training Johnson, Rosich and their classmates received comprehensive training during the five-week course. They worked in the school's new training facility for stewards, a spacious building which features state-of-the-art galley equipment and classrooms. They earned cer­ tification in CPR, first aid and firefighting. Additionally, they studied and practiced communications skills and learned to use computers for setting and storing menus, requisi­ tions, overtime hours and more. The members also met with rep­ resentatives from every department of the SIU for question-and-answer sessions. For example, they spoke with officials from the union's col­ lective bargaining department, from its governmental affairs department, from the welfare, vaca­ tion, training and pension funds and Rebecca Sleeper Manion is congratulated Gregory Melvin learns the proper use of all the from the Seafarers LOG. They also by her husband, Joseph, and son, Trevor, equipment in the school's modern galley. traveled to SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. and to Capitol Hill, where they spoke with Maritime Trades Department Ex­ ecutive Secretary-Treasurer Frank Pecquex. Finally, they went to Baltimore to tour the SlU-crewed cable ship Global Link. "It's a great course and it definitely enhanced us," said Robert Miller, SO, who joined the union 10 years ago in Hawaii and has upgraded three times. "The in­ The whole course is very good," structors are exceptional and the states Raymond Garcia at the Putting in time on computers, a requirement for completion new lab is excellent." graduation ceremony. of the recertification program, is Francisco Rosich. 9 \ "We learned a lot that we will be able to use when we get back on the ships," observed 45-year-old Roger Linasan. "The computer training was excellent, as was the CPR, first aid and firefighting." Steve Crane, 35, graduated from the Lundeberg School trainee program in 1974 and has upgraded several times. "You always learn something here, even if you come in thinking you already know it all," he said. "This was a terrific course." Reach Any Goal Holding her 2-year-old son, an emotionally charged Rebecca Sleeper Manion delivered several important messages in her remarks at graduation. "My son, Trevor, was here the whole time, and it's good to know that you can do this [training] as a mom," said Manion, who graduated from Piney Point in 1984. "I remember when I was a trainee, I used to look at the [recer­ tified stewards and bosuns] and think, 'I'll never make it that far.' But today I'm telling you that you can reach any goal if you apply yourself." Manion, whose husband traveled from their home in Florida to attend the ceremony, is a past recipient of the SIU Scholarship. She told a reporter for the LOG that she is only a few credits short of earning an associate's degree in business administration, and she plans to finish soon. Regarding the recertification course, she said, "The instructors went that extra mile, and I liked being able to work with top-notch stewards. Also, the lab is exception­ al." Similarly, Robert Castillo, 45, said the lab "marks great progress. This is my fourth time at the school, and I still believe it is the best train­ ing facility in the world." "The whole course is very good," added Raymond Garcia, 36. "It helped refresh our minds about some things as well as teach­ ing us new things we can use on a ship." Undertaidng More Studies For Gregory Meivin, there was no immediate time to celebrate finishing the recertification course. That's because he stayed at the Lun­ deberg School an extra week in order to take the oil spill prevention and cleanup course. "I ride tankers, so it made sense for me take the oil spill course," explained Melvin, 32, who graduated from the entry program at the Lundeberg School in 1980. He said that the recertification course "went very well. People worked together and had good unity." Peter Schmitt, 40, said the course's high points included "the practical work at the lab. This is my fourth time here, and the training was even more comprehensive than I've seen in the past." Another frequent upgrader, 50year-old Hasan Rahman, said he enjoyed all aspects of the training. "I learned a lot, and the instructors were wonderful. There was a lot of dne-on-one training and good inter­ The 11 Seafarers successfully completing the steward recertification program pose with SIU Executive Vice President,Joe Sacco action between the class members following the graduation ceremony. They are (from left) Steve Crane, Peter Schmitt, Hazel Johnson, Robert Miller, Francisco Rosich, and the instructors." Roger Linasan, Raymond Garcia, Hasan Rahman, Gregory Melvin, Sacco, Rebecca Sleeper Manion and Robert Castillo. • " Mk ..r;W ••• ...I • •m-y. • •f- 4 v' "ij" • 'M �smBniBERma iOt^ SEMiaensLOG PPO Provides Heaitii Care Services For New Bedford Area Seafarers The Seafarers Welfare Plan very nice. They treated me Hospital; Honolulu—-Straub has designated another notec wonderfully, and service is so ef­ Hospital; New Orleans—Tulane medical facility as a preferrec ficient. It only took two hours to University Hospital and Medical provided organization (PPO). do everything. That sure beats al Center; New York—^Methodist In June, the SIU contractec the long nights on trains travelin Hospital and Healthmark Incor­ with St. Luke's Hospital in New to the Brooklyn clinic. I know porated Clinic; Baltimore^— Bedford, Mass., minutes from the Seafarers in New Hampshire Johns Hopkins University Center New Bedford union hall. The out Maine and Vermont, and this for Occupational and Environ­ patient clinic began operations in [clinic] will take care of all o: mental Health and Francis Scott New England,"said LeGere, who Key Hospital; Houston—St. The new preferred provider organization is St. Luke's Community late August.. The largest community hospi­ lives approximately 40 miles Joseph Hospital; Philadelphia— Hospital, located only minutes from the union hall in New Bedford. tal in Massachusetts, St. Luke's from New Bedford in Braintree, Methodist Hospital and screens; pulmonary function Kathleen Treadup, an adult nurse Healthmark Incorporated Clinic; has 400 beds and the third busies Mass. practitioner for the St. Luke's Wilmington — Torrance tests; cardiovascular studies, in­ clinic who has been a staff mem­ emergency room in the state. cluding stress testing and EKG; Meeting Members' Needs Memorial Hospital and Immedi­ "We have a very dedicatee ber at the New Bedford hospital The Seafarers Welfare Plan's ate Medical Care Center in San drug tests and much more. staff to work with the members o for 15 years. "Occupational medicine is the SIU. Our doctors are highly designation of St. Luke's Hospi­ Pedro, Calif. "Our hospital has the ability to something that we are all learning qualified ranging from gener^ in­ tal represents the coritinuet St. Luke's is a foil service see Seafarers in a reasonable about. It gives us an opportunity ternists to very sub-specializec progress in preferred provider community hospital which to see a new type of working amount of time and provide them physicians," said Administrative health care for Seafarers. The provides various services: prewith all the services they need in Director of Clinical Specialties welfare plan is contracting with a employment physicals; annual people with good skills. Many of a convenient and efficient man­ the Seafarers haive interesting Services Ellen Banach, who is preferred provider in each of the examinations; diagnostic studies, stories about their travels. I think ner," she added: "We are very cities where an SIU clinic pre­ also the director of the clinic. including X-rays and hearing that this is going to be fon. It's pleased to be doing this with the viously had been located. "Because we are located The PPO program was startec tests; vision and glaucoma nice to see a good group of fit and Seafarers and confident that it within the hospital, we have ac­ healthy people for a change," said will work well." to ensure that SIU members and screenings; blood tests; drug cess to any service a patient may their families continue to obtain need, including the emergency room. We set the system up to get quality medical care and, at the care for patients in a quick and same time, help the welfare plan efficient manner. I feel that we combat perpetually rising health President Clinton this month is industry, with premiums based on couraging cost-effective primary have achieved this primary goal. costs. A preferred provider clinic Seafarers began using the or hospital is simply a medical expected to present to Congress an( average costs of providing medica" and preventivecare to avoid having facility on August 17. The plan facility which agrees to provide the nation his health care reform services in particular geographic treatable illnesses turn into costly determined the out-patient clinic services to Seafarers and their jrogram, some details of which he areas — and with no adjustments emergencies. The Clinton plan ... an individual's past or projectec gives consumers greater choices is able to provide all of the medi­ families at a negotiated reimbur­ ;ave on August 16 in a spirited for health. sement rate. and forces plans to compete for the address to the National Govemors cal services required by • Allowing self-employed people to first time on cost and quality." "With the system we have set Association in Tulsa, Okla. Seafarers, such as fit-for-duty deduct the entire cost of their health In all likelihood. Congress will benefits. The AIT.-CIO long has been a physicals, care for illness and up with the SIU, a member can streamline sessions. Everything not produce reform legislation until treatment of injuries. Clinton also pointed out that leading proponent of a universal "We picked this clinic because the member may need is in one sometime next year. most employers already provide a and fair national system of health area. The entire program has Speaking to the governors, Clin­ it is convenient for our members part of their workers' insurance. He care. While not taking a stand on many advantages," said Banach. ton revealed that under his pro­ who live in the New Bedford and said his plan eventjially will reduce one specific proposal put forward gram, employers who currently do The advantages of using health care costs and thereby leave by any representative of the ad­ the New England area. Before at least a portion of their not provide PPG's include: businesses with "more money ministration or Congress, the this, members had to travel to workers' health insurance would be • Using a facility which is they're going to have to invest in federation of national trade unions New York City for the very ser­ required to do so. "I don't believe also has played a key role in expos­ familiar with Seafarers and creating new jobs." vices that now are being offered anybody should get a free ride in ing the fact that the biggest reason whose staff knows the unique Clinton's program has been by the physicians at St. Luke's," this deal," he stated. for skyrocketing health care costs is needs of the membership and described as a managed competi­ said Dr. Kenneth Miller, medical But he also i.ldirectly responded the enormous number of uninsured their families. tion plan. It requires employers to director for the Seafarers Welfare to critics of the program who have citizens. While those people techni­ • Streamlined claims proce­ offer (and, realistically, requires Plan. "This facility will serve as a asserted that an employer mandate cally do not have health care dures for members and depend­ workers to join) one of several com­ drawing card for members Who cripple some companies, would coverage, their expenses inevitably ents using the facility. prehensive, accountable health live in the region. It is another • Use of these facilities al- jarticularly small businesses. The plans consisting of a limited num­ are passed along to those who do. enhanced membership service jresident said his plan calls for a For example, people without that we can offer our members." ows the welfare plan to monitor ive- to seven-year phase-in period ber of doctors and hospitals. health benefits often do not or can­ claims and make sure the hospital Such a plan would bmit costs SIU members have reacted which he believes will help busi­ through market forces, i.e. com­ not afford to seek treatment for rela­ offers services efficiently and positively to the clinic. One of its nesses and create jobs, without any first visitors was Chief Steward maintains high standards of new taxes. "If you just passed an parison shopping by individuals tively minor conditions. But if the from plans screened by employers condition worsens and the unin­ Bob Haggerty,a resident of New quality and care. employer mandate and did nothing sured person goes to the emergency » When the hospital sees or other intermediaries. Bedford."The clinic is really nice else, there'd be a ton of problems, Among the other reform plans room, the cost for his or her care is and everyone is very friendly. St. many Seafarers and their families Clinton acknowledged. for the U.S. under consideration by passed on to those who have Luke's is so convenient. I used to using the facility, reasonable White House aide Ira Magaziner benefits, in the form of higher travel to Baltimore to have my rates for services can be main­ ater elaborated on the plan, saying policy-makers is a Canadian-style premiums, higher deductibles, etc. medical work done. I'd stay with tained. This allows the welfare that it ultimately would require big system in which a tax-supported (reflecting higher hospital billing to relatives to make the long trip a jlan to use these savings to employers to pay 80 percent of their program run by the government compensate for the cost of indigent little bit more pleasant, but it was jenefit members and their de­ workers' premiums. However, he pays all medical bills. Another proposal is dubbed care). This type of scenario is very inconvenient not to have the pendents. added, the administration probably play or pay" because it requires replayed daily throughout the • Preferred provider or­ proper medical facility around," will limit the payments to 7% to employers to provide a minimum country. the chief steward told a reporter ganization hospitals are among .5% of payroll. herdth insurance plan or pay new Other factors contributing to the he biggest in their cities. from the Seafarers LOG. This cap would apply only to taxes to a government fond to cover high cost of adequate health care To date, the SIU has desig­ arge companies that join regional the uninsured. AB Donald LeGere used to include huge profit margins for nated the following PPOs: Seat- iealth insurance purchasing pools take the midnight train to New Still others advocate a "con­ some drug companies, as well as York City for his annual physical, le—Virginia Mason Hospital; to be created by the Clinton plan. sumer choice" plan, in which the cost of scientific advancements. arriving by 6 a.m. "The clinic is San Francisco—St. Mary's The largest companies, probably citizens would be required to buy One way that unions and the those with at least 5,000 workers, health insurance on their own or health care providers they work may have the option of not joining through employers. Presumably with have tried to combat rising the pools. they would pay with a proposed tax costs is the use of preferred Health premium spending by credit. jrovider organizations (PPOs) and small businesses and low-wage iealth maintenance organizations Regardless of which type of irms would be limited to 4% of HMOs). their payrolls, with subsidies cover­ plan one supports, there seemingly is nationwide agreement that the A PPO is a hospital or clinic ing the difference to provide full U.S. cannot afford to continue on designated as the primary care coverage. Magaziner said the sub­ its current path of skyrocketing giver, subject to a utilization review sidies will come from a $30 billion health care costs and gross underin­ irocess in which permission must to $40 billion pool generated by surance or non-insurance. As le obtained for medical treatment. savings in Medicare, Medicaid and Senator Tom Daschle (D-S.D.) and An HMO provides all of a other federal health programs. Senator J.D. Rockefeller (Dpatient's care for a set annual fee Other elements of the plan W.Va.) said in a recent letter to The and covers little outside its set which Clinton described to the Wall Street Journal: "In today's larameters. (President Clinton's govemors include: Coverage for every U.S. citizen, health care system, the more tests ilan will offer incentives to enroll regardless of their health or and procedures doctors and hospi­ in HMOs.) HMOs generally have employment status. Currently, al­ tals do, the more they get paid. salaried physicians, and their struc­ most 40 million Americans have no Under the Clinton plan, health ture encourages doctors and hospi­ New Bedford union hall secretary Nidia Pereira helps two members coverage. dans would be paid a set amount tals to function as parts of large prepare for their first visit to the clinic at St. Luke's Hospital. Chief • Establishment of a national health Jer enrollee, forcing them to groups. Some of the advantages of Steward Bob Haggerty (center) and Recertified Bosun Robert Carson spending budget. manage health care delivery more using an HMO are low out-of-pocket • A restructuring of the insurance efficiently and effectively, and en­ costs and reduced pap^work. gather the forms necessary for their annual physicals. Clinton To Unveil Health Plan This Month .-r-R':'?'-;. :.'• "f . • ••. •i'- • -•/ '•., '' '• v, ':. -t-r • d;!-" I rI �•i'-tyvy."' .'••« •r--~-';.'f;.;- •4->',ri.>^': v'-i--.-,/ ,!•'••>.. 1993 PAGE 11 Marttrans Seatams Earn Tankeman Endorsemmt Twelve Seafarers who sail and Putro, the other Maritrans aboard Maritrans tugs and barges employees who completed the recently earned their tankerman's course are Rodney Bennett, endorsement after completing a George Davis, Gregory Gibson, specially designed two-week Ray Kucharczyck, David O'­ course at the Paul Hall Center for Neal, Rupert Perry Jr., Dale Maritime Training and Educa­ Watts, Phillip Yeomans and tion. Troy Zimmerman. The course The course lasted from August was taught by Jim Shaffer. 2 to August 13 and consisted of Maritrans operates 35 tugs and all aspects of loading, transfer^ng 45 barges, as well as several oil and unloading the various terminals, on the Eastern goeis carried by tank barges. Seaboard and in the Gulf of Members also studied and prac­ Mexico. The SIU members who ticed diesel engine operation and work for Maritrans have taken repair, with particular emphasis part in several special courses at on safety aspects involved in han­ Piney Point in recent years, which dling fuels and other potentially prompted John Bums, Maritrans' dangerous cargoes. director of labor relations, to note. TTie course was designed to In the last several years, the meet the training needs of vocational staff at the school has Maritrans employees while at the been most helpful in accom­ same time accommodating then- modating us and developing work schedules. training programs which are ex­ OS Mike Morrissey said the tremely beneficial to our Completing a specially designed two-week course leading to a tankerman's endorsement are (from left, class was "very informative." employees. This [tankerman front row) Michael Morrissey, Troy Zimmerman, Ray Kucharczyck, Rupert Perry Jr., David O'Neal, David This .was his second time at the course] is one more example of Lane II, Jim Shaffer (instructor), (second row) George Davis, Dale Watts, Phillip Yeomans. Ed Putro, Rodney Bennett, Allen Shaw and Greg Roanoke. Seafarers Harry Lundeberg that training." School of Seamanship, which he described as "a first-class facility with great instructors. I also like the fact that when you're here, Six Seafarers and five mem­ you're with other Seafarers. Be­ The following Seafarers from sides the classes, that interaction bers of the American Maritime Express Marine completed the Officers (AMO) employed by can be educational." upgrading courses: Pruitt, Foster, Express Marine, Inc. last month Parks, Captains Bobby Lewis The tankerman course also completed upgrading a'nd James Pruitt, and Mate marked the second trip to Piney courses at thespecial Paul Hall Center for Mack Keech. AMO members Point for AB David Lane, who Maritime Training and Educa­ who completed the courses are graduated from the Lundeberg tion. Chief Engineers Louis Hopkins School in 1979 and then briefly The courses, which began on and Thomas Pigott, Second En­ sailed in the deep sea division August 23 and lasted until die end gineers Malvin Pendleton and before switching to conunercial of the month, were structured Robert Judy, and Barge Engineer fishing. Lane, who began work­ with consideration for the work Richard Riddick. ing for Maritrans two years ago, of inland division The instructors are White, described the tankerman course schedules members. Courses covering a Karaczynski, Dan Holden, Jim as "thorough" and said the school wide variety of skills were avail­ Shaffer and Eric Malzkuhn. 'has improved considerably. I able to Seafarers and AMO mem­ Express Marine is based m remember as a trainee staying in bers who sail in the deck, engine Pennsauken, N.J. The company the old bungalows. This time, my and steward departments. (Some operates five tugs and barges wife and three kids were with ine, training, such as oil transfer pro­ which move coal up and down the which made it a nice stay. My cedures, was given simultaneous­ East Coast. kids love it here." ly to members from all three Like Lane, AB Ed Putro departments. However, most of works aboard Maritrans tugs in the curriculum, including lots of the Philadelphia area. "This hands-on work, was departmentcourse covered everything we specific.) need to know," said ^tro, who Stewart Parks, a 57-year-old also has completed AB and ad­ AB/cook who has been an SIU vanced firefighting courses at the member for 13 years, said he school. "It boosted my "learned a lot" from the courses. Bobby Lewis checks the radar screen on the deck of the simulator. knowledge about the boats I work "I think very highly of the whole Parks had not been to praised the Lundeberg School on and around." experience. This was my first theWhile facility in Piney PoinL Md. courses and staff. "I find thecour­ Lane added that he firmly time at the school, and it's even before, several other members ses and the instructors exception­ believes in the value of upgrading better than I expected. I love it, who work for Express Marine at­ al," he said. "They handle at the Lundeberg School. "It helps said Parks, who sails aboard the tended a special firefighting and everything we need, and they are me gain more and more tugboat Escort. hazardous very, very willing to work with us materials training knowledge. The school is readily Parks added that he particular­ in tailoring courses to our specific course last year at the school. One available, and the special courses ly enjoyed working with SIU in­ needs. I've heard nothing but of those members, AB/Cook Hil­ for inland members are great. structor Ed White in the new positive comments from the ton Foster, said he was glad to That's what keeps us coming galley training building at the people who have been there, in­ return to the school last month. Seafarers Harry Lundeberg back." cluding myself, and I hope we can Chief Engineer Thomas Pigott "It's always very worthwhile to In addition to Morrissey, Lane School of Seamanship. come here," said Foster, 37, who make even more use of the school was one of the AMO memt>eFS who completed the course. has been a Seafarer for 14 years. in the future." "All of the facilities are first-rate, and the new galley is fantastic." For 32-year-old Mate Gil Pruitt, who sails aboard the tug Guardian, making the trip to Piney Point is old hat. Pruitt graduated from the trainee pro­ gram in 1979 and has upgraded five times, including twice in the past two years. Pruitt commended the training available on the Lundeberg School's state-of-the-art shiphandling simulator and said he learned a lot from instructor Jake Karaczynski. "This school is getting better eveiy day," Pruitt added. "I've always said Piney Point is ex­ tremely helpfiil if you apply your­ self. It's here if you want it." Stan Latka, marine operations Troy Zimmerman studied diesel engirie operation as part of the manager at Express Marine, Steward Parks (left) and Hilton Foster work in the new galley training • iK • Express Marine Boatmen Complete Special Gourees course, designed to meet the training needs of Maritrans employees. building as part of their upgrading curriculum. '• 'hii. "3 • �• -fr 91 'AI . r.. •f?r 12 SEFTEMBER1993 SEAFARERS LOG Bosun Dubs American Mariner's Historic Grain Voyage 'Fantostic' 'i'm'P: • • ;f'•,>.: .ir; ,.'.' fc/V Ip'C.. i:-:' H-« sides. was entering waters never before Eckley handled the aft wine sailed by any of the ASC fleet. After sailing across Lake Onwith the assistance of a deckhanc during each lock operation. Eac tario, the American Mariner process took 45 minutes to an reached the Thousand Islands in hour to complete which Eckley the St. Lawrence River between said was "faster" than he ex New York and Ontario. pected. "It was beautiful," Eckley The crew of* the American said. "I can honestly say that was Maririerwas notified in mid-June all the crew talked about when we on-Locatkm that it would take part in sailed through it. None of us had luring The American Marinerpasses through a lock in the Well transporting the grain—^part o seen it from a ship before." Its historic cargo preference grain voyage to Montreal. the $1.6 billion aid package From there, the vessel sailed presented in April by Presidem through the St. Lawrence Seaway Clinton to Russian President to Montreal, completing the Boris Yeltsin for the people of his voyage in just under three days, where offloading took ap­ country. The 730-foot vessel normally proximately 30 hours. In less hauls iron ore and coal during the than five hours, the ship was Great Lakes sailing season, so loading ore for the trip back to crewmembers went right to work Lake Erie. to prepare the holds for the grain. The other SIU members who "We would clean the holds as sailed aboard the American we unloaded them," Eckley said. A/ar/ner to Montreal and back in­ We would take every advantage cluded from the deck department we could to get rid of any ruSt or AB/Wheelsmen Kenneth Bluitt, paint chips. It meant extra work Joseph Kelly and Richard for all of us, but it was not a bad Lund; AB/Watchmen David deal to be part of this. Barber, Robert Wagoner and Before the grain could be Jeffrey Stockman; and DeckBosun Robert Eckley said this was loaded, the vessel was inspected lands Edward Martin and by officials from the Department Mohamed Shaihi. the best trip of his life. of Agriculture. "We had no Engineroom members con­ >roblems with the inspection," sisted of Conveyorman Myron The American Mariner be­ the 63-year-old bosun stated. Johnston, Gateman Musid El Reacfy to shift barrels of oil are Wiper Mohsin A. Harhara (left) and QMED came the broadest ship, at 78 feet, Not bad for a crew that carries dodiyi, QMEDs Thomas Tuck­ Kassim S. Abdulla. to successfully navigate the locks ore and coal!" er, Kassim AhduUa and Masood along the Seaway. (Maximum Loading started July 6 at the Igirsh and Wiper Mohsin Harwidth allowed is 76 feet.) Anderson Grain Terminal, with lara. Taking care of business in "We had a foot on either side," the American Mariner setting sail the galley were Second Cook Eckley recalled when he was con­ across Lake Erie on July 8. A^en )awn Weymouth and Porter tacted by the Seafarers LOG. the vessel reached the Welland Mward Ringsred. "We were right up against the Canal around Niagara Falls, it Bosun Robert Eckley proclaimed the historic voyage o the American Mariner through the St. Lawrence Seaway to Montreal "the best trip of my life." The 33-year veteran of theSIU was among the crew of the American Steamship Company (ASC) self-unloader that carriec 21,420 tons of cargo preference grain from, Toledo, Ohio to Montreal where it was transferrec to a U.S.-flag ocean-going freighter bound for St Petersburg, Russia. Piney Point Graduate Saves Life of Mariner The first aid and lifesaving techniques taught at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship are important skills which con­ tribute to the safety and wellbeing of Seafarers and the vessels on which they sail. SIU members who perfect these skills at the Lundeberg School never know when they may be called on to put such knowledge into practice. For Wiper Anthony Niekrasz, it was only four months after ^adUating from Piney Point and signing on his first ship, the USNS Silas Bent, that these im­ perative skills came into play. On July 22, Niekrasz and OS Ray Gayton were enjoying time off their ship at a seaman's center in Dubai, when Niekrasz noticed one of the fellow mariners drown­ ing after diving into the swim­ ming pool. "I kne>v there was trouble when he didn't come up out of the water right away. I dove in and brought himto the side and rolled him up out of the pool. He was out for a few seconds and then came to," the wiper told a reporter from the Seafarers LOG. "I remembered everything that I learned in my classes at Piney Point about life saving and reviv­ ing a person who has come close to drowning. I immediately rolled him on his side and he came to quickly, so [additional first aid attention was not needed], would have been prepared though," Niekrasz recalled. The mariner that Niekrasz res­ cued sailed aboard the American Osprey, which was in dry-dock in Dubai. "I didn't know the guy—only that he was a seafarer too and he was in trouble. I had to help him out," the March Piney Point graduate stated. "He was very grateful and happy, and it felt good knowing I played a part in saving another seaman's life. We hung out for a while and mainly he just kept telling me how grate­ ful he was," he added. Brother Niekrasz sailed aboard the Silas Bent until sign­ ing off on July 31. He is planning Wiper Anthony Niekrasz was able to upgrade to fireman, oiler and to put into practice ttie skills he had watertender in the fall classes at earned at the Lundeberg School. the Paul Hall Center. C)omlng upfrom the engineroom Is Caateman MusId 'Art* El Modhji. AS Watchman Jeffrey Stockman keeps an eye on deck operations during a recent voyage on the American Mariner. QMED Masood Elglrsh was an enis Deckhand ywyi^ifeiajw T A /• �:: L::..t:.::..;:^. •:....:i, :- y .• ,- 'i •.'* . .''vV'.:-i"^ SEPTEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 13 • . v. ,• , V^l '•M- LEFT Ihe American Republic begins Its journey up the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland with a load of ore. ' y '• .•^fv ir- - '••••• I •A • p.: t , > QMED Dave Cameron operates the engine room control board. From the snows of February to the summer sun of August, Seafarers aboard the American Republic have maintained the ship's steady run on Lake Erie during the 1993 shipping season. The 635-foot self-unloader was called into duty a month earlier than normal this year because of a need to transport ore to a steel mill in Trenton, Mich. A mild winter in the region kept the Lakes from freezing over, thus allowing the vessel to complete the mission. Crewmembers reported the additional time on the Lakes has had no effect on them. "So far, it's been a great year," noted AB/Wheelsman Bren­ dan Murphy. "We've kept busy all season," "This crew has done a great job this year," added Bosun Terry Henrietta."This vessel is in constant motion, so we have to stay alert for any problems that would throw off our schedule." Except for special loads, the American Steamship Company vessel keeps a regular run of carrying ore from Lorain, Ohio to Cleveland—a distance of 40 miles. The ship averages a roundtrip every 24 hours depending on weather conditions and river traffic. The Americanwas specially built in 1981 to deliver ore to steel plants along the winding Cuyahoga River in Cleveland. -v:: Overseeing docking operations on deck is Bosun Terry Henrietta. v 'W • •y; ; •M • n ; V • p. •. •if- -i • .-=S" AB/Wheelsman Brendan Murphy handles' dockslde adjustments from the deck control room. On deck to Inspect the conveyor rollers Is Conveyorman Rick Springs. 11 a AB/Watchman Eugene Repko main- Ready to go ashore Is Second Cook tains a presence on deck. Harry Petersen. m '••'A •,S'. •:> • / / :/, Lonn?e"Br(X)ks.'^°"^^'°"QMED Peering at dock activities from the American Republic's port gate Is Wiper Hamid Hizam. Gapske makes his way to shore In the landing chair. /,v:f mi:..' .f : •. - . �it; r,. .-•.' -If c.- ;• r-' U SEPIEMBEG 1993 SEMFARBtS LOG AMO President Ray McKay Passes Away jv . v ? ' '"M fSs. '• "tV-.','.- .' long endure," Bowers noted. McKay, a forward-looking trade unionist and a remarkable strategist, "was a very effective fighter for maritime," said Herb Brand, the chairman of the board of directors of the Transportation Institute, an education and policy organiza­ tion representing American-flag shipping operators. Brand, who previously had been associated with the SIU, Since the BME merged with the MEBA in 1959, Ray McKay senred as an officer in the union's national organization. From the left are knew McKay for more than 40 Jesse Calhoun, retired National MEBA president; McKay, who most years. "He never hesitated to recently served as an executive vice president; and Gordon Ward, participate in any effort National MEBA president. designed to improve the condi­ John Bowers, president of the tion of the industry. Continued from page 5 He served the industry and International Longshoremen's their homes during Hurricane Association, who also serves as his membership very well, and an executive board member of he made a great contribution.' Andrew last year. McKay is survived by his the ITF, worked with McKay in McKay also represented wife of 50 years, Dolly; three an effort to bring the concerns of American seagoing workers at sons — Michael, Thomas and meetings of the International American maritime labor to the Robert; a daughter, Cecilia Ann; Transport Workers Federation world body's attention. McKay, a trade unionist who believed in fisting other workers "His contributions to his a brother; 15 grandchildren and Ray (ITF), the world organization of n their efforts to attain job security, dedicated himself to bulding a independent unions repre­ membership and to all maritime four great-grand children. South Florida-affiliate of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department, He was buried in Oran- n 1991, he received a charter for the Greater South Florida Maritime senting workers in all sectors of workers in the free world were enormous. His memory will ;eburg, N.Y. Trades Council from MTD (and SIU) President Michael Sacco. transportation. ••• ''• ' - A"J''' . -H'" •"• . "-i • McKay's Legacy Includes School Of Engineering and HarigaUon • Ray McKay, the longtime American Maritime Officers (AMO) District 2 MEBA presi­ dent who passed away on August 9, leaves a legacy of numerous and important con­ tributions to the American mer­ chant marine. One of those contributions, of which McKay was especially proud, is the AMO School of Marine Engineering and Naviga­ tion, which he founded in 1966. The original school was lo­ cated on the fifth floor of the old SIU headquarters building in Brooklyn, N.Y. But within a year, the officers had outgrown the space and moved to a fivestory building next door. In 1967 the school provided sealift training in direct response to America's need for qudified seamen to take part in the Vietnam War. The cur­ riculum subsequently expanded, year after year. In 1982, the union purchased property in Dania, Fla. and relo­ cated the school to a three-story building there. A fourth floor was added two years ago, and the school remains as part of AMO headquarters in Dania. Nowadays, about 40 courses are available at the school, with titles such as Refrigeration, Air Conditioning & Refrigerant Recovery System Training; Maritime Law Training; Radar Certification and Re-Certification; Health and Safety Hazard­ ous Material Spill Response Training; and many others. The newest feature of the school is the Simulation Train­ ing and Research (STAR) Cen­ ter. Conceived and fostered by McKay, the STAR Center opened earlier this year and is regarded as the world's most ad­ vanced ship simulator system. When the STAR Center opened, McKay said, "Shipowners and operators and insurers understand that a high­ ly skilled manpower comple­ ment is what makes a ship safe, efficient and profitable, and that's what STAR Center promises. In remembering McKiay, SIU President Michael Sacco said, "This great school is testimony to lus determination and deep belief in the future of American-flag shipping. He never accepted defeate. He always planned for tomorrow." Using highly advanced, com­ puter-driven graphics, STAR can recreate Ae operation of any vessel under any conditions in all ports and waterways throughout the world. Other features include: • The world's only 360-degreeview training bridge. • A 247-degree-view rotating docking bridge for close maneuvers. • Three navigation radar/ARPA simulators. • Slow-speed and medium-speed diesel engine simulators. • A liquid cargo simulator. • Day and night navigation. • Climate conditions such as wind, currents, fog, rain and snow. • Remote instruction with video and radar monitors. Since the mid-1960s, McKay developed a premier maritime training program now housed in the union's headquarters complex in Dania. • Video playback for review. • Aerial tracking of plotted courses. STAR also has programs available in emergency response drills, restricted visibility piloting, tug-barge operations, coastal piloting and more. The center also may be used for military training such as con­ voy operations and underway replenishment. In many cases, training at the center counts as Coast Guard-certified sea time. For example, in two weeks, a second mate can earn 60 days of sea time toward the position of chief mate. The STAR Center opened earlier this year at the AMO school in Dania, Fla. Conceived and fostered by Ray McKay, the STAR Center has a number of high-tech features. •• ' j' / ' • 'i:; ,,, • vlvig;...;"; ^ '' ' -V- �';V. sEPimmta^ SEAFARBIS LOe Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea October i November 1993 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters JULY 16 — AUGUST 15,1993 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port 31 New York 1 Philadelphia 1 Baltimore 20 Norfolk 14 Mobile New Orleans 33 Jacksonville 27 San Francisco 26 Wilmington 13 17 Seattle 7 Puerto Rico 4 Honolulu 16 Houston 0 St. Louis 0 Piney Point Algonac .. 210 Totals Port 20 New York Philadelphia 6 Baltimore 7 Norfolk 10 Mobile New Orleans 13 Jacksonville 18 San Francisco 12 Wilmington 14 Seattle 7 Puerto Rico 3 Honolulu 11 Houston 0 St. Louis 3 Piney Point 1 Algonac 135 Totals Port 15 New York 1 Philadelphia 2 Baltimore 16 Norfolk 10 Mobile New Orleans 8 Jacksonville San Francisco 33 Wilmington 15 20 Seattle 1 Puerto Rico 12 Honolulu 16 Houston 1 St Louis Piney Point 1 Algonac 160 Totals Port 11 New York 2 Philadelphia 0 Baltimore 10 Norfolk 1 Mobile New Orleans 10 2 Jacksonville 13 San Francisco Wilmington 10 9 Seattle 6 Puerto Rico 7 Honolulu 2 Houston 0 St. Louis 0 Piney Point 0 Algonac 83 Totals 20 11 9 25 25 20 19 17 15 15 2 16 34 2 - - 6 7 1 5 4 10 5 3 7 1 3 15 5 ••• 0 ,0 235 >. 0 72 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip RelieEs DECK DEPARTMENT 17 19 11 2 1 9 0 5 3 6 2 1 6 11 3 4 6 2 2 14 21 23 1 2 24 22 10 14 15 u::8'^ 1 14 13 7, 1 12 14 1 7 8 1 0 3 4 12 3 6 15 26 5 4 0 0 0 4 0 0 1 9 . •K-BW'SS i 0 0 0 0 150 193 26 68 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 58 1 4 31 19 43 50 50 30 46 16 8 42 1 1 - J 0 400 38 13 13 40 32 35 39 38 27 48 4 24 45 0 2 '• m 399 11 8 2 7 6 12 9 12 11 9 6 18 14 0 0 7 . 10 13 22 21 14 14 1 12 14 1 15 0 182 1 1 4 0 7 Norfolk Thursday: October 7; Friday, November 12* * changed byVeterans Day holiday Jacksonville Thursday: October 7; Friday, November 12* * changed by Veterans Day holiday Algonac Friday: October 8, November 12 Houston Monday: October 11, November 15 New Orleans' %^ Tuesday: October 12, November 16 Mobile Wednesday, October 13, November 17 San Francisco Thursday: October 14, November 18 Wilmington Monday: October 18, November 22 Seattle Friday, October 22, November 26 San Juan Thursday: October 7; Friday, November 12* •M 125 • 1 wm-s. 1 5 0 8 0 3 0 43 19 5 0 i 3: ...... 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 326 264 50 87 100 24 STEWARD DEPARTMENT "•V''6'; • 19 "t.'- 27 0 1 9 : 3 1 0 2 4 2 4 : 'va),„ mit2 0 7 15 3 1 8 9 11 15 2 6 0 3 16 13 3 0 4 11 11 23 2 W^IO: 28 74 0 24 1 8 25 5 0 4 2, 11 37 : ' 6 1 1 16 1 7 0 0 0 1 37 15 51 10 15 11 5• ^ 20 ':ro'. 6 -^tio; 2 0 0 0 I 3 mi. W.0 4 0 ' ' 0 0 0 0 1 172 282 99 14 58 118 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 76 26 3 22 2 3 2 0 2 2 0 12 1 0 iP 1 4 0 42 11 0 7 6 5 23 0 0 1 7 1 34 12 0 0 11 , 8 > 4 28 0 13 4 50 . 32 0 1 3 7 25 0 :'0^ .• • 3 3 23 0 0 8 8 12 7 0 0 4 1 62 8 0 94 50 5 23 2 0 1 11 ; 3 2 0 0 0 1 0 26 0 0 1 24 0 4 0 0 1 1 0 445 132 0 113 171 47 8 0 10 10 5 7 4 1 9 2 0 3 0 67 * changed by Veterans Day holiday •^€:..,0 38 4 8 28 14 17 12 25 13 9 6 52 9' 1 32 2 270 15 3 2 5 0 7 5 15 6 2 2 96 3 0 2 1 164 •"T-f I- 0 3 0 2 1 2 1 3 2 15 2 0 1 0 34 35 6 2 12 0 19 12 26 13 10 10 129 9 0 1 0 284 Totals All 217 1,078 1342 510 177 522 402 785 300 Departments 588 . Tolal Registered" means Ihe number of men who actually registered for shipping at tfie port last month. •• "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at Re port at the end of last inonft A total of 1J18 lobs were shipped on SlU-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 1,318 jobs ahip^ 402 jobs or about 30 nercent were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were Blled by "B" and C semonty people. From July 1« to August 15,1993, a total of 217 trip reHefJote^ie shipped. Since the tnp rehef ^ram began on April 1,1982, a total of 19,332 jobs have been shipped. • ' ./ / . / /• St Louis Friday: October 15, November 19 Honolulu , Friday: October 15, November 19 Duluth Wednesday, October 13, November 17 ; Jersey City - •• s f - Wednesday: October 20, November 24 '^ New Bedford Tuesday: October 19, November 23 : 1 1 3 Wy-O ':•••• 1 1 7 0 5 0 8 2 6 0 ^ 2 • 1 6 1 1 14 22 0 4: : 0 0 \ 8, (S® "'O 0 0 21 98 Piney Point Tuesday: Monday: October 4, November 8 New York Tuesday: October 5, November 9 Philadelphia Wednesday: October 6, November 10 Baltimore Thursday: October 7; Friday, November 12* * changed by Veterans Day holiday 5 •V W ':m¥. Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals JOHN CLAYTON ATKINSON If you were bom on August 2, 1949 and are the half-brother of Suzanne Couch, you may contact her directly at: 11505 Highview Drive, Austin, Texas 78750, or you may convey a message for her by contacting Mrs. Mildred Collier at The Salvation Army, 1424 Northeast Expressway, Atlanta, OA 30329; (404) 728-1300. ARTHUR RATHJENS Please contact your old friend Larry Caffin at 26 Primrose Avenue, Scarsdale, NY 10583. sC^. The One That Didn't Get Away I - George Koulouris, cook/baker aboard the Cpl. Louis J. Hauge, does a little fishing in Diego Garcia and comes up with enough tuna for the crew's dinner (plus some leftovers). �16 SmBmER1993 XAFMERSLOG Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartn^ 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 Dean Coraey 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, PL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery SL 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 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 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, PL 33004 (305) 921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont SL San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Govenunent Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Stop 16V^ Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. SeatUe, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. SL Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 R Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes JULY 16 — AUGUST 15,1993 CL—Company/Lakes L—Lakes NP—Non Priority •TOTAL REGISTERED AH Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 24 7 14 6 0 4 0 0 17 10 TOTAL SHIPPED AH Groups OassCL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 35 12 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 28 5 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 8 5 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 8 5 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH AH Groups Class CL Class L Class NP 0 • IJ 0 13 10 : .oi n 0 8 Totals All Departments 0 59 23 0 79 27 0 34 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. 12 14 25 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters JULY 16 - AUGUST 15,1993 •TOTAL REGISTERED AH Groups Class A Class B Class C Region • 6 Atlantic.Coast, 9 Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters „. 16 2 West Coast 33 Totals Region Atlantic Coast 1 X. Gulf Coast 4 Lakes & Inland Waters 13 West Coast 0 Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 0 1 0 1 2 17 31 18 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 3 1 1 2 1 5 0 0 0 0 0 0. 4 0 3 7 14 TOTAL SHIPPED AH Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 3: 2 1 6 9 0 0 79 0 25 93 1 31 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 1 0 0 0 a 0 0 0 5 0 0 STEWAM) DEPARTMENT 0 . 0 .. 0 1 3 1 0 0 3 0 3 4 1 6 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH AH Groups Class A Class B Class C 47 12 2 4 0 33 4 96 1 7 55 88 3 4 22 1 0 9 33 0 29 2 0 0 3 4 1 6 2 13 0 1 0 1 2 0 0 9 138 12 111 * "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. Totals All Departments 56 41 102 MARKING THE 50th ANNIVERSARY OF WORLD WAR n MUM wn SOCIETY SEEKS TUGBOAT PHOTOS AND INFORMATION The Tugboat Enthusiasts Society is seeking photographs, stories and other materials concerning tugs that are plying or have sailed on America's waterways. The Society is dedicated to preserv­ ing the heritage of tugboating in the United States and sharing its wealth of information with people fascinated by the history and current affairs of the tugboat industry. For more information on the or­ ganization, contact Joseph P. DeMuccio at the Tugboat Society of America, Bayview, 308 Quince Street, Mount PleasanL SC 29464. New York City, long a major gateway for the Unit^ States, continued to play a vital role during World War II. Hundreds of convoys were builL loaded and manned in New York's port. The South Street Seaport Museum and The Seamen's Church Institute will mark the 50th anniversary of World War II with programs conunemorating the role of New York's World War Il-era port workers and merchant seamen. Veteran Seamen's Sunday, Nov. 7 at the South Streeet Seaport Museum— A day of activities honoring those who prepared and manned merchant vessels during the war will include a harbor cruise, buffet lunch and museum UPDATE YOUR ADDRESS If you recently moved or changed your name, it is necessary to have your correct address on file with the Seafarers Vacation Plan. If you have not yet notified the union, go to your nearest union hall and fill out a chainge of address form or send your new address (along with your name, book number and social security num­ ber) to: Address Control, Seafarers In­ ternational Union, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 37 demonstrations. (Admission: museum $6; cruise - $12; lunch - $12; $25 veteran's package includes museum, cmise and lunch. Pre-registration is re­ quired for the package.) Tickets are available at museum's Visitors Center, 12 Fulton Street. Reservations may be made by calling (212) 669-9416. Storytelling Session: Remembering the Port of New York During WWII, November 11—Four who labored at sea and on shore will recount all manner of maritime activity, keeping their memmories alive using the oral tradition of seafarers worldwide. They include a merchant seaman, longshoreman and two female shipbuilders. Free admission at the Seamen's Church Institute, 241 Water St. ATTENTION: MEMBERSHIP PORT OF SEATTLE Virginia Mason Clinic will offer flu shots and blood draws for benzene tests on Wednesday, November 10, between the hours of 9:00 - 11:30 a.m. and 1:(X) - 3:30 p.m. at the Seattle hall, located at 2505 1st Avenue. Any member interested in using this benefit should call the hall between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on November 8 or November 9; (206) 441-1960. In order to utilize this benefiL a mem­ ber must qualify under the rules of the' plan (including proof of 120 days seatime in 1992 and I day of employ­ ment in the last six months). isi �' - ^ v: -•;:v-;;:;?;^Gf|^| V-K'^' SEFJEMBER1993 SEAFARERS LOG To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names ofSIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. T wo members who graduated from the union's top training programs in the steward and deck depart­ ments at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship are among the 20 mariners who retired last month as announced by the Seafarers Welfare Plan. Brother David Atkinson graduated from the bosun recertification course in 1973 while Brother Revels Poovey com­ pleted the steward recertification course in 1985. A total of 11 members sign­ ing off from their seagoing careers sailed in the deep sea division while 6 were aboard in­ land vessels and 3 worked on the Great Lakes. Ten Seafarers who are begin­ ning their retirements served in the U.S. armed forces: three in the Army, three in the Navy, two in the Air Force and two served in both the Army and Navy. TTiree of those signing off are beginning their retirements in Washington while two each reside in Maryland and Texas. The remaining merchant mariners have made their homes in Missouri, West Vir­ ginia, Hawaii, New Jersey, North Carolina, Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Ohio, Wis­ consin, Michigan* Norway and the Philippines. Brief biographical sketches of Brothers Atkinson and Poovey, as well as the others, follow. DEEP SEA WILDER ADAMS, 65, joined the SIU in 1975 in the port of Wil­ mington, Calif. A na­ tive of Springfield, Miss., he sailed in the deck department. Brother Adams upgraded at the Lun­ deberg School frequently. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1949 and the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1972. Brother Adams still calls Springfield home. DAVID AT­ KINSON, 56, Joined the SIU in 1962 in the port of Seat­ tle. Bom in Bellingham, Wash., he completed the bosun recertification program at the Lundeberg School in 1973. Brother Atkin­ son served in the U.S. Navy from 1956 to 1958. He resides in Spokane, Wash. ALEX­ ANDER BECKER, 65, Joined the union in 1949 in the port of New York. A - - f'-r,,, "Y " Connecticut native, he sailed in the engine department. Brother Becker upgraded at Piney Point in 1975. Brother Becker retired to Seattle. HERBERT WON, 65, Joined the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of New York. A na­ MARTIN DALE, 66, Joined tive of the SIU in 1964 in the port of Seattle. A native of Norway, he Honolulu, sailed in the engine department. he sailed in the deck depart­ Brother Dale resides in Norway ment. Brother Won still calls Honolulu home. RICHARD GLAZE, 63, Joined INLAND the union in 1946 in his FREMONT native Bal­ ANDER­ timore. He SON, 55, sailed in the Joined the engine union in department. Brother Glaze 1969 in the upgraded at the Lundeberg port of School in 1978. He still calls Philadel­ Baltimore home. phia. Bora in New Jersey, he sailed in the SANTIAGO KINANAHAN, engine department. Boatman 69, Joined the Seafarers in 1969 Anderson served in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1958. He in the port of Seattle. Bora in the Philippines, he sailed as a resides in Berlin, N.J. chief cook. Brother Kinanahan served in the U.S. Army from JOHN 1942 to 1946. He resides in FRANKLIN Seattle. JR., 68, Joined the SIU in 1979 EDGEL LUZIER, 64, Joined in the port the SIU in 1946 in the port of of Norfolk, Baltimore. A Richwood, W.Va. Va. Bora in native, he sailed in the deck Miami, he department. Brother Luzier sailed in the steward depart­ upgraded at Piney Point fre­ ment. Boatman Franklin served quently. He retired to Camden- in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to on-Gauley, W.Va. 1964. He retired to Corapeaka, N.C. BONIFACIO PALMA, 72, Joined the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of San Francisco. Bora in the Philippines, he sailed in the steward department. Brother Palma served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1965. He lives in Metro Manila, Philippines. REVELS POOVEY, 67, Joined the union in 1968 in the port of San Francisco. A native of Gastonia, N.C., he completed the steward recertification program at the Lundeberg School in 1985. Brother Poovey served in the U.S. armed forces from 1943 to 1946. He resides in Houston. RICHARD RIGNEY, 65, Joined the SIU in 1962 in the port of New York. Bora in Bal­ timore, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Rigney calls Falkston, Md. home. LOLAPINKSTON,65, Joined the Seafarers in 1981 in the port of Paducah, Ky. A na­ tive of Norfolk, Ark., she sailed in the steward department. Boatwoman Pinkston resides in Melbourne, Fla. GREAT LAKES ROBERT TRAHAN, 50, Joined the Seafarers in 1975 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. A Nederland, Texas native, he sailed in the dedk department. Boatman Trahan still calls Nederland home. ? berta, Mich. A Michigan na­ tive, he sailed as a cook. Brother Kahl resides in Manitowoc, Wis. LEWIS DIEHL, 58, joined the union in 1954 in the port of Al­ pena, Mich. A native of West Vir­ ginia, he sailed as a wheelsman. Brother Diehl retired to New Matamoras, Ohio. LEO KAHL, 65, joined the SIU in 1954 in the port of El- 4 •. ROBERT MCCARL, 62, Joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Chicago. Bora in Ashland, Wis., he sailed as a dredgeman. Brother McCarl served in the U.S. Air Force from 1950 to 1954. He retired to Ludington, Mich. Clie Holtbaj* ^eaifon Si 3uit ^tounb tl^e Comer ' I" One feature in the Seafarers LOG that has been extremely well received over the past two years is the inclusion of holiday greetings in the Decemberissue. Active and retired Seafarers—^as well as their family members—^are invited to send their greetings to friends, shipmates and loved ones through the pages of the LOG. The procedure is simple. In 25 words or less (and in your neatest PRINTING possible), write the message in the space provided below. All (legible) greetings that are written in the holiday spirit will be included in the December 1993 issue of the Seafarers LOG, if they are received in time. The deadline for receipt of the holiday messages is Friday, November 12, 1993. Send them by mail to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. After November 1, facsimile copies will be accepted. The fax number is (301) 702-4407. Forms also 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 at a vessel's payoff. Holtbap JttesifiaBr (PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE) To: From: Message: CLARENCE ROBINSON, 65, Joined the union in 1974 in the port of Mobile, Ala. A Mis­ sissippi native, he sailed as a chief engineer. Boatman Robin­ son served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1957. He lives in Perdido, Ala. JAMES TODD HI, 54, Joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of New Orleans. Bora in Amite, La., he sailed as a captain. Boatman Todd upgraded at Piney Point in 1973. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1958 to 1962. He calls Denham Springs, La. home. 17 It' •y-.. % . Check the blcck which describes your status with the <SIU: • Active Seafarer • Family Member of Active Seaferer • Detired Seafarer • Family Member of CJetired Seafarer Send your greeting to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. The greeting shmild be received at the LOG office by Friday, November 12,1993. 9/93 • •••••• -- �tin' ft?:'#-' V. 'i>J ^ ".'T . • •• "1 - IV%. 5• •• • 18 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship­ board 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 for­ warded to the Seafarers LOG. : •. - : FRANCES HAMMER (OCCI), March 14—Chairman Richard Wil-, son. Secretary Steven Parker, Educa­ tional Director Denny Burns, Deck Delegate William Powell, Engine Delegate George Demetropoulos. ffilPSIiSi!"Chairman discussed contract negotia­ tions and urged members to submit recommendations to contracts depart­ ment. Secretary thanked entire crew for helping keep mess halls and gal­ ley clean. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Piney Point. Treasurer reported $477 in ship's fund and announced educational films will be purchased next port. No beefs or disputed OT reported Crew asked contracts department to look into several items including permis­ sion for New Bedford, Mass. union hall to provide clinic cards and drug testing for deep sea members, a change in shipping rules regarding time at sea and explanation of policy regarding maximum OT per voyage. Chairman asked contracts depart­ ment to send vessel safety informa­ tion. Steward thanked Chief Cook Dadang Rashldi for excellent meals and keeping galley spotless. Next port: Rotterdam. ft . r-j ty SEPTEM8ER1993 SEAFARERSLOG Director P. Kanauos, Deck Delegate Daniel Miller, Engine Delegate Ellis Young. Chairman reminded mem­ bers to donate to SPAD and an­ nounced payoff. Educational director reported smooth sailing. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for clean ship and very clean mess rooms and galley. OMI CHARGER (OMI), May 5— Chairman G. Beverly, Secretary Neville Johnson, Educational Direc­ tor M.R. Williams, Deck Delegate Clemente Roche, Engine Delegate A. Craig, Steward Delegate Leon Grant. Chairman announced new washing machine will be brought aboard in Florida. Educational direc­ tor urged members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew held discus­ sion on Seafarers Welfare Plan. Next port: Port Everglades, Fla. Steward delegate reported beef and disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine delegate. Crew asked contracts department to look into amending shipping rules regarding time at sea. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang. OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into increasing medical and dental coverage. Crew re­ quested new seat covers for crew lounge and reported sauna door is broken. Crew thanked galley gang for great food and clean ship for entire trip. Next port: Hong Kong. SEA-LAND CONSUMER (SeaSEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE Land Service), May 30—Chairman (Sea-Land Service), May 9—Chair­ W. Mortier, Secretary D'Vaughn Scruggs, Educational Director Chris­ man Francis Adams, Secretary topher Earhart, Deck Delegate Rus­ Nancy Heyden, Educational Director Ray John Machaj, Engine Delegate sell Haynes, Steward Delegate Saleh All, Steward Delegate Cecil Lawrence Carranza. Educational Gubisch. Chairman thanked entire , director announced safety movies crew for great job. He thanked galley available in officers lounge. He reminded members to upgrade at Paul gang for great chow during entire Hall Center to advance in maritime in­ toiir and complimented members for keeping clean ship. He also en­ dustry. Deck delegate reported dis­ couraged SPAD donations. Educa­ puted OT. No beefs or disputed OT tional director urged crew to read reported by engine or steward Seafarers LOGs and donate to SPAD delegate. Crewmembers reported and MDL. He discussed importance Seafarers LOGs received. Next port: Honolulu. SEA-LAND CRUSADER (SeaLand Service), May 25—Chairman Angel Hernandez, Secretary R. Evans, Educational Director Oswald Bermeo. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward and galley gang for job well done. Chairman reminded crew garbage is to be separated into two cans for plastic and paper. gave vote of thanks to galley gang for excellent job. Next port: Boston. SEA-LAND QUALITY(Sea-Land Service), May 23—Chairman Car­ mine Bova, Secretary TJ.Smith, Educational Director Ken Linah, Deck Delegate Leo Enhace, Engine Delegate Edward Trester, Steward Delegate Louis Lightfoot. Chairman announced arrival in Charleston, S.C. on May 26. Educational director reminded members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew reported let­ ter from headquarters received and requested additional Seafarers LOGs. Chairman reminded crewmembers to keep recreation room clean. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward depart­ ment. SEA-LAND SP//?/r (Sea-Land Ser­ vice), May 9—Chairman Rafael Cle- PS CM" Sailing Time Aboard the Ambassador SEA-LAND DEFENDER (SeaLand Service), May 16—Chairman G.M. Westphal, Secretary John Alamar, Educational Director Rolan­ OMI MISSOURI (Vulcan Carriers), do Gumanis. Chairman told crew he May 23—Chairman C. Gutierrez, was happy to join vessel in Kobe, Secretary C. Kreiss, Deck Delegate Japan. Chairman reported no word on Charles Parman, Engine Delegate B. contract negotiations. Educational Magliano, Steward Delegate Abdul director urged members to use Aziz. Chairman announced smooth upgrading system at Lundeberg trip and payoff in Mobile, Ala SEA-LAND QUALITY(Sea-Land School to better self and job skills. AB Joseph McGIII updates the sailing board at the loading ramp aboard Treasurer reported $50 in ship's fond. Service), April 18—Chairman Car­ Crowley s Ambassador. Disputed OT reported by deck Deck delegate and engine delegate mine Bova, Secretary TJ.Smith, delegate. No beefs or disputed OT reported disputed OT. No beefs or dis­ Educational Director Gerald Payne, reported by engine or stewed of upgrading at Lundeberg School. mente. Secretary Steve Apodaca, puted OT reported by steward delegate. Deck Delegate William Dillion, En­ delegate. Crew asked contracts No beefs or disputed OT reported. Educational Director Charles Hen­ Chairman reported starboard gangway gine Delegate Edward Trester, department to look into amending Chairman reminded crewmembers ley, Deck Delegate Theodore Doi, needs repair and asked crewmembers to Steward Delegate Louis Lightfoot. shipping rules regarding sea time. new contract should Engine Delegate Phil Parent, suggestions for help keep ship clean. Chairman announced arrival in Bos­ Crew asked chairman to look into Steward Delegate Frank Maliga. K turned in to patrolman at payoff. ton and payoff in Elizabeth, N.J. having captain post a notice prior to Chairman reported smooth sailing. Crew reported shipboard funeral ser­ OVERSEAS VALDEZ(Maritime Educational director reminded mem­ inspection and have one unlicensed vices for SlU brothers George M^lOverseas), May 2S—Chairman Treasmer reported $420 in movie bers to upgrade skills at Lundeberg person present at all times when fond. No beefs or disputed OT am Harding and Goon Van Ching. Frank Cottongiu, Secretary T. LafSchool. No beefs or disputed OT licensed members enter crew reported. Crew asked contracts 4ext port: Long Beach, Calif. fitte. Educational Director E. reported. Chairman reminded crew to quarters. Next port: Oakland, Calif. department to look into company iiacom. Deck Delegate K. McSEA-LAND NAVIGATOR(Searewind tapes and help keep recreation Lamb, Engine Delegate Guadalupe providing chair on bridge for SEA-LAND EXPLORER (Sea.and Service), May 16—Chairman room tidy. helmsman. Crew also asked contracts Garza, Steward Delegate Carlos Land Service), May 30—Chairman ' Vemer Becher, Secretary J. Or­ department to clarify cargo hold work Arauz. Crew reported new vent for WESTWARD VENTURE (lOM), Jack Kingsley, Secretary W. Burtega, Educational Director Walter in new contract. Crew thanked galley dryer needed. Beef reported by deck April 29—Chairman M.W. Kadderdette. Educational Director G. Pol­ Stevens, Deck Delegate Sean gang for job well done. Crew gave delegate. No beefs or disputed OT ly. Secretary R.B. Sanderson, Educa­ lard Lowsley, Deck Delegate Edgar )aherty. Engine Delegate Robert reported by engine or steward special thanks to Theodore Doi for tional Director Cris Cunningham, Townsend, Engine Delegate Robert Zurfluh, Steward Delegate helping keep recreation room clean. Steward Delegate Steve Soofi. Chair­ delegate. Crew asked contracts Lee, Steward Delegate Jesse James. Napoleon Gavin. No beefs or disdepartment to look into amending Next port: Honolulu. man reported smooth sailing. Educa­ Chairman reminded crewmembers juted OT reported. Crew reported shipping rules regarding time at sea. tional director encouraged members signing off to strip bunks and leave new coffee machine needed in SEA-LAND TACOMA (Sea-Land Next port: Tampa, Fla. to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and rooms clean. He gave vote of thanks crew lounge and engineroom. Service), May 24—Chairman A. Eckdonate to SPAD. No beefs or dis­ 4ext port: Tacoipa, Wash. SEA-LAND ACHIEVER (Sea-Land to galley gang for good menus and ert. Secretary F. Sison, Educational puted OT reported. Crew reported crew for good trip. Steward delegate Service), May 30—Chairman James Director C. Kper, Steward Delegate SEA-LAND PACIFIC (Sea-Land Sea/arerj LOGi received. Crew gave reported disputed OT. No beefs or E. Davis, Secretary Felipe Orlanda, William Wales. Educational director Service), May 23—Chairman Lothar vote of thanks to steward department. Engine Delegate Sheldon Greendisputed OT reported by deck or en­ reminded members to donate to teck. Secretary R. Mathews, Educa­ Chairman reminded crewmembers to gine delegates. Crew reported berg, Steward Delegate Robert SPAD and take advantage of upgrad­ tional Director Steve Bigelow. Chair­ keep lounge clean because it is home Arana. Chairman informed members Seafarers LOGs received and dis­ ing opportunities at Paul Hall Center. man reported no lodging available for while aboard ship. Next port: tributed. Crew asked contracts depart­ of update on contract negotiations. Treasurer reported $700.50 in ship's crewmembers during shipyard period Anchorage, Alaska. ment to look into increased funds for Educational director encouraged fund. No beefs or disputed OT as of yet. Treasurer report^ $80 in fresh produce on foreign voyages. members to upgrade at Lundeberg reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to CLEVELAND (Sealift Inc.), May movie fund and $45 in ship's fond. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. School. Treasurer reported $45 in steward department for good meals. 7—Chairman F, Khan, Secretary R. No beefs or disputed OT reported. movie fond. No beefs or disputed OT Next port: Tacoma, Wash. Linasan, Educational Director J. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE Crew reported Seafarers LOGs reported. Steward delegate reported Barry, Deck Delegate David (Sea-Land Service), May 1—Chair­ received. Crew asked contracts SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land problems with menu selection. Crew Gasoutte, Engine Delegate Dion man Francis Adams, Secretary department for clarification on room Service), May 30—Chairman Loren gave vote of thanks to steward depart­ Papas, Steward Delegate Mike Nancy Heyden, Educational Director cleaning below bridge deck. Crew Watson, Secretary Joe Johnson, ment. Galley gang members include Vinca. Chairman thanked crewmem­ Ray John Machaj, Deck Delegate gave vote of thanks to steward depart­ Educational Director R.W. Risbeck. Chief Steward Orlanda, Chief Cook bers for job well done. Secretary Lee Dubany, Engine Delegate Saleh ment. Crew discussed using movie Educational director urged members Arana and SA Jose Santos. Chair­ thanked crew for keeping ship clean. All, Steward Delegate Cecil fund to get new VCR. to upgrade at Lundeberg School. man reminded crewmembers to cleati Educational directorcongratulated Gubisch. Chairman announced letter Treasurer reported $100 in ship's int off dryer trap before and after Piney Point upgraders and advised all received from captain. He reported SEA-LAND PERFORMANCE fund. No beefs or disputed OT use. Next port: Norfolk, Va. members to upgrade skills at Lun­ everything running smoothly with no Sea-Land Service), May 3—Chair­ reported. Crew gave galley gang vote deberg School. Treasurer reported beefs or disputed OT. Chairman man Ervin Bronstein, Secretary SEA-LAND ATLANTIC (Sea-Land of thanks for job well done on salad ship's fund used to purchase new thanked SlU President Michael Dante Slack, Educational Director Service), May 16—Chairman Calvin bar and excellent food. movies in San Francisco. No beefs or James, Secretary F. Costango, Sacco, Secretary-Treasurer John Fay D.L..Johnson, Deck Delegate Carl disputed OT reported. Crew reported SEALIFT CHINA SEA (IMC), May and San Francisco Port Agent Nick Sands, Engine Delegate Juan Toro, Educational Director Kevin DeSue, urgent need for mail service in every 15—Chairman Anthony Zizzo, Celona for visiting the ship. He also Steward Delegate Stephanie Torres. Deck Delegate G. Hernandez, port. Crew asked contracts depart­ Secreta^ Martin Pak. Chairman dis­ gave special thanks to Wilmington, Chairman announced payoff in Steward Delegate Donald Williams. ment for clarification regarding OT cussed importance of Piney Point and Chairman gave vote of thanks to Cap­ Calif. Port Agent George Tricker for Elizabeth, N.J. Educational director for carriage of explosive cargo and • encouraged members to upgrade. help in resolving beef. Secretary urged members to keep accurate tain Tangen for holding sanitary in­ making potable water in port Crew Secretary announced 15-day order of reported smooth sailing. Educational record of seatiipe and encoiuaged spection during homeward voyage. also had questions about coverage of stores expected next port. No beefs or director reminded members to read crew to upgrade at Piney Point No Chairman reported captain rated ship medical expenses overseas. Next disputed OT reported. Crew gave spe­ )eefs or disputed OT. Chairman read "10." He reminded gangway watch to Seafarers LOGs and donate to SPAD. port: Pusan, Korea. cial thanks to galley crew for smiles He reported new VCR still needed letter from Seafarers Plans' Ad­ look out for strangers who may board along with good food: Next port: vessel while in port Educational direc­ and urged members to upgrade at ministrator Nick Marrone regarding GALVESTON 04/(Sea-Land Ser­ tor reminded crewmembers to take ad­ Paul Hall Center when opportunity retirement time. Crew asked contracts Long Beach, Llalif. vice), May 31—Chairman Jim Has­ presents itself. Treasurer reported $95 department to look into amending ship­ vantage of upgrading at Piney Point san, Secretary C.Scott, Educational in ship's fond. No beefs or disputed Deck delegate rqwrted disputed OT. ping rules regarding time at sea. Crew Continued on page 20 . .'v- • �SEPTEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 19 Final Departures DEEP SEA WILLIE ALBERT Pensioner Willie Albert, 67, passed away July 5. Bom in South Carolina, he joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of New York. Brother Albert sailed in the steward department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1981. Brother Albert served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954. He began receiving his pension in Sep­ tember 1985. PAULBILLIOT LEARTHUR JORDAN Learthur Jor­ dan, 46, passed away July 31. He joined the SIU in 1970 in his native Mobile, Ala. Brother Jor­ dan sailed in the steward department. He upgraded to chief cook at Piney Point in 1989. the deck department. HERBERT BRANDON Pensioner Herbert Brandon, 86, died May IS. A native of Glens Ferry, Idaho, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1937 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters Dis­ trict (AGLIWD) of the SIU. Brother Brandon retired in July 1968. EVERETT MAXWELL Pensioner Everett Maxwell, 78, died July 20. Bora in Springfield, Mass., he joined the Seafarers in 1956 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Maxwell sailed in the en­ gine departinent. He began receiv­ ing his pension in February 1980. LICHECTA BUTLER Lichecta But-^ ler,21, passed away July 14. Bora in Louisiana, he graduated from the Harry Lun­ deberg School of Seamanship in 1992. Brother But­ ler sailed in the steward department WILLIAM MCRAE Pensioner William McRae, 95, passed away June 26. A Philadelphia native, he joined the union in 1955 in the port of Seattle. Brother McRae sailed in the steward department. He retired in April 1976. ERICDAHL Pensioner Eric Dahl, 85, died June 27. A native of Sweden, he joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of New York. Brother Dahl sailed in the engine department. He began receiving his pension in January 1975. LAWSON EVANS Pensioner Lawson Evans, 87, passed away July 28. Bora in Washington, D.C., he joined the union in 1944 in the port of New York. Brother Evans sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1942. Brother Evans began receiving his pension in June 1969. JUAN HOPKINS 'W ' wich. Conn., he joined the SIU as a charter member in 1939 in the port of Providence, R.I. Brother Hat­ gimisios sailed in the steward department. He retired in Novem­ ber 1973. Pensioner Juan Hopkins, 79, passed away August 3. Bora in Puerto Rico, he joined the Seafarers in 1942 in the port of New York. Brother Hopkins sailed in the engine department. He began receiving his pension in November 1979. HENRY NUTTING Pensioner Henry Nut­ ting, 69, died July 8. Bora in Hassell, Belgium, he joined the SIU in 1965 in the port of Houston. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Nutting recently retired to St. Augustine, Fla. RAMON ROQUE Pensioner Ramon Roque, 81, )assed away July 18. A Key West, ^la. native, he joined the Seafarers in 1940 in the port of Miami. Brother Roque sailed in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in February 1971. UGENIUS SIERADZKI Pensioner Eugenius Sieradzki, 80, died August 2. Bora in Lwow, Poland, he joined the union in 957 in the port of Philadelphia. Irother Sieradzki sailed in the en­ gine department. Brother Sieradzki served in the Polish army from 942 to 1949. He retired in Oc­ tober 1973. WILLIAMJEFFERSON William Jef­ ferson, 50, died July 12. RODNEY SIMMONS A Tulsa, Pensioner Okla. native, Rodney Sim­ he joined the mons, 73, union in 1963 passed away in the port of June 18. He Houston. joined the Brother Jeffer­ Marine Cooks son completed the bosun recertificaand Stewards tion program at the Lundeberg in 1959 in his School in 1976. He served in the native New U.S. Navy from 1960 to 1%2. Orleans, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Sim­ KOSTA HATGIMISIOS mons began receiving his pension Pensioner Kosta Hatgimisios, 73, September 1984. in died Apgust 1. A native of Nor^ Paul Billiot, 53, passed away July 5. He joined the Seafarers in 1971 in his na tive New Or­ leans. Boatman Bil­ liot sailed in FRANK BLACHOWICZ Pensioner Frank Blachowicz, 72, died June 16. A Maryland native, he joined the SIU in 1975 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Blachowicz sailed in the engine department. He retired in August 1983. ANTOINEGUIDROZ Pensioner An toine Guidroz, 72, died July 10. A native of Leonville-Pt. Barre, La., he joined the Seafarers in 1974 in the port of Houston. Boatman Guidroz sailed as an AB for G & H Towing from 1969 until his retirement in 1985. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1941 to 1945. EARL JOHNSON Pensioner Earl Johnson, 66, passed away July 16. Bora in Rocking­ ham, N.C., he joined the SIU in 1972 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Johnson sailed as an en­ gineer. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1946. Boatman Johnson began receiving his pen­ sion in April 1989. WOODROW SEWARD Pensioner Woodrow Seward, 79, died June 19. A native of Galveston, Texas, he joined the Seafarers in 1963 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. Boat­ man Seward sailed as an engineer. He retired in October 1977. WILLIAM WEST Pensioner William West, 82, passed away May 1. Bora in Mathews, Va., he joined the union in 1967 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman West sailed in the deck department. He began receiving his pension in May 1978. BERNON DAVIDSON Pensioner Beraon Davidson, 78, jassed away June 29. Bora in '4orth Carolina, he joined the union n 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Joatman Davidson sailed as an en­ gineer. He began receiving his pen­ sion in March 1983. GREAT LAKES JOHNWEGLIAN Pensioner John Weglian, 81, )assed away August 1. A Miclygan native, he joined the Seafarers in 965 in the port of Detroit. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Weglian retired in August 1974. RAILROAD MARINE JAMES ANDERSON James Ander­ son, 49, died June 5. A Michigan na­ tive, he joined the SIU in 1978 in the port of Al­ pena, Mich. Brother Anderson sailed in the deck depart­ ment. WILLIAM LANCZKY Pensioner William Lanczky, 77, died April 9. A New Jersey native, he joined the Seafarers in 1963 in the port of New York. Brother Lanczky began receiving his pension in Janurary 1971. MARTIN OZMINA Pensioner Martin Ozmina, 87, passed away July 25. Bora in Illinois, he joined the Seafarers in 1962 in the port of Chicago. Brother Ozmina sailed in the deck department. He retired in February 1977. VERNONSAVAGE Pensioner Vernon Savage, 71, died May 8. , A native of Jersey City, N.J., he sailed both as a Great Lakes tugboat operator and as an inland boatman. Brother Savage served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1948. He began receiving his pension in May 1989. CLIFFORD THOMAS Pensioner Clifford Thomas, 79, passed away June 19. Bora in Michigan, he joined the union in 1969 in the port of Frankfort, Mich. Brother Thomas sailed in the deck department. He retired in Oc­ tober 1978. JOSEPH TURNER Pensioner Joseph Turner, 66, died May 8. A native of Sault Ste. . Marie, Mich., he joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Detroit. Brother Turner sailed as a tug linesman with Great Lakes owing until his retirement in December 1987. FRANCIS STEWART Pensioner Francis Stewart, 77, passed away May 9. Bora in Brooklyn, N.Y.,he joined the union in I960 in the port of New York. Brother Stewart served in the U.S. Army from 1934 to 1946. He retired in November 1974. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN ANTHONY GALLO Pensioner An­ thony Gallo, 74, passed away June 10. He joined the Seafarers in 1967 in his na­ tive Gloucester, Mass. Brother Gallo sailed as an engineer. He retired in March 1984. •'• • CORRECTION HERNELL E. EDWARDS The August edition of the Seafarers LOG inadver­ tently printed incorrect in­ formation on HernellE. Edwards. The notice should have read: Pensioner Ed­ wards, 71, passed away June 16. A ^uisiana native, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1971 in the port of New Orleans, jefore that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Edwards comjleted the steward recertification course at the Lundeberg School in 979. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1941 to 1944. Brother Ed­ wards retired in March 1987. •S Max Steen Honored by Seattle Seafarers Paisioner Max Steen, 83, passed away July 10. Broker Steen had no sur­ viving family when he died, so his SIU brothers and sisters and friends from Seattle's Jewish community joined together to honor his memory. Brother Steen was born in Sweden where for many years he was a professional horse breeder and was involved in the European horse racing circuit. He continued to work widr horses when he flr^t came to the United States during World War II. Steen joined the Seafarers in March 1946 in the port of Baltimore. His first ship was the SS Mission San Araonio. He began sailing as a steward utility and worked his way up to chief steward. In 1969, Steen became a naturalized U.S. citizen and changed his name from Steinsapir. After 22 years of sailing, he began his retirement in 1968 in Seattle. He later moved to Piney Point, Md. to live at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. Several years later he moved back to Seattle. When Steen died in June, friends provided funeral and memorial services. Six SIU mem­ bers served as pallbearers and car­ ried Brother Steen to his final resting place. -JL. ..V ,. .a "T • �IP ZO Ships Digest pV"' •'• i?,n ,r.' ^'1^;/^,., ^•: ; ? .• • .... " V • '. • •'* • ' '.•: ' • ;.' c* Continued from page 18 ., , SEPTEMRER1993 SEAFARERS IHQ SEAM rO/? (Crowley American Transport), May 23—Secretary R.T. Seim, Educational Director William Cameron. Crew still waiting for cor­ respondence from headquarters regarding deck beef. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and contribute to SPAD and MDL funds. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed involvement in political areas of union issues. Crew thanked galley gang for fine varied menus and weekly bar­ becue cookouts. Steward department thanked entire crew for fine team woiic in keeping ship very clean. Next port; Port Everglades, Ha. separate sleeping quarters for day sleepers and watch standers. TTB G/70r0/V (Sheridan Transporta­ tion), June 4—Chairman Neil Matthey. Secretary M. Deloatch, Educational Director J. Carnell, Deck Delegate Brian Fountain, En­ gine Delegate Pete Murtagh, Steward Delegate Michael Hammack. Chairman announced ship scheduled to lay up in shipyard end of June or beginning of July. Crew . gave vote of thanks to company for new couch. Secretary thanked crew for keeping mess room clean at night. Educational director reminded mem­ bers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Crew gave many thanks to galley gang and deck department for great cookout on Memorial Day. Louis Sorito Jr., Engine Delegate Richard Robertson, Steward Delegate Udjang Nurdjaja. Chair­ man reminded crewmembers to ad­ here to ETC policies while ashore as well as on vessel. Educational direc­ tor encouraged members to check upgrading schedule and upgrade at Lundeberg School while off vessel. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Secretary W. Washington, Deck Delegate Errick Nobles, Engine Delegate Earl Adams, Steward Delegate Daniel Crawford. Chair­ man announced payoff upon arrival in Portland, Maine. Educational direc­ tor urged members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. Deck and steward delegates reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine delegate. Crew gave vote of thanks to chief steward for job well done. Crew requested new washer and reported refrigerator needs repair. LNG AQUARIUS(ETC), June 13Chairman Sam Brooks, Secretary Franklin Robertson, Educational Director John Orr, Engine Delegate Bruce Zennon, Steward Delegate Rafael Cardenas. Chairman thanked OMI LEADER (OMI Corp.), June 27—Chairman Patrick Rankin, galley gang for food and menus. Secretary C. Michael Davalie, Educational director reminded mem­ Educational Director Davon Mc­ bers to send seatime in with applica­ Millan, Deck Delegate Eugene Fintion when applying for upgrading ley, Steward Delegate Nee Tran. courses at Piney Point. No beefs or Chairman requested another dryer for disputed OT reported. Crew re- . crew laundry. He thanked crew for quested new VCR. Steward delegate WESTWARD l^E/Vriy/7E(IOM), ITB GROTON (Sheridan Transporta­ asked crewmembers not to go in fine job done and announced payoff May 31—Chairman M,W, Kaddertion), June 16—-Chairman Neil Maton July 4 upon arrival in Boston. refrigerators and take things at will. ly. Secretary R.B. Sanderson, Educa­ they. Secretary M. Deloatch, Crew gave vote of thanks to galley Crew gave vote of thanks to Rafael tional Director Robert Ohier, Deck Educational Director J. Carnell. gang. Educational director en­ Cardenas for job well done. Cardenas Delegate Paul Davis, Engine Chairman announced ship is couraged members to upgrade at Paul thanked crew for support and help. Delegate Bert Abella, Steward scheduled to lay up in Brooklyn Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT Next port: Bontang, Indonesia. Delegate Steve Soofi. Chairman an­ shipyard dry dock. He reported crew reported. nounced ship to shipyard for 5 days 1STLT. JACKLUMMUS will be laid off approximately 3 in Tacoma, Wash. Educational direc­ weeks. He announced after layup, OMI MISSOURI(Vulcan Carriers), (Amsea), June 13—Chairman Kelly tor urged members to donate to Devine, Secretary Anthony Curran, June 27—Chairman Cesar Gutier­ ship will go to St. Croix for under­ SPAD and upgrade skills at Piney rez, Secretary Clyde Kreiss, Deck water survey. He reminded crewmem- Deck Delegate Don Deflorio, Point Crew discussed courtesy in Steward Delegate Dehora Grendahl. Delegate Randolf Boiling, Engine bers repair list must be turned in. , crew lounge with use of VCR and Delegate Grant Shuman, Steward Chairman discussed hazard pay with Educational director encouraged radio. Chairman reminded crew to Delegate Abdul Aziz. Chairman crewmembers. Treasurer reported members to upgrade at Piney Point. ' keep lounge clean. reported smooth sailing and an­ $244 in ship's fund. No beefs or dis­ No beefs or disputed OT reported. nounced arrival in Tanga, Tanzania. puted OT reported. Crew thanked Crew and officers gave vote of AMERICAN FALCON iCrov/ley He announced outgoing mail should captain for allowing use of rib boat thanks to galley gang for great American Transport), June 19— be given to captain. Treasurer for training. Next port: Jacksonville, cookout. Chairman Harold Power, Secretary reported $50 in ship's fund. No beefs Ha. PJ. Zilkow, Educational Director ITB PHILADELPHIA (Sheridan or disputed OT reported. Crew Earnest Cox, Deck Delegate Mike Transportation), June I—Chairman thanked steward department for great NORTHERN LIGHTS aOM), June Davis. Educational director reminded V. Nielsen, Secretary J.P. Emidy, cookouts. 27—Chairman Ray Waiters, members to upgrade at Lundeberg Educational Director B. Sengelauh, Secretary K. Whit, Educational School. No bwfs or disputed OT OMI SACRAMENTO (Vulcan Car­ Deck Delegate C. Brown, Engine Director Keith Jordan, Deck reported.Crew gave vote of thanks to Delegate Carlos Bonefont, Steward riers), June 20—Chairman Ray Delegate Timothy Jackson, Engine steward department for job well Gorju, Secretary Raul Cavalcanti, Delegate Jack Hart. Steward Delegate Charles Kennedy, Steward done. Crew asked contracts depart­ Educational Director Henry Hall, thanked crew for keeping mess halls Delegate Christopher Green. Chair­ ment for explanation of weekend OT clean. Crew gave vote of thanks to Deck Delegate Kenneth Gilson, En­ man discussed putting lock on conditions. gine Delegate Thomas Martines, galley gang. Next port: New York. bathroom doors. Educational director Steward Delegate Norman Taylor. CONSTELLATION (Maersk encouraged members to upgrade at PFC JAMES ANDERSON Chairman announced new TV in Lines), June 18—Chairman B. Shel­ Lundeberg School. No beefs or dis­ (Maersk Lines), June 20—Chairman crew lounge and dryer in crew ley, Secretary B. Tyler, Educational puted OT reported. Next port: Thomas Anderson, Secretary Hugh laundry repaired. He also reported Director L.Strong, Deck Delegate TaComa, Wash. Wildermuth, Educational Director poor mail service on vessel. He urged Glen Miller O, Steward Delegate F. L. Cochrane, Deck Delegate James members to upgrade skills at Piney Umali. Educational director urged NEDLLOYD HOLLAND (Sea-Land Hailstone, Steward Delegate Earl ^oint. Educational director also en­ members to upgrade skills at Paul Service), June 13—Chairman F. Castain. Educational director urged couraged merribers to upgrade. Deck Hall Center. Treasurer reported $600 members to upgrade at Lundeberg Gothe, Secretary V. Harper, Educa­ delegate reported disputed OT. No in ship's fund and announced two tional Director D. Bush, Deck School. Treasurer reported $100 in Ijeefs or disputed OT reported by en­ tape rewinders will be purchased in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT Delegate Robert Rager, Engine gine or steward delegates. Next port: Oakland, Calif, for crew lounge. No Delegate Gerald Yore, Steward reported. Next port: Diego Garcia. *ilew Orleans. beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew Delegate Michael Harris. Chairman gave vote of thanks to galley gang for JULIUS HAMMER (OCCD, June urged members to take advantage of OMI WILLAMETTE (OMI Corp.), good food. Crew thanked 'Ashing 28—Chairman Richard Nicholas. upgrading opportunities at Lundeberg . Tune 27—Chairman Glen James, gang" on Midway Island and stated Chairman reported contract exten­ School. Educational delegate also en­ Secretary Robert Scott, Educational the six yellow fin tuna and two sion. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs couraged members to visit Piney Director J. Badgett. Chairman wahoo they donated to ship were fan­ not being received. Educational direc­ Point. Treasurer reported $75 in reported crew needs new washer and tastic. Next port: Concord, Calif. tor reminded members to upgrade at ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT dryer for crew laundry. Chairman dis­ Paul Hall Center. Treasurer reported reported. Crew gave vbte of thanks to cussed waste disposal. Secretary GOPHER STATE (lOM), June $180 in ship's fund to be used to pur­ steward department. Next port: Char­ reported smooth sailing. No beefs or Chairman Dan Teicbman, Secretary chase two sets of fishing poles and leston, S.C. disputed OT reported. Crew gave spe­ A. Austin, Educational Director M. tackle. No beefs or disputed OT cial thanks to Robert Scott for excel­ Arron, Deck Delegate Claude New, reported. Crew discussed importance NUEVO SAN JUAN (Puerto Rico lent salad bar. Chairman urged crew Engine Delegate Eric McTinney. Marine),June 6—Chairman J. Wil­ of having U.S.-flag ships. Crew re­ to upgrade skills at Lundeberg Chairman announced date of arrival liams Secretary R. Fagan, Education­ quested new refrigerator, short wave School. Next port: New York. in Newport News, Va. and reported al Director C. Gallagher, Deck radio and speakers, new beds, new patrolman will meet vessel. Secretary sink. Crew reported antenna needs Delegate D.M, Hood, Engine OVERSEAS HARRIETTE gave vote of thanks to steward depart­ repair. Crew thanked steward depart­ Delegate J. Williams Jr., Steward Maritime Overseas), June 20— ment for fine job and extra efforts Delegate B. Winfield. Chairman ment for great food and cookouts. Chairman W. Jeffersen, Secretary putting together barbecues. Educa­ reported ship running smoothly with H.G. Williams, Engine Delegate tional director urged members to take LNG ARIES(ETC), June 2—Chair­ very good deck department. He an­ Nathaniel Gaten. Secretary reported advantage of upgrading opportunities man Dlus Veach, Secretary Doyle nounced payoff in Elizabeth, N.J. and vessel in Lithuania with load of com at Piney PdinL No beefs or disputed Cornelius, Educational Director reminded crewmembers to ask patrol­ and expected back in United States OT. Crew discussed designating Charles Pomraning, Deck Delegate man about new contract. No beefs or on July 12. He reported smooth sail­ disputed OT reported. Crew gave ing. No beefs or ^sputed OT vote of thanks to galley gang for reported. Crew announced Seafarers good food and job well done. LOGs received. Crew reported over­ OOCL INSPIRATION(Sea-Land load in crew mess hall needs repair. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley Service), June 27—Chairman Mark Trepp, Educational Director Donald »ang for doing fine job. Next port: New Orleans. Christian, Deck Delegate Oscar Lopez, Engine Delegate Jeff OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS Kinsman. Educational director en­ (Maritime Overseas), June 3—Chair­ couraged members to upgrade skills man Sonny Pinkham, Se<;retary at Piney Point.Treasurer reported Daniel Brown, Educational Director $190 in ship's fund. No beefs or dis­ Gerald Daley, Deck Delegate puted OT. Crew reported Seafarers Pasquale Giorgilli, Engine Delegate LOGs received. Crew gave vote of Jim Skuhna, Steward Delegate thanks to steward department with special thanks to Chief Cook George Marco Guity. Chairman announced contract negotiations in process. He Monseur who is signing off. Next Cr^wmembers aboard Crowley's Ambassador inspect one of the encouraged members to stay aware of port: Charleston, S.C. ship's lifeboats to make sure it works properly. They are (from left) maritime politics and elect repre­ Steward/Baker Milton Youmet, AB Glenn Reynolds, Bosun Leon Jekot OMI CHAMPION (OMl Corp.), sentatives who support U.S. mer­ and ABs Rubin Mitchell, Ben Bess and Robert Grubbs. June 13r—Chairman Paul Domes, chant seamen. Secretary reminded Lifeboat Inspection members to rqad Seafarers LOG. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported TV in lounge needs repair. Crew gave vote of thanks to gal­ ley gang and observed moment of silence for departed union brothers and sisters. Next port: Newington, N.H. OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS (Maritime Overseas), June 24— Chairman Sonny Pinkham, Secretary Daniei Brown, Education­ al Director Gerald Daley, Deck Union Support When the OM/Leacferstopped off in Boston, SlU member Robert Duncan had a chance to catch up on union business. Delegate Pasquale Giorgilli, Engine Delegate Jim Skuhna, Steward Delegate Marco Guity. Chairman reported telephone conversation regarding contract negotiations with Assistant Vice President Tony Sacco, Chairman discussed contract exten­ sion with crewmembers. Educational director urged members to utilize Paul Hall Center. No Ireefs of dis­ puted OT reported. Crew reminded of dress code for meal time. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward depart­ ment for outstanding job. Crew con­ gratulated scholarship recipients and observed moment of silence for departed brothers and sisters. Next port: Pascagoula, Miss. OVERSEAS OHIO (Maritime Over­ seas), June 13—Chairman George Schuj, Secretary Earl Gray, Educa­ tional Director D. Bautista, Deck Delegate Larry Lee, Engine ' Delegate RJ. Butoh, Steward Delegate Robert Gilliam. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in Long Beach, Calif. Secretary reminded members that it is time to consider upgrading at Piney Point. Educational director discussed ad­ vantages of upgrading at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew congratulated deck department for excellent job painting ship. Crew gave vote of thanks to gal­ ley gang for job very well done. OVERSEAS WASHINGTON (Maritime Overseas), June 13— Chairinan J. H. Lewis, Secretary R. Miller, Educational Director L« Cope, Deck Delegate Glen Thompson, Engine Delegate Scott Wilkirtson, Steward Delegate Thurman Johrtson.Chairman announced arrival in port. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done and clean area. flOFE/? (Vulcan Carriers), June 6— Chairman Dennis Brown, Deck Delegate Jori Williams, Engine Delegate Danny Thoma^, Steward Delegate Leslie Davis. Chairman annoimced fax sent to union notifying of arrival date. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported $50 in ship's fund. Disputed OT reported by engine and steward delegates. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck delegate. Crew gave steward department letter of apprecia­ tion for excellent work. Next port: New York. SEA-LAND ANCHORAGE (SeaLand Service), June 23—Chairman G. Walker, Secretary J. Wright, Educational Director K. Bertei, Deck Continued on pt^e 21 �• V^' . • ' SEPTEMBER 1993 Ships Digest Continued from page 20 1.. :. ••-• . <v..: • Delegate Thomas Luketich, Engine Delegate Alan Hansen, Steward Delegate William Bryley. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in Tacoma, Wash. He reminded all crewmembers to check with boarding patrolman and those signing off to please leave room clean with fresh linens. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman asked crewmem­ bers to keep recreation and laundry rooms clean. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang. SEA-LAND A TLANTIC (Sea-Land Service), June 20—Chairman Calvin James, Secretary F.Costango, Educa­ tional Director Kevin DeSue, Deck Delegate James Rush. Chairman an­ nounced results of captain's sanitary inspection were good. He thanked crew for good job. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department. Secretary reported fresh stores will be received in Charleston, S.C. Educa­ tional director urged members to use facilities at Piney Point to upgrade skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received in Rotterdam. Crew requested new washing machine, VCR, chairs and two vacuum cleaners. SEA-LAND CHALLENGER (SeaLand Service), June 13—Chairman Roy Williams, Secretary H. Scypes, Educational Director Ronald Smith. Chairman reported ship just out of shipyard in Norfolk, Va. He reported payoff in Elizabeth, N.J. Secretary reported dishwasher;coffee maker, refngerator and pantry sprinkler need repairs. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND HA WAII (Sea-Land Service), June 20—Chairman James Carter, Secretary J. Jones, Educa­ tional Director D.G. Gordios. Chair­ man announced with the threat of going foreign flag, it is important to contribute to SPAD. He reported ap­ plications for Lundeberg School avail­ able. Crew gave vote of thanks to SEAFARERS LOG steward department for good food. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Service), June 27—Chair­ man Greg Hamilton, Secretary P. Schulz, Educational Director Ray Machaj, Deck Delegate M. Santana, Engine Delegate Melvin Layner. Chairman discussed importance of fire safety and awareness. Secretary discussed garbage and agricultural laws. Educational director reminded members to read Seafarers LOGs and donate to SPAD. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew asked con­ tracts department to look into lowering retirement age for all Seafarers to age 55. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. SEA-LAND LIBERATOR (SeaLand Service), June 13—Chairman Charles Herrera, Secretary G.F. Thomas, Educational Director D.F. Dean. Chairman requested patrolman to meet vessel prepared for union business. Crew discussed movie fund contributions. Crew discussed pur­ chasing bicycles and new lounge sofa with fund. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Piney Point when possible. Steward delegate asked contracts department to clarify paying of early meals and extra meals to non-crew people in port. Crew asked contracts department to look into improved optical benefits. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND NA VIGATOR (SeaLand Service), June 20—Chairman Werner Becher, Secretary J. Or­ tega, Educational Director Walter Stevens, Deck Delegate Ken Hagar, Engine Delegate Robert Zurfluh, Steward Delegate Virgilio Hofimann. Chairman reported no new information received fiom headquarters regarding contract negotiations. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND PACIFIC (Sea-Land Service), June 28—Chairman H. Gifford. Secretary R. Mathews, Educa­ tional Director Steve Bigelow. Treasurer reported $40 in movie fund and $90 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Due to dif­ ference in schedules of watch standers and day workers, crew asked contracts department to look into having separate rooms for members of engine department. 21 Meeting Aboard USNS Capella SEA-LAND PATRIOT(Sea-Land Service), June 26—Chairman R.F. Garcia, Secretary J. Russell, Educa­ tional Director J.F. Hagner. Chair­ man reported contract extension. Chairman discussed foreign flag issue and urged crewmembers to write representatives asking the government to give merchant fleet tax incentives and help keep U.S. ves­ sels U.S. flagged. Educational direc­ tor announced Lundeberg School class schedule posted and encouraged members to upgrade skills. He reminded members that SPAD helps contribute to keeping U.S. ships under U.S. flag and everyone needs During a recent stopover in Jacksonvilie, Fla., crewmembers gathered in the mess room of the USNS Capella for a shipboard meeting. to do their part. No beefs or disputed Pictured above are (from left) Paul Pagano, Mike Shappo, James OT reported. Chairman reminded Jordan and Joe Conlii ilin. crewmembers to clean up after them­ selves. He also reminded crew not to tor urged memljers to upgrade at Paul and radios off while in passageway put empty coffee pot back on hot burner. Next port: Wilmington, Calif. Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT because people are asleep at different reported. Deck delegate discussed im­ times. Next port: Haifa, Israel. SEA-LAND RELIANCE (Sea-Land portance of separating plastic from USNS WILKES (Bay Ship Manage­ Service), June 17—Chairman R. Me- other garbage. Chairman reminded ment), June 18—Chairman R. Skip Gonagle, Secretary G.Sivley, Educa­ crewmembers to work as teams in Yager, Secretary K. Dougherty, tional Director A. Jaramillo, Deck crew mess area. Educational Director C.J. Brown. Delegate Michael Anderson, Engine THOMPSON PASS(lOM), June Chairman reported everything run­ Delegate Leon Fountain, Steward 24—Chairman Jim Colson, ning smoothly and notes good Delegate L. Acosta. Chairman Secretary D. Bergeson, Educational cooperation between all departments. reminded crewmembers to wear Director Joe Walker, Deck Delegate Educational director urged crew to safety gear on deck and thanked them Muhsin Ali, Engine Delegate take advantage of upgrading and for smooth trip. No beefs or disputed Ahmed Yahmed, Steward Delegate educational opportunities available at OT reported. Crew gave vote of Larry Lopez. Chairman thanked Paul Hall Center. Treasurer reported thanks to steward department for job company for new washing machine. $239 in ship's fund. No beefs or dis­ well done. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. Secretary reminded members impor­ puted OT reported. Steward depart­ SEA-LAND SPIRIT(Sea-Land Ser­ tance of upgrading at Piney Point. ment asked for crew cooperation in vice), June 6—Chairman Rafael Cle- Deck delegate reported disputed OT. not walking on newly waxed decks. mente, Secretary Steve Apodaca, No beefs or disputed OT by engine or Crew gave vote of thanks to Chief Educational Director Charles Hen­ steward delegates. Crewmembers Cook Doug Swets and Cook/Baker ley, Deck Delegate Theodore Doi, reported spotting 60 foot albino K. Rohy. Engine Delegate C. Mendeiros, whale with pink eyes off coast of WESTWARD VENTURE (lOM), Steward Delegate Frank Maliga. No Vancouver Island. June 29—Chairman M.W. Kadderbeefs or disputed OT reported. Crew l/Lr/?/lSEA(SealiflInc.), June 13— ly. Secretary R.B. Sanderson, Educa­ asked contracts department to look Chairman Jim Dawson, Secretary tional Director Robert Ohler. into wage and manning increases for W. Williams. Chairman reported TV Chairman reported telex received new contract Crew gave vote of antenna has been repaired and crew firtm company regarding two-month thanks to steward department for job can once again enjoy TV while in extension of contract. Chairman well done. Next port: Honolulu. port. Treasurer reported $56 in ship's reminded crew to keep noise down SEALIFTA TLANTIC (IMC), June fiind. Deck delegate complimented and reported ice machine parts will galley gang on excelleht meals. No 26—Chairman John NefF, Secretary be on board upon arrival in Tacoma, R. Catahan, Educational Director beefs or disputed OT reported. Chair­ Wash. He also asked crewmembers man asked crew to keep noise down Michael Parker. Educational directo return dishes to pantry. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU At­ lantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution re-: quires a detailed audit by cer­ tified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretarytreasurer. A yearly finance com­ mittee of raiik-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their find­ ings and recommendations. Mem­ bers of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recom­ mendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trus­ tees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of 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 exclusive­ ly by contracts^ between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts be­ tween the union and the employers, thdy should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by cer­ tified mail, return receipt re­ quested. The proper address for this is; Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to mem­ bers at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and hves aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for over­ time (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union offi­ cial fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any ar­ ticle serving the political pur­ poses of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing arr tides deemed harmful to the union or its collective member­ ship. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which con­ sists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No moniesare to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no cir­ cumstances should any member jay any money for any reason uness 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 receipL but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGA­ TIONS. Copies of the SIU con­ stitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its 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. Consequent­ ly, no member may be dis­ criminated 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 POLITI­ CAL 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 politi­ cal, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preser­ vation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment oppor­ tunities for seamen and boatmen " / I' \ ^ and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD sup­ ports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force. Job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such con­ duct, or as a condition of mem­ bership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above im­ proper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers Inter­ national Union or SPAD by cer­ tified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A mem­ ber should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitution­ al 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 ad­ dress is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. •. ' •v-f;--- "I "'-'J. �22 SEFIEMBER1B93 SEJ^MERSLOG Lundeberg School Graduating Classes Trainee Lifeboat Class 513—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 513 are (from left, kneeling) Michael Pedersen, Jo Doris Stinnett, Michael Johnson, Michael Maddox, Nigel Talley, Stephen Walsh, Marshall Turner, (second row) Jack Caffey III, Michael Woodman, Damon Mathews, Miguel A. Carmona Jr., Warren Moore, Emmitt Sykes, Jimmy Hesson Jr., Michael Natoli, (third row) Ben Cusic (instructor), John McClinton, Anthony Jacbbson, Brian Gaffigan • Richard Smetana and Philip Britt. QMED—Graduating on June 23 as a Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED) are (from left, seated) Michael DiAngelo, John Osburn, Peter Sternberg, Thomas Keseru, Burdette Smart, Brian Monnerjahn, Tracy Hill, Scott Duckworth, Jeffrey Murray, (second row) DiMarko Shoulders, Pasquale Gazillo, Bert Voto-Bemales, Mark Aimer, Michael Ribeiro, Eric Millsap, Kevin Twiford, Neil Carter, John Fleming, John Kasbarian, William Scott, (third row) Peter Littman, Richard Metcalf, Brian Collins, Richard Davis, Martin Allred, Eron Hall, Edward Louis, Erik Larka and Ralph Gosnell. Not pictured are Tedd Avey, John Groom and Christine Cameal. Advanced Firefighting—Upgrading members completing the advanced firefighting course are (from left, front row) Byran Cummings (instructor), Willie Marsh, Debra Gardiner, Harry Nar­ rower, Fred Caltabiano, (second row) Richard Butrim, William Burns, David Wigley, (third row) Mary Brayman and Warren Blankenship. Pumproom Maintenance and Operations—Complet­ ing this engine department course are (from left, first row) John Parkhurst, William Parker, Sellers Brooks, Riley Donahue, Steven Hoskins, (second row) Kelly Davis, Cail Montoya, Russ Levin (instructor) and Robert Rudd. Fireman, Oiler, Watertender—^Working their way up the engine departmnet ratings are (from left, kneeling) Duane Werda, Carolyn ThifaulL Glynn Courson, Scott Fuller, Celina Butler, Jeffery Roddy, Felipe Clotter, (second row) Greg Garrett, Kevin Cooper, Beckett Young, Stephen Walters, Gene Whellis, George Radar—Renewing their radar endorsements on July 14 are (from ow)Jeffer, Willis, Ronald Pheneuf, David left) Jake Karaczynski (instructor), Tom Culpepper, Hans Wethal, Jon Beavers, Cromwell Henderson, Gary Winter, Daniel Weaver, (third row)Jeffery Irew Vanbourg. Bowles, Lonnie Matthews and J.C. Wiegman (instructor). Not pictured is Andre Weirauch, Lyie McCorison, Ray Femandez and Thomas Tinsley. Celestial Navigation—Graduating from the celestial navigation course in June are (from left, kneel­ ing) Ralph Race, Dennis Goodwin, Charlotte Winstead, Jon Weirauch, Don Filoni, (second row) Jim Brown (in­ structor), Mike Payne, VVarren Blankenship, Hans Wethal, Walter Taulman and Matthew Holley. • f Upgraders Lifeboat—Certificates of training were received by the June 29 class of upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) William Begendorf, Erwin Arellano, Charlotte Winstead, David Gannoun, Ben Cusic (instructor), (second row) Ronnie Davis, Oswald Stoiber, Suzanne Van Schoor, Sah/atore Tomeo and Enrique Garrido, Refngeration Systems— Upgrading memtiers of the engine department completing the refrigeration systems cpurse are (from left, front row) John K. Halim, Bruce Zenon, Rex Solin, Matthew Doherty, (second row) Sean Nicholson, Kevin Conklin, (third row) Pompey Alegado, Jerome Kirstein, Paul Patterson and J.C. Wiegman (instructor). �1, SEPTEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG M -*•' <• ^ -• W LWUDEBERG SCHOm. 23 •m^ RacmMkMtmProigrams The following is the current course schedule for classes beginning between September and December 1993 at the Seafarers Hairy Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in piney Point, Md. All programs aregeared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course sc^ may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industiy and—in times of conflict—the nation's security. I ^ i Cbeck-ln Date October 4 , tsL- Course • Bosun Recertiflcation 4" "• .. ' Complethin Date November 8 ' ' i' Course AhleSeamui Shipbandibig^ Cbeck-In Completioil Date Date Ail open-ended (contact adrai^Bipil^ oilice for starti%^tes) Check-In Date Completion Date Course AsslstantCool^ September 13 November 8 October 22 December 17 ChleTCmi^ ChMSietill^ All open-ended(«mbetadiijytes^^ office fSor starting datm) September 27 ^ l^ovemberS November 19 ^urse Ratia y ' ^ 'i '' '' 'y* Chedk-ln Cmtipletlmi Ihde Dale Septemlrer 27 . November 5 September 20 November 1 September 24 Novembers FirenianAVatertender and Ctiler November 22 Decmitiierl7 Ail stiiderusjlmst take the Oil Spill Prevention and Conkdnmera cla^ Pumproom Maint & Operations . Novembers Decmnberl7 ' Marine Electrical Maintenance n 'i/' ' : •, September 13 October 22 ':<.OdMtaHr22 ; '. : U' : Novembers Marine Electronics Technician II November 8 D^nd)erl7 Hydraulics Stq^mnber 13 October 8 November 22 December!^ October 25 November 19 mding 1992 October 11 December b October 22 Nbi^mberl9 De<%mberl7 Septemlnert November 2 Septemlrerl? November 12 October 25 November 19 Novembers Sealift Operations & Maintenance ; 1 AdilltIdiN^^ The following courses are available through the Seafarers Hany Lundeberg SclmoL Please contact the adinissions office for emoIbnern infiDrmation. •'Cwiilsej Oieck-bi Date Completion Date High School Equivalmicy (GED) Adult Basic Education (ABE) English as a Second Language (ESL) All open-^nded (contact admissions office for startims dat^) A> m mm m mm UPGRADING APPLKATIOM Date of Birth Name (UW) Address (CSly) (Fin#) (SUeel) .Telephone _£ (AreaCbde) (Zip Code) (Stale) Deep Sea Memberd Monlh/Day/Year (Middle) Lakes MemberQ Inland Waters MemberE] Pacified If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # — Book # Seniority Department U.S. Citizen: DVes • No Home Port. Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held n Yes Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? If yes, which program: from to . Last grade of school completed • Yes Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? If yes, course(s) taken. Have you taken any SHLSS Sealift Operations courses? GYes If yes, how many weeks have you completed?. Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? n Yes GNO Firefighting: G Yes GNO CPR:GYes Date available for training Primary language spoken With this application COPIES of yourdischarges 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 indenting your department and seniority, your clinic card the from and back of your Lundeberg School identification card listing die course(s)you have taken and completed TheAdnissions Office WILL NOT scfmbde you until all of the above are received RATING DATE DATEOF VESSEL HELD SHIFFED DISCHARGE Id No GNO G NO SIGNATURE. I am interested in the following courts) checked below or indicated here if not listed DECK AB/Sealift 1st Class PUot Third Mate Radar Observer Unlimited Master Inspected Towing Vessel D Towboat Operator Inland • Celestial Navigation D Simulator Course • • D • • ENGINE QNO • FOWT D QMED—^Any Rating • Variable Speed DC Drive Systems (MarineElectronics) .DATE. D Marine Electrical Maintenance • Pumpmm Maintenance ft Operation Q Refrigeration Systems Maintenance ft Operation • Diesel Engine Technology O Assistant Engineer/CTiief Engineer Motor Vessel • Original 3idEngiiieer Steam or Motor • Refrigerated Containers Advanced Maintenance Q Electro-Hydraulic Systems Q Automation D Hydraulics • Marine Electronics Technician • n • • • STEWARD Assistant Cook Utility <3ook and Baker ChiefCook diief Steward Towboat Inland Cook ALLDK>ARTMENTS • Welding O Lifeboatman (must be taken with anodiercourse) n Oil Si^l Prevention ft Contaimnent D Basic/Advanced ' Rre Fighting • Sealift D Q • O • ADULT EDUCATION DEPARTMENT Adult Basic Education (ABE) Hi^ School Equivalency Program (GED) Developmental Studies (DVS) English as a Second Language (ESL) ABE/ESLUfeboat Preparation —-— COLLEGE PROGRAM D Associate in Alts Degree rtaMonwOI be fM In acconlaiice with IhtidwdBMiit tetteronly If yoopretnt original rtcelpli and succtadWayteMpkte the course. If you have any qaathmt,contact your port afcat brfore dcparliiii for Phiey Pstat RETURN COMPLETED APPUCATION TO: LBiidel>eitD|itraili«C(al«r. P.O. Bon 75, Plmy Flow, MD MC74. *93 W '• I,' -f-: • An- ";V Tn —— ."V k.:'V' . �V" y=^- "T"^ •'• SEAmKERS September 1993 Volume 55, Number 9 Where will you be in December for the holidays? Whether at sea or ashore, Seafarers can send holiday messages to their loved ones through the LOG. See page 17. ^Brotherhood of the Sea^ Comes Through for Seafarers SIU Launch Operators Rescue 11 Boatmen After Collision Sets off Pre-Dawn Blasts Seafarers Stephen Jean and The Manatee and Egmont ar­ Robert Layton were getting rived at approximately the same ready to end a long night of work time, within minutes of the initia shuttling pilots across Tampa Bay blast. While the launches raced to on the launch boat Manatee. the scene, the Ocean 255 began a It was Layton's fourth day series of explosions. The barge with the Tampa Bay Pilots As­ was loaded with 235,000 barrels sociation and his first night duty of jet fuel, oil and gasoline. As Allen explained it, "We with his training partner. The duo were walking down the sidewalk gathered our wits and went about toward the fishing pier at Fort De- looking for survivors. Jean guided the Manatee up­ Spto State Park where the launch was tied when Jean saw an wind and Allen took the Egmont orange glow in the pre-dawn the opposite way to look for any darkness just before 6 a.m. on mariners in the water. About the same time, the Balsa 37 appeared August 10. "What is that?" Jean wondered through the wall of smoke and aloud to Layton. About then, the flames. The Philippine-flagged two heard an explosion and the ship was headed for anchorage. question was answered. As Jean took the Manatee An outbound foreign-flag closer with Layton standing freighter had collided with two watch on the bow, the jet fuel on incoming tug/barges, setting off a the Ocean 255 exploded. "We series of explosions on the were 600 to 700 yards away when second—the SlU-crewed it went," Jean recalled. "It sent a Maritrans tug Seafarer and barge mushroom cloud 2,000 feet in the Ocean 255. air. I thought all the windows on Jean was dispatching the my boat would shatter." association's night launches AP by Huy Nguyen (The St. Petersburg nrnes) Gap in Flames SIU members I ten Jean shoved off from the pier in the bottom right to rescue the which are operated by SIU mem­ Inunediately after the blast, ?an 255burning in Tampa Bay. bers. He knew Michael Allen Layton spotted three glow-sticks crew of the tug Seafarer and barge was standing by on the launch shining in the water. Jean lad the strength to swim beyond Guard is continuing its investiga­ flames and heat, salvage crews Egmont near the Egmont Key maneuvered closer and the two the flames, severd were not able tion. However, news reports im­ could not uncouple the tug lighthouse to pick up the pilot began rescuing the crew of the o climb aboard the boat. Jean ^d mediately following the accident Seafarer from the barge until the aboard the freighter Balsa 37. Layton provided the extra hands stated the Balsa 37, a 400-foot day after the accident. Seafarer. "I knew there were three ships freighter, was outbound from Port Allen, 24, said he had been "As we got the first three, we that brought them to safety. in the area and there was trouble," saw more swimming toward us," All were exhausted, Jean said, Manatee when it struck the non­ part of search-and-rescue mis­ Jean told a reporter for the Jean said. "All of the water was )ut no one was seriously injured. union Capf. Fred Bouchard with sions when he was a member of Seafarers LOG. on fire; jet fuel was everywhere. Once he verified the entire crew Barge B155 and the Seafarer with the Coast Guard. "1 had helped Heard Anxious Voices But there was this gap in the lad been picked up, he called the barge Ocean 255. Only the crew with small boat fires, but notldng Jean radioed die Coast Guard flames at the stern [of the Coast Guard as well as Allen on of the Seafarer was forced to like this," noted the three-year veteran with the pilots. that an accident occurred before Seafarer]. It was like God opened the Egmont and set sail for Eg­ abandon ship. mont Key to provide the crew of The Balsa 37 was run aground The 38-year-old Jean grew up he and Layton raced down the it up to let them out. Otherwise, after it began taking on water. The the Seafarer with warmth and on nearby St. Petersburg Beach. fishing pier to the Manatee. they would have been trapped and shelter until medical help ar­ Bouchard came to rest a little He sailed as a commercial fisher­ Meanwhile, Allen said he heard burned to death." rived. more than a mile inbound from man for 15 years before signing Jean and Layton rescued all 11 "urgency in the voices" between the collision with the barge leak­ on with the pilots association just two boats on the radio and looked members aboard the Seafarer, in­ investigation Continues ing No. 6 ftiel oil, which was Con­ over two-and-a-half years ago. up to see the first explosion. Like cluding a 10-year-old boy who tained before it damaged an The cause of the accident has "That was a first for me and Jean and Layton, Allen took off was sailing with his father, the immediately for the scene. tug's engineer. While all of them not been released as the Coast environmentally sensitive area. plenty to last me my lifetime," he The Ocean 255 was allowed to said. "But if someone is in the bum out near Fort DeSoto Park. water, you go get them. I'd expect Because of the intensity of the the same if 1 was there." Help Locate This Missing Miiid The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has asked the Seafarers International Union to assist them in locating Amanda Marie Escobedo. AP by Peter Cosgrove The Philippine-flagged Balsa 37can be seen to the right below the smoke pouring from the tug Seafarer and barge Ocean 255 following a collision in Tampa Bay on August 10. All 11 crewmeml)ers from the tug/barge were plucked from the water by SlU-crewed pilot's launch Manatee. Amanda Marie Escobedo The child was abducted by her non-custodial mother, Arlene Renea Ervin, on August 23,1991 from Olympia, Wash. A felony warrant for custodial interference has been issued in her name. Amanda Escobedo was six years old at the time of her disappearance. The brownhaired, brown-eyed girl was 4 feet tall and weighed 50 pounds. Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Amanda Marie Escobedo should con­ tact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at (800) 843-5678 or the Miss­ ing Persons Unit of the Renton (Wash.) Police Department at (206)277-6236. � 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 September 1993 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SENATE PANEL TOLD TAT RE-FLAGGING WILL COST NATION MORE THAN DOLLARS 3-YEAR STANDARD PACT ANNOUNCED MEDICAL COVERAGE EXTENDED FOR DEPENDENTS OF SEAFARERS MONTHLY PENSION PAYMENT CAP LIFTED AMO PRESIDENT RAYMOND MCKAY DIES INLAND SHIPPING RESUMES ON THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER BOATMEN KEEP SHARP WATCH FOR CHANGING CONDITIONS FOREIGN-FLAG INTERESTS PUSH THEIR AGENDA THROUGH GORE ‘REINVENT GOVT’ GROUP NEW RECERTIFIED STEWARDS: UPGRADING IS THE WAY TO GO PPO PROVIDES HEALTH CARE SERVICES FOR NEW BEDFORD AREA SEAFARERS CLINTON TO UNVEIL HEALTH PLAN THIS MONTH MARITRANS SEAFARERS EARN TANKERMAN ENDORSEMENT EXPRESS MARINE BOATMEN COMPLETE SPECIAL COURSES BOSUN DUBS AMERICAN MARINER’S HISTORIC GRAIN VOYAGE ‘FANTASTIC’ PINEY POINT GRADUATE SAVES LIFE OF MARINER SEAFARERS STAY ON-THE-GO ABOARD AMERICAN REPUBLIC AMO PRESIDENT RAY MCKAY PASSES AWAY MCKAY’S LEGACY INCLUDES SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING AND NAVIGATION SIU LAUNCH OPERATORS RESCUE 11 BOATMEN AFTER COLLISION SETS OFF PRE-DAWN BLASTS 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 09/01/1993 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. 9 1993 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/4c095a848d59db2d356ec20962437ecb.PDF f05e41765c6a13a96672a82b04a1ee0e PDF Text Text r-.>.--i?v^.= •.. v.„,, Martin Marietta Boatmen Vote 37-2 for SIU ITF Seafarers Elect John Fay To Top Post Page 3 Page 2 Liberty Ship Saves Stranded Returns from D-Day Honors Fisherman Page 5 Page 14 OFFKIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS DISTRIG • AFL-CIO •.K .5 Volume 56, Number 9 September 1994 1994 U.S. 5lr|pt Bill Goes to Senate ••/s '3- Received; read twice and lefencd to the Comnunec on Commeice, AN ACT v«.r i,', nations for fiscal year 1995 i e Department of Tiansportationr--^ 1936, as amended, to revitalize i merchant marine, and for other purposes i!_ '/i prffMBPf'i'{ouse of Representatives of Kmerica in Congress asse-<^ rrflpvS '•W:?: • • •'."i'.s ••• time Security and Tradi • /'{-'".I 'W • .,(i '-m 'i 4%'' •' ' :U :«»! SiU Chief Steward Ed Ombac has started a letter-writing campaign to his members of the U.S. Senate which is currently considering a bill of major im­ portance to the nation and all seamen. For more details, see page 3. '. Ujs: • , a. • cu. O cvC- d-O tA U-C r-4 CO <• 'CO I :?'iLjoujr- te: c- Qrh-u"i CO —r:^to . n:'-.cru:3; . OK '-'K •—•X CO K-C _Jt-«LL.(AO-| CXK- K-< •. •• �V, J./,--v.- •""j ";•'•* >./ , • • - 2 sfiiiwEirsioi; SEPTOHBER1994 President's Report Every Letter Counts Sfpi 6®: - This month, the message is short but most important. The SIU is calling On each and every Seafarer to be a part of the campaign to have a new maritime program enacted by the Senate. As you know, last month the House of Rep­ resentatives, by a vote of 294 to 122, passed a bill which, if enacted, will ensure that the United States has a fleet of modem, efficient containerships operating in the international trades and available to the nation in times of emergency or war. That bill, known as H.R. 4003, is now in the Michael Sacco Senate. First, it must clear the Senate Com­ merce Committee. Then it should go to the floor for a vote by the full Senate. The enemies of U.S. shipping have mustered their vast resour­ ces and are attempting to kill the bill in the Senate. Foreign ship­ ping companies, through their high-priced Washington lobbyists, are trying to scuttle the program that would, if passed, mean that U.S.-flag ships would be prominent on the high seas, competing with their liner companies. Also on the attack are the giant agribusiness grain interests, which enjoy millions of dollars in government subsidies to their corporate coffers, while opposing U.S. government programs to promote American shipping. This is where Seafarers, SIU pensioners and their families can play an important role. One personal letter to a senator is a power­ ful antidote to the well-financed, big business interests fighting the new maritime program. Elected officials must listen to the people who vote for them. So now is the time to take pen and paper in hand to write to the senators urging them to adopt what will be the first new forwardlooking maritime bill this country has seen in 20 years. Seafarers and their families can let the senators know how important a U.S.flag merchant marine is to the nation's economic security and na­ tional defense, as well as the value of U.S. shipping to the lives of thousands of mariners and their families. Fay Re-Elected Vice Chair Of ITF Seafarers' Section The SIU's secretary-treasurer, John Fay, last month was re­ elected to a top position in the Seafarers' Section of the Londonbased International Transport Workers Federation (ITF), an or­ ganization that brings together die free world's unions that repre­ sent individuals employed in maritime, rail, trucking and air­ line industries. The balloting for the vicechairmanship took place at the Seafarers' Section Conference on August 5, held in conjunction with the ITF's congress, which is held every four years. Brother ITF Seafarers' Section Vice-Chair Fay received the unanimous sup­ and SIU officer John Fay (left), port of representatives of confers with R. Lioeanjie, vice seamen's unions from some fifty chair of District 4-NMU/MEBA. nations. On August 9, Fay' s election to campaign against the substandard the vice-chair position was practices of runaway-flag ratified by the Congress, in which shipowners, who avoid the rules transport unions from more than and laws of their own nations by 90 nations took part. The ratifica­ purchasing the use of another tion was part of the adoption of nation's flag. The ITF's cam­ the Seafarers' Section Con­ paign is coordinated through the Fair Practices Committee (FPC), ference report to the Congress. Elected to the post of which is made up of seafarer and Seafarers' Section chair was docker representatives. As vice-chair of the Seafarers' Anders Lindstrom, an officer of the Swedish Seafarers' Union, He Section, Brother Fay serves on replaces K. Mols Sorensen, a the Seafarers' Section Committee Danish marine officer who has and is a member of the Fair Prac­ been involved in the ITF tices Committee and an ex-officio Seafarers' Section for more than member of the FPC's Subcom­ 30 years. An official of the mittee on the Collective Agree­ Australian Maritime Officers' ment and Flag-of-convenience Union, Fred Ross, received the Campaign Steering Group. Fay first assumed the vicesupport of the body for the posi­ chairmanship of the ITF's tion of deputy vice-chair. The Seafarers' Section is Seafarers' Section in October charged with coordinating the 1992. At that time, he was elected ITF's policies in regard to by the seamens' union repre­ sentatives at a section meeting to seamen. Through the ITF's Joint fill a vacancy. Since 1949, Fay has been a Seafarers' and Dockers' Con­ ferences, the international or­ member of the SIU. He became the ganization has coordinated a SIU's secretary-treasurer in 1990. -•f® The worldbody of transport unions, to which the SIU is affiliated, adopted several action plans to combat the harsh consequences to workers rendered by intemational companies with no national allegiances. Above, the ITF congress meets in plenary session. ITF Congress HHs Ruuawajts The highest decision-making body of the world federation of transport unions last month reaf­ firmed its efforts to elevate the pay and shipboard conditions of crewmembers working aboard runaway-flag ships, noting that flag-of-convenience ship registries allow shipowners to avoid taxes, evade laws and regulations that affect safety and ignore humane crew working conditions. Meeting in its 37th congress in Geneva, Switzerland from August 4 to II, delegates to the ntemational Transport Workers federation (ITF) also elected David Cockroft to the general secretary post, expanded the organization's Executive Board to allow for representation for transport unions in Central and astern Europe and adopted a blueprint for action. tounsm services. The eight sections of the ITF each elected a chair and vicechair, who will serve for the next four years, and endorsed resolu­ tions that were submitted to the congress. The sections also adopted a program of activities to be conducted until the next con­ gress. Second Registers Pierced Meeting in a Joint Seafarers' and Dockers' Conference, union representatives of seamen and David Cockroft, who was elected longshoremen prepared the docu­ ITF General Secretary, called for ment which was approved by the cooperation between sections. congress that outlined the ITF's campaign to aid mariners work­ eliminate runaway shipping and ing aboard runaway-flag ships. secure a link between a vessel's This program, which became flag and the nationality of its known as the "Geneva policy," owner. The group's second ob­ tightens up ITF procedures ap­ jective is protecting and enhanc­ plied to vessels operating under ing "the conditions of employment of seafarers serving so-called second registers. A device used by traditional aboard flag-of-convenience ves­ 'Trade Must Benefit Workers' maritime countries, second sels" and ensuring that those Delegates to the congress were registers allow a shipowner to fly mariners are "protected from ex­ addressed by Joaquin "Jack" the flag of that nation while ploitation by shipowners, ship Otero, deputy under secretary for operating under flag-of-con- managers and manning agents." The Seafarers' Section elected intemational labor affairs of the venience conditions. officers for the 1994-1998 term. J.S. Department of Labor, a post The new Geneva policy comSIU Secretary-Treasurer John le assumed in 1992. Prior to tihat, bines the ITF's previous Fay was elected to the vice-chair Otero had been an officer of the guidelines for its campaign ransportation Communications against substandard shipping, position. Delegates to the section Jnion and an long-time ITF ac­ documents known as the "Madrid conference also called on the In­ tivist. policy," which was established in temational Maritime Organiza­ Otero said workers eveiywhere 1983, and the 1990 "Toyko tion of the United Nations to address shipboard working hours in the world must be afforded the guidelines." right to better their lives and in­ The Geneva policy finds that and urged that an intemational fluence their governments if runaway-flag shipping has maritime safety institution be lobal competition is to work to brought about extremely negative founded. t le benefit of ordinary people. consequences for the industry, Founded in 1896, the ITF has Conducted simultaneously in such as depressed freight rates, many American affiliates. In ad­ English, Japanese, French, Ger­ underqualifled and underpaid dition to the Seafarers Intema­ man, Swedish and Spanish, the crews, slipshod ship maintenance tional Union, numerous TF congress delegates discussed and service, over-age ships and maritime labor groujps par­ le challenges posed to national shipowners who are unable to in­ ticipate in the ITF. U.S. unions ransport unions by the increas­ vest in new tonnage. from the rail, longshoring and ingly global character of coiporaThe document notes that the aviation sectors also are mem­ tions. Delegates also reviewed primary objective of the ITF is to bers of the ITF. he affects of expanded intermodelism, necessitating the need September 1994 or greater cooperation between Volume 56. Number 9 unions representing workers in one form of transport. The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published The congress, which meets monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, every four years, also adopted a Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 number of resolutions emanating Auth Way; Camjp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) Tom its various sections. In addi­ 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSG Prince Geor7 tion to theSeafarers' Section and ges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. )ockers' Section (representing POSTMASTER: Send addr^s changes to the Seafarers ongshoremen), the more than LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md. 20746. 500 unions from some 110 naions affiliated to the LondonManaging Editor, Dante/ Duncan; Associate Editors, Jar>ased ITF participate in sections dan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; Associate br the following industries: inEditor/Production,-Defcora/f A, Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower; and navigation, fishing, rail­ Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. roads, trucking, aviation and �:;-;W^^PiP?SfSSP "'KS .'j:••'•• 0. • r. - • •' :•'• -r- '••'-•'• ••x'~.''_i^:^-i^fy:r.<^-ix-'-'-'-'-'-_' SEPTEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 3 U.S. Ship BUI on Senate Fall Agenda Commerce Committee Staff Prepares Legislation for Mark Up The Senate is expected to act on legislation designed to revital­ ize the U.S.-flag merchant fleet when it returns from its Labor Day recess the week of Septem­ ber 12. » The Maritime Administration and Promotional Reform Act (H.R. 4003) was passed 294-122 by the House of Representatives on August 2. The bill then was sent to the Senate for considera­ tion by its Commerce, Science and Technology Committee, which will mark up the bill after the Labor Day recess. (When a bill is "marked up," it is approved by a conunittee and made ready for its next legislative step—^in this case, the full Senate.) House Bill Provisions As passed by the House, H.R. 4003 called for a 10-year, $1.35 billion program that would pro­ vide for a U.S.-flag ship operating program and aid for American shipbuilding. The program covers U.S.-flag liner vessels involved in foreign trade. To be eligible for con­ sideration, companies must agree to make dieir ships available to the Department of Defense (DOD) or allow space aboard the vessels for DOD cargo during a national emergency. To be in­ cluded, existing U.S.-flag ships can be no more than IS years old. Martin Marietta Tug Crews Vote Seafarers bv 37-2 the staff plan would set aside $1(X) million in Fiscal Year 1995 for Title XI loan guarantees that could fiind up to $1 billion in ves­ sel construction in the yards. After the House passed H.R. 4003, opposition to the flat ton­ nage fees was voiced by exporters of large bulk commodities, espe­ cially coal and grain interests. These groups claimed they would not remain competitive on the world market if the new toimage fees applied to them. Currently, vessels entering U.S. ports pay nine cents per registered ton if they arrive from a nearby Western Hemisphere foreign harbor and 27 cents per ton from all other destinations. The fees are collected only on the Senate Considers Changes first five visits made by a vessel The staff of the Senate Com­ each year. merce Committee is looking at Two-Year Effort possible ch^ges to the ftmding Action on maritime revitalizafor brmula in H.R. 4003. Under a proposal being tion legislation began in May reviewed by the committee, the 1993 when Rep. Gerry Studds (DSenate would keep H.R. 4003 as Mass.), the chairman on the a 10-year program, but reduce the House Merchant Marine and amount of revenue raised to $1 Fisheries Conunittee, was joined by Rep. Jack Fields (R-Texas), billion during that period. The dollars for the program the committee's ranking minority would be raised through fees col­ member; Rep. William Lipinslu lected when vessels dock in U.S. (D-Ill.), chairman of the House ports after sailing from foreign Merchant Marine Subcommittee; locations. However, the amount and Rep. Herbert Bateman (Rcharged per ton would vary with Va.), the subconunittee's ranking member, in introducing a bill the type of vessel. llie committee staff is propos­ (H.R. 2151) that outlined such a ing that general cargo vessels, proposal. Following a floor debate, H.R. such as containerships, would pay 81 cents per net registered ton 2151 passed the House by a 347 to 65 margin in November 1993. per visit. The fee for dry bulk and liquid However, the bill lacked a fund­ bulk vessels would be 27 cents ing mechanism. In early '94, Transportation per ton per visit. Finally, pas­ senger ships would pay 15 cents Secretary Federico Pena an­ nounced that the Clinton ad­ per ton per visit. These charges would be im­ ministration would include posed during the first four years funding for the 10-year maritime of the program, then reduced for revitalization program. In March, the remaining six years, as the bill H.R. 4003 was formally intro­ is being drawn by the committee duced as a bill, and by August it had passed the House. It must staff. To help American shipyards. now pass in the Senate. and foreign-built vessels that are re-flagged for operation under the U.S. flag must be under 10 years of age. TTie money would be raised through a 38-cent per registered ton duty collected on all vessels entering U.S. harbors from foreign ports. The only exception was made for vessels sailing on the Great Lakes between the U.S. and Canada. The duty would be im­ posed on the first 25 voyages to American ports each year. Through this funding mechanism, approximately $135 million would be raised each year between Fiscal Year 1995 and 2004. Boatmen at the Marine Ocean The chance to upgrade and for the company and for the Navy, Engineering Department (MOE) having a written contract also and we expect to be treated fairly. of Martin Marietta Services, Inc. in were cited by Rick Rinehart as We're hoping that with the Fajaido, Puerto Rico last month reasons for voting in favor of the union's help, that will happen." voted to he represented by the SIU. "We needed help, and 1 Basic Repairman Andy Carthink being in the union is going rasquillo also voted "yes." He Seafarers Intemational Union. By a count of 37-2 in an elec­ to give us a lot of opportunitiesfor said he believes that belonging to tion conducted under the auspices advancement," said Rinehart, the the SIU "will help us get fair of an impartial government agen­ second mate on the supply ship wages and safe working condi­ cy (the Nationd Labor Relations USNS Hugo. "We do a good job tions." Board), MOE employees desig­ nated the SIU as their collective bargaining representative. The MOE workers maintain and operate several types of ves­ sels which are used to support the Atlantic Fleet Weapons Training Facility at the U.S. Naval Station at Roosevelt Roads. The ratings that are included in the bargain­ ing unit are chief offlcer, second officer, chief engineer, certain classes of marine technicians, basic repairer and repair tech­ nician. Also included are facility monitors, who work on shore. Since the election, which took New members of the Seafarers include (from left) 8. Pagan, A. place August 16 at the Navy base, Carrasqulllo, W. Evans, P. Torrens and D. Lopez. the SIU has been preparing for contract talks with the company. At press time, those talks were scheduled to begin on Septem­ ber 6. Peter Torrens, who works aboard a retrieval craft at the base, said he voted for union repre­ sentation because "we're tired of being stepped on. I think the union will help us get a decent contract with the company." Seafarers and their families are encouraged to contact their Bill Puhley, first officer senators and urge their support aboard the USNS Hunter (a supp­ for the Maritime Administration ly vessel), said that he is "looking and Promotional Reform Act forward to having everything in (H.R. 4003). black and white, in a contract." The bill, which is designed to He added that he wants to take create a 10-year program to fund advantage of the chance to Among the boatmen who voted for union representation are (from left, a minimum of 52 U.S.-flag ves­ upgrade his skills at the Paul Hall kneeling) C. Molinaris, R. Figueroa, (standing) A. Acosta, D. Rivera, sels, is before the Senate Com­ Center for Maritime Training and J. Valentin, A. Rodriguez and Ricky Alvarez. merce, Science and Technology Education in Piney Point, Md. Committee. Last month, H.R. 4003 passed the House of Repre­ sentatives by a 294 to 122 margin. SIU members and their families should write or call their state's two senators. The elected officials should be told not only why passage is important to the individual caller, but also what it will mean to the country. Among the points that a Seafarer can raise in his or her communication with a senator are the following: ^ • H.R. 4003 will provide jobs for tens of thousands of American families involved in the U.S.-flag shipping industries. These are good paying jobs that • . .. s"- ' ' i'.; ; Jim J ft. Ji'u Seafarers Urged to Contact Senators to Pass H.R. 4003 Some of the Martin Marietta ci«ws whovot(^ to be represented by the^fareretetematton^^^^^ (from left, front row) W. Barr, M. Seres, J. Sokolowski, (l)ack row) P. Woods, J. Ap6 , . Perusse, W, Puhle and M. Locklier. families to be financially , . ggcure. Also, unions that repre- sent mariners traditionally have provided employment oppor­ tunities to individuals for under­ privileged communities, which lave enabled thousands of disad­ vantaged young people to play a productive role in American society. • H.R. 4003 would continue support for America's national defense through sealift. Throughout his nation's history, America's militray conflicts have been on foreign lands, thousands of miles away. Sealift has proved to be the only cost-effective way to transport materiel to the troops. A strong U.S.-flag shipping capability assures the U.S. armed forces that a fleet of ships and a pool of manpower is ready and available to crew vessels when they break out. • America's economic security is strengthened Uuough a strOiig U.S.-flag merchant fleet. Governments armind the world invest in their national fleets through direct and indirect sub­ sidies, tax policies, cargo allocaContinued on page 5 J).:: -1... •• •riM' r;'' �4 SEPTEMRER1994 SEAFARERS LOG In Siiort Fail Session, Congress Faces Host of Maritimo Bills ll" When Congress returns from its Labor Day recess later this month, the elected officials will have approximately one month before adjournment to address an array of legislation that includes several maritime-related biUs. The legislators are seeking to leave Washington by mid-Oc­ tober in order to campaign for elections in their districts on November 8. Foremost among the bills before Congress that deal with the U.S.-flag merchant fleet is the Maritime Administration and Promotional Reform Act (H.R. 4003). After being passed 294-122 by the House on August 2, H.R. 4003 is awaiting action by the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. H.R. 4003 provides the fund­ ing mechanism for another bill overwhelmingly passed by the House in November 1993 (H.R. Sliipping Bills Before Congress Bill Description Action Maritime Revitalizalion Provides a 10-year funding program for U.S.-flag liner ves­ sels active In Intematlonal commerce Passed by House; Sdnata consideration expectedinSepiernber Awaiting action by HouseMer­ chant Maiine and Rsheries Com­ mittee 2151) that outlined a 10-year pro the committee that improving in­ gram to revitalize the U.S.-fla land safety is one of his agency's Inland Waterways Calls for tugs, tows and pusfitraats to be equipped witfi merchant fleet. Safety "highest priorities." communications and naviga­ The Towing Vessel Act (H.R. tion gear; requires tioatmen to Calls for Fee Collection hold z-cards; mandates ves­ 4058) incorporates many of the sels be operated by licensed In passing H.R. 4003, the ideas presented by Pefia. Among masters and mates House called for a 38-cent per ton them are requirements for tugs, Passed by duty to be collected from all ves tows and pushboats to carry radar, US-Flag Passenger Closes loopholes that permit House; awaits ac­ foreign-flag vessels to sail Act sels entering U.S. ports from al communications and navigation Vessel tion by Senate "cruises to nowhere" from (Taylor BIII) foreign harbors, except Great equipment; for vessel operators to U.S. ports Lakes traffic between the U.S be licensed masters and mates Marked up by Allows foreign-flag cruise ves­ Passenger and Canada. The fee would be who 'have demonstrated US House Merchant sels to register under U.S. flag Vessel Develop­ Marine and and carry American crews collected on the first 25 voyages proficiency with their equipment; ment Act Fisheries Com­ provldea owner signs contract BIII) (Unsoeld annually by a vessel. It woulc and for all boatmen working mittee; before to build and builds replace­ House Natural ment vessel In U.S. shipyard raise an average of $135 million aboard inland vessels to hold U.S. Resources and a year from Fiscal Year 1995 to Coast Guard-issued merchant Ways and Means committees 2004. mariner documents. Also on the agenda for legis­ vessels to sail from and return to ness Bill, H.R. 44, would extend Other Legislation Proposed lators are inland waterways safety the same American port as long as the same dates (December 7, Another bill before the com­ bills. 1941 to December 31, 1946) for The House Merchant Marine mittee is the Towing Vessel these ships do not stop at any veterans status to World War IIother port. (These voyages are and Fisheries Committee has held Navigational Safety Act (H.R. era merchant mariners as those several hearings to find ways to 3282). This legislation calls for known as "cruises to nowhere ") who served in the U.S. armed make America's rivers, shipping furnishing tugs, tows and push- No date for Senate consideration forces. The bill is before the channels and other inland water­ boats with navigational and com- has been set. equipment. The House Merchant Marine House Committee on Veterans' ways safer. In March, Transporta­ munications Affairs. tion Secretary Federico Pefia told Provisions similar to those in and Fisheries Committee last H.R. 3282 have been included in month approved legislation, H.R. Would Extend Coverage the Coast Guard authorization bill 3821, that would permit foreignAfter being approved by the which cleared the Senate Com­ flag cruise ships sailing from U.S. House Committee on Education merce, Science and Transporta­ ports to re-flag with the Stars and and Labor, H.R. 1517 awaits ac­ tion Committee in August. Stripes and use American crews tion by the full body. A bill that During this session. Congress provided a replacement vessel of would extend U.S. federal labor has been looking at various ways to similar size is contracted and built laws to runaway-flag vessels that Part of a legislative package under the U.S. flag. The amend­ establish a U.S.-flag cruise fleet. in a U.S. shipyard. H.R. 3821, the call on U.S. ports has cleared which would place the U.S. flag ment was offered by Repre­ Last November, the House U.S. Passenger Vessel Develop­ House committees and awaits full on foreign-flag cruise vessels, sentative Jolene Unsoeld passed the U.S.-Flag Passenger ment Act, is now before the floor action. thus increasing employment op­ (D-Wash.), the primary sponsor Vessel Act (H.R. 1250), which is House Natural Resources Com­ For any bill not completed by portunities for American mer­ of the U.S. Passenger Vessel designed to close loopholes in the mittee. the time Congress adjourns, work chant mariners, has cleared its Development Act. Passenger Vessel Act of 1886 and on that legislation would have to There are several other pieces Under the Unsoeld amendment, first committee in the Congress. the Jones Act of 1920. The U.S. start again when the newly of maritime-related legislation On August 11, the House Mer­ if a shipowner who has re-flagged Customs Service has used the within the congressional hopper. elected Congress convenes in chant Marine and Fisheries Com­ a vessel under the U.S. flag does not loopholes to allow foreign-flag The Merchant Mariners Fair­ January 1995. mittee gave its support to H.R. build a replacement vessel, the 3821, one of two bills that make original ship will be prohibited up the U.S. Passenger Vessesl from enterihg a U.S. port and its Development Act. The bill was shipowner permanently barred then forwarded to the House from the U.S. craise trade. Natural Resources Committee, The committee kept other which will review and possibly provisions of the bill intact, in­ amend the legislation before it is cluding the measure that American merchant mariners sent to the House floor. After two years at the helm of H.R. 3821 allowed foreign- would crew the foreign-flag ves­ the nation's Military Sealift Comflag cruise ships sailing from U.S. sel once it came under the mand (MSC), Vice Admiral ports to be re-flagged under the American flag. Vfichael P. Kalleres retired folIn order to be considered by owing more than 30 years of ac­ American flag if a ship's owner replaces the vessel with another the act, vessels must weigh at tive duty in the U.S. Navy. cruise ship built in an American least 10,000 gross tons and have Relieving Kalleres as the com­ yard. A vessel owner would be at least 200 berths. Cruise ships mander of the military's sealift required to enter into a contract that are built in U.S. yards to arm during change-of-command within 12 months of re-flagging. replace the original foreign-flag and retirement ceremonies held at In the following 12 months, con­ vessels must carry at least 80 per­ the Washington Navy Yard on struction for the replacement ves­ cent of the passenger capacity of August 11 is Vice Admiral Philip sel or vessels would begin. Once the original. VI. Quast. the replacement vessel is ready, When the act was introduced He comes to MSC after serv­ the original foreign-flag ship in April, the SIU testified that the ing as the director of the Surface would be transferr^ back to its legislation could stimulate the Warfare Division, Chief of Naval original flag of registry. creation of more than 30,000 Operations staff. seafaring jobs in addition to those Amending the Bill Directed Somalia Sealift produced in U.S. shipyards, port The Departrtient of Transpor­ facilities During his tenure with MSC, and related fields. tation and the U.S. Trade Repre­ MilHaty Sealift Command Calleres directed the Navy's The union noted the act would sealift operation during the U.S. The new head of the Military Sealift Command, Vice Adm. Philip sentative raised concerns about the requirement that a ship, once help increase marine safety be­ relief effort for the people of Quast, leads his predecessor, Vice Adm. Michael Kalleres, to the replac^, would be forced back to cause the crews on the vessels Somalia. Known as Operation change of command ceremony. would be Americans who must Restore Hope, more than 95 per­ its original flag. The administration repre­ meet this country's strict regula­ cent of the supplies and equip­ USS Dewey, two destroyer surface action group in support of sentatives told House Merchant tions and standards. ment used between December squadrons and a cruiser-destroyer U.S.-flajg tanker transits through Good for National Defense Marine and Fisheries Committee 992 and March 1994 in support group as well as the U.S. Navy's the Strait of Hormuz. Ashore, Quast has held assign­ members that forcing a ship back Also, the SIU pointed out the of the United Nations-led opera­ Second Fleet. His shoreside ex­ perience includes strategic plan­ ments at the U.S. Naval Academy to its original registry won d vio­ legislation would strengthen na­ tion were moved aboard MSC ning, financial management and and Naval Military Personnel late the world trade agreement tional security because the addi­ vessels. personnel policy jobs. Among his Command. He holds the known as GATT. The provision tional U.S.-flag vessels could be (At the height of the involve­ 18 military awards and decora­ Meritorious Service Medal, Navy of GAIT that would be violated, used as floating command/control ment in December 1992, a total of tions is the Defense Distin­ Commendation Medal and a 7 SlU-crewed vessels were as­ the administration sources centers, hospit^s and barracks. guished Service Medal. bronze star with combat "V" believe, is the one that allows a Presently, there are only two signed to the effort.) among his decorations and Command's 20th Chief nation to liberalize its maritime U.S.-flag passenger ships operat­ Before taking command of awards. Vise, Kalleres had served in a laws if prior protections are not ing around the world on the high Quast began his career as an invoked in the future. seas—the SlU-crewed SS Inde­ variety of assignments for the ensign in the U.S. Naval Reserve In becoming MSC's 20th To address the concerns of the pendence and SS Constitution. 4avy. He graduated from Purdue in 1961. The Wisconsin native commanding officer, Quast will administration, at the August 11 More than 4million people, 85 per­ Jniversity in 1962. His tours of served in Vietnam. As the com­ be in charge of coordinating the meeting of the House Merchant cent of whom were Americans, duty included Cuba in 1%2, the missioning commanding officer milita^'s waterbome transport of Marine and Fisheries Committee, sailed on the more than 120 cruise Dominican Republic in 1965, aboard the USS Bunker Hill be­ materiel for U.S. armed forces. H.R. 3821 was amended to allow ships located around the world in Vietnam in 1971-72 and Libya in tween July 1985 and April 1988, The MSC fleet consists of ap­ a ship that had been transferred to 1992 and spent approximately $5 1981. he also served as the commander proximately 150 civilian and Kalleres has commanded the of the battleship USS Missouri military-crewed vessels. U.S. registry to permanently stay )illion. House AcUon Pnweeds On U.S, Cruise Ship Biii Kalleres Retires as MSG Chief; Quasi Assumes Navy Command I J /'I �gSi?;J:''; •••: .• -r ,:? SEPmmBER 1994 SE9FME9SL0G 5 Patriot Grew Ahb Staudetl PenMau Rshamea Seafarers aboard the MV without engine power, more than Patriot recently came to die aid of 100 miles off the coast of Peru in five Peruvian fishermen whose the Pacific Ocean. boat was drifting for five days In a letter to the Sectfarers S -, LOG, Chief Steward Howard G. Williams reported that the Patriot, a tanker operated by Vul­ can Carriers, was en route to Chile when crewmembers spotted the disabled fishing boat. "They were flying distress flags and waving their hands," Wil­ liams wrote. "A makeshift sail was up, but it was not working. As the Patriot approached the fishermen, AB Daii Gaylor went to the galley to request help from Chief Cook Daniel Payne in communicating with them. Speaking Spanish with the fisher­ men (and translating for the other crewmembers aboard the Patriot), Payne learned that the Chlef Cook Daniel Payne (with bullhorn) translates between the Pemvians had been working for Pafriof captain and the Peruvian fishermen, who were drifting without 10 days and were nearly ready to power more than 1GO miles off the coast of Peru. head for port when the boat ran out of fuel and the batteries went bers "gave the fishermen fuel, hours, boxing up food supplies dead. They subsequently drifted water, food, cigarettes and jump- and more." for five days and were almost out started their batteries," Williams With the grateful fishermen of drinking water. The only food noted. "Captain S.M. Kearney headed back to their home port in left on board was the fish caught thanked the SIU crewmembers Peru, the Pat/ior resumed its nor­ earlier during the trip. for their effort and sacrifice. mal schedule, noted Williams, AB Roger Plaud (left) and Chief Steward Howard Williams take After contacting the Peruvian Everyone pitched in to help, han­ who also provided the photos ac­ drinking water and provisions to the stranded fishermen. coast guard. Patriot crewmem- dling lines and hoses for two companying this article. Seafarers Urged to Contact Senators to Support Ship Bill Continued from page 3 tion programs, credit schemes and much more. America's ex­ ports and imports should not be allowed to be solely carried on ships flying the flags of foreign nations, which could leave open the possibility of America being held hostage to the rates and political agendas of those nations. The effectiveness of a per­ sonal letter from a voter to an elected official should not be un­ derestimated. It has a great deal of effect. That is why communica­ tions from Seafarers to their senators can make a big dif­ ference. Below is an example of a letter that could be written to senators as well as the names and addres­ ses for all 100 of the elected offi­ cials. SIU members and their families should write to the two senators from their home state. Hand-written letters tend to get the attention of elected officials faster than those that are type­ written. Sample Letter 5^;'S 'i&sA:Vf - ''S Address of Sender Phone Number of Sender Date The Honorable , Office Building United States Senate Washington, DC 20510 Where to Write Your State's U.S. Senators Listed below ate the names and Capitol Hill addres­ ses forall 100 U.S. senators. In writing to them for their support of the maritime program which passed the House last month, address diem in the following maiuier: The Honorable . Office Building United States Senate Washington, DC 20510 SENATOR ADDRESS Miss. Thad Cochran Trent Lett 326 Russell BIdg. 487 Russell BIdg. Mo. John Danforth Christopher Bond 249 Russell BIdg. 293 Russell BIdg. Mont. Max Baucus Conrad Bums 511 Hart BIdg. 183 DIrksen BIdg. Neb. James Exon Robert Kerrey 528 Hart BIdg. 303 Hart BMg. SENATOR ADDRESS Ala. Howell Heflln Richard Shelby 728 Hart BIdg. 509 Hart BIdg. Nev. Harry ReM Richard Bryan 324 Hart BMg. 384 Russell BMg. Alaska Ted Stevens Frank MurkowskI 522 Hart BIdg. 708 Hart BIdg. N.H. Robert Smith Judd Gregg 33? Dirksen BMg. 393 Russell BIdg. Ariz. Dennis DeConcini John McCain 328 Hart BIdg. Ill Russell BIdg. N.J. Bill Bradley Frank Lautenberg 731 Hart BMg. 508 Hart BMg. f Ark. Dale Bumpers David Pryor 229 Dirksen BIdg. 287 Russell BIdg. N.M. Pete Domenid Jeff Bingaman 427 Dirksen BMg. 110 Hart BMg. Calif. Dianne Feinstein Barbara Boxer 331 Hart BIdg. 112 Hart BIdg. N.Y. Daniel Patrick Moynihan Alfonse D'Amato 484 Russell BMg. 520 Hart BMg. Colo. Hank Brown Ben Nighthorse Campbell 718 Hart BIdg. 380 Russell BIdg. N.C. Jesse Helms Lauch FaircMth 403 Dirksen BMg. 702HartRMg Conn. Christopher Dodd Joseph Uebennan 444 Russell BIdg. 318 Hart BIdg. N.D. Itent Conrad Byron Dorgan 724 Hart BMg. 713 Hart BMg. Del. WiiiiamRolh Joseph'Biden 104 Hart BIdg. 221 Russell BIdg. Ohio John Glenn Howard Metzenbaum 503HartRMg. 140RusseURMg. Ra. Bob Graham Connie Mack 524 Hart BIdg. 517 Hart BIdg. Okia. DavMBoren DonNiddes 453 Russell BMg. 133 Hart BMg. Ga. Sam Nunn Paul Coverdell 303 Dirksen BIdg. 200 Russell BIdg. Ore. MarkHatfieM BobPackwood 711 Hart BMg. 259 Russell BMg. Hawaii Daniel Inouye Daniel Akaka 722 Hart BIdg. 720 Hart BIdg. Penn. Arlen Spader Harris Wofford 530 Hart BMg. 521 Dirksen BMg. Idaho Larry Craig Dirk Kempthome 313 Hart BIdg. 387 Dirksen BIdg. R.i. Claiborne Pell JohnChafee 335 Russell BMg 567 Dirksen BMg. III. Paul Simon Carol Moseley-Braun 482 Dirksen BkJg. 320 Hart BIdg. S.C. Strom Thumnond Ernest Hdlings 217 Russell BMg. 125 Russell BIdg. Ind. Richard Lugar Dan Coats 308 Hart BIdg. 404 Russell BMg. S.D. Larry Pressler Tbomas Daschle 283 Russell BMg. 317 Hart BMg. Iowa Charles Grassley Tom Harkin 135 Hart BkJg. 531 Hart BIdg. Tenn. Jim Sasser Harlan Mathews 383 Russell RMg. 508 Dirksen BMg. Kan. Bob Dole Nancy Kassebaum 141 HartRkig. 302 Russell BIdg. Texas PhilGramm Kay Bailey Hutchinson 370 Russell BMg. 703 Hart BMg. Ky. Wendell Ford Mitch McDonnell 173A Russell BIdg. Utah 120 Russell BIdg. OrrinHateh Robert Bennett 135 Russell BMg. 24J Dirksen BMg. La. J. Bennett Johnston JohnBreaux 138 Hart BMg. 516 Hart BMg. Vt. Patrick Leahy James Jeffords 433 Russell BMg. 513 Hart BMg. Maine William Cohen George Mitchell 322 Hart BMg. 178 Russell BMg. Va. John Warner Charles Robb 225 Russell BMg. 493 Russell BMg. Md. Paul Sartianes Barbara MIkulski 309 Hart BMg. 708 Hart BMg. Wash. Siade Gorton Patty Murray 730 Hart BMg. 302 Hart QMg. Mass. Edward Kennedy John Kerry 315 Russell BMg. 421 Russell BMg. W.V. Robert Byrd ^y Rockefeller 311HartBMg. lOOHaitBMg. Mich. Donald Riegle Carl Levin 105 Dirksen BMg. 459 Russell BMg. Wis. Herbltohl Russell FeingoM 330 Hart 502HartBMg. Minn. Dave Durenberger PaulWeUslone 154 Russell BMg. 717 Hart BMg. Wyo. Malcolm WaiMp Alan Simpson 237 Russell RMg 261 Dirksen BMg. i. •. Sincerely, Name of Sender STATE STATE Dear Senator. As a citizen of your state who earns a living as a merchant mariner, I urge you to support H.R. 4003, called the "Maritime Security and Trade Act of1994" in the Commerce Committee's staff draft. I believe that it is very important to our country that we maintain our U.S.-flag merchant fleet. Thanks to the efforts of my union, the Seafarers, I am able perform a job I love by going to sea and provide for the welfare of my family. / also believe America needs its merchant fleet to protect our national security. The whole country was reminded of the value ofsealift when we had to move troops and weapons to the Persian Gulf to battle Iraq. America cannot afford to depend on the mariners of other nations to support our own soldiers. As I understand it, H.R. 4003does not increase the nation­ al deficit. In fact, it will not only help our merchant fleet, but also offset the cost of some of the navigational assistance we provide to ships of all flags. All of us associated with the U.S. Merchant Marine need your help and support. Thank you for your consideration and I lookforward to seeing your name as one of the senators who stood up for us by voting for H.R. 4003. .V- '•vMi'. -y-. .•m-. .M �6 SEPTEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Effort Under Way to Update international Shipping Accord UN Organization Looks to Establish Minimum Standards for World's Seafarers International efforts are under way to update a 1978 convention that established the minimum standards for certification, train­ ing and skills needed by seafarers around the world. The International Maritime Organization (IMG), which was created by the United Nations in 1959 to improve safety at sea, has set a 1995 deadline for complet­ ing the work of representatives from more than 90 nations, in­ cluding the United States, that recognize the treaty. Among the participants representing the U.S. in the meetings are the U.S. Coast Guard, maritime labor (including the SIU) and U.S.-flag shipping companies. The SIU also has ob­ servers monitoring and making recommendations during the The Annex is divided into six forth in foe 1978 document. How­ various work group meetings tfiat with current world practices. chapters, containing specific ever, at all levels, the current are designed to modfy the accord. Accidents Force Action technical regulations applying to standards for training and The IMG has charged its Sub­ Pressures to review the docu­ training, certification and qualification that must be met by committee of Training and ment were brought to bear on the U.S. seafarers are much higher than watchkeeping for seafarers. The Watchkeeping to modify the IMG in light of numerous those outlined in foe convention. chapters consist of general 1978 International Convention maritime disasters that have oc­ The 1978 accord is aimed at provisions, deck department, en­ on the Standards of Training, Cer- curred over the past several years eliminating inadequate, as well as department, radio personnel, gine tiflcation and Watchkeeping to which have been attributed to supplementing, insufficient re­ update and match training re­ human error, including the January special tanker requirements and quirements among foe shipping quirements with current and fu 1993 break-up of the Liberian- proficiency in survival craft. nations of foe world. The act also The convention was amended ture technologies. flagged tanker Braer off the coast in 1991 to account for new train­ provides developing countries This action wiU allow the sub­ of Scotland. The 797-foot vessel who are in foe process of building committee to review such items spilled 26 inillion gallons of oil into ing requirements, such as those their own merchant fleets with in­ associated with the Global as ensuring the fitness o the North Sea when it went down ternationally acceptable require­ Maritime Distress and Safety watchstanders, basic training for during severe weather. ments and standards. System and to provide for con­ seafarers, fatigue, work-hour Subsequent to the Braer acci­ trolled trials wifo automated and While doing this, foe conven­ limits, rest periods and the man dent, IMG Secretary-General integrated systems. tion does not override foe laws of ning implications of convention William G'Neil asked the sub­ nations like the United States if Seeks Alternative Means changes. Because the presen committee to prepare a review of they maintain higher standards Whereas the original 1978 convention is 16 years old, the the 1978 accord, which was the and qualifications. IMG believes the time has come first worldwide attempt to set document deals only with train­ However, SIU members could to review it and bring it up to date minimum standards and ing and qualification to hold guidelines for the training and recognized positions or titles for see a direct effect in increased qualifications of mariners.In fact, both licensed and unlicensed per­ training requirements in foe form the convention is the only interna­ sonnel aboard vessels, the sub­ of practical examinations if and tional treaty to establish mini­ committee now is looking at when the accord is modified mum stancteds for training and alternative means to certify the during present talks. The SIU not only monitors the qualifying crewmembers for same mariners by describing the work of foe IMG's Subcommittee ftinctions each must perform to seagoing duty. of Training and Watchkeeping to The convention, which was hold the position. Essentially, the ensure that the interests of updated convention will offer two ratified by the United States in 1991, is organized into two parts: systems for providing certifica­ American seafarers are repre­ Articles and Annex. Uie Articles tion of vessel personnel: the tradi­ sented but also to work toward set forth the legal obligations of tional approach and the increasing foe qualifications of foe world's seamen, particularly each state-party to certify functional approach. As the United States is a sig­ those who are exploited by seafarers' competence issued by other state-parties, except under natory to the convention, the mer­ runaway-flag shipowners who strictly limited circumstances. chant mariner documents and skimp on standards by avoiding The Articles also establish proce­ licenses held by American the more stringent laws and dures by which the convention mariners are recognized by the regulations of foe countries with IMG as meeting foe criteria set a strong maritime tradition. can be amended. Seafanrs Appnve 4-Year Pad With Pern Maritime Boatmen in Port Arthur Keep Up-to-Date The SlU-orewed tugboat Dolphin is the latest addition to the Penn Maritime fleet. Seafarers recently ratified a new four-year pact with the oil transportation company. A new four-year pact that covers wages and benefits was approved last month by Seafarers sailing aboard Penn Maritime, Inc. tugboats and barges. Members voted on August 17 in the Norfolk, Va. union hall in favor of the contract which will increase wages, provide out­ patient medical care for their spouses and dependents and uncap the pension limit. The new agreement is retroactive to May I. T^e SIU represents all crewmembers aboard Penn Maritime tugs. A six-man negotiating team met with company officials on April 21 and July 14 to work on the contract. Representing Seafarers at the bargaining table were Tankerman Donald Douglas n. Mate James Kelly Jr., AB/Tankerman Donald Larsen, AB/Tankerman William Lee Matthews, Mate Glenn Wactor and AB/Tankerman Robert Wooten. They were as­ sisted by SIU Assistant Vice President, Lakes and Inland Waters Anthony Sacco and Nor­ folk Port Agent Mike Paladino. Among the Penn Maritime vessels included in the contract is the company's newest tugboat, the Dolphin. Built in 1973, the Dolphin recently was acquired by the company and refitted with an elevated bridge that will allow visibility when the tug is push­ ing a light barge. The 126-foot vessel is capable of 4,300 horse­ power. Penn Maritime is in the process of building two more tugs for its fleet. Both are capable of generating 7,000 horsepower. The first of the pair is expected to be sailing by early 1995. The Npifolk-based company transports petroleum along the U.S. East and Gulf coasts. Boatmen from foe Port Arthur, Texas area have been keeping up with foe latest happenings in foe inland industry as well as in foe SIU through informational union meetings held every other month. "These meetings have been very helpful," noted Captain Roy Golden, who sails aboard Higman Towing vessels. "We're able to take information back to foe rest of foe crew who are sailing and caimot attend." The gatherings, which began in 1992, take place at foe Ramada im on Highway 87 in Port Ar­ thur. During foe sessions, boat­ men are able to discuss issues that affect them on foe job, such as safety concerns. The meetings also serve to up­ date foe members on foe latest information about legislation pending in Washington, D.C. that deals with foe inland industry and maritime as a whole. Besides Higman, crews firom added Moran Captain Jim Zenos. Sabine Towing, Moran and "It's a good opportunity to meet Crowley also are among foe crews other crews who may face similar re])resented at the meetings. situations and havefound ways to "I try to attend whenever I'm deal with them." home," said Sabine Towing En­ The next meeting for Port Ar­ gineer Kenny Moore. "I find foe thur area members is set for 2 p.m. meetings useful." on Wednesday, September 7. For "I'd encourage all foe boatmen more information, contact the in foe area to m^e foe meetings," SIU hall in Houston. Boatmen from Higman Towing, Sabine Towing, Moran and Crowley discuss issues affecting the inland industry during a recent informa­ tional membership meeting in Port Arthur. Texas. UIW Members March for Back Pay Sheridan Crews Ratify New Three-Year Agreement SIU members sailing with Sheridan Transportation have ratified a new three-year agree­ ment that increases benefits and wages during the life of the pact. Seafarers with the Philadel­ phia-based company will be able to receive outpatient medical care for spouses and dependent children under the new contract which is retroactive to May 1. The agreement also removes die pen­ sion cap for members. The negotiating committee con­ sisting of Cook Ernest Gibbs, AB William Morris, AB Homer Shipes and Norfolk Port Agent Mite Paladino met with company officials in April and July to work out the details of the new contract. Voting on the agreement took place in the Norfolk union hall on August 9. Tugs and barges operated by Sherid^ sail along the East and Gulf coasts carrying sugar, coal, iron and other materials. The ves­ sels operate year-round. Hundreds of membersof the SlU's industrial division, the United Industrial Workers (UIW). last month tumed out for a demonstration in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Along with fellow trade unionists, the UIW members, who are government employees, protested the Virgin Islands' inaction regarding the tens of millions of dollars owed to government workers on the islands of St. Thomas and St. Croix. The employees have legally binding contracts for retroactive pay increases, but thus far they have not received the scheduled raises. �SEPTBmRl994 SBmUtBRSLOa Six Seafarers were recognized Gulf, Lakes and Inland Walprs at the August membership meet­ District), and I just want to thank ing in Piney Point, Md. as the SIU for everything," he said. graduates of die union's highest "I'm married to a wonderful per­ curriculum for galley gang mem son, we have four kids, and the hers. SIU has allowed me to support Radames Cosme, Toyo Gon­ my family for 20 years." zales, Patrick Helton, Brenda 'Beneficiar Course Kamlya, Robert Mosley and Helton, who joined the union Ronald Tarantino successfully nine years ago and who sails from completed the five-week course. the port of San Francisco, said he At the graduation ceremony found thecourse "very beneficial. and in interviews with the I was able to improve my com­ Seafarers LOG prior to the mem­ puter skills, refresh myself on bership meeting, each recertified safety training and get new ideas steward expressed appreciation on healthy menus and how to for being selected to participate in prepare them." the course. Several also ad­ Cosme, whose home port is dressed the trainees in the audience during the meeting, en­ The six Seafarers graduating from the steward recertlficatlon course pose here with their instructor, Byran Puerto Rico, summed up the class couraging them to upgrade often Cummings (far right). They are (from left, front row) Radames Cosme, Brenda Kamiya, Ron Tarantino, as being "thorough and helpful. I learned a lot, and I recommend to at the Paul Hall Center's Harry (back row) Patrick Helton, Toyo Gonzales and Robert Mosley. all Seafarers that upgrading is the Lundeberg School of Seaman­ ship. The students in the recertifiet ture/demonstration facility; first aid and firefighting. Things way to go." "The career opportunities are steward class studied a broac brushed up on shipboard sanita­ have changed over the past 13 here, but you have to earn it," range of topics. They practicec tion procedures; studied mathe­ years, and I learned a lot from all Mosley told the trainees. "Don't various cooking techniques anc matics relevant to the food of the instructors." expect it to be easy. You must baking applications in the Paul service industry; engaged in Kamiya, who joined the union apply yourself and do your best." Hall Center's modern lec- cooking competitions including a 14 years ago, stressed that the chili cook-off; and honed their class covers "many subjects that menu-planning skills and other are major, direct parts of work on galley management functions board a ship. There's no doubt using computers. this will help rne improve my work. Safety Emphasized "It has been educational and They also earned certification an honor to be part of this pro­ in first aid, CPR and firefighting gram." procedures; studied communica­ Family Matters tions principles and learning tech­ niques; examined the movement Tarantino, who graduated toward healthier menus; and from the trainee program in 1980 practiced making special sauces and who has upgraded several and dishes that are popular in times, noted that his wife recently speciftc regions of the world. gave birth to a son, Vincenzo. In addition, the new recertified "And I hope that he one day will stewards met for question-and- go to the coDege of American answer sessions- with repre­ merchant marines: Piney Point," sentatives from each of the said the elder Tarantino, who sails union's departments.They spoke fix)m the port of Houston. with officials from the SIU's col­ Family life also was on the lective bargaining department; mind of Mosley. "I joined the government affairs department; Marine Cooks and Stewards in welfare, vacation, training and 1973 (five years before that union Patrick Helton practices his CPR pension funds; and the LOG. merg^ with the SIU's Atlantic, skills on a dummy. Finally, they traveled to SIU Listening to instructions is Ron Robert Mosley prepares a pan of headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. and to nearby Capitol Hill, Tarantino. lasagna. where they spoke with Maritime Trades Department Executive Secretary-Treasurer Frank Pecquex about major legislative is­ sues which affect the maritime industry. Computers a Hit With the wide range of ac­ tivities on their agenda, most of the stewards listed the computer training which they received at the school as a course highlight. "Learning to do spreadsheets and menu planning on the com­ puter was very worthwhile," said Gonzales, a 13-year member of the SIU who sails from Seattle. 'Also, it was great to redo CPR, Brenda Kamiya cites the computer training as a course highlight. '.ii' •"} -•.ii" '"'f' M'W: • 1- mk:' 1 ••I .'•'Ui' •M'k ••r.]. Patrick Helton (left) gets a culinary tip from instructor Ed Whjte. • -•'W -• A: Radames Cosme (left) and Brenda Kamiya work together Lundebeg School's lecture/demonstration galley J- 7 The entire class completes a CPR drill, while instructor Byran Cummings observes their techniques. �SEPTEMBER 1994 More than 100 SIU members exams administered by the Coast who work aboard the cruise ships Guard. SS Independence and SS Con­ Barry, who worked as a car­ stitution recently earned U.S. penter-joiner on i\\e Inde­ Coast Guard lifeboat certifica­ pendence several years ago, tions after taking an on-site pointed out that one benefit of course conducted by the Paul Hall conducting the courses aboard the Center's Lundeberg School of Independence and the Constitu­ Seamanship. tion is that Seafarers train with the SIU Patrolman Stephen Barry, actual equipment they would use then working as an instructor, in case of an emergency, versus directed the classes for two training with other gear. _ months (one month on each ship) Known among Seafarers as while the vessels operated oil "Great White Ships," because of their normal schedules around the the clean white exteriors main­ Hawaiian Islands. He reported an tained by SIU deck department outstanding pass rate on both members, passengers aboard the ships. Independence and Constitution "The members did very well. look forward to the week-long They really have to make an ef­ cruises which include lavish , fort, because they're also work­ entertainment and beautifully Posing on deck are (from left, first row) Jacinto Saigado, Roy Robinson, Ramon Duran, Speros Mookas, Hitario Martinez, Paul Deiiosso, (standing) Joe Marusak, Mohamad Saleh, Jan Tolentino, Thomas ing their regular shifts," said prepared and served meals Once aboard the ships," many Hastings, Becky Warberg, Dan Gibbons, Demara DuFrene, Gilbert Black, Stephen Barry (instructor) and Bany, who graduated from the Lundeberg School in 1986 and passengers express appreciation USCG Commander Ray Petow. who has upgraded many times. for the crew's emphasis on safety. "Running the class aboard the Lifeboat drills and other safety BOAT . STATION N(X! ships is a convenience to the exercises are conducted each members, but I respect the fact week and involve everyone that they work hard and they also aboard, including all passengers. "I always tell our members, it put a lot into the lifeboat course." The series of two-week classes doesn't matter what department covered shipboard safety, aban­ you work in, you've got to know don-ship techniques, deep-water the emergency duties," said Barry, survival, raft drills, signal train­ who also taught lifeboat and safety ing, lifeboat and davit drills, writ­ training aboard the cmise ships in ten quizzes and more. The 1992. "For Seafarers, the emphasis courses culminated with the is always on safety." Completing the lifeboat course are (from left, first row) Mike Goldman, RedBorja, Abe Alvarez, (standing). Coast Guard Chief Mona Dubinka, Wes Smith, Omer Almakuani, Mike Delacruz, Annthony Dragon, Eddie Hollister, Nassar Alomari, Coast Guard Chief Collins and Stephen Barry (instructor). Following a drill, Eric Gray helps Marjorie Harris (left) and James secure one of the boats. Spittle release the grips. — Eaming their U.S. Coast Guard-certified lifeboat tickets are (from left, front row) Charles Shippley, Salehall ' Kf'-; ^ I �feais- V '-l SEPTEMBER 1994 SEAFARERSLOG 9 ' ' ' "-'•*.: • ' : Befr^eratiott CalHIcalioii Courses Slated for Both Coasts this Month m The Paul Hall Center's Point. In July, instructors began a refrigeration technician certifica­ lengthy schedule of offering the tion course is scheduled to be of­ course at SIU halls throughout the fered to Seafarers this month at U.S. and in Puerto Rico. the SIU halls in Norfolk, Va. and Wilmington, Calif., as well as at Course's Content the center's Lundeberg School in The first day of the class lasts Piney Point, Md. from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. During Passing the two-day course, this time, students will go over the which is approved by the En­ certification process, refrigerants vironmental Protection Agency and compressor lubricating oils, (EPA), will result in Seafarers ob­ refrigerant handling safety proce­ taining EPA certification that is dures, refrigerants' impact on the required for anyone involved in environment, theories of the repair and servicing of refrigeration, pressure-tempera­ refrigeration equipment and air ture relationships and related conditioning systems. The EPA laws and regulations. regulation requiring such certifica­ The second day begins at 8 a.m. tion goes into effect November 14. and lasts until 2 p.m. Among the Lundeberg School instructors topics covered are refrigeration ser­ put together the Refrigeration vicing, handling small appliances, technician certification course— working with high- and low-pres­ which also is available as part of sure equipment, and conversion of all engine department upgrading equipment using chlorofluorocarclasses—in order to prepare bon (CFG)-based refrigerants. Testing is conducted by the in­ Seafarers for the EPA exam given at the end of the course. The first structor following the second day class took place in June at Piney of class, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. 1994 REFRIGERATION TECHNICIAN COURSE SCHEDULE DAY Wed.-Thu. Tue.-Wed. Thu.-Fri. Tue.-Wed. Thu.-Fri. Mon.-Tue. Wed.-Thu. Tue.-Wed. Thu.-Fii. Wed.-Thu. Fri.-Sat. Tue.-Wed. Thu.-Fri. Wed.-Thu. Fri.-Sal. Tue.-Wed. Thu.-Fri. Tue.-Wed. DATE Sept. 7-8 Sept. 13-14 Sept. 15-16 Sept. 27-28 Sept. 29-30 Oct. 3-4 Oct. 5-6 Oct. 11-12 Oct. 13-14 Oct. 19-20 Oct. 21-22 Nov. 8-9 Nov. 10-11 Nov. 16-17 Nov. 18-19 Nov. 29-30 Dec. 1-2 Dec. 6-7 LOCATION Piney Point, Md. Norfolk, Va. Norfolk, Va. Wilmington, Calif. Wilmington, Calif. San Francisco San Francisco Seattle Seattle Honolulu Honolulu Port Everglades, Fla. Port Everglades, Fla. San Juan, P.R. San Juan, P.R. Algonac, Mich. Duluth, Minn. St. Louis The exam is divided into four parts," and there are corresponding certification types. The first 25 questions are basic and general. The secohd set of 25 covers small appliances. Passing the first two sections leads to Type I certifica­ tion. The third group of 25 ques­ tions refers to high-pressure After November 14, Seafarers holding EPA refrigeration technician refrigerants. Passing this part, certification will have priority for certain shipboard jobs. Above, Seafarers along with the basic section, leads in Mobile, Ala. prepare for the exam that leads to certification. to Type II certification. Low-pressure refrigerants is the topic in the final 25 questions. Students who pass this section and the core questions will earn Type III certification. Passing all four parts leads to According to regulations when throwing in for a shipboard Universal certification. stemming from the Clean Air Act job which includes duties of han­ Universal Encouraged Amendments of 1990, anyone dling refrigerants, members will Most Seafarers who handle who handles refrigerants must be have to show whether they pos­ refrigerants will need at least certified to do so by the U.S. sess such certification (indicated Type I and Type II certifications, government by November 14. by an EPA-approved card issued since galley equipment is covered SIU members should note that, through the Lundeberg School). under Type I, and ships' stores according to a recent action by the Seafarers who are on a ship systems are covered under Type Seafarers Appeals Board (SAB), during the November 14 deadline II. The SIU encourages all after November 14, members are asked by the SIU to obtain QMEDs to test for Universal cer­ who are certified refrigeration tech­ certification as soon as possible tification. nicians will be given priority within after they sign off the vessel. The Seafarers who work aboard their respective seniority classes for Lundeberg School will offer its cruise ships also should seek all QhffiD, electrician, refriger­ refrigeration technician certifica­ Universal certification, since pas­ ation and junior engineer jobs. tion course at two SIU halls in senger vessels often use lowFor Seafarers involved in the December, and the school also pressure refrigerants. repair and servicing of refrigera­ periodically will host the two-day There is no limit to the number tion equipment and/or air con­ class at the Paul Hall Center in of times someone may take the ditioning systems, the new Piney Point, Md. exam, so different certifications government regulations mean The recent action of the SAB may be earned at different times. diey must pass an Environmental (no. 374) assures that companies Results will be mailed to Protection Agency (EPA)-ap- which are signatories to a collective Seafarers no more than a month proved refrigeration technician bargaining agreement with the SIU after they take the exam. course by the deadline. will be in compliance with the new Those who pass one or more Proof of holding the certifica­ EPA regulations. Violations of the sections of the test will receive a tion will not be mandatory when regulations addressing refrigera­ certification card (which has no a Seafarer registers for employ­ tion technician certification can expiration) and a certificate. ment at a union hall. However, range as high as $25,C)(X). EPA-CerUfieil Seafarers Have Shipping Priority Sestarers Say Preparation is Key to Passing EPA Exam the Houston hall had begun.) Like those who took the course earlier in the summer, the SIU members who attended the classes last month reported that a great deal of information is covered. They echoed instructors' recommendations that students prepare for the course by purchasing and study­ ing the book "Refrigerants and the Environment," which is avail­ able through the Paul Hall Center and at SIU halls. Additionally, while the EPA has found that the Lundeberg School's course has the highest pass rate among the many refrigeration technician certifica­ tion classes available. Seafarers Brushing up on the latest information about refrigerants are (from left) stated that the four-part test is dif­ tugboat engineers Spike Miller, Stan Mercer and Willie Petway, at the ficult. (The school's pass rate is Jacksonville SIU hall. 85 percent, compared to the na­ not only to prepare for the class, well on the test," concluded tional average of 50 percent.) but also to keep it for future refer­ Cochrane. "It's a lot to grasp," said ence. Commends Union "With a two-day course, it's Electrician Irwin Rousseau, 47, Electrician Gerald Payne said who took the class in New Or­ almost impossible to learn and leans. "The instructor (Eric remember everything. But I'll be he appreciated the fact that the Malzkuhn) is outstanding, but be­ able to go back through the book course was available at the Jack­ cause there's so much informa­ later, anytime I have a question or sonville hall, which is within tion to absorb, I think anybody I'm not sure about something," driving distance of his home. He who's taking the course must said Cochrane, who took the class also praised the instructors for compiling such a thorough class. have the book in advance. The in Mobile. He also gave high marks to "I thiric these on-site classes book answers a lot of questions ahead of time, and there are the free workbook put together are a great thing for the union, and sample quizzes after each chap­ by Lundeberg School instruc­ the class itself is very comprehen­ tors. The workbook is part of the sive," stated Payne, who earned ter. That helped me." course material; it is distributed Universal certification. "The sub­ Larry Cochrane, who also at the start of the class, and ject was well-covered, and I real­ sails as an electrician, pointed out Seafarers may keep it. "If you ly got into the book. I bought it a that although "Refrigerants and study in advance, pay attention couple of weeks before the class the Environment" will be avail­ to the instructor during the day and I think it will help me in the QMED Miguel Rivera uses the able to all students during the and then review your reading field. Without it, I wouldn't have workbook to prepare for the EPA two-day course, obtaining the material at night, you can do had a chance (of passing the book in advance allows a Seafarer test in Jacksonville. Hundreds of Seafarers have taken the Paul Hall Center's refrigeration technician certifica­ tion course since the center's Lundeberg School of Seamanship began offering the two-day class in late June. Available both at the school and at SIU halls throughout the U.S. and in Puerto Rico, the course is designed to prepare Seafarers to take the Environ­ mental Protection Agency (EPA) exam for refrigeration tech­ nicians. The test is given to SIU members immediately after the second day of the course. Last month, the class was con­ ducted at the SIU halls in Jack­ sonville, Fla.; Mobile, Ala.; and New Orleans. (At press time, the first of two courses scheduled for exam)." The Mobile class included at least one student who is familiar to Seafarers who sail from that port. SIU Port Agent Dave Carter signed up for the course and earned Universal certification. "It was a chance to learn, plus it will help me communicate with refrigeration guys when they come to the hall to talk about their jobs," said Carter, who last sailed as a towboat operator and tankerman. He indicated that preparation was the key to passing the exam. "The $25 it cost me for the textbook was well-spent. I got $1,000 worth of knowledge from it." Seafarers who want to buy the book should indicate this to the port agent whom they contact when signing up for the class. They should then send a check for $25, made payable to the "Paul Hall Center," to: EPA Refrigera­ tion Tech. Course, Paul Hall Cen­ ter for Maritime Training and Education, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, Md. 20674, Attn: J.C. Wiegman. The book will be sent by first class mail. (Be sure to indicate an address where the book should be sent.) The Lundeberg School also is trying to make the book available for purchase directly from the ports where the courses are scheduled. Check vvith the in­ dividual port agents to find out if the book is available in advance at a particular hall. 'J' .•? .-rS.' • ••iT.V ^'1 • 'l • .V:V- •is:M �.. t»•« -.-xiii.^'' '.-»i^f^>.• -'^•.Viv,..:;!;;i.'v: -vdi/''-.-—,-is r 10 SEFTEMBER1994 SEAFAMERSLOG Seafarers Marah in Support of Nigerian UnhNiisIs AFL-CIO Rally Calls for Democracy, Release of Jailed President .-> SiU members joined with other trade unionists from America and . ^j^eria last month in a show ox unity for striking Nigerian oil workers. Waving signs, marching and chanting in unison in fiont of the Nigerian embassy in Washington, the demonstrators were protesting the wrongfu deposing of Nigerian oil union officials by the Nigerian military junta and the jailing of the man who lawfully was elected by Nigerian citizens to lead the na­ tion. Nigeria is the most densely 1. •; V populated country in Africa. Ii achieved independence in 19^ but has been subject to military rule for most of the past 34 years On June 12, 1993, Nigerians voted for a return to civilian rule by electing Moshood Abiola. But the military declared the election results nuU and void, and kepi their own people in power. They banned independent media and most democratic in­ stitutions and eventually arrested Abiola and charged him with treason. the engine department. "I though it was a good demonstration and I was proud to be here." Fermin Morin, who also sails in the engine department, said he believes "we got our point across today. We let the current govemment know that Nigerians anc Americans alike won't put up With how they're running things. Upgrader Jim Gibson notec that the SIU was well-represented at the demonstration, which spilled over onto tfie sidewalk across the street from the embassy. "It shows EffMtive Strike that the SIU cares atout fellow Since August 2, members of workers, not just in tiWs country but Nigeria's two major oil unions aU over the world." Meanwhile, for fellow (NUPENG and PENGASSAN) have been on strike, along with upgrader Jorge Bonelli, the rally Seafarers join fellow trade unionists and representatives from the the other 39 affiliate unions of the was a chance not only to support Nigerian Labour Congress at a rally August 25 outside the Nigerian NLC. They are withholding their Nigerian trade unionists, but also embassy in Washington. They were protesting actions by the military work to protest the aforemen­ to "help build on my loyalty to the government of Nigeria. tioned firings and jailings by the labor movement, I feel this was a rules set by the military themsel­ military, along with the failure to step forward in my union educa­ fails to comply. ves was ... criminal." Nigerian advocates for tion, and I was glad to be here." recognize the election results. democracy distributed informa­ Last month, the military Needed: A Peaceful Change tional leaflets during and after the government of General Sani After the march, the protesters rally. One flyer from the NigeriaAbacha fired the oil union leaders athered in front of the embassy, "Campaign for and ordered the workers to return where they were addressed by based Democracy" described last year's to their jobs. But the trade representatives from the NLC. elections as "widely acclaimed by unionists have defied the direc­ John Sweeney, president of both local and international ob­ tive. the Service Employees Interna­ At press time, the union offi­ tional Union, then presented a let- servers to be the freest and fairest cials reportedly had gone into er from AFL-CIO President in the history of elections in Nigeria. It was an election in [tiding and claimed that govem- jxae, Kirkland to a representative which million Nigerians ment security agencies were ]Tom the embassy. The letter, ad­ defied 14 ethnic, religious and trying to arrest them. dressed to the military govern­ eographical sentiments to exAs oil accounts for 90 percent ment, demanded the release of all jress their will, thereby setting a of the country's export earnings, )olitical prisoners and allowance new dawn in Nigeria's long the unions' strike has effectively 'or a peaceful transition to search for genuine participatory Orlando Dunalelly (holding sign) shut down much of the nation's democracy. It also warned of pos­ democracy and unity. shows his support for democracy conunerce, both internal and ex­ sible economic sanctions against "The subsequent annulment of in Nigeria. Also demonstrating is ternal. Nigeria if the cunent government heelections conducted uiider John Kannuck (right). SIU Shows Support Monroe Monseur hopes the rally will pressure Nigeria's military government into honoring the resuits of last year's democratic eiection in that nation. Seafarers said they were proud to back the oil workers and were hopeful that the rally would cause Nigeria's military government to resize that their actions will not be tolerated. "The military needs to back off and let Abiola assume power and run a democracy," said Mon­ roe Monseur, an eight-year member of the SIU who saUs in SUPPORTS AFL-CIO Opposes Mitchell Bill; Health Care Referm In Jeopardy As the Senate recessed last month without passing a health care reform bill, leading to widespread speculation that comrrehensive reform will not hap)en this year, the AFL-CIO said hat postponing congressional acion is preferable to hurriedly rassing a flawed plan such as the one sponsored by Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell D-Maine) or the one proposed by the so-called "mainstream coali­ tion" of senators. The federation of American trade unions, of which the SIU is an affiliate, reinforced its support of the main principles in the bill sponsored by House Majority ^eader Richard Gephardt (DVfo.) and also highlighted the many problems contained in the other proposals. Running OutofTlme Congress will be back in ses­ sion on September 12. But with incumbents anxious to campaign For November elections, and con­ sidering both the complexity of the health care debate and the lack of consensus among lawmakers on any particular plan, it app<^ very doubtful that sweeping changes will be enacted before this session ends. At a news conference last month, AFL-CIO President Lane drkland stated that the federa­ tion backs the components in Gephardt's bill which call for From left, Craig Raid, Scott Abramsonand Brian Hulstrom call for the comprehensive, irrevocable coverage for all U.S. citizens release of political prisoners in Nigeria. (universal coverage), mainly financed via a requirement that all employers pay at least 80 percent of the health care premiums of their employees (Imown as an employer mandate). The House bill also includes provisions for cost containment. "It is a very strong, com­ prehensive proposal that would give working people the health care reforms they've sought for so long," Kirkland said. Flawed Plan By contrast, the Mitchell plan would not achieve universal coverage, the AFL-CIO noted. In its current form, the bill calls for a conditional, delayed employer mandate that exempts many busi­ nesses and covers only half of employees' premium costs. It also would tax health benefits whose premiums exceed a certain rate of increase, amount­ ing to a double penalty against workers who have sacrificed wage increases to maintain com­ prehensive medical coverage. Kirkland noted that, under the Mitchell plan, businesses that do not provide health benefits "would be free to continue off­ loading the cost of their employees' health care onto the backs of those plans and employers that do provide health care." The federation had even shar­ per criticism of the alternative plan put forth by the group of Republican and Democratic senators that call themselves the "mainstream" group, citing the following (and other) problems: • It would not expand health care coverage. • It does not include effective cost containment mechanisms. • By placing a tax cap on employer deductibility, it would provide incentive for employers not to offer health benefits for their workers. • It would allow for the con­ tinuance of cost shifting, whereby insured citizens are saddled with the cost of not only their own medical care, but also that of the uninsured (such as emergency room visits). • It would tax benefits that ex­ ceed a certain standard. "The limit on employer deduc­ tibility and the taxation of costsharing supplemental plans amount to a huge new tax on middle-income Americans," Kirkland said. "The 'mainstream' plan does nothing—no universal coverage, no employer mandate, no cost containment." The AFL-CIO has vowed to continue fighting for the prin­ cipals it supports in the health care debate, for as long as it takes to get comprehensive reform enacted. If and when each body passes a bill, a House/Senate conference committee then will forge a final version which is return^ to each chamber for a vote. J �• SEPIEMSfff rSM The U.S. merchant marine was a major carrier of ammo,chow, fuel and replacements to the U.S. armed forces during World War II. Al­ though we lost well over 200 ships, and our casualty rate was exceeded only by that of the Marine Corps, there were always plenty of volun­ teers in every rank and rating to man the ships. It took many trips by our merchant ships to supply the troops; the following is the story of just one of them. Before this voyage, I heard that the USS Houston, my assignment as a Marine for two years and 12 days, had been sunk with all hands. Later, the SS Alcoa Pathfinder, which I had sailed on in April 1942, was sunk five days after I got off her. In July, the SS Pan Florida came under attack while I was aboard. I was on the operating plat­ form in the engineroom and couldn't see what was gong on. The deck plates kept bouncing up about two inches from the concussion as the depth charges exploded nearby. In October, I sailed for the South Pacific on the SS Del Brasil. Guadal­ canal had been invaded by the 1st Marine Division on August 8. SEAFARBtSLOe With the SIU at Guadalcanal: A War Diary by James M. Smith Pensioner James M. Smith joined the SIU in Baltimore in August 1939right out of the Marine Corps as a corporal and as an expert of 50caliber machine guns. The depression was still on, however, and there was little work for machine gunners, so it was an easy jump from corporal to wiper on the Bull Lines' SS Maria which operated on the East Coast between New York and Puerto Rico. The pay was $55 per month. In September of that year, the Germans were attacking their neighbors, and the buildup for WWII was under way. Until that time, the only ships that carried electricians were passenger ships, but now the first of the "C" type ships had come on line. As a Marine, Smith had taken a course in basic electricity and so was well situated to take advantage of the opportunity to take the U.S. Commerce Department exam (there was no Coast Guard in those days) for an electrician's endorsenient. Brother Smith continued to sail during WWII, the Korean conflict and the early part of the Vietnam war and upgraded at the union's school in Brooklyn to third assistant engineer. During part of his seafaring years, he kept a journal. What follows is Part I of his narrative from aboard the SS Del Brasil. The remaining part of Brother Smith's diary will appear in a future issue of the LOG. 11 ambulance/supply planes came in carrying wounded Marines. They were all young fellows, about 18 to 20 years old, except for one red­ headed sergeant who said how un­ lucky he was to get hit just when he was going good. November 29. Weighed anchor, moved the ship back around the island to the main supp­ ly base and tied up alongside the SS Lipscolm Lykes. We have some bombs and other cargo for Cactus on board and also some for a Marine squadron at White Poppy, so we could go either way. ("Cac­ tus" is the c^e word for Guadal­ canal and "White Poppy" is Noumea. This base at Espiritu Santo is "Button.") There is some scuttlebutt that we are going on up to Cactus, which I hope is true. There hasn't been much action around this area except for a few rounds from a Jap submarine— harassing fire only. There have been several air warnings but noth­ ing has gotten through so far. The Jap bases are up north at Bougain­ ville Island in the Northern Solomons. Sometimes a squadron of Marine aircraft will leave here, stop at Cactus overnight, then hit their targets early the next morning and be back here in time for chow. December 1. We are transfer­ ring all pur White Poppy cargo to the Lykes ship and loading all Cac­ tus cargo. There is a rumor that we may make a few shuttle runs be­ tween here and Cactus as we are the most heavily armed merchant ship in the area. What we lack in fire control equipment, our gun crews make up for in enthusiasm. officer, Lt. (jg) Kraft, USNR, reminds me of the boxcars full of same general plan as the fighter sounded General Quarters and all five-gallon cans of paint I had to strip, only larger. From here the hands manned their battle stations. unload at P.I. when I was a boot. Marines make daily attacks on the As chief electrician, my station is November 13. Off duty today, enemy to the north. The Marine on the main generator platform in so I went ashore to visit the Marines sergeant driving the jeep didn't the engineroom, so I never know at the fighter strip. Unlike the believe in wasting any time, so it what's going on topside. This time, aircraft in the States, these are not was a jarring, neck-spraining ride Guadalcanal, 1942 nothing came of the contact, and as spic and span and shiny. The crews for about five miles through the October 16. SS Del Brasil, we turning 106 RPM, we were keep them in perfect condition, coconut palm groves. We bounced Delta Line^combinatioh pas­ soonare of range. out mechanically, but they're streaked without warning onto the bomber senger and cargo. Departed San with dirt and oil, and there are pow­ strip, right into the wake of a Diego 1300 for Noumea, New der bums around the muzzles of the squadron of B-17s just taking off. Caledonia. The convoy includes guns. Some of them have little About five minutes later, I got the freighters, a couple of tankers. Rising Sun flags painted under the dust out of my eyes. I looked several troop ships and APA's, a around at the rows of bombers, pilot's cockpit. light cruiser and some destroyers. As I was standing there talking fighter aircraft and the mile-long The Del Brasil is transporting per­ to the ground crew, a group of pilots metal strip with its operations tower sonnel from a Marine air group alongside. I spent the afternoon while combat gear, ammo and food Last night, the mate on watch walked out. They climbed into their talking to the officers and men, and fill pur holds to the top. We have 16 called me to check out an electrical planes and taxied slowly among the listening to their remarks about torpedoes lashed on deck amid­ circuit on the bridge. I went by the coconut trees to the strip. There, their combat experience^ with as ships. For armament, the ship car­ port AA gun as the watch was some Marines installed two bombs much nonchalance as I could ries a 5-inch 38 aft, four 3-inch relieved. I overheard the man going under the wings, one on each side, muster. I still feel like a Marine, and anti-aircraft guns and four 50- off duty tell his relief to "keep a then the whole squadron took off I envy them. caliber machine guns. sharp lookout for aircraft, surface with a roar. Flashing out over our ship, they banked and headed north. The convoy commodore signals craft and Mister Kraft." An hour and 40 minutes later, they to the rest of the convoy with an November 10. Arrived came in, clambered nonchalantly December 2. Stayed in bed all incessant blowing of the ship's Espiritu Santo 1600. A few days out of the ships and strolled over to day with an attack of malaria— steam whistle. This brings forth before our arrival, the SS President the mess tent for chow. The bombs been taking atabrine 'til my ears some merriment and not a few Coolidge ran into one of our own were gone. are ringing. Read in the "DePp caustic remarks. Each ship has to mines and sank. There were only Water Dispatch," our radio The sandflies over on the island repeat the signal on their own five men lost, but the troops lost all newssheet, that some of the crew of whistle. This goes on at all hours, their combat equipment. Another are ferocious and land on you in It seems the closer you get to the Xhe Alcoa Pathfinder made it to swarms. After a few hours you actual fighting, the fewer Stateside day after day and night after night. victory for the Japs. don't notice them so much—you regulations are enforced. I wanted shore at Lauren90 Marques after Imagine the sight of a large number November 11. Armistice Day. of ships in mid-ocean, tooting away Today we moved the ship around can get used to anything, I guess. to see inside a bomber under actual being sunk by a German sub. The for all they're worth, as though they the island and anchored off the There is plenty of fresh water near wartime conditions, and the crew old man. Captain Dunke, may have are in a traffic jam in San Francisco fighter strip. The base is scattered the base but, although water is ra­ chief said, "Go ahead." I crawled been a good seaman, but he never said a pleasant word to anyone. On tioned on the ship, we haven't any Bay. in the surrounding coconut way of getting it out here since through the hatch on a B-24. There the other hand. Chief Engineer of „ .u.. groves—dispersal is the order of we're anchored in the channel isn t a .bit ofv wastedJspace u m oneare Hardwickwasoneorthermestmen those bombers and, brother, the day: here a tent, there an anti­ I ever sailed with. I worider why it they built to fight! In metal racks on is aircraft battery, over there a few that you very seldom find a good both sides, fore and aft, are 50- skipper dozen cases of ammo, beyond that and a good chief engineer caliber machine gun ammo, and on the same ship. an aircraft. There is good reason for there's a gun mount beside each that. Espiritu Santo is an island Plexiglass blister with a machine about 40 miles wide and 120 miles gun lying beside it. There is a long in the northern part of the New tommy gun in a rack over the hatch The Marines have exercise Hebrides group. c. ^ It is now our forperiods on deck every day, and basersomething less than 400 about a mile from the l^ach. Still, to the tail-gunner's position. There during the past few days they have miles from Guadalcanal, or about we have had some fine times swim­ are also bomb raclb, instruments ming in a deep, fresh-water pool and oxygen supply. Up forward is been having small arms practice two hours by bomber. an array of machine guns in the near the end of the airstrip. with their '03 rifles, pistols and the new Rising submachine gun. I I have seen only half a dozen nose. checked one over a couple of days December 4. Over at the natives. Most of them moved back ago, but as an old Ist-squad BAR bomber strip yesterday afternoon, a into the fastness of the jungleman, I don't think much of it. P-40 came in and cracked up on the covered mountains upon the arrival runway. It was a total loss, l^en last of our fighting forces. The few who November 3. Arrive Noumea night a DC-3 was taking off for have stayed behind keep to them­ 1800. There are a large number of Cactus with a load of grenades and selves and live in thatch-roofed ships here, including a freighter November 12. Today we small arms ammo when he clipped huts. They are large people, physi­ with a hole in its No. 4 hold that began discharging cargo onto a gasoline truck. The aircraft crew This gang is sure a bunch of women stand about blew out the hull ,plates on both diesel-driven barges, the Marines cally, even the.... n ui u sides. It looks like you could row a joj^g |},e work of stevedores and six feet tall, and they re all black as souvenir hunters. I even saw one and the truck driver all got out un­ boat completely through the ship, joing it well (just like they always coal. From what I hear, the ones guy with a Jap bicycle. I haven't hurt and ran like hell as the whole November 7. 1730 weighed doj/There are some Navy construe- living in the mountains m"e not at ml been able to get any of the Jap oc­ mess was beginning to bum. They money floating around. had just gotten clear when the anchor and got under way for tion battalion men here, but they averse to chopping off a person's cupation Liquor is at a premium down here grenades started exploding. What head for a souvenir. Well, I didn't Espiritu Santo at 0930. We have an have more work than they can as these boys haven't had anything fireworks! lose anything back in "them thar aircraft carrier and two destroyers handle and don't seem to be very to drink for months. For a quart of hills"—^the Japs are enough for me well organized yet. Though we are as escort. scotch, you can get a Jap pistol or for now. November 9. The aircraft car­ happy to see the cargo moving, as an officer's sword. Unfortunately, The remaining part of Brother November 18. Went ashore ner suQueniv came eaiiic auuui ^ . . . rier suddenly about ..a.^ hard .w., left. an ex-Marine, it bothers me to see I'm fresh out. Smith's diary will appear in a fu­ offour^rtK an^ combat-trained Marines doing andhitchedandemaj^pdownto ture issue of the Seafarers LOG. While I was there, some DC-3 turned to protect her. Our gunnery longshoremen's work. Kind of the bomber strip. It is built on the !? I ~W^' ' Ml �12 SEFTEMOER1994 SEAFARERS LOG Twenty-four hours a day, boatmen aboard Orgulf tugboats know they must be ready to answer Ae call of duty. The crewmembers who work on the Twin Cities and John D. Geary keep a vigilant watch for waterway obstructions while checking on the lines that connect barges loaded with mulch, coal, grain and other dry cargo during voyages along the Mississippi River and its tributaries. "A problem can happen at any time," notes Lead Deckhand Matthew Diehl of the Geary. "That's why it's important for the mt" • crew to stay alert and discover a situation Completing paperwork Lead Deckhand Zolly Keeping an eye on the Deckhand Vanceno Rush Catching a nignt lunch before it becomes a problem." ZoHy Person, lead deckhand aboard the is rw;nC/ftesCookMon- Person keeps safety on Tw/nC/fesdiesel is Chief arrives for a meeting aboard the Geary is the Twin Citiesa priority. Engineer Alan Hornick. aboard the Twin Cities. Utilityman Troy Ingram. Twin Cities, agrees. "The river is always zell Niles. changing. Day or night, we have to be ready to handle anything." The concem for safety does not lessen when the tugs and their barges enter the company's staging area in Moore's Landing, Mo. The smaller boats that operate only on the upper half of the Mississippi release their bar­ ges and tie up with a new set to sail toward Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minn, as well as the Ohio and Illinois rivers. Along these water­ ways, Orgulf tugs can push up to 15 barges. The larger tugs take over the chores on the lower half of the Mississippi—directing barges to and from Memphis, Tenn., Baton Rouge, La. and New Orleans. Because the lower river channel is wider, boats are able to operate with as many as 35 barges. The crews aboard the Twin Cities and John D. Geary inspect and secure all loads and lines before departing the staging area. Because of scheduling demands, these pro­ cedures can take place at any time. "We're just as safety conscious at night Ready to inspect lines on the Utilityman Lloyd Shelton sear- Lead Deckhand Matthew Diehl Overseeing night deck operaduring inspections as we are during Geary is Deckhand Charles ches for problems on the TVv/n hasthe John D. Gearyready to tionsonthe rw/nC/f/esisMate daylight," Person adds. Amos. Cities deck. shove off. Dave Owens Maintenance Helps Keep Reiss Sailing After 50 Years Deckhand Joe Schmanski greases a pulley aboard the self-unloader. Maintaining tfie dishwashing equipment is the job of Porter Musleh Mohsin. Meticulous care and "sweet water" have helped keep the Richard Reiss sailing on the Great Lakes for 50 years. Even between jobs of loading or unloading rock, salt and ore. Seafarers aboard the Reiss have no time to slow down as they maintain the laker's equipment. Deck department members can be found all over the Erie Sand Steam­ ship Company vessel, lubricating pul­ leys, testing safety gear and inspecting lines—as well as die usual chipping and painting. Procedures in the engineroom aire no different. QMEDs and wipers con­ stantly monitor the ship's diesel en­ gine and conveyor belt to make sure operations will not be slowed by a mechanical problem. Besides preparing meals for the en­ tire crew, the steward department also has its share of duties in the galley. Cookware, utensils, counters and ap­ pliances must be kept spotless so there will be no hitch when it comes time to cook. During the Great Lakes sailing season, the Reiss can be found in any number of ports delivering or picking up cargo. The self-unloader is designed to be able to dock at either established terminals or inlets with only concrete bollards and bits on site for tying up. The vessel began sailing as a bulker on the Lakes in 1943 and was con­ verted into a self-unloader in 1964. A little lubricant applied by AB/Deckwatch Kevin Bleau keeps the Reiss operating smoothly. Deckhand Roger Bachik watches. Reporting for duty Second Cook Paul Deckhand Roger Standing by to help is Patrolman Ken Horner looks for material reaboard ship is AB Paton takes a menu Bachik assists with Deckhand Leonard quested by Gateman David Hubbard during Gregory (Joe) Viiek. order. chores. Tomas. shipboard meeting. �SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1994 Soon Steward/Baker Howard Williams will make this 8Vfe pound fish a main course. ' A&. 13 V ;:ik Fruit salad and cake are on the holiday menu. Fresh Fish Makes Patriot Holiday At Sea Special Preparing the chilled fruit bar is Steward/Baker Howard Williams. Being thousands of miles away from home and off the coast of another continent could not stop the crew of the MV Patriot from holding an Independence Day celebration at sea. The Vulcan Carriers tanker was en route to Antofagasta, Chile when July 4th hit the calen­ dar. The galley gang of Steward/Baker Howard biSfr If. an- Paine brtnps soup from me oh», box ,abov« in «^e, 9^"celebration. crewmembers. Williams, in passing the accompanying photographs to the Seafarers LOG, related that fishing was particularly good off the vessel on July 2. That day, several of the crew caught a mahi-mahi family fish known as dorado. The steward department took over from there, preparing the white fish as the main course along with salads, desserts and other items for the celebration. •'We always try to make holidays special when C^ietvina of the white fish is prepared uneservmgui mewillloiioiiiOH'^K"'"" bv the Pat/fof oallev oano. •--•-•.-i'.'vV • •• •v. we are at sea, away from families_and friends," Qrewmembers line up for the holiday fare. From left are GSU Julian "o^ed Williams. "Having the fresh fish made this ^^jendoza, AB Carlos Spina, Steward/Baker Howard Williams, Bosun Ralph TII1« i. Hon r^awlnr year's T7™,rfV. Fourth of July even tv-ttpr" better Gibbs, Chief Cook Daniel Payne and AD AB Dan Gaylor. •• ' .pM ' M R««..n I^evin McHoul relaxes after enjoying the KeciS As OMU Bob Ivanauskas prepares to eat, others make their way through the serving line. PosInQ on the G/oba/Mariner's deck are (from left) QMU Bob Ivanauskas, SA T.W. White, SA William Pettaway and OS Steve Keville. " "" ' i |v - I -t. Proud of their work for the celebration are SAs Jimmy Sims (left) and William Pettaway. •''•v7'- Cook/Baker Cheryl Neff. SlU hawsepiper John Logari, 3rd There was plenty of food for the families and friends of the Global Mariner crew. asst. engineer, enjoys the picnic. Families and friends of Seafarers who work aboard the Global Mariner got to see firsthand what life is like aboard that vessel while it was tied up in Baltimore over the Independence Day holiday. Crewmembers had the deck of the Transoceanic Cable Ship vessel decorated in red, white and blue as the company held an open house to allow crewmembers to show off where they work. Nearly one hundred people took advantage of the hospitality. The galley gang of Chief Steward Brian Gross met the challenge. "It was a wonderful celebration," noted Baltimore Port Agent Sal Aquia, who was invited and provided the Seafarers LOG with the photos for this story. "There were families and children all over and plenty of good food, thanks to our crew." Gross gave plenty of credit for the way the day turned out to the steward department. Working together to make sure everything proceeded without a hitch were Chief Cook Kevin Marchand, Cook/Baker Cheryl Neff and Steward Assistants T.W. White, Jimmy Sims and William Pettaway. Among the wide variety of entrees offered by the galley gang were steaks, ribs and chicken as well as vegetable and fruit salad bars. To entice those with a sweet tooth, the crew baked cookies, cakes, pies and other treats, For anyone Bringing food from the freezer to the still able to move after eating, tours of the galley are Chief Cook Kevin Marchand (left) and SA T.W. White. cable ship were available. '-y �'. ' ;V'' •: .;r- "1 (•'. SEPTEMBER 1994 14 SEAFARERS LOG '. ..'•t'N..--' '•'•J'-' '• •'.' '.^''.T '' V SEPTEMBER 1994 SEAFJUIEKSLOG IS O'Brien Heads for Home %' I • • " 'llf'• Living Memorial to WWII Mariners Triumphantly Returns from Normandy / / •' " ; ass Sisfi' wa iiSliiilSiiM < gs ;;««!!• #E' ' . v.>7 . '' *a :J 12 a a s' lESKfjisWitei*®? «*««• A - I A" ii ' If V f C a 'Mt • • See page 16 for additional coverage of the Jeremiah O'Brien (!i:-,;r" ffi/' O'Brien Crew Recounts Commemorative Voyage as^Trip of a Lifetime' •M > ' 1 Above: The Jeremiah O'Brien was open to the public during a recent four-day stop in Baltimore. The vessel . is scheduled to return to its home port of San Francisco in late September or early October ".V -'V resh from a tour of Europe in which it repre­ sented the American merchant marine's role in D-Day, which happened 50 years ago on June 6 of this year, the World War Il-era Liberty ship Jeremiah O'Brien last month visited several East Coast ports while en route to its home berth in San Francisco. Dignitaries and other visitors turned out in Portland, Maine; Baltimore; and Jacksonville, Fla. for ceremonies honoring the O'Brien's crewmembers and recognizing the overall contribution of the U.S. merchant marine in World War II. Congresswoman Helen Bentley (D-Md.), a longtime advocate of the U.S.-flag merchant fleet, sponsored legislation which helped enable the O'­ Brien to go to France and England for the massive D-Day ceremonies earlier this summer. Last month in Baltimore, standing next to the 51-year-old vessel, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, Bentley reflected on the consistent showing of the American merchant marine. F I• It Many Lives Lost f I - t\ ;' y'-fii •••••; ,• • " V' I "Thousands gave their lives in World War II, and thousands more served from the beginning of the war to the end," she stated to a crowd of about 200, as well as to the O 'Brien crew and dozens of active and retired SIU members who were on hand for the ceremony. "The war could not have been won without them." Appreciation for the U.S. merchant marine's vital role in past efforts, as well as recognition of the critical need to maintain a strong American-flag fleet now and in the future, also were echoed by other speakers in Baltimore, including Deputy Maritime Administrator Joan Yim and Rear Admiral Thomas Patterson (U.S. Maritime Service, Ret.). They em­ phasized that history repeatedly has revealed the country's need for a strong shipping capability, not only in times of battle but also during peacetime. The value of a strong merchant fleet perhaps never was more evident than on June 6, 1944, when the Allies launched the largest amphibious military operation in histo^ and began to reclaim France from Nazi occupation. Thousands of U.S. merchant ships delivered troops and materiel on D-Day and in the crucial supply line that followed until the German surrender in May 1945. Turning Point Although costly and difficult, the invasion of France (also known as Operation Overlord) proved to be the turning point in the war. Heavy casualties were sustained by American, Canadian and British forces on D-Day and during the fierce battles which lasted for 11 months afterward. But the sacrifices paid off when Hitler's Nazi forces surrendered, which in turn allowed the Allies to aim their full force on the war in the Pacific. The O'Brien was at Normandy on D-Day, and thousands of active and retired merchant mariners, along with many other supporters, pulled together to ensure that the historic ship would return to France for the 50th anniversary activities. It took many years and hundreds of thousands of man-hours to fully recondition and prepare the O'­ Brien, part of the National Liberty Ship Memorial, for its recent voyage to Europe. But the efforts were rewarded, as the O'Brien became the only ocean­ going vessel to participate in both D-Day and the 50-year anniversary. Patterson, a driving force behind the O'Brien's restoration and a participant in the entire voyage, said that the journey "has exceeded our expectations." He added that he hopes the recognition the O'­ Brien received in Europe will serve both to honor the merchant marine veterans of World War 11 and to remind lawmakers in the U.S. that history "has taught us over and over how important the merchant marine is. You know, there literally were six million people lining the banks in England and France, waving American flags at us. We were cheering back at them. Alex Hochstraser will take home several souvenirs, including his first tattoo. The crew of the Jeremiah O'Brien is a mix of retired merchant mariners, many of whom sailed on merchant ships during World War 11; of younger, active seamen who signed on the Liber­ ty ship to be part of history; and one other trade unionist who became so enamored of the 51-yearold vessel, he left his desk job, acquired the proper documentation and signed on for the entire six-month voyage fi-om San Francisco to Europe and back. But regardless of a particular crewmember's background, or whether he signed on for part or all of the round trip to Normandyj the men aboard the O'Brien agree that the voyage has surpassed even their most optimistic expectations. "It has been the trip of a lifetime," said Bosun Martin Wefald, a retired Seafarer who sailed in the union's Great Lakes and deep sea divisions. "Everyone treated us like royalty in England and France, and meeting President Clinton (who boarded the vessel in Europe) was spectacular. He shook hands with every crewmember; that's been the highlight." Wefald is one of several retired SIU merflbers who have taken part in the voyage, scheduled to end sometime in October when die ship returns to its home port on the West Coast. Many retired members and a few active ones from the SlU-affiliated Sailors' Union of the Pacific (SUP) and Marine Firemen, Oilers and Watertenders (MFOW) also have comprised the crew, along with a few retirees from the Marine Cooks and Edgar Lingenfeld (left) and Gary Dow are two former SIU members who are helping bring the O'Brien back from Normandy. Stewards, which merged with the SIU in 1978. Operated under authority of the U.S. Maritime Admini|fration, the O'Brien already has fulfilled the main purpose of its trip, which was repre­ senting the U.S. merchant marine at ceremonies in Normandy on and before June 6 commemorat­ ing the 50th anniversary of D-Day. Millions of spectators viewed the immaculately kept, 441foot ship in Europe. Remarkably, of the thousands of vessels that were part of the Normandy invasion in 1944, only the O'Brien returned for the anniversary ac­ tivities, which were covered by media around the world. Enthusiastic Crew A Navy gunner during WWII, Jack Carraher signed on for the entire O'Brien voyage. Joe Milcic spent a year on Liberty ships during the war and also helped restore the O'Brien. During a stop in Baltimore last month, a num­ ber of crewmembers talked with a reporter from the Seafarers LOG about the O'Brien's travels. For Edgar Lingenfield, the ship's gray ex­ terior and tight quarters evoke sca^ memories. "1 served as a third engineer on a Liberty almost 50 years ago," recalled the former SIU member. "On my first trip, we were bombed near Guadalcanal, but luckily nothing hit us. Those were hard mis­ sions." Lingenfield, 69, has been on the O'Brien since it set sail for Normandy in April. "The trip has been very satisfying," he stated. "We were wel­ comed with open arms everywhere we went in England and in France. The people there know what we did for them. "1 think we're known more in England and France than in the United States." In contrast to Lingenfield's first trip during the 1940s, Jack Carraher pointed out that this voyage has been nothing but smooth sailing. "We've had great weather all the way, so somebody's looking after us," said the 71-year-old former member of the SUP, who sailed in the deck and engine departments. Carraher, who was a Navy gunner during World War 11, also signed on for the whole trip. "This was my last chance to sail again," he ex­ plained. "It's a great crew and I'U always remem­ ber them." Like several other crewmembers, Carraher cited the June 5 shipboard visit in Portsmouth, Engird of President and Mrs. Clinton — who were joined by AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland and Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger — as the high point of the journey, surpass­ ing even the D-Day ceremonies. "Both the president and Mrsi. Clinton were very gracious," he said. "1 think they made a lot of friends. Lane Kirkland (who sailed with the Masters, Mates & Pilots during World War 11) was great, too." its commemorative voyage is approximately 75. 11. The retired deck department member, who Other crewmembers range in age frorp midsailed with the SUP, participated in the ship's res­ twenties to early forties, so naiura^y there is a toration project during the past dozen years, al­ variance of perspective regarding the vessel and though he only was able to join the voyage for a its many ports of call, both abroad and in the U.S. short time. Gary Dow, a former SIU member whose "But the main thing is knowing that it hap­ father and grandmother both were involved in the pened, that everyone's efforts paid off," he said. O'Brien's original construction in Portland, More than one crewmember pointed out a par­ Maine, had been working with a Portland-based ticular shipmate who was making his first voyage. group preparing for a reception for the O'Brien's Alex Hochstraser, a member of the Service crew in early August. Employees International Union, said he "heard • After the reception, he signed on for the about die Normandy trip and 1 decided to go for remainder of the trip. "I'm staying on until she it! My father is from France ... You could say 1 reaches San Francisco. Then, I may go back to went due to family history and American history." sailing permanently, who knows," said Dow, 43, As was the case with others, Hochstraser, who who saUed with the SIU for 11 years before a sailed in the engine department, seemed ex­ knee injury in 1988 forced him to come ashore. hilarated by the experience. "There's work to be Dow, who sailed primarily as a QMED, has at done, but tWs is a once-in-a-lifetime, marvelous least one thing in common with the World War 11 experience," he said. "In Europe, 1 found an aunt veterans aboard the ship; Having sufficiently whom 1 didn't know existed. I've already written recovered from the knee injury, he too answered her, and we plan to keep in touch. his nation's call in time of crisis, in this case "Years from now,1 think T11 remember all of during the Persian Gulf War. this, especially the great people 1 sailed with. "1 left a nice desk to go and pump oU," he said They're the best." with a laugh. "But we showed Ae American mer­ He also wUl remember a souvenir which he chant marine can still do the job." picked up in Gosport, England. Getting into the Few aboard the O 'Brien have a deeper ap­ spirit of the World War ll-era merchant marine, preciation for her history than Joe Milcic, who Hochstraser received his first tattoo. spent a year on Liberty ships during World War "Everybody on the ship reaUy liked it," he said. Different Perspectives The average age of the World War 11 merchant marine veterans who have crewed the O'Brien for Retired SIU Bosun Martin Wefald (far right), pictured here with other crewmembers during a pier-side ceremony in Baltimore, began his sailing career in the union's Great Lakes division. X'-nXIXV'-:' 'Sv. i"''. -x ' J-.-;.v.> ;• jJ2 .11 Iff \ is.'-:v;--•. M'. �-• iv-,. • • SffTEMBBt 1^ 16 SEAF/UIBI^ Respect from �; • -S,"'V'rS ^:^®WWW!Wisi^W!!|5^aF3®^^ SEPTEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea JULY 16 — AUGUST 15,1994 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups OassA Class B Class C '-#v::.' Port New York 26 Philadelphia 1 Baltimore 3 Norfolk 11 Mobile 10 New Orleans 15 Jacksonville 21 San Francisco 23 Wilmington 15 Seattle 26 Puerto Rico 8 Honolulu 3 Houston 28 St. Louis 1 Piney Point 1 Algonac 0 Totals 192 Port New York 24 Philadelphia 1 Baltimore 3 Norfolk 6 Mobile 9 New Orleans 14 Jacksonville 12 San Francisco 13 Wilniington 12 Seattle 12 Puerto Rico 4 Honolulu 5 Houston 11 St. Louis 0 Kney Point 3 Algonac 0 Totals 129 Port New York 16 Philadelphia 0 Baltimore 3 Norfolk 4 Mobile 9 New Orleans 10 Jacksonville 9 San Francisco 20 l^lmington 14 iSeattle 25 Puerto Rico 4 Honolulu 10 pouston St. Louis 0 pilM^PCM^ 2 Algonac 0 Totals 135 Port 26 10 6 10 24 15 15 19 7 23 5 15 26 2 •4 0 207 20 2 9 7 6 13 18 17 14 8 4 6 1 .14 0 146 14 0 1 10 3 9 li| 10 7 5 0 9 '• " .6' ^l4ewY®--S •0 0 86 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups QassA Class B Class C Trip Rdlefs ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups QassA ClassB ClassC DECK DEPARTMEl^T 29 21 2 6 56 64 8 2 3 1 0 1 13 3 2 5 0' ml':i1;:::.-, 9. 11 '• 4 9 10 2 8 22 35 12 9 11 0 0 17 28 2 13 10 3 9 36 42 7 9 •••• 27 20 344 35 10 4 /• 15 11 4 50 • 31 7 6 13 . 4 1 31 23 ••7' 3,3: 7 21 17 3 8 44 34 8 4 9 1 0 3 15 6 6 11 6 12 6 4 6 19 11 9 22 13 1 10 41 47 18 0 1 1 0 0 0 5 :3„., :.I 0 0 4 0 2 ••.'.v.'1' 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 77 178 146 26 61 373 397 104 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 15 8 0 9 44 38 1 •mm ^ 1 1 2 0 0 , 2 3 2 • 0 7 • • •• -1 0 3 7 9 0 6 3 3 0 0 15 22 13 0 9 3 1 .• 0 14 14 1 4 7 9 2 4 23 31 6 A ' ' •l:;8 8 15 13 17 28 9 • 3,,..;^:.; 11 8 m4 26 25 , 5 ..3 2 ;.v:7 • 10 ,1 -./visiakl1-4. 18 22 •. 4 2 11 6 1 ^ • 8 22 15 3 2 5 5 1 .• • 1 8 4 1 8 4 8 6 3 ; 6 11 11 3 11 13 T ' 8 23 20 5 1 0 0 2 1 3"' 0 >• 0 0 -3 ii; B'' : Im •'•O' - 20 0 , . 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 41 99 96 20 49 230 266 62 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 11 4 0 6 31 28 2 0 1 1 0 0 2 4 ^ 3 0 0 iz: • frnm i,'5 'M3 5 1 2 8 4 18 4 4 1 1 18 11 2 9 5 0 5 14 4 19 mm 10 0 11 13 10 1 9 19 2 5 66 17 7 1 9 0 23 4 19 1 1 37 12 0 3 . 16 0 2 0 1 6 0 2 2 5 6 6 3 16 13 0 9 3 4 4 10 1 5 ' 0 o' 1 0 35 ^1 ^^"i 0 0 0 108 50 6 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 2 0 , 2 0 4 0 0 3 1 3 .3 6 4 7 3 3 1 0 0 0 38 17 1 2 8 7 6 16 7 5 17 4 11 15 0 14 0 130 0 0 0 53 11 2 6 0 163 • ^ 1 '-Ssii 0 ? 4 ' 0 45 22 0 5 18 4 22 15 21 12 20 9 133 12 0 6 0 299 Philadelphia 0 0 0 Baltimore 0 3 4 Norfolk 2 15 12 Mobile 2 15 3 New Orleans 7 16 11 Jacksonville 2 '15 12 San Francisco 7 19 Wilmington 6 18 U.1', 'e Seattle 6 25 12 Puerto Rico 3 6 9 41 Honolulu 4 27 1 Houston 2 23 0 St. Louis 0 2 1 Piney Point 0 23 0 Algonac 0 1 142 Totals 49 242 Totals All 80 423 422 163 295 965 1305 510 681 Departments 505 • 'Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. •• "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. A total of 996 jobs were shipped on SlU-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 1,088 Jobs shipped, 423 jobs or about 39 percent were taken by seniority members. The rest were filled by and seniority people. From July 16 to August 15,1994, a total of 163 trip relief jobs were shipped. Since the trip relief program began on April 1,1982, a total of21,489jobs have heen shipped. •'A >:>K October & November 1994 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Piney Point Monday: October 3, November 7 New York Tuesday: October 4, November 8 Philadelphia Wednesday: October 5, November 9 Baltimore Thursday: October 6, November 10 Norfolk Thursday: October 6, November 10 Jacksonville Thursday: October 6, November 10 Algonac Friday: October 7; Monday: November 14* '•••sn 15 : 0 2 0 254 17 changed by Veterans Day holiday Houston Monday: October 10, November 14 New Orleans Tuesday: October 11, November 15 Mobile Wednesday: October 12, November 16 San Francisco Thursday: October 13, November 17 Wilniington Monday: October 17, November 21 Seattle Friday: October 21, November 25 San Juan Thursday: October 6, November 10 St Louis Friday: October 14, November 18 ' Honolulu Friday: October 14, November 18 Duluth Wednesday: October 12, November 16 Jersey City Wednesday: October 19, November 23 NewBedfbrd Tuesday: October 18, November 22 ; Each port's me^ng starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals - ^ RON "RONNIE" CARRAWAY Please contact your nephew, Gaiy Carraway (Ross's son), at P.O. Box 13, New Salisbury, IN 47161; or call (812) 365-2585. EUGENE DUANE Please contact your nephew, Joseph Duane, at 31-12 86th SL, Elmhurst, NY 11369. FRANK JAMES MacKENZIE Anyone with information on Frank James MacKenzie should contact his son, John MacKenzie, c/o Gamer, 12404 Tahoe Trail, Lusby, MD 20657. BERTENMARKLEY Please call your father, Scott, at (309) 3342275. BROTHER ED MONROE Thank you for everything fiom Michael Mur­ phy and his wife. PATRICK JOHN ROONEY Please contact Raymond Banks at 5049-A Backlick Rd., Annandale, VA 22003. MARKRUHL Please contact Zeda Ruhl at 18219 Rolling Meadow Way, Olney, MD 20832. LEONARDO SINISI Please contact J.A. Gross at P.O. Box 1434, Sebring, FL 33870. RICK WILSON Please write Steve Parker at 2 Albion Rd., Cape Elizabeth, ME; or call (207) 775-7975. 'A - • \ • �••.y SEFTEMRER1994 18 SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers Internatianal Union Directory Michael Sacco Resident John Fay Secretaiy-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartn^ Vice President West Goast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack CaflTey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland 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, Ml 48001 (810)794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 3.27-4900 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 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 9604 <? 4 Philadelphia,"PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT 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 16V^ Santurce, PR 00907 (809)721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. SL Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 JULY 16 — AUGUST 15,1994 CL—Company/Lakes L—Lakes NP—Non Priority •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 22 7 0 7 7 0 16 16 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 41 18 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 25 12 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 10 7 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 G O ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL OassL Class NP 0 36 i '' 8 • 0 " -oM ,7 0 28 0 95 0 76 37 41 Totals All Departments 56 0 95 0 * '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. 37 59 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters JULY 16- AUGUST 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 1 Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 4 . ' ' 2 51 0 57 0 6 0 2 8 0 10 0 7 17 'V• 2 2 27 0 31 0 2 0 0 2 0 6 0 0 6 0 1 0 3 0 8 0 1 3 0 3 6 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 25 1 2 2 3 ' 3 0 22 1 54 101 2 28 . 7 126 5 31 89 ENGINE DEPARTMENT y:'-2 0 > 0 1 0 0 2 2 11 0 0 36 1 0 0 0 13 0 2 40 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 , 2 0 3 2 0 0 1 1 1 10 0 19 4 2 4 0 4. 10 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 2 • 0 •: 19 • • 0 >• 29 48 "-"y,:' 8 • . •-,0 8 ^ . •-v'-y.y 0 " 4 • 'y''!^ y.y;10 Totals All Departments 96 11 29 149 5 37 148 13 66 * '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. Are You Missing Important Mail? In order to ensure that each active SIU member and pensioner receives a copy of the Seafarers LOG each month—as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and welfare 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 copy of the LOG delivered to you, if mail, please use the form on this page you have changed your address, or if to update your home address. your name or address is misprinted or incomplete, complete the Your home address is your per­ form and sendplease it to: manent address, and this is where all Seafarers International Union official union documents will be Address Correction Department mailed (unless otherwise specified). 5201 Auth Way If you are getting more than one Camp Springs, MD 20746 ; HOME ADDRESS FORM (PLEASE PRINT) 9/94 Name I Phone No. (_ I Address. I Social Security No. Active SIU Other Book No. n 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. (Signed). I! • i �SBWARBaUK J oining the growing number of SIU pensioners this month are 33 Seafarers who have retired to the beach after many voyages on the world's oceans, waterways and lakes. Twenty-three of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division, seven navigated the in­ land waterways, two sailed on the Great Lakes and one was a member of the Railroad Marine Division. Among those joining the ranks of the retirees, four com­ pleted the bosun recertification course and three graduated from the stewju-d recertification course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. The recertified bosuns are Brothers John Davies, Clif­ ford A. Perreira, Manuel A. Siiva and Ronald F. Wolf. Those completing the steward recertification course are Brothers Samuel A. Goodman, Lance Rene and Robert Spencer. Seventeen of the retiring Seafarers served in the U.S. military—10 in the Army and seven in the Navy. Brief biographical sketches of Brothers Davies, Perreira, Silva, Wolf, Goodman, Rene and Spen­ cer as well as the other new pen­ sioners follow. DEEP SEA JAMES E. BOND, 71, bom in Vir­ ginia, joined the Seafarers in 1946 in the port of Bal­ timore. Brother Bond sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Brother Bond calls Maryland home. DANIEL A. BRASS, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1947 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. He sailed in the engine depart­ ment. Brother Brass frequently upgraded his skills at the Lun­ deberg School in Piney Point He has retired to his native Maryland. SANTIAGO CERRATO, 66, was bom in Honduras and joined the union in 1974 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Cerrato upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. He currently resides in Louisiana. GERALD M. HALLIGAN, 61, joined the Seafarers in 1964 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck depart­ ment. The New Orleans native at­ tended the Andrew Fumseth Train­ ing School and frequently upgraded his skills at the Lun­ deberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1952 to 1958. He has retired to Louisiana. SIMA PADILLA, 66, began sail­ ing with the Seafarers in 1967 in San Juan. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Padilla _•/ }, ! 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. upgraded his skills at Piney Point. He served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1954. Brother Padilla still resides in Puerto Rico. EUGENE CIPULLO, 65, began sail­ ing with the SIU in 1972 in the port of New York as a member of the engine department. Brother Cipullo fre­ quently upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1953. Bom in Massachusetts, Seafarer Cipullo has retired to Florida. THOMAS COMMANS, 67, bom in Mississippi, joined the Seafarers in 1977 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. He attended upgrading classes at the Lundeberg School. Brother Commans sailed in the deck depart­ ment. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1952. Brother Commans currently resides in Califor­ nia. JOHNS. DAVIES, 66, a native of Pennsylvania, began sailing with the SIU in 1946 in the port of New York. Brother Davies sailed in the deck department. He completed the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School. He calls Penn­ sylvania home. RICHARD W, FORGAYS,67, joined the union in 1952 in the port of Detroit. Bom in Michigan, he started out sailing in the Great Lakes division. He then trans­ ferred to the deep sea division in 1973, sailing in the steward depart­ ment Brother Forgays served in the U.S. Army from 1945 to 1949. He has retired to Michigw. SAMUEL A. GOODMAN, 67, joined the Seafarers in 1978 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Goodman graduated from the steward recer­ tification course at the Lundeberg School in 1980. He served in the U.S. Army from 1944 to 1946. Bom in Arkansas, Brother Good­ man currently resides in Washington. -I- REINALDO GOMEZ, 51, began sailing with the SIU in San Juan in 1974 as a member of the engine department. He attended upgrading classes at the Lundeberg School. Brother ' Gomez served in the U.S. Army from 1960 to 1961. He currently resides in his native Puerto Rico. JAMES LEE ROY JACK­ SON, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Jackson upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1949. Bom in Illinois, he has retired to Texas. ALFRED E. LEWAKOWSKI, 64, a na­ tive of Michigan, joined the SIU in 1968 in the port of Boston, Mass. He started his maritime career on the Great Lakes and transferred to the deep sea division in 1978. Brother Lewakowski actively par­ ticipated in union organizing drives and beefs. He upgraded his deck department skills in Piney Point Brother Lewakowski served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1945. He lives in Massachusetts. SAMUEL L. LOFTIN,61, joined the union in 1965 in his home port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Loftin sailed in the steward department as chief cook. He has retired to Alabama. CLIFFORD A. PER­ REIRA, 71, bom in Honolulu, joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of San FrancisCO. He sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Perreira graduated from the bosun recertification coiu^ at the Lundeberg School in 1982 and attended other upgrading classes there. He makes his home in Hawaii. tion course. Bom in Malaysia, Brother Rene is a naturalized U.S. citizen and currently resides in Idaho. DIMAS RODRI­ GUEZ, 62, joined the union in 1967 in the port of New York. He sailed in the steward department as a cook and baker. Brother Rodriguez attended upgrad­ ing courses at the Lundeberg School. He has retired to his na­ tive Puerto Rico. ANTHONY RUSSO, 69, began sailing with the SIU in 1959 in the port of New York. Brother Russo sailed in the engine department, most recently aboard the American Kestrel, a Pacific Gulf Marine ves­ sel. Brother Russo has retired to New York. JOSEPH E. SADLER, 65, bom in Maryland, joined the SIU in the 1951 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department Brother Sadler upgraded his skills in the engine department at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1956. Brother Sadler currently resides in Rhode Island. MANUEL A. SILVA, 59, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of New York. He worked in the deck department, last sailing as bosun. Brother Silva completed the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School. He has retumed to his native Portugal to live. ROBERT SPENCER, 68, joined the SIU in 1948 in the port of Mobile. The Alab^a na­ tive sailed in tlie steward department. Brother Spencer graduated from the isteward recer­ tification course in 1981 at the Lun­ deberg School in Piney Point. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Brother Spencer con­ tinues to call Alabama home. HERIBERTO VAZ­ LANCE QUEZ, 65, a RENE, 64, native of Puer­ began sailing to Rico, with the began sailing Seafarers in with the 1%5 in the union in 1965 port of San in the port of Francisco. New York. Brother Vazquez He sailed in graduated from the Andrew the steward department Brother Rene upgraded his skills at the Lun­ Fumseth Training School in New York. He sailed in the engine deberg School, including gradua­ department. Brother Vazquez tion from the steward recertifica- 19 upgraded his skills at the Limdeberg School. He has retumed to Puerto Rico to retire. RONALD F. WOLF, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1980 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Wolf upgraded fre­ quently at the Lundeberg School and successfully completed the bosun recertification course there in 1988. Brother Wolf has retired' to New York. 'M' INLAND LUIS BONILLA, 66, a native of Puerto Rico, began sailing with the union in 1979 in the port of San Juan. Boatman Bonilla sailed in the steward department. He makes his home in Puerto Rico. JAMES T. BURNS, 62, bom in Buf­ falo, N.Y., joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Algonac, Mich, He sailed in the dec r department Boatman Bums served in the U.S. Army from 1949 to 1952. He has retir^ to Ohio. wmi ROBERT G. CROFT, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1964 in the port of Hous­ ton. He sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Bom in Massachusetts, Boatman Croft calls Texas home. LESTER J. HEBERT, 57, joined the SIU in 1973 in the port of Port Arthur. He sailed as a captain. Boatman Hebert served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1959. He makes his home in his native Texas. EARL ODOM, 60, joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Boatman Odomwas employed in Dravo Natural Resour­ ces dr^ging operations. He has retired to his home state of Alabama. JOSEPH L TROSCLAIR, 62, began sail­ ing with the union in 1966 in the port of New Orleans. He most recoitly sailed ^ a tugboat captain. Bom in Louisiana, Brother Trosclair lives in Texas. ALLENC WILLIAMS, 62, began sail­ ing with the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Nor­ folk. He sailed in the deck department. Boatman WilContinued on page 22 v. '3 ••• �-••ti6;«2itiapSi6»:Uyy>fiiav.4»t44s^S<;tK55Si^ 20 SEPTEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG -Mm 0 i;: •: a n d.: [.and ;;y:-- •: •-.f As part of the Military Sealift Command's (MSG) prepositioning fleet based off Diego Garcia, the main function of the Seafarers-crewed MV Lawrence Gianella is refueling U.S. military ships. A T-5 tanker, the Gianella some­ times conducts underway replenish­ ment (unrep) operations with aircraft carriers, battleships and other military craft. At other times, the vessel trans­ fers fuel to Navy tankers which in turn unrep other Navy ships. This is be­ cause, at a length of 615 feet, the it--*, Gianella can maneuver in and out of ports which are inaccessible to many Outfitted with a modular fuel delivery system, Navy tankers ranging in length from the Gianellacan transfer3,000 gallons of fuel per hose per minute. 700 to 800 feet. Second Anniversary This summer quietly marked the two-year an­ niversary of an historic operation involving the Gianella. In July 1992, the Gianella became the first civilian-operated tanker to replenish an aircraft carrier (the USS Independence) under operational conditions. This took place in the Persian Gulf and marked the first of nearly three-dozen such opera­ tions for the SlU-crewed vessel. Operated by Ocean Shipholding, the Gianella was fitted with a modular delivery system AB John Weaver Is ready to go developed by the Navy to rapidly modify commer­ to work on the ship's deck. cial taiikers in emergencies, thereby enabling the tankers to deliver fuel to underway Nayy ships. Shipboard Meeting Updates Busy Crusader Crew ^0 When the Sea-Land Crusader docks at Port Elizabeth, N.J., Seafarers know it marks the end of another successful 28-day voyage around the U.S. Atlantic and Gulf coasts and into the Caribbean. During a recent visit to the Sea-Land facility in New Jersey, crewmembers were able to catch up on the latest information regarding the union and the maritime in­ dustry when SIU representatives from the port of New York came aboard to answer questions about the contract, file medical applications and distribute the Seafarers LOG. Bosun Harold Berggren took time out during the shipboard meeting to praise the quality and spirit of the crew on the Crusader. "This is a really good ship," said Berggren, who sails from the port of Nor­ folk, Va. "All departments work well together, keeping everything top notch so we can maintain our tight schedule." The Lancer-class containership makes regular stops in Jacksonville, Fla., New Or­ leans and Houston, as well as the Caribbean ports of San Juan, P.R. and Rio Haina, Dominican Republic. The bosun noted each stop requires a quick turnaround. IM ftif 10 S'5 Reading the latest maritime news In the Seafarers LOG Is Chief Electrician Oswald Bermeo. AB Reyes Flores listens during a shipboard meeting aboard the Sea-Land Crusader. Other Regions Although it normally operates in the British Indian Ocean Territories, the Gianella in recent years also has sailed in Far East and Australian waters. Like the other vessels in the prepositioning fleet, the 30,000-dwt tanker remains ready to sail, fiilly loaded, at a moment's notice and to any number of possible destinations. On a recent trip to Diego Garcia to meet with Seafarer crewmembers, SIU Port Agent Sal Aquia (who provided the photos accompanying this story) noted that the Gianella crew "does a good job of keeping up on union affairs and legislative issues which affect their employment. They may work a long way from the U.S., but they stay up-to-date on the things that matter to their livelihood." Involved In refueling opera­ tions Is AB Ray Childress. Testing the broth before serving lunch Is Ready for the meeting to start are SA Luis Chief Steward Nick Andrews. Rivera (left) and DEU Pablo Albino. 0^:0 • iF •SWh:' Chief Cook Martin Ketchem has plenty to do to keep the G/ane//a'screw well fed. Bosun Zlanal SInegar handles store operations with crane. Maintaining the deck watch during the offloading are AB Severiano Bonefont (left) and Bosun Harold Berggren. AB Thomas Votsis catches up on his reading during a break. •/ From left, QMED Calvin Murray, SA Ollle Abdull, Chief Steward Manuel Faria and QMED Tom Kesem enjoy a meal In the galley. Keeping, the deck swept clean Is AB Mark Smith. Taking part In the Crusader's union meeting are (from left) Chief Cook Benjamin Corpus, Bosun Harold Berggren, OMU Julio Reyes and SA Luis Rivera. �OAfWIBRSLOG WPTamER1994 Steward Delegate John Foster. Chairman notified crew that vessel has been sold to Kirby Tankships. Ship's water fountains need to be fixed. Engine delegate said port en­ gineer will check them out. No The Seafarer LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship­ beefs or disputed OT reported in board minutes as possibie. On occasion, becau^ of space all three departments. Crew asked to help steward department in keep­ imitations, some win be omitted. ing ship clean and helping Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. eliminate any problem with Those issues requiring attention or resoiution are addres^ by the roaches. Digest of Slops Meetings union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for pubiication. USNS SILAS BENT{Bay Ship Management), April 29—Chair­ man Robert S. Vazquez, Secretary Ben Henderson, Educational Director Richard Larsen, Steward Delegate Thomas J. Robinson. Chairman announced to crewmembers that next inspection would take place May.1 in port of Dubai. Ship's hull to be painted at that time. A Navy representative aboard ship presented steward department with letter of appreciation for job well done. Steward department received average weeldy sanitation score of 99 percent for month of April. Educational director urged members to attend upgrading cour­ ses at Lundeberg School. Treasurer announced $269 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported by all departments. Members made suggestions to contracts depart­ ment to consider review of length of time per tour aboard ship, crew requested purchase of ice coolers for deck and engine department and replacement of barbecue grill. Videotapes to be exchanged in port of Dubai. CAPE WASHINGTON (Amsca), May 22—Chairman Mark DePalma, Secretary Roy Royals, Educational Director George Cruzen, Deck Delegate Justin Savage, Steward Delegate Ken Whitfield. Chairman extended con­ gratulations to crewmembers for doing great job. Educational direc­ tor reminded members of increased earning opportunities by attending upgrading courses at Paul Hall Cen­ ter. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck, engine or steward departments. All ship's fiind money used to purchase movies in Charleston. Suggestion made for everyone to donate $.50 each meeting to be used to start new fund. Repairs being completed on ship's exercise equipment, and engine department will fix handle on forward washer. Thanks given to steward department for great food. Next port; Singapore. •. OMI WILLAMETTE{OMl), May 22—Chairman Eugene R. Bever­ ly, Secretary Walter Hansen. Chairman announced smoking limited to crewmen's rooms. Dis­ puted OT reported in engine depart­ ment. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Request made to con- OMI LEADER (OMI), June 1— Chairman Jim Scheck, Secretary Norman Duhe, Educational Direc­ tracts department to look into tor James McDaniel. No beefs or reducing amount of seatime needed disputed OT reported by deck, en­ for full retirement. Crewmembers gine or steward delegates. Crew­ requested all current union informa­ members reminded of no smoking tion be forwarded from head­ at any time policy in rec room and quarters to ship. mess hall. Crew asked to help keep ship clean and keep noise down USNS REGULUS (Bay Ship after 10 p.m. Vote of thanks given Management), May 20-^hairman to steward department for job well James L. Deano, Secretary Gale done. A. Flanagan, Educational Director Melvin L. Kerns. Chairman OMI WILLAMETTE{OMI), June reported good voyage. Crew doing 19—Chairman Eugene R. Bever­ great job keeping ship clean. ly, Secretary Antonio H. Hall, En­ Educational director stressed im­ gine Delegate Rudolph Lopez, portance of upgrading skills at Steward Delegate Clifford B. El­ Piney Point. No beefs or disputed liott. Some disputed OT reported OT reported by deck, engine or in engine department; otherwise, steward departments. Next port: no beefs or disputed OT noted by Guam. deck or steward delegates. Crew­ members reminded not to wear CHARLES L. BROWN (Tran­ tank tops in mess hall during meal soceanic Cable), June 28—Chair­ hour. Also, when signing off ship, man Francisco J. Sousa, Secretary everyone should clean rooms. Ship Brenda M. Kamiya, Educational will be laying up. At that time, Director William R. Carrol, crew hopes to donate videotape Steward Delegate Barney movie collection to other SIU ships. Johnson. Chairman reminded crew that ship is on cable repair stand­ OVERSEAS BOSTON by, and approximately every four (Maritime Overseas Corp.), May months a cable training exercise is 19—Chairman Paul D. Marra, held. Educational director re­ Secretary Manny Basas, Educa­ quested crewmembers to be con­ tional director Konstantinos Kossiderate of fellow shipmates, keep touros. Deck Delegate Rikent laundry area clean and maintain Seratt, Engine Delegate Tim O. safety procedures at all times. All Burnett, Steward Delegate Munir departments running smoothly Saleh. Bosun advised all members to read president's report in with no beefs or disputed OT. In consideration of crewmembers, re­ Seafarers LOG to better under­ quest made to paint inside of ship stand SIU history. Educational during day rather than at night director urged members to upgrade when AC units circulate fumes skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs throughout all quarters. Chief mate or disputed OT reported by deck, stated that anybody who gets in­ engine or steward delegates. Re­ jured aboard ship should see him quest was made that policy of no as soon as possible to prevent wor­ smoking in mess hall during meal hour be observed. Crewmembers sening of condition. asked for help in cleaning rec LIBERTY SUN{UhcTty room. New TV antenna and radio Maritime), June 19—Chairman needed for rec room. Chief steward Joseph W. Moore, Secretary and chief cook given a vote of Frederick L.Washington Sr., thanks for job well done. Next Educational Director A.W. Burport: Anacortes, Wash. rell. Chairman reminded crewmem­ RALEIGH BAY{Sea-Land Ser­ bers to turn in safety kits,and room vice), June 5—Chairman Howard keys when leaving ship. All dirty dishes should be returned to galley. Knox, Secretaiy J.P. Speller, Educational Director David J. Request made to have parts of Dukehart. Chairman advised crew­ deck, mess hall and pantry members of importance of con­ repaired. Some disputed OT reported in deck and engine depart­ tributing to SPAD. He asked them to try to keep ship clean, including ments. No beefs or disputed OT microwave ovens. Educational reported in steward department. director noted importance of attend­ OMI CHAMPION (OMI), June ing upgrading courses at Lun­ 18—Chairman M. de la Cerda, deberg School. Ship's delegates Secretary Walter Hansen, reported no beefs or disputed OT. SEA-LAND DEFENDER {SeaLand Service), June 15—Chairman R. Wagner, Secretary Curtis L. Phillips, Deck Delegate Donald Morrison. Copies of Seafarers LOGs received in Long Beach, Calif. Crewmembers were reminded to go through proper channels when settling beefs—to department delegate. Some dis­ puted OT reported in deck depart­ ments. No beefs or disputed OT reported in engine or steward departments. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. Gifts from Strangers During a stopover of the Sealift Antarctic in Adak. Alaska, Bnan Sandlin takes a break to visit with one of the m^y home. This one was most daring: Sandlin, he left a gift for the bosun—a white tail feather. (Photo and liver contributed by Chief Cook Sam Harris.) ,V y; .y SEA-LAND EXPEDITION{SeaLand Service), June 12—Chairman Paulino Flores, Secretary Edgar Vazquez, Educational Director L.V. Hargesheimer. I)Io beefs or disputed OT reported in engine or steward departments. Chairman had questions about OT in deck depattmeni. Secs-cterj' every­ thing OK. Payoff will be in Port Elizabeth, N.J. upon arrival. Educa­ '"J-''.V.... tional director stressed importance of taking advantage of training facility at Piney Point for upgrad­ ing skills and job security. Vote of thanks given to steward departmerit for fine meals. SEA-LAND PACIFIC{Sea-Land Service), June 24—Chairman Lothar G.G. Reck, Deck Delegate Robert L. Smith, Engine Delegate A1 Bombita Jr., Steward Delegate Rebecca Pouliot No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported aboard ship. Educational director advised mem­ bers to take advantage of courses available at Lundeberg School Treasurer announced $40 in movie fiind and $325 in ship's fund. Steward department thanked for job well done. Engine delegate reminded crewmembers of impor­ tance of contributing to SPAD. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), June 12—Chairman Kenneth C. McGregor, Secretary 21 4- courses at Paul Hall Center. Deck department reported some disputed OT for tank cleaning. Engine and steward department delegates reported no beefs or disputed OT. Request made to look into im­ proved mail service and distribu­ tion. Letter to be written to company regarding several items to be repaired aboard ship, includ­ ing upholstery, guards for fans, VCR and some deck tiles. Next port: Houston, Texas. BALDOMERO LOPEZ(Amsea), July 31—Chairman Jetfery Moritz, Secretary Anthony Ferrara. Educational Director R. Rudd, Steward Delegate Wigberto Reyes. Chairman reminded crew of importance of registering in hall within 48 hours to retain job status. Ship currently at anchor in Saipan. Mail to arrive in Guam August 12. Educational director arivised all crewmembers to upgrade skills at Working in White •W • AB Mike Duggan (left) and Bosun Cesar A. Gutierrez, balanced on bosuns' chairs and with paintbrushes in hand, help keep the hull of the OMIMissouri in pristine condition. Donna Jean demons. Education­ al Director James Smitko, Deck Delegate Mark Stevens, Engine Delegate Ted H. Carter, Steward Delegate Susano C. Cortez. Bosun reported estimated time of arrival in Oakland, Calif. He also noted steam irons have been or­ dered and should be in stores for next voyage. Treasurer announced crew fund still at $55. No beefs or disputed OT reported by three department delegates. Crew thanked steward department for wonderful barbecue, with Special thanks to AB Mike Tracy for king crab legs he got in Canada. Repair list has several items, including new mattresses, which will be presented to captain and union for review. SEALIFT ARABIAN SEA (IMC), June 5—Chairman Tom Prather, Secretary All S. Hassan, Steward Delegate Joseph Simonetti. Minutes of last meeting reviewed. Recommendation made by educational director to reshow training films after drills. Treasurer suggested new videos be purchased and offered ideas on how to raise money to purchase new VCR. En­ gine delegate noted ice machine would be repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Steward delegate announced fresh milk and fruit on order and that 60-day stores would be taken on at next port, which is Rotterdam, Netherlands. SEALIFT CARIBBEAN (IMC), June 17—Chairman Richard Nicholas, Secretary Dorothy Bar­ nes, Educational Director Joe Stores, Engine Delegate Glynn Courson, Steward Delegate Larry Wayne Nicholson. Chairman an­ nounced any disputed OT due to delayed sailing would be collected at payoff. Educational director urged members to attend upgrading . • Piney Point. Treasurer announced $597 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported in deck, en­ gine and steward departments. Copies of Seafarers LOG received aboard ship. Suggestion regarding increased dental and optical in­ surance to be sent to contracts department. Crewmembers asked to use courtesy in crew lounge by cleaning up and shutting off TV, VCR and lights when not in use. Steward department given vote of thanks for outstanding job and great variety of wonderful food. ' 'ik iii •,"sv" •„.f:: CLEVELAND{SeamBu\kers), July 3—Chairman DavidJ. Garoutte, Secretary Miguel Vinca, Educational Director Iqhal Samra, Deck Delegate Paul J. Cadran, Engine Delegate Nathaniel Gaten, Steward Delegate Ruti Dement. Chairman advised crewmembers to resolve any conflicts with department delegate, then ship's chairman. He also reminded crew not to go on deck during pirate watch. Educa­ tional director urged those who have time to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Education is free and gives members greater earning potential. Treasurer announced $115 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported by ship's three delegates. Items in galley and crew quarters that need fixing will be put on repair list. All hands reminded to be considerate of fel­ low shipmates by keeping noise down in passageways. Steward department given vote of thanks for great barbecue and excellent pastries and goodies. CLEVELAND{Seaim Bulkers), July 24—Chairman David J. Garoutte, Secretary Miguel Vinca, Educational Director Iqhal Samra, Deck Delegate Paul J. Continued on page 22 Zy4 �22 SEPTEMBER 1994 SEAFMERSLOG Ships Digest Continued from page 21 Delegate Dean Dobbins, Steward Delegate Mohamed M. Quaraish. Crewmembers requested update on computation of vacation pay. Educational director reminded all members to upgrade skills by at­ tending courses at Piney Point. Treasurer Dana Naze announced $1,057 in ship's fund. Request for clarification of increase on penalty and overtime rates sent to contracts department. Next port: Diego Gar­ cia. Cadran, Engine Delegate Nathaniel Gaten, Steward Delegate Ruti Demont. Chairman reported eveiything running smoothly with job well done by all hands. Repair list given to chief en­ gineer and chief mate. Educational director talked about furthering NUEVO SAN JUAN (PRMMI), education and skills at Paul Hall July 1—Chairman Jerry Borucki, Center. Treasurer announced $115 Secretary Hazel Johnson, Educa­ in ship's fund. Some of it may be tional Director Charles Gallagher, used for specialty food for bar­ Deck Delegate Victor Beata, En­ becue scheduled en route to Sin­ gine Delegate Abby R. Aragones, gapore from Diego Garcia. No Steward Delegate Isidro Santiago. beefs or disputed OT reported by Suggestion made to have draws for deck, engine or steward delegates. all members put out at every port. Copies of new contract going into Secretary thanked crew for helping effect Aug. 4 received. Vote of thanks given to steward department keep ship clean. He also requested for clean ship, good food and fresh­ crew to observe no smoking signs aboard ship. Chairman urged all ly baked goods. Good effort by all members to upgrade at Lundeberg hands in keeping noise down. Re­ quest made for everyone to pick up School. He noted school is also great place to take family for sum­ clothes from laundry when mer vacation. Crew thanked for finished. keeping ship accident-free, and CPL. LOUIS J. HAUGE JR. reminder given about importance (Maersk), July 3—Chairman of contributing to SPAD. Bosun Jerome J. Fahey, Secretary Wil­ also asked for donations of cloth­ liam J. Bunch, Educational Direc­ ing and shoes to be given to poor tor E. Snow. Discussion held in Dominican Republic. Follow­ regarding new regulations aboard ing stops in Jacksonville, Fla., military-contracted vessels. Educa­ Elizabeth, N.J. and San Juan, tional director encouraged all crew- P.R., ship will pay off in Bal­ members to take advantage of timore, Md. upgrading opportunities at Piney OMI DYNACHEMiOMl), July Point. Treasurer announced $153.18 in ship's fund. Suggestion 3—Chairman Lawrence L. Kunc, made to purchase new movies from Secretary Gregory G. Keene, Educational Director George ship's fund upon arrival in Bixby, Steward Delegate Thomas Thailand. Deck, engine and D. Kreis. New wages dikussed. steward departments reported no Crew awaits union patrolman at beefs or disputed OT. Next port: next payoff. Chairman also spoke Satahip, Thailand. about need for safety when weld­ GOLDEN MONARCH (Apex ing at sea. Secretary reminded all Marine), July 10—Chairman Ran­ members of importance of con­ dall Carlton Hanke, Secretary R. tributing to SPAD. He thanked Juzang. Ship en route to Panama deck gang for cleanliness of crew Canal Zone. Educational director ounge and passageways. Educa­ reminded members of upgrading tional director encouraged crew to facility available at Lundeberg upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. School. No beefs or disputed OT Treasurer announced $136 in reported by three department movie fund. New movies are cur­ delegates. Next port: Beaumont, rently aboard. Department Texas. delegates reported no beefs or dis­ puted OT. New remote control GUA YAMA (PRMMI), July 10— needed for TV. Crew notified that Chairman Felix Santiago, they are entitled to transportation Secretary Ruhen Padilla, Educa­ after foreign articles are broken, tional Director Tony Mohammed, ^lext port: Jacksonville, Fla. Deck Delegate H. Dermody, En­ gine Delegate James H. Emidy III, Steward Delegate A. Serrano. Chairman reported vessel laying up for approximately six weeks in shipyard in Mobile, Ala. for repairs. Yard period for PRMMI's Humacao will follow. Educational director noted that for jpb secuiij^ and better pay, members should at­ tend courses at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported by all department delegates. Thanks given to steward depart­ ment for job well done. f! GffOTOAf (Sheridan Transporta­ tion), July 5—Chairman Melvin Santos, Secretary MaiYin Deloateh, Educational Director Pedro Santiago, Deck Delegate Clay Brown, Engine Delegate Abraham Daif, Steward Delegate Michael Hanunock. Chairman reported everything running smoothly. Ship to pay off July 7 in Stapleton, N.Y. He urged members to read Seafarers LOG and keep up with union matters. Secretary thanked crew for keeping mess room clean. Educational director advised members to take advantage of educational facilities at Paul Hall Center. Crew extended vote of thanks to steward department for very good cookout on Inde­ pendence Day. RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN (Ocean Shipholding), July 24Chmrman Salvatore Ciciulla, Steward Lovell McElroy, Educa­ tional Director R. Day, Deck Delegate ^Vayne Casey, Engine crewmember flown home from Venezuela with injury to leg. Re­ placement AB came aboard. Secretary stated port stores received and good July 4 celebra­ tion. Crew hopes to receive 60-day stores in port of Houston. No beefs or disputed OT reported in deck, engine or steward departments. Crew reported need for new ice machine and washing machine. Also, crew lounge needs new furni­ ture. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. PATRIOT(Vulcan Carriers), July 21—Chairman Ralph Gibbs, Secretary Howard G. Williams, Educational Director Frederick C. Harris, Deck Delegate Cliff Evans, Engine Delegate Dan Gaylor. All running well, accord­ ing to bosun. Weekly barbecues great for morale. En route to Antofagasta, Chile on July 18, vessel resjionded to fishing boat flying distress flags, 106 miles from port of Puerto Pimentel, Peru. Captain thanked SlU crewmembers aboard for efforts in helping fishermen. Boat given diesel, water; food, cigarettes and battery jump start. No beefs or disputed OT reported by department delegates. Ice machine fixed and working OK. Received new sofa in Galveston, Texas. Crew washing machine fixed and many new movies aboard ship. Steward department thanked for doing great job. Ship heading to Argentina, Brazil and Venezuela, with expected payoff in Veracruz, Mexico. SEA-LAND ANCHORAGE (SeaLand Service), July 21—Chairman Garry D. Walker, Secretary Gerald Shirley, Educational Direc­ tor K. Bertel. Chairman an­ nounced arrival in port of Tacoma, Wash, with payoff scheduled. Educational director reminded crewmembers to register to vote and to get involved and active in local elections. Ship's department delegates reported no beefs or dis­ puted OT. Clarification received from headquarters about draws— 50 percent of net wages allowed. All hands reminded to be cour­ teous to fellow shipmates and return dl items to proper place. Steward department given vote of thanks for job well done. Bosun caught a 100-lb halibut in Kodiak, OMI MISSOURI (OMI), July 24— Alaska, and crew had great fish Chairman Frank Lyle, Secretary feast. Clyde Kreiss, Deck Delegate Neil D. Matthey, Engine Delegate R. , SEA-LAND EXPEDITION (SeaYbarra. Chairman announced jayoff scheduled for Corpus Chris- Land Service), July 10—Chairman ti, Texas. Treasurer announced $50 Norberto Prats, Secretary Edgar in ship's fund. Two hours disputed Vazquez, Educational Director Ruben A. Velez. Chairman OT reported in deck department. reported all running smoothly Vo beefs or disputed OT reported aboard ship. Educational director jy engine or steward delegates. advised crewmembers to attend Ship received copy of new pay upgrading classes at Paul Hall Cen­ rates. Request made to fix chair ter. No beefs or disputed OT egs in mess hall and lounge reported by department delegates. areas. OVERSEAS ALASKA (Maritime Overseas Corp.), July 26—Chairman Daniel W. Sea^e, Secretary Lincoln Finn, Education­ al Director G. Montgomery. Chair­ man estimated time of arrival for docking and payoff in Tacoma, Wash. He noted crew washing machine needs to be fixed or replaced. Educational director an­ nounced new EPA-approved refrigeration technician certifica­ tion courses will be held in San Francisco, Seattle and Honolulu in October. All interested persons should plan to attend. No beefs or disputed OT reported by ship's department delegates. PATRIOT(Vulcan Carriers), July 1—Chairman Ralph Gibbs, Secretary Howard G. Williams, Deck Delegate Thomas^emple, Engine Delegate Mark K. Stewart, Steward Delegate Daniel L. Payne. Chairman reported one SEA-LAND HAWAII (Sea-Land Service), July IS-rChairman Jimmy L. Carter, Deck Delegate James A.Speer, Engine Delegate James Hagner. Educational direc­ tor announced hazardous materials training information and movie provided for all crew by chief mate. Ship awaiting air condition­ ing filters which will be installed upon arrival aboard ship. He urged members to go to Piney Point for upgrading courses. Bosun asked for donations to start movie/enter­ tainment fund. Some disputed OT reported in deck department. No beefs or disputed OT reported in engine or steward departments. New mattress requested by one member and new tbaster needed for crew lounge. SEA-LAND LIBERATOR (SeaLand Service), July 10—Chairman Joel Miller, Secretary R.A. Gar­ cia. Chairman announced payoff scheduled for Long Beach, Calif. New mattresses on order for crew. Secretary getting off in Long Beach. He thanked everyone for help in keeping clean and safe ship. He advised members to look toward Lundeberg School for ship­ board advancement. No beefs or disputed OT reported by depart­ ment delegates. Vote of thanks given to steward department for goodjob. disputed OT reported by depart­ ment delegates. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND SPIRIT(Sea-Land Service), July 24—Chairman Catch of the Day SEA-LAND PACER (Sea-Land Service), July 10—Chairman Michael A. Johnson, Secretary William C. Wroten, Educational Director Stan Popov, Deck Delegate Jeffrey Mateer, Steward Delegate John Bennett. Chairman said routine voyage with only minor problems. He reminded crewmembers to close doors gently to avoid waking men in adjoining rooms. He will arrange for ex­ change of movies in Japan. Depart­ ment delegates reported no beefs or disputed OT. Vote of thanks given to steward department. Ship is heading toward Pusan, South Korea, with payoff scheduled for Yokohama, Japan on July 15. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), July 10—Chairman Kenneth C. McGregor, Secretary Donna Jean demons. Education­ al Director Jim Smitko, Deck Delegate Wilfredo Acevedo, En­ gine Delegate Ted H. Carter, Steward Delegate Susano C. Cortez. Chairman announced steam irons received in port and located in crew laundry room. Captain received repair list and ordered new mattresses. Payoff scheduled for Long Beach, Calif. Men getting off requested to clean rooms. Treasurer announced $55 in crew fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck, engine and steward departments. Vessel celebrated July 4 with barbecue and fireworks. Crew thanked steward department for job well done and for extra effort for cookout. Bosun thanked deck department for outstanding job in #9 and #10 holds. Next port: Oak­ land, Calif. SEA-LAND RELIANCE (SeaLand Service), July 7—Chairman A. Eckert, Secretary G. SIvley, Educational Director A. Jamamillo. Copies of Seafarers LOGs received in Honolulu. Chairman asked all crewmembers to report any necessaiy repairs. He thanked crew for smooth trip. No beefs or Pensioners Continued from page 19 'i- OMU Charles Donley holds the mahi-mahi he caught from the fantail of the USNS Silas Bent. Howard Glhhs, Secretary Aubrey Gething, Educational Director Robert A. Martinez, Deck Delegate Theodore Doi, Steward Delegate Sheng Jen Hsieh. Chair­ man reported new exercise machine purchased for crew. Secretary announced anyone wish­ ing to upgrade at Paul Hall Center should contact the school directly or send in application from LOG. Educational director stressed im­ portance of donating to SPAD. Treasurer Bradford Mack reported $140 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck, engine or steward depart­ ments. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good ser­ vice and tasty meals. Next port: Honolulu, Hawaii. Steamship Co. vessel, the Charles E. Wilson. He currently resides in Michigan. RAILROAD MARINE Hams upgraded his skills at the Lun­ GARLAND E. BROOKS, 66, joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the deberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1951 to 1955. The port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Brooks was last employed with the Missouri native has retired to Florida. marine division of C&O Railroad. He served in the U.S. Army from GREAT LAKES 1946 to 1947. Brother Brooks has JOHNS. retired to his native Virginia. MONACO, 61, joined the CORRECTION SIU in 1961 Some factual errors were in the port of listed in Paul Laborde's Cleveland, retirement announcement in Ohio. He last month's LOG. Brother sailed in the Laborde started his shipping deck depart­ career in 1951 at the age of ment. Brother Monaco served in 16. He became a full book the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1955. member of the SIU in 1959. He calls Ohio home. He sailed in the steward and ALFRED engine departments temporari­ ZAPOLly, bpt primarily wprked in the NEK,71, deck department. Pensioner bqgan saiUng Laborde spent most of his with the shipboard life in the capacity union in 1948 of an AB. He also held a in the port of bosun's endorsement. He last Algonac, sailed aboard the supertanker. Mich. He Ocean Duchess, in July 1993. sailed in the Brother Laborde retired in engine department. Brother ZapolApril 1994. nek last sailed aboard the American • �'•f- . • :S. i;'' •3;:: \ -.. 1994 SEAFMERSLOG 23 Final Departures DEEP SEA LEO F. BROWN Pensioner L^o F. Brown, 81, died February 1. A native of Michigan, he joined the SIU in 1961 in the portofDetroiL Brother Brown began his sailing career in the Great Lakes Division and later sailed in the deep sea SlU-contracted fleet. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Brown retired in July 1977. WESLEY T. CHRISTIANSON Pensioner Wesley T. Christianson, 68, passed away Decem­ ber 5, 1993. Bom in Louisiana, he began sailing with the SIU in 1944 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Christianson started receiv­ ing his pension in January 1988. STANLEY J. CIESLAK Pensioner Stanley J. Cieslak, 72, died July 14. A native of Massachu­ setts, he joined the Seafarers in 1942 in the port of Boston. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Cieslak upgrad^ at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1944 to 1946. Brother Cieslak retired in January 1984. He began receiving his pension in December 1983. WILLIAM F. DOUGLAS Pensioner William F. Douglas, 66, died July 29. Bom in On­ tario, Canada, he joined the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Douglas upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1952. Brother Douglas retired in September 1993. JOHNFEDESOVICH Pensioner John Fedesovich, 66, passed away Decem­ ber 19,1993. A native of New Hampshire, Brother Fedesovich joined the SIU in 1946 in the port of Norfolk. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Fedesovich upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. He began receiving his pension in May 1989. THOMAS FOULKE Thomas Foulke, 28, died August 3. Bom in Pensacola, Fla., he signed on with the SIU in 1987 in Piney Point, Md. after completing the Lun­ deberg School's training course for entry level seamen. Brother Foulke sailed in the deck depart­ ment and retumed to Piney Point for upgrading classes. ROBERT S. COSSIBOIN Pensioner Robert S. Cossiboin, 74, passed away JACK E. GERVAIS April 12. Pensioner Bom in Jack E. GerChicago, he vais, 69, began his sail­ passed away ing career May 28. A na­ with the SIU tive of in 1959 in the port of New York. Chicago, he He sailed in the engine department. began his sail­ Brother Cossiboin upgraded at the ing career Lundeberg School. He served in with the the U.S. Navy from 1940 to 1945. Seafarers in 1943 in the port of Brother Cossiboin began receiving New York, most recently sailing as his pension in October 1982. a bosun. Brother Gervais retired in CLIFFORD DAMMEYER Febmary 1986. Pensioner Clifford Dam- JUAN A.GOGLAS meyer, 66, Pensioner died July 12. Juan A. A native of Goglas, 71, New Jersey, died August he joined the 5. Bom in Seafarers in Puerto Rico, 1957 in the he joined the port of New SIU in 1944 York. He sailed in the deck depart­ in the port of ment. Brother Dammeyer New York. upgraded at Piney Point and Brother Goglas sailed in the engine graduated from the bosun recerdepartment. He upgraded at Piney tification course in 1974. He Point. Brother Goglas began served in the U. S. Air Force from receiving his pension in January 1946 to 1948. Brother Dammeyer 1984. retired in September 1981. ORLANDO H. DICKSON Pensioner Orlando H. Dickson, 79, passed away May 28. Brother Dickson joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1965 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters Dis­ trict (AGLIWD). Brother Dickson upgraded at the Lundeberg School. NRIQUE HERNANDEZ Pensioner Enrique Hernandez, 68, nassed away May 11. A native of ^lerto Rico, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of Baltimore as a member of the steward department Brother Her­ nandez upgraded frequently at the .undeberg School. He retired in >Iovember 1991. ULYSSUS M. HOLLINGSWORTH Pensioner Ulyssus M. Hollingsworth, 83, died August 4, 1993. Bom in Coffeeville, Kan., he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1945, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Hollingsworth resided in Seattle, Wash. He began receiving his pension in December 1975. FREDDIE HORN Freddie Hom, 60, passed away July 21. A native of Jacksonville, Fla., he joined the SIU in 1970 in the port of New York. Brother Hom sailed in the engine department as a QMED. He upgraded frequently at the Lun­ deberg School. Brother Hom served in the U.S; Army from 1954 to 1957. HAROLD M. KARLSEN Pensioner Harold M. Karlsen, 79, died Novem­ ber 24, 1993. Bom in Nor­ way, he began his sail­ ing career with the Seafarers in 1941 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Karlsen retired to Louisiana in April 1979. JAN M. KOLODZIEJ Pensioner Jan M. Kolodziej, 84, passed away July 6. A native of Massachu­ setts, he joined the SIU in 1957 in the port of New York, sailing in the deck department. Brother Kolodziej upgraded at Piney Point. He began receiving his pension in October 1975. JESUS LAXAMANA Jesus Laxamana, 50, died July 21. Bom in the Philip­ pines, he joined the Seafarers in 1981 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Laxamana served in the U. S. Army from 1962 to 1965. THOMAS LUNDY Pensioner Thomas Lundy, 65, passed away July 19. A na­ tive of Missis­ sippi, he joined the SIU in 1955 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He sailed in the en­ gine department. Brother Lundy retired in November 1991. FRANCIS A. MUNRGE Pensioner Francis A. Munroe, 74, passed away July 8. A native of Canada, he joined,the SIU in 1957 in the port of Chicago. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Munroe served in the U.S. Navy from 1940 to 1947. He retired August 1984. JAMES E. MARTIN James E. Mar­ tin, 49, died July 11. Bom in Cleveland Ohio, he joined tlie Seafarers in 1991 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Martin served in the U.S. Navy from 1963 to 1966. FLOYD E. PERKINS Floyd E. Perkins, 67, died March 9. Bom in Mis­ sissippi, he started sailing with the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Perkins served in the U. S. Army from 1944 to 1946. SAMUEL PHILLIPS Pensioner Samuel Phil­ lips, 94, passed away July 3. A na­ tive of the British West Indies, he began his sail­ ing career with the SIU in 1942 in the port of New York. He sailed in the steward department. Brother PhiL lips began receiving his pension in December 1964. SAMUEL E. POWELL Pensioner Samuel E. Powell, 63, died Novem­ ber 12,1993. A native of Columbia, S.C., he graduated from the Andrew Furaseth School in New York and began sailing with the SIU in 1960. He sailed in the en­ gine department. Brother Powell upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1948 to 1949. Brother Powell began receiving his pension in January 1988. SANTOS REYES Pensioner Santos Reyes, 74, passed away July 2. A native of Texas, he started sailing with the SIU in 1947 in the port of Gal­ veston. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Reyes began receiving his pension in September 1984. HANSD.SCHULTE Hans D. Schulte, 52, passed away November 11, 1993. Bom in Germany, the natural­ ized U.S. citizen joined the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of Wilmington. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Schulte served in tlie U.S. Navy from 1962 to 1966. JOHN J. POWERS Pensioner John J. Powers, 86, died July 27. Bom in Boston, Mass., he joined the Seafarers as a charter member in 1938 in the port of Bal­ timore, sailing as a member of the deck department. Brother Powers retired in March 1966. •f • ARTHURSULLA Pensioner Ar­ thur Sulla, 80, died Novem­ ber 24, 1993. A native of Estonia, he began sailing with the SIU in 1943 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Sulla was ac­ tive in union organizing efforts. He began receiving his pension in September 1972. MICHAEL J. TEWES Michael J. Tewes, 38, passed away July 6. Bom in New York City, he signed on with the SIU in 1978 in Piney Point, Md. after completing the Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seamen. He sailed in the deck department, retuming to Piney Point to upgrade his skills. Brother Tewes served in the U.S. Navy from 1973 to 1974. AUGUSTIN VAN SEVEREN Pensioner Augustin Van Severen, 82, died July 31. A nati ve of Honduras, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Brother Van Severen joined the Seafarei-s in 1956 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed in the engine department. He retired in November 1979. •r,,r DOUGLAS VERGES Douglas Verges, 59, passed away July 20. A native of New Orleans, La., he joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Verges served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1951 to 1954. STANLEY D. VIENNA Stanley D. Vienna, 43, died July 22. Bom in Califomia, he joined the Seafarers in 1989 in the port of Honolulu, sailing as a memter of the steward department. -f J.D. WILSON J.D.Wilson, 58, passed away August 2. A native of Alabama, he began his sail­ ing career with the SIU in 1959 in the port of Mobile. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Wilson ^duated from the steward recertification program at the Lun­ deberg School in 1982. •/ ••i 'k:' J ' -r.-. K- INLAND • •A' STEPHEN A. DORAN Stephen A. Doran, 33, died August 3, 1994. A native of New York, he signed on with the SIU in 1979 in Continued on page 25 1-• �24 seprsmevfAM XAFARBRSLOB V A Inquiring Seafarer Question: What do you do in your time off when you are not on a ship? ^ ' I'V'''' •°A tion: Whenever it comes up, I do the political work the union asks me to do. I worked on Bill Clinton's campaign. I've made political signs. If there is a beef on the waterfront, boom, I'm there. SO the only opportunity I have keep in touch with my family Guadalupe Garza, Oiler Main­ tenance Gary FeurUtility — I tado. Able Joseph F. come to the Bodied Billotto, union hall. Seaman — Oiler Main­ I'm used to I go to Hon­ tenance it because duras on Utility —\ I've been vacation. work sailing so My wife around the long. I started in 1960. At the was down house and hall, I see friends, but very few there; now fool around old-timers are around anymore. she is in the United States. I with old By coming into the hall, I also visit relatives while I'm there. I cars. I do some mechanical keep in touch with politics in was bom in Honduras, but now work on old Chevys. I have my area. I'm a U.S. citizen. This makes a several projects around the big difference when I go back house that I work on, including because I am treated with more a swimming pool to take care respect. of. Also, I'm always involved in Jerome union affairs and union meet­ Smith, ings, even in my time off. Deck En­ gine Utility Ralph Moore, Recertified — I like to Bosun — Mauro de mess When I'm la Cerda, around with home, I do Recertified automobiles whatever Bosun — and On my time the union automobile sees fit that off, I try to repairs. Mostly, I work for stay busy I do. Other jeople I know. I work on all around the than that, I ypes of cars doing light repair house. It's just vaca(Asked of SIU members in the port of Houston.) Juaf tife ^amtx One of the features of the December LOG that has been extremely well received over the past three years is the inclusion o holiday greetings. Active and retired Seafarers—as well as their family members—are invited to send their greetings to friends, ship­ mates and loved ones through the pages of the LOG. The procedure is simple. In 25 words or less (and in your neatest PRINTING possible), write the message ih the space provider below. All (legible) greetings tha are written in the holiday spirit unl be included in the December 1994 issue of the Seafarers LOG, if they are received in time. The LOG reserves the right to print one greeting per sender. Others will be run only if space permits. The deadline for receipt of the holiday messages is Monday, November 14, 1994. Send them by mail to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. After November 1, facsimile copies will be accepted. The fax num­ ber is (301) 702-4407. Forms also may be filled out in any union hall and turned in to the offi­ cial at the counter—or may be given to the boarding patroman at a vessel's payoff. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The conditions under which an SIU mem­ employment and as members of the constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, ber works and lives aboard a ship or SIU. TTiese rights are clearly set forth Lakes and Inland Waters District boat Members should know their con- in the SIU constitution and in the (PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE) makes specific provision for 1 tract rights, as well as thdr obligations, contracts which the union has safeguarding the membership's ! such as filing for ovCTturre (OT) on the negotiated with the employers. Con­ money and union finances. The con­ i pn^rer sheets and in dre proper manner. sequently, no member may be dis­ stitution requires a detailed audit by If, at any time, a irrembCT believes that criminated against because of race, To: certified public accountants every year^ an SIU patndman mother union official creed, color, sex, national or which is tobe submitted to the monnber- fails to fHotect flidr contractual ri^ts geographic origin. If any member From: ship by the secretaiy-treasurer. A yearly ptrqreriy, he or she should contact the feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, Message: finance committee of rank-and-file nearest SIU port agent EDITORIAL POLICY — THE the member should notify union members, elected by the member­ ship, each year examines the finances SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers headquarters. of the union and reports fully their LOG traditionally has refrained from SEAFARERS POLITICAL findings and recommendations. publishing any article serving the politi­ ACTIVITY DONATION — Members of this committee may cal purposes of any individual in the SPAD. SPAD is a separate make dissenting reports, specific union, pffico: or nrember. It also has segregated fund. Its proceeds are used recommendations and separate find­ refrained from publishing articles to further its objects and purposes deenred harmful to the union OT its col­ including, but not limited to, further­ ings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds lective manbership. This established ing the political, social and economic of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and policy has been reaffirmed by membCT- interests of maritime workers, the Inland Waters District are ad­ ship action at the S^tember 1960 preservation and furthering of the ministered in accordance with the meetings in all constitutional ports. American merchant marine with im­ provisions of various trust fund The responsibility for Seafarers LOG proved employment opportunities for agreements. All these agreements policy is vested in an editorial board seamen and boatmen and the advan­ specify that the trustees in charge of which consists of the executive board cement of trade union concepts. In these funds shall equally consist of of the union. The executive board connection with such objects, SPAD union and management repre­ may delegate, from among its ranks, supports and contributes to political sentatives and their alternates. All ex­ one individual to carry out this candidates for elective office. All penditures and disbursements of trust responsibility. contributions are voluntary. No con­ PAYMENT OF MONIES. No tribution may be solicited or received funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust nwnies are to be paid to anyone in any because of force, job discrimination, fund financial records are available at official capacity in the SIU unless an financial reprisal, or threat of such the headquarters of the various trust official union receipt is given for same. conduct, or as a condition of member­ funds. Under no circumstarrees should any ship in the union or of employment. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A nrember pay any money for any reason If a contribution is made by reason of member's shipping rights and unless he is given such receipt. In the the above improper conduct, the seniority are protected exclusively by event anyone attempts to require any member should notify the Seafarers contracts between the union and the such payimnt be ma^ without supply­ International Union or SPAD by cer­ employers. Members should get to ing a receipt, or if a member is r^uir^ tified mail within 30 days of the con­ know their shipping rights. Copies of to make a payment and is given an tribution for investigation and these contracts are posted and avail­ official receipt, but feels that he or she appropriate action and refund, if in­ able in all union halls. If members should not have been required to make voluntary. A member should sup­ believe there have been violations of such pajrment, this should immediately port SPAD to protect and further his their shipping or seniority rights as con­ be reported to union headquarters. or her economic, political and so­ CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS cial interests, and American trade tained in tire contracts between the' union and the employers, they should AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of union concepts. notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by the SIU constitution are available in all If at any time a member feels that certified mail, return receipt requested. union halls. All members should obtain any of the above rights have been copies of this constitution so as to violated, or that he or she has been The proper address for this is: familiarize themselves with its con­ denied the constitutional right of ac­ Check the block which describes your status with the SIU: Augustin Tellez, Chairman tents. Any time a nrember feels any cess to union records or information, n Active Seafarer Seafarers Appeals Board • Family Member of Active Seafarer othCT nremberor officer is attempting to the member should immediately 5201 Auth Way deprive him or her of any constitutional notify SIU President Michael Sacco • Retired Seafarer • Family Member of Retired Seafarer Camp Springs, MD 20746 ri^t or obligation by any methods, at headquarters by certified mail, FuU copies of contracts as referred such as dealing with charges, trials etc., to are available to nrembers at all tirrres, as well as all other details, the member return receipt requested. The ad­ either by writing directly to the union or so affected should immediately notify dress is: Send your greeting to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Michael Sacco, President to the Sharers Appeals Board. Springs, MD 20746. The gr^ing should be received at the LOG headquarters. Seafarers Intemational Union CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU office by Monday, November 14,1994. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members 5201 Auth Way contracts are available in all SIU haUs. are guaranteed equal rights in 9/94 Camp Springs, MD 20746. These contracts specify the wages and Pnltbag presage ---/ m li �iri -.,. v^. v.*;.-,--- -<-.ij;^,.y,tr. • SEFTEMBER1994 SEAFARERSLOG Final Departures 1995 SIG Scholarships Continued from page 23 Piney Point, Md. after completing the Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seamen. Boatman Doran last Sailed as a tankerman. When Opportunity Knocks.... Open the Door RAYMOND L. BAXTER Pensioner Raymond L. Baxter, 61, passed away July 8. Bom in Texas, he began his sail­ ing career with the Seafarers in 1973 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He sailed in the engine department. Boatman Baxter started receiving his pension in Febmary 1994. RAYMOND L. GRIFFIN Pensioner Raymond L. Griffin, 73, passed away October 18, 1993. Bom in Alabama, he joined the Seafarers in 1962 in the port of New Orleans, sailing in the engine department. Boatman Grif­ fin was last employed aboard Dixie Carriers vessels. He served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1955. Boatman Griffin retired in August 1985. The cost of a college education continues to rise each year. But for Seafarers and their depend­ ents, help in realizing their educational goals is available in the form of scholarship awards from the Seafarers Sc^iolarship Program. So take ad­ vantage of this opportunity and open the door to the start of a new, more secure future—all it takes is completion of an application form. Ellglbllity As in past years, the union will offer seven scholarships in 1995. Four are set aside for the children and spouses of Seafarers. Each of these four scholarships is for $15,000 to be used at a four-year college or university. The other three are for Seafarers themselves. One of the awards is for $15,000 for use at a four-year institution of higher learning. The remaining two scholarships amount to $6,000 each and may be used for study at a community college or vocational school. Eligibility requirements for Seafarers and their spouses and unmarried dependent children are spelled out in a booklet which contains an application form. It is available by filling out and returning the coupon below to the Seafarers Wel­ fare Plan. exam is required by the college or trade school they plan to attend. (Tests must be taken by February 1995 to ensure the results will be avail­ able for inclusion in the scholarship application package.) Checklist Items that need to be included in the full application and postmarked by the deadline date ofAprill5,I995aTc: • Scholarship application • Autobiographical statement • Photograph • Certified copy of birth certificate • High school transcript and certification of graduation or official copy of high school equivalency scores • College transcript • Letters of reference • SAT or ACT results Remember, it will take time to gather all this information. Plan ahead to make sure everything will be collected in time. Some schools can be slow in handling transcript requests, so applicants should ask for them as soon as possible. Also, now is a good time for the applicant to start Deadlines thinking about who should be asked to write Completed applications with all necessary in­ letters of recommendation. formation included must be mailed and For More Information postmarked on or before April 15,1995. Ask for a 1995 Seafarers Scholarship Program The SAT and ACT exams are given ap­ proximately six times a year on specified dates. booklet at any SIU hall, or fill out the coupon Applicants should be sure to t^e whichever below and return it to the Seafarers Welfare Plan. I niease send me the 1995 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility informa I • tion, procedures for applying and the application form. Name Book Number. Address I City, State, Zip Code Telephone Number, I This application is for; D Self • Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 9/94 25 CHARLES MCCAIN Pensioner Charles Mc­ Cain, 80, died December 3, 1993. Bom in Florida, he joined the SIU in 1958 in the port of Houston. He sailed in the steward department. Boatman McCain began receiving his pension in April 1975. ROBERT C. TEABOUT SR. Pensioner Robert C. Teabout Sr., 71, passed away July 24. A native of North Carolina, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of Norfolk, Va. as a member of the steward department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1950. Boatman Teabout retired in Decem­ ber 1987. RAILROAD MARINE ANDREW CARCICH Pensioner Andrew Carcich, 82, died December 20, 1993. Bom in New York City, he joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of New York. Brother Carcich was employed by the Penn Central Transportation Co. He began receiving his pension in March 1978. FREDERICK C. HANSEN JR. Pensioner Frederick C. Hansen Jr., 80, died August 6. He began sailing with the SIU in the port of FRANK C. TIEDEMAN Philadelphia Pensioner in 1961, work­ Frank C. ing as a captain aboard McAllister Tiedeman, Brothers vessels from 1975 to 75, passed 1980. Boatman Hansen began away June 28. receiving his pension in December A native of 1980. New Jersey, RANDOLPH C. JONES he joined the SIU in 1963 Pensioner Randolph C. Jones, 82, in the port of passed away July 27. A native of Virginia, he joined the Seafarers in New York. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Tiedeman 1957 in the port of Baltimore. He served in the U.S. Army from sailed in the engine department 1941 to 1945. He retired in June Boatman Jones retired in Febmary 1979. 1975. Letters to the Editor 3-Day Coverage In LOG Irings Back Memories Later, I did make the voyage to Russia, without incident. The LOG'S coverage of the 50th Clarence (Bud) Cousins anniversary of D-Day, as well as Na­ BuUer, PA tional Maritime Day, brought to mind an interesting near-miss I exThanks to School }erienced during World War II. For Excellent Training I started sailing in 1944, and at one All of us here on the 1st Lt. Balmint had been assigned to a certain iberty ship, bound for who-knows- dotnero Lopez in the steward depart­ where. As I remember after all these ment would like to thank the Harry years, I had just filed aboard her, Lundeberg School and all depart­ signed on and discovered she was ment heads for the excellent training round for Miumansk when I was told in the culinary field. All of us [aboard the Lopez] at one to report back to the union hall in time or another have b^n to the Mew York. The dispatcher asked me if I would school for upgrading and training, mind taking five days' pay for my and for this reason, we truly have an trouble and filing off, since I had outstanding steward department. acidentally been signed on as one AB The food iand service on the Lopez too many (more than our agreement has been without discrepancies and at that time called for). Apparently, has been applauded by the entire there had been a new, young captain crew. I personally encourage anyone on board, and he had made an honest who has a chance to upgrade to do so. "Be all you can be." mistake. We on the Lopez would like to say Luckily, I agreed to quit the ship at thanks to the Harry Lundeberg tie dispatcher's request, because irom that time on, I never saw one of School and the SIU for all their sup­ iat crew again. (I retired in 1978.) I port. assume she went down with all Anthony M. Ferrara aboard, into the freezing seas on the Chief Steward 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez way to Russia. J,:' . i.'L - • I �26 SEPTEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG -*s V . Lundebeig School Graduating Classes • r\; Radar—Graduating from the radar course on July 28 are (from left), Frank Hedge, Casey Taylor (instructor), Richard Montalvo and Mark Lamara. • '"^-CA. Trainee Lifeboat Class 527—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 527 are (from left, kneeling) Ben Cusic (instructor), Terry Gunderson, William Mathews Jr., Gian Smith, Luis Martinez, David Sharp, Richard Mossman, Scott Abramson, (second row) Nolane Purifoy, Joseph Canell II, Thomas Hawkins, Dennis Stephenson Jr., Scott Brown, Timothy A. Cohen, Brian Hulstrom, Craig S. Reid, Jerome Parrenas and Jason Smith. Diesel Engine—The July 15 graduates of the diesel engine class are (from left, front row) Alex J. Lottig, Oswald Bermeo, Thomas _ J. JO « ^ . . J ^ A X ^.1 1 . Keseru, (second row) Chris Beaton, Mark Striby, Raymona Gayton, Able Bodied Seaman—Certificates of completion were received by the August 11 class of j.c. Wieoman (instructor) and Gregory Eastwood, upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) Michael Moore, James Strickland, Joseph R. Carmine, Clifford Blackmon, David Scott, Tom Gillian (instructor), (second row) Washin^on H. Williams Jr., Richard Gendaszek, David Deloach, Terry Johnson, Tom Graves, Chris Campos, Kevin George, (third row) Matthew Sandy, Nathaniel T. Jennings and Roger L. Jackson. A Reminder of What a Seafarer Needs When Admitted to the Schooi liilSS: .:«sr; When preparing to upgrade at the Seafarers Haii^ Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md., members are reminded to follow a few guidelines which will make their admission easier. Travel plans by upgraders should be final­ ized through their port agent no later than 10 days before the scheduled class starting date. Members should contact their union hall as soon as they receive the scheduling letter from the Lundeberg School. For those members driving to the facility and planning to park their vehicle on school property, upgraders must provide a valid driver's license, proof of insurance and vehicle registration when checking in. All upgraders are required to bring the fol­ lowing items at the time of admission: • Original certificates of discharge show­ ing sufficient seatime for the U.S. Coast Guard endorsement they are seeking; • Six passport size (2 by I V2 inches) photographs; • A valid merchant mariner document (zcard), Lundeberg School identification card and SlUiriembership book; • A completed physical examination form; and • A Seafarers Welfare Plan drug screen­ ing form, valid through the course test date. All galley gang members planning to upgrade must possess a lifeboat endorsement prior to entering the steward department upgrading class. If members have any questions or problems concerning upgrading at the Lundeberg School, they should contact their port agent or the school's admission office at (301) 9940010. Celestial Navigation—Completing the celestial navigation course on August 10 are (from left, front row) Michael McKnight, Victor Rosado, (second row) Charles Varney, Michael Hill, Brad Haines, (third row) Jim Brown (instructor), Stephen Votta and John F. Schmidt. Missing from photo is Raymond Marquis. Lundeberg School Admissions Checklist • • • • • • • Discharge certificates Six passport-size photos Merchant mariner document Lundeberg School ID SlU membership book Physical exam form Drug-free clearance Whep upgrading at the Lundeberg School, a Seafarer should have the above items on his or her person to provide to the admissions office. Bridge Management—Upgrading graduates of the August 10 bridge management class are (from left) Darrell E, Peterson, Casey Taylor (instructor), Raymond Snow, James W. Jones and Frank Hedge. A- �.. SEPTEMBER 1994 SEAFMERSIMI LUMDEBERG SCHOOL 1994 miRAOIHG COURSE SCHEOULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between September and December 1994 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Cbeck-In Date Course Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker "t' Course Completion Date Able Seaman September 9 October 21 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Bridge Management (Sbipbandling) October 21 November 4 Radar Certification September 16 October 14 September 23 October 21 Celestial Navigation September 9 October 21 Limited License, Part 1 September 26 October 7 Limited License, Part 2 October 10 October 21 Limited License, Part 3 October 24 November 4 Safety Specialty Courses Chief Cook, Chief Steward Completion Date Oil Spill Prevention and Containment October 21 October 28 Lifeboatman September 9 October? September 23 October 21 Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting September 16 November 25 September 30 December 9 Sealift Operations & Maintenance September s September 30 RecerUDcatlon Programs Course Cbeck-In Date Completion Date Bosun Recertification October 3 November? (Middle) (First) (Street) (Zip Code) (Stale) (City) Date of Birth. Telephone ( (Month/Day/Year) (Area Code) Deep Sea Member D Refrigerant Handling - EPA (Refrigeration Tech. Certification) FiremanAYatertender and Oiler Pumproom Maint & Operations Hydraulics Marine Electrical Maintenance Welding September 6 September 8 September 12 September 5 October 3 September 12 October 24 October 21 October 14 November 28 November 4 November 18 •mm 1994Adult EducaUon Schedule The following courses are available through the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Please contact the admissions office for enrollment information. Course Check-In Date CED Preparation 12 weeks - open-ended admission Completion Date Adult Basic Education (ABE) 6 weeks - open-ended admission •a.. Developmental Studies Septembers September 9 General EducaUon College Courses September 12 November 4 Session HI NOTICE TO SEAFARERS In order to better meet the future needs of SIU members, theSeafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education will be running a decreased class schedule during the months of November and December. During this time period, the school will be preparing additional classes based on new governmental regulations, upgrading present course materials and repairing and maintain­ ing classroom equipment. Instructors also will be attending advanced courses to enhance their knowledge and skills. The full 1995 class schedule, which will be ready in late fall, will be published in the Seafarers LOG as soon as it is released. Members with any questions may contact the school's admis­ sion office at (301) 994-0010. Firefighting:GYes GNO CPR: GYes GNO With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing suffi­ cient time to qualify yourself forthe 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 Inland Waters Member D Lakes Member Q Completion Date Primary language spoken Name. Address Cbeck-In Date All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. • Yes • No UPGRAOING APPLKAmN (Last) Engine Upgrading Courses English as a Second Language (ESL) 6 weeks - open-ended admission Cbeck-In Date Course Completion Date Contact admissions office for starting dates Contact admissions office for starting dates Course Check-In Date 27 Steward Upgrading Courses The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation's security. Deck UpgnuUng Courses Orfs-^Vr BEGIN DATE COURSE END DATE If the following information is not fdled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security#. Book# Seniority Department U.S. Citizen: DVes • No • 'p ' ' • Home Port. Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held Rating: LAST VESSEL; Date On: Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? •Yes GNO If yes, class # Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? If yes, course(s) taken ' • Yes Date Off: GNO Transportation will be paid in accordance witli 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. ' -' • -'i? ', V-.'-'' '••I L Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. 9/94 .... 'mm . i'*. ' • - i :i\ m-'-- �".)/K \ SEAEUCEMCS Volume 56, Number 9 /• ;'V^> .r'-- • The angle of dive of the free-fall lifeboat Is anywhere between 20 and 50 degrees (above) as it is launched from the Cape Holiday Greetings Via the LOG Where will you be in December for the holidays? Whether at sea or ashore, Seafarers can send holiday messages to their loved ones through the LOG. See page 24. September 1994 "It was quite a ride," said AB may be determined by the cir­ lowered and survivors from a James Souci, describing his cumstance and whether it is an distressed vessel come aboard. In both cases, all crewmembers first abandon ship drill from the emergency. are seated in individual, Cape Washington on a free-fal Two Launching Methods upholstered seats (with their lifeboat. backs to the launching direc­ The free-fall method is the The Cape Washington:, sta­ tion) and must be secured by a tioned in Guam as part of the quickest, one in which the boat U.S. military's prepositioning will become clear of the ship body harness seat-belt—^much fleet of vessels, has one of only immediately by means of a like in a race car—before a two such lifeboats on U.S.-flag hydraulic release. Strong winds launch can occur. Steering of vessels. The other is aboard the and heavy seas will not hamper the craft, once it is in the water, the effectiveness of the launch, is by a wheel at the stem. SlU-crewed Cape Wrath. Capt. T.W. Merrell of and if the craft should roll over, A review of other SlU-conAmsea, which operates the ves­ it will inunediately float to an tracted shipping companies sels for Maritime Ad- upright position. After launch­ revealed no immediate plans to ministratiaon (MarAd), told the ing, the boat's water-cooled convert the lifeboats on their Seafarers LOG that all the tests diesel engine can be started at vessels to the free-fall system. aboard both vessels have gone the surface. Also, Coast Guard ofricials This is the method AB Souci noted there are no plans for well. "We have had no problems so far with the crews adapting to and his fellow crewmembers mandating any such conver­ practiced. For Such training pur­ sions on U.S.-flag ships. these lifeboats," he added. poses, the launching height Specially Designed Boats must not exceed 20 meters and As part of the military's the angle of dive must be be­ prepositioning fleet of vessels, Before being purchased by many of which are managed and MarAd several years ago, both tween 20 and 50 degrees. the Cape Washington and the The other method is the more operated by private shipping Cape Wrath were car carriers raditional lowering. It takes companies and crewed by (formerly named the Hual more time, and steering clear of seafarers, the Cape Washington is Trader and the Hual the ship may be more difricult in kept fiilly operational throughout Transporter), owned by Hoegh leavy seas compared with the the year and is a vital part of the Line in Oslo, Norway. The free- free-fall method. This more military's strategy to get equip­ fall lifeboats were specially conventional method would ment to an area of potential con­ designed for these ships, and jrobably work better in a rescue flict in a very short period of during conversion by the operation in which the boat is time. Maritime Administration for use in the prepositioning fleet, AB Brian Redoute assists in the the lifeboats stayed aboard. recovery of the free-fall lifeboat. A free-fall lifeboat is one in With him are AB Joe Conlin and which the craft, with its full Chief Mate Michael Duiey. complement of persons and equipment on board, is hydraulically released and al­ lowed to fall into the sea without any restraining apparatus. The fully-enclosed, self-contained boats are common aboard European vessels. The U.S. Coast Guard maintains rigorous criteria to approve new concepts in life-saving apparatus and has given its full acceptance to the free-fall lifeboats. Like Souci, who sails from the port of San Francisco and who sent the LOG the photographs appearing on this page, all crewmembers aboard The National Center for when he was 14 years old, he the Cape Washington and Cape Wrath must practice using the Missing and Exploited has not been seen or heard free-fall lifeboats at least once Children has asked the from since and is considered Seafarers International at risk as lost, injured or eveiy six months. The fiberglass survival boats, Union to assist them in locat­ otherwise missing. The photo below has been agein which the hull and super­ ing Michael McCool. enhanced to show how the Last seen in Philadelphia structure are integrated into one unit and finished with an exter­ on June 28,1978 in the com­ 30-year-old man might ap­ nal coating im the color often pany of two adult males pear today. At the time of his disap­ described as 'international pearance, the brown-haired, orange,' are 10.5 meters long blue-eyed boy was 5 feet tall and 3.4 meters high, with a and weighed 1(X) pounds. He capacity of 40 persons—large has a scar near his right eye. enough to hold the entire crew of 31 aboard the Amsea vessels. Anyone having informa­ Each boat is powered by a 30 HP tion on the whereabouts of SAAB diesel engine. Two side Michael McCool should con­ hatches and one top hatch make tact the National Center for AB Justin Savage for easy access into and out Of Missing and Exploited (left) catches his the lifeboat. Children at (800) 843-5678 breath after serving There are two methods of or the Missing Persons Unit as the boat evacuating the boat from its car­ of the Philadelphia (Pa.) coxswain during rier: lowering or free-fall. The Police Department at (215) Michael McCool as he IS the abandon ship choice of launching method believed to look at age 30. drill. 685-1671. Help locate This Missing Person -r ^ •7 • � 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 September 1994 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES ITF CONGRESS HITS RUNAWAYS FAY RE-ELECTED VICE CHAIR OF ITF SEAFAERS’ SECTION U.S. SHIP BILL ON SENATE FALL AGENDA MARTIN MARIETTA TUG CREWS VOTE SEAFARERS BY 37-2 IN SHORT FALL SESSION, CONGRESS FACES HOST OF MARITIME BILLS HOUSE ACTION PROCEEDS ON U.S. CRUISE SHIP BILL KALLERAS RETIRES AS MSC CHIEF; QUAST ASSUMES NAVY COMMAND PATRIOT CREW AIDS STRANDED PERUVIAN FISHERMEN EFFORT UNDERWAY TO UPDATE INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING ACCORD SEAFARERS APPROVE 4-YEAR PACT WITH PENN MARITIME BOATMEN IN PORT ARTHUR KEEP UP-TO-DATE SHERIDAN CREWS RATIFY NEW THREE-YEAR AGREEMENT CRUISE SHIP SEAFARERS UPGRADE SKILLS IN ONBOARD CLASSES EPA-CERTIFIIED SEAFARERS HAVE SHIPPING PRIORITY SEAFARERS SAY PREPARATION IS KEY TO PASSING EPA EXAM SEAFARERS MARCH IN SUPPORT OF NIGERIAN UNIONISTS AFL-CIO MITCHELL BILL; HEALTH CARE REFORM IN JEOPARDY FRESH FISH MAKES PATRIOT HLIDAY AT SEA SPECIAL LIVING MEMORIAL TO WWII MARINERS TRIUMPHANTLY RETURNS FROM NORMANDY O’BRIEN CREW RECOUNTS COMMEMORATIVE VOYAGE AS ‘TRIP OF A LIFETIME’ WWII MERCHANT SHIP EVOKES MEMORIES, RESPECT FROM 3 GENERATIONS OF SEAFARERS 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 09/01/1994 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. 9 1994 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/7545830816e5e0d5bf545cbdc8ece805.pdf 42da9145aba799db88daceb6c78ea95c PDF Text Text Volume 57, Number 9 September 1995 • v Contract Win by Bay Ship Management Results in New Jobs tor Seafarers _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Page3 Union to Crew Two More T-AGOS Vessels USMMI Will Operate 1OOceanographic Ships _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Page3 U.S. Ship Measure Cleared For Action by Full Senate Hause Also Set ta Debate Maritime Revitalization _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Page3 �2 SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 President's Report Workers Lose With NAFTA It didn't take long. Clearly, it appears that the labor movement's predictions that the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFfA) would become more of a raw deal with each passing day were on the mark. . . The losers in this tariff-removing trade deal between the Uruted States, Mexico and Canada are workers and their families. The winners are the rich heads of multinational companies that own Mexican border plants exporting goods to the U.S. under the protection of NAFfA. The AFL-CIO has closely monitored NAFfA's impact since it was enacted in January 1994. Extensive research by the American federation of trade unions spotlights NAFfA's cataclysmic effect on workers and the U.S. economy. Already, the U.S. Department of Labor has received petitions from 70,000 American citizens who are out of work because of NAFTA. And those are just the people who went through the process of a~plying Michael Sacco for retraining benefits. Undoubtedly, many others whose Jobs have been exported to Mexico haven't been counted. As for claims that U.S. exports to Mexico have increased under NAFTA, they are nothing more than statistical fraud. The bottom line is that before NAFfA, America had a big trade surplus with Mexico. Since NAFf A, that surplus has become an $8.58 billion deficit. So I say to NAFTA's supporters, don't insult the rest of us with your smoke and mirrors. You fail to acknowledge that, while NAFTA indeed has created some jobs for Americans, this country is losing a greater number of jobs because of NAFfA. It's a case of taking one step forward and three steps back. Behind the statistics are Americans who suffer because of the corporate greed that narrowly propelled NAFfA into law. As one example, take the more than 4,000 workers who used to be employed at the Zenith Corp. television plant in Springfield, Mo. According to longtime employees at the plant, the company during the 1980s strongly intimated that if workers didn't accept wage cuts and other reductions, the factory would be moved to Mexico. Since Zenith was one of the largest exporters of jobs to Mexico during the past 10 years, the workers in Springfield had every reason to believe the threat. In 1987, those employees agreed to an 8.2 percent wage cut and a five-year contract extension. Four years later, Zenith informed the workers that 75 percent of them would lose their jobs due to a "consolidation" of operations to Mexico. In that same letter, a Zenith executive had the gall to assure the remaining workers, "There is a future for Zenith in Springfield." This past February, Zenith-a prominent member of a pro-NAFfA corporate lobbying group-closed the plant and slithered off to Mexico. It's important to realize that many of the displaced American workers from Zenith and other plants had held their jobs for years, some even decades. It's almost a sure thing that if they do find new jobs, their pay and benefits won't compare to their previous levels. That means severe economic hardship for their families. Mexican workers are suffering, too. With the combination of NAFfA and the meltdown of the peso, official estimates state that as many as 700,000 Mexican people have lost jobs. Literally tens of thousands of Mexican kids known as "street children" are either homeless or are put to work begging by their parents to bring home money. The one area showing any robust economic growth is along the U.S .-Mexico border, where the maquiladora plants-notorious for their poverty-level wages and unsafe working conditions-have become Mexico's top cash generator. Most of the more than 2,100 export-to-the-U.S.-only border assembly plants are owned by Americans but are located on the Mexican side of the border. More plants are opening each week, and employment has swelled to more than 600,000. Despite all evidence that NAFfA is a disaster, its supporters insist that by the year 2000, we will see jobs created. Stick around, they say. Just give it some more time. Sorry, but those of us in the maritime industry know all about unfair foreign competition and its effect on U.S. employment. It only gets worse. We've been experiencing it-and warning of the dangers-since the end of World War Il. Ever since then, the U.S.-flag maritime industry has been fighting runaway-flag shipping. This plague hasn't gone away. In fact, it's gotten stronger. Today it affects not just the United States, but also other maritime nations like Japan, Norway and Germany. In the '70s and '80s, steelworkers and other blue-collar employees felt a similar pinch as they watched their mills shut down because of cheap, exploited foreign labor. And now, NAFfA is causing more U.S. manufacturing plants to close as the devastation of America's industrial base continues. As the SIU joins with our brothers and sisters throughout the American trade union movement in continuing the fight to revitalize this nation's blue-collar work force, remember that labor's opposition to NAFfA was not an opposition of fair trade. Rather, we maintained-then and now-that the only way free trade can be fair trade is if workers to have the right to protect themselves and to organize. The right way to engage in free trade is to allow workers to have the ability to raise their standards. That's why the AFL-CIO helps workers in other countries organize labor unions. And that's a big reason why labor opposed NAFf A. The AFL-CIO didn't want America to be involved in a treaty that fails to include meaningful provisions that would ensure fair treatment of workers. This includes being able to make a fair wage, work in a safe environment and have a voice in the workplace. Unfortunately, NAFTA will serve as a benchmark for future trade agreements. But as Congress and the administration consider expanding NAFfA to include Chile and perhaps the other South America~ countries, f!le American.la~or.movement will do everything in its power to convmce the legislators that 1t 1s time to learn from NAFTA's mistakes. Before the U.S. signs any other trade agreements, the AFL-CIO must be assured that foreign workers will have the ability to fight for fair working conditions that will make their standards higher. When that happens, then the ships and trucks will be full-whether they're entering or leaving the U.S. Senate Names Conferees For Legislation Exporting AK Oil on U.S. Tankers Five members of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee have been appointed to serve on the joint HouseSenate conference committee to iron out differences in legislation passed by the two chambers that would allow exports of Alaskan North Slope crude oil as long as it is carried on U.S.-flag tankers. Named by Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole (R-Kan.) to be members of the conference committee are Senators Frank Murkowski CR-Alaska), Mark Hatfield (R-Ore.) and Pete Domenici (R-N.M.). Appointed by Minority Leader Tom Daschle (D-S.D.)tothecommitteewereJ. Bennett Johnston (D-La.) and Wendell Ford (D-Ky.). Murkowski, who serves as the chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, introduced the Senate version Volume 57, Number 9 of the bill (S. 395). The House is expected to name its members of the conference committee shortly after Congress returns to Washington, D.C. following its Labor Day recess. The conference committee is expected to meet and propose compromise legislation during September. Crafting Compromise Legislation Action by the conference committee is needed to create a compromise bill after the Senate passed S. 395 by a 74-25 margin on May 16, while the House approved a slightly different version (known as H.R. 70) 324-77 on July 24. In theiroverwhelming support for the legislation, both the House and Senate approved language ending the 22-year export ban on foreign sales of Alaskan North September 1995 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published ~1' monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Georges, 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 Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Progress of Legislation For the Export of Alaskan Oil On U.S.·Flag Tankers To Do: Completed: D Gr Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Hearing, March 1 D [}]"' Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Mark-Up, March 15 [M House Resources Committee Hearing, May 9 D Slope crude oil provided it is Senate Approves Bill (S.395), 74-25, May 16 transported aboard U.S.-flag D ~ tankers. [Q' D House Resources Committee Mark-Up, May 17 In testimony given to both the D LlV House Approves Bill (H.R. 70), 324-77, July 24 House and Senate, the SIU announced its support for the expor~ D Bills Sent to Conference Committee to Iron Out tation of the Alaskan oil as long Differences as it is carried on American-flag g House and Senate Consider Revised Legislation D tankers. The union dropped its long-standing opposition to ex~ D President Signs If Measure Passes House and Senate porting the oil last year when language was introduced to use a.__ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ____. U.S.-flag vessels. The SIU noted - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - , the legislation would provide jobs Russian Maritime Workers Visit Algonac Hall for American mariners and keep the U.S.-flag independent tanker fleet sailing into the next century. The differences in the bills passed by the House and Senate deal with matters not related to the transport of the oil. The contrasts include funds for West Coast shipyards and the sale of the Alaska Power Administration. Under the rules of Congress concerning a conference committee, the legislators can accept or remove any of the provisions in the two bills. Once a new bill is crafted, it will be presented to both chambers for a vote. If passed by both the House and the Senate, the bill would go to the A merchant mariner and a dockworker from Russia recently president for his signature. President Clinton has stated he learned firsthand about U.S. maritime hiring halls and American would sign such legislation. The trade unions through a program organized by the AFL-CIO's Free Department of Energy has en- Trade Union Institute (FTUI). Conferring atthe SIU hall in Algonac, dorsed lifting the export ban as Mich. are (from left) Russian maritime workers Alexander Polovnikov and Yuri Kurnakov, Leah Nayman of FTUI and SIU VP Great long as the oil was moved on Lakes Byron Kelley. American-flag tankers. �SEPTEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 3 SIU to Crew 5 Army Support Ships Bay Ship Management Gets Contract to Operate Refitted Containerships Seafarers will begin climbing the gangways of five roll-on/rolloff U.S. Army prepositioning vessels starting next year after the Military Sealift Command (MSC) awarded an operation and maintenance pact for the ships to SIU-contracted Bay Ship Management. The five vessels, former Danish-flag Maersk containerships, are being fitted with cranes and RO/RO decks and converted to U.S. standards in two domestic shipyards. The MSC expects the conversion process to be finished during 1996, at which time Seafarers will board the ships to prepare them for their missions. The contract between the MSC and Bay Ship Management is for three years, with two oneyear options. It will begin when the vessels are in their predeli very stage, anticipated to be January. Prepositioning Fleet Experience Besides crewing 13 similar vessels for the U.S. Marine Corps, Seafarers already are serving aboard the Army's first two prepositioning ships, which are designed to carry enough supplies and materiel to outfit an Anny brigade for 30 days in the event of an immediate call to action. The LTC Calvin P. Titus and SP5 Eric G. Gibson sailed to Saipan last spring after the two former Maersk vessels were brought under U.S. registry and upgraded to American standards. In analysis conducted after the Persian Gulf War, military officials have stated they discovered how valuable the Marine Corps' prepositioning fleet proved to be when U.S. troops were ordered to Saudi Arabia in August 1990 following Iraq's invasion of Kuwait. The SIU-crewed prepositioning vessels stationed at Diego Garcia sped to the Middle East to arm the Marines as they were arriving from the United States. These ships, as well as other U.S.-flag, civilian-crewed vessels, continued to carry the bombs, bullets, tanks, food and other items necessary to sustain U.S. forces during the buildup, fighting and aftermath of the Persian Gulf War. Testifying before the Senate Surface Transportation and Mer- studies conducted by the military chant Marine Subcommittee on following the Persian Gulf War July 26, the head of the military's that cited the need for an enlarged logistics command verified the prepositioning fleet that could need for the prepositioning deliver materiel quickly in the event of a war or national emerRO/RO ships. "Prepositioning of equipment gency. He added that acquisition afloat is key to our flexibility in of prepositioning vessels responding to contingencies in "remains the Department of widely separated theaters," U.S. Defense's highest sealift Air Force General Robert L. priority." The five ships joining the Rutherford? head of the U.S. Transportation Command, told Army prepositioning fleet will be named the USNS Shughart, USNS the senators. Rutherford referred to several Gordon, USNS Yano, USNS Gil...,.........,,,,,"""""'"_..,,.........,,,..,...,_.....,......,......_ liland and USNS Soderman. Like the Titus and Gibson, they are named after Army Medal of Honor .recipients. Sustai'n 24 Knots The vessels range in length from 907 to 954 feet. Each ship will have at least 316,000 square feet of cargo space designed to transport tanks, trucks and other vehicles as well as containers loaded with supplies. They will be able to sail at a sustained speed of24 knots. After Union Company Wins Bid for T-AGOS Vessels USMMI to Run Two Additional Ships i lll ~ The USNS Yano is one of five Maersk Line ships being refitted as roll-0n/roll-off vessels for use in the Anny's afloat prepositioning fleet. The top photograph shows the USNS Yano in its current state as a Danish-flag containership. An artist's conception shows the USNS Yano after it is refitted as a RO/RO prepositioning vessel. The first of the five refitted vessels is expected to be crewed by Seafarers in early 1996. Maritime Revitalization Cleared For Consideration by Senate Painting the deck of the USNS Victorious, one of 1OT-AGOS vessels now operated by SIU-contracted USMMI, are, from left, OS Abe Alvarez, OS August Raquedan and Bosun Jeffrey Yap. By a unanimous voice vote, the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee marked up a bill designed to provide funds for U.S.-flag containerships over the next 10 years. The August 10 bipartisan action clears the way for maritime revitalization legislation to be considered by the full Senate later during this session of Congress. The Maritime Reform and Security Act of 1995 (S. 1139) is similar to a bill waiting consideration by the House of Representatives. Both bills are for 10 years and would provide $1 billion during that time to help fund approximately 50 U.S.-flag containerships. The companies receiving the money would make the vessels and intermodal facilities available to the military in times of war or national emergency. In testimony before both the House and Senate, the SIU has stated its support for such legislation. The House version (H.R. 1350) cleared the House National Security Committee on May 24. In early August, the committee submitted its report on H.R. 1350 to the House. This step was needed so the bill could be placed on the House calendar for debate and vote. Two more oceanographic vessels owned by the U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command (MSC) will be crewed by Seafarers following the agency's awarding of an operation and maintenance contract to U.S. Marine Management Inc. (USMMI). In announcing the decision, the MSC added the USNS Loyal and USNS Effective to the fleet of eight T-AGOS vessels already operated by USMMI. The basic contract is for three years, but the MSC has the option to extend the pact twice, each time for one year, which means the SIU-contracted company could sail the U.S. Navy oceanographic vessels for up to five years. USMMI has been operating various vessels in the T-AGOS fleet since 1989. "Over the years, USMMI has run a good operation," SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez stated. ''Their work, and that of the Seafarers who crew the ships, has been rewarded with the MSC contracting two additional T-AGOS vessels to USMMI." The awarding of the T-AGOS contract to USMMI marks the third major MSC pact won by SIU-contracted companies this year. In May, Bay Ship Management received the award to continue operating the eight fast sealift vessels for up to five years. MSC named Bay Ship Management in August to operate five U.S. Army prepositioning vessels, also for up to five years. (See story above.) The first T-AGOS vessel, the USNS Stalwart, began sailing in 1984. The MSC started using civilian crews aboard the ships a year later, when Seafarers signed on the Stalwart in April 1985. SIU members have crewed that vessel ever since. According to the MSC, the T-AGOS vessels played an important role in the Navy's antisubmarine warfare program during the Cold War with the former Soviet Union. Today, the ships are used for worldwide ocean surveillance under the direction of the Navy's Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command. Provide Sealift Capability Other T-AGOS vessels operated by USMMI include the USNS During the mark-up session Able, USNS Assertive, USNS Bold, USNS Capable, USNS In(which prepares a bill for its next domitable, USNS Prevail and USNS Victorious. Commerce Committee Chairman Larry Pressler (R-S.D.) supported maritime revitalization legislation during the committee session. Senator Trent Lott (A-Miss.) introduced the U.S. ship bill for consideration by the Senate Commerce Committee. level of consideration), Senator The senator who also holds TrentLott(R-~ss.),chairmanof the second highest ranking posi- the committee's Surface tion in the chamber as the Tra~sportation a~d Mer~hant majority whip, stated, "We have Manne Subc~~tt~e, said S. 113? . would e~tabhsh a new man time secunty progralll: to preserve and promote an active, privately owned and U.S.-crewed vessel presence in international commerce. It would provide for a sustainmentofsealiftcapability." Lott noted the importance of sealift by quoting retired General Colin Powell, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm, who called the capability "the fourth arm of defense, someth in g we really do need to preserve." an opportunity after 20 years to, this year or early next year, get a real maritime reform and security piece of legislation." Support of Maritime Labor Lott introduced s. 1139 two weeks after holding a subcomittee_ ~ea~ing o~ maritime ~evitalization. D~ng tha! hearmg, SIU Pr~sident Michael Sac~?· speakmg on behalf .of mant11~1e labor,. told t~e legislators, .we remain convmced the expenditure of such funds to sup- Connnued on page 11 �4 SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 Federal Court Sets Date To Hear Work Tax Appeal ---- cou&T OP AP1'EAL5 IN 11IE UNITED =---- SIU Continues Fight Against Fees for Z-Cards The fight to stop the U.S. Coast Guard from charging merchant mariners a fee for their documen ts and licenses will resume in the federal court systern in November. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia has set November 7 as the date to hear oral arguments in a case originally filed by the SIU, other maritime unions and five individual mariners in 1993. The Coast Guard is challenging U.S. District Court Judge Louis F. Oberdorfer's ruling of November23, 1994 that it cannot collect a $17 fee for background checks conducted by the FBI. The Transportation Department agency will be arguing that point in the November 7 hearing. Wh i le the Coast Guard stopped collecting the fee for the background check as of Decem- being issued z-cards and licenses. However, Judge Oberdorfer also ruled that the Coast Guard wouldhavetorecalculatetheway it charges for these items. He agreed with the SIU' s contention that the method used to determine the fees was flawed. Finally, the judge called on the Coast Guard to stop charging mariners a $17 fee for background checks, conducted by the FBI, when they apply for a documentorlicense.Henotedthebackground checks did not benefit the seamen and boatmen but were for "primarily maritime safety." Based on Judge Oberdorfer' s decision, the SIU and other plaintiffs filed on January 20 their intention to appeal with the U.S . Court of Appeals. ST!!~b OF coLt.'MBIA f0ll 'TRt DIS•.- would save the Coast Guard time and money in its process to recalculate the fees charged for documents and z-cards. (The agency still has not finished its work to create a formula to calculate the fees despite assurances earlier this year that such work would be completed by July.) Feeslmplementedin'93 The federal agency began collecting fees for z-cards and licenses on April 19, 1993 . The charges ranged from $35 for an entry-level merchant mariner's document to $250 for an upperlevel license. Four days earlier, the SIUalong with District 4-National Maritime Union/MEBA, District No. I-Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association, American Seek Overturn Maritime Officers, International The plaintiffs, in a brief sub- Association of Masters, Mates ber 5, 1994, it still refuses to issue mitted on September 1, asked the and Pilots, Sailors' Union of the refunds to mariners who were appeals court to overturn Judge Pacific, Marine Firemen's Union charged such the $17 prior to that Oberdorfer' s decision permitting and five individual marinersdate. The SIU continues to call on the Coast Guard to charge a fee filed a suit in the U.S. District the Coast Guard to issue refunds for z-cards and licenses. They Court for the District of Columbia based on the decision made by the repeated the stand made in the to stop such an effort, claiming it district court judge. lower court "that licensing and was an illegal work tax on Meanwhile, the SIU and the documenting is 'related primarily mariners. otherplaintiffsinthecaseareap- to the safety of merchant The Coast Guard claimed its pealing a decision issued by vessels"' rather than a benefit be- justification for such fees came Judge Oberdorfer that the Coast stowed upon the mariners. from the Omnibus Budget ReconGuard could even charge a fee to In the appeal, the plaintiffs ciliation Act of 1990. That bill, seamen and boatman for mer- also point out that this would be which was designed to reduce the chant mariner's documents (also the firsttime that a federal agency federal deficit, removed a known as z-cards) and licenses. has been allowed to charge a fee longstanding prohibition on The judge determined that such a for issuing an occupational charging fees for z-cards and fee could be collected by the license. licenses. In 1991, the agency anagency because the seamen and The plaintiffs noted that an nounced a proposal to charge boatmen derived a benefit from early decision in their favor fees which the SIU challenged. ---------------------------·---------- l ~ ' The SIU continues to challenge the Coast Guard's ability to charge merchant mariners for their z-cards by proceeding with a lawsuit in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia. ======================== Coast Guard Probes Cruise Ship Safety The U.S. Coast.Guard has The task force also will iden- mvesttgatton ts m response to fo_ur recent pa~senger vessel !llishaps that required the offloadmg of those o~ board. Rear Adrmral James C. Card, the Coast Gu~d' s chief <;>f marine safety, secunty and env1ronmental protection, formed a cruise ship safety review task force that the U.S. Coast Guard. And finally, the task force will make recommendations for improvements as required and work with the industry to implement the adopted recommendations. On June 10, the Royal Majesty ran aground eight miles east of Nantucket Island, Mass. More than 1,500 passengers and crewmembers had to be evacuated from the Panamanian-registered vessel when it grounded in sand some 17 miles west of its normal shipping lane. On June 18, 1,759 passengers and 600 crewmembers were taken off the Celebration, a Carnival Cruises vessel, when a fire in the cruise ship's engineroom control panel knocked out electrical power and the propulsion system. Passengers and crew remained on the disabled vessel for days before another cruise ship arrived to rescue them. On June 23, the Star Princess, a Princess Cruises passenger ship, ran aground on a rock near Juneau, Alaska, forcing the evacuation of 2,226 passengers and crew. On July 22, the Regent Star of Regency Cruises, suffered a engineroom fire while cruising Alaska's Prince Wi1liam Sound. All 1,280 passengers and crew had to be taken off the ship. launch~d a probe •!Ito saf~ty tify possible safety system inconre~ulat10_ns governmg cru1~e sistencies within the cruise ship ~hips ?alh!lg a.t l!.S. ports. This industry and issues of concern to • Matson I 0 Purchase 6 APL Sh1ps :e~~!~~;s~:isthJo~~~i ~tf f;~~ MarAd Ap~nroves 3fior Domestic Trades l:' . . . The U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) last month approved the transfer of three American President Lines (APL) vessels to Matson Navigation Co. Matson also agreed to purchase three other containerships from APL. Both companies have manning contracts with the Seafarers. Their respective boards this month are expected to finalize the transfer agreement for the C-8 containerships President Hoover, President Grant and President TylerandtheclassC-9Presidents Lincoln, Monroe and Washington from APL to Matson. Matson reportedly will pay nearly $170 million under terms of the agreement, which is to include the sale of certain APL assets on the island of Guam, as well as a spacesharing arrangement on some of the ships. Since APL is in the process of breaking out six new foreign-flag ships and has threatened to reflag its entire fleet unless Congress and the administration pass a maritime revitalization bill this year, the transfer probably saved hundreds of U.S. shipboard jobs. Matson intends to operate the Ready for Next Pick-Up I Captains Alva Holmes (left) and Mike Stamm prepare to take their Pilot Services' vessel out to the mouth of Mobile (Ala.) Bay to pick up an outbound pilot . por:ifective immediately, the task force, comprised of Coast Guard vessel inspection, investigation, analysis and standards specialists, will begin inspection reviews of all cruise ships currently operating in U.S. waters and embarking from U.S. ports. Approximately 125 cruise ships will be under review by the federal agency. Under present federal regulations and international agreements, cruise ships operating in U.S. waters are examined four times each year, and the crews are subjected to comprehensive drills. If a vessel or the crew on board does not meet the standards, the ship is prohibited from sailing until it can comply. The Coa')t Guard task force will review the trends within the cruise ship industry to identify possible factors leading up to the four recent incidents. C-8.ships rn the domestic trades December. 1, for a penod not to exceed six months per ves~el. Th~ c<;>mpany needed MarAd s penruss10n to d~ so ~ecaus~ the vessels w~re bu_Ilt with ~e aid ~f construction differenttal subsidy (CDS). Under U.S. law, subsidy-built ships may ternporarilr enter the domestic trad~s only ~1th MarAd approval and 1f the shipowner.repays the CDS on a prorated basis. B.ecause each of th~ C-8s is neanng 25 years of service, Matson soon won't need MarAd's further approval to operate them in the ~omesti~ trades. In accordance with section 506 of the Merchant Marine Act, MarAd determined that the vessels reach 25 years ?n the following dates (after wh1c~ ~o f~her ~overnment penruss1on is reqmred to operate in the domestic trades): President Hoover, July 15, 1996; President Grant, September 19, 1996; and President Tyler, March 2, 1997. Matson reportedly will place two of the C-8 ships into its Pacific Coast Shuttle service. Meanwhile, the C-9s and one C-8 will operate between the West Coast and Asia, including port calls in Hawaii and Guam. As part of the sale agreement, Matson will use most of the cargo space on voyages to the islands, The Coast Guard will be stepping up inspections of foreign-flag cruise while APL will use the majority ships like this one leaving San Francisco Bay, following a series of of space on the return trips. mishaps on other ships that departed from American waters. be~mnmg �SEPTEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 3 More Tanker Safety Courses Coast Guard Finalizing Are Open to Seafarers in_1995 New Tankerman Reg Rule Changes Testing Methods Future tanker operation/safety courses will feature oil spill/hazmat prevention and recovery training (as in photo above). These sessions have been praised by Seafarers as extremely worthwhile. While the Paul Hall Center is finalizing its 1996 course schedule, Seafarers aheady have the opportunity to take the Harry Lundeberg School's tanker operation/safety class before the end of this year. Three more sessions of the four-week course are scheduled for 1995, beginning on October 9, November 6 and November 20. A complete Lundeberg School course schedule and registration information appear on page 23. The tanker operation/safety class also will be included in next year's schedule. Last month, 56 Seafarers completed the tanker operation/safety class. Fifty-two other upgraders currently are enrolled in the course, which blends hands-on training with classroom instruction. The class is mandatory for all Seafarers who sail aboard tankers, as specified in Seafarers Appeals Board (SAB) action number 376, which was published in the April issue of the Seafarers LOG. (An amendment to the SAB appears on page 8 of this issue.) Students often have cited the confined-space entry and rescue segment as well as the oil spill/hazardous materials (hazmat) prevention and recovery training as course highlights. Each of those week- long sections features extensive practical training. Many other topics also are covered, including the study of tanker construction, general tanker safety, and chemical and physical properties of petroleum products. Seafarers also review sections of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90) and examine the flammability traits, toxicity/asphyxiation characteristics and health hazards associated with exposure to petroleum products. Additionally, upgraders practice monitoring tanks for oxygen deficiency and taldng other meter readings with atmospheric monitoring equipment; create shipboard safety plans; perform fit-tests using respirators; and receive an introduction to fire chemistry, firefighting and fire/emergency duties. Other subjects include oil-removal contingency plans, use of federal information guides designed to aid mariners, and rules for protecting the marine environment. Lundeberg School instructors developed the class in response to regulations stemming from OPA '90. It is open to all Seafarers and, as was agreed during negotiations between the union and SIU-contracted tanker companies, includes handson training and classroom instruction. The U.S. Coast Guard early this month is expected to finish reviewing comments regarding a new regulation that affects the training and certification of unlicensed merchant mariners involved in the handling, transfer and transportation of oil and other hazardous liquid cargoes in bulk aboard ships and barges. As part of that final review, Coast Guard officials were meeting with representatives of the SIU when the Seafarers LOG went to press. The main purpose of the meetings was to help finalize the new testing and certification procedures. Published in April as an interim final rule, the new regulation is scheduled to take effect March 31, 1996. It defines qualifications of tankermen and other seamen involved in cargo operations. The rule requires such mariners to obtain from a Coast Guard-approved testing facility one of the following four endorsements: tankerman-person in charge (PIC)(barge), restricted tankerman-PIC (barge), tankerman-assistant or tankerman-engineer. Mariners will have to meet standards established by the Coast Guard (with input from the industry) for amounts of experience, completion of training courses and physical fitness in order to obtain such certification. The Coast Guard Regional Examination Centers have not yet begun issuing the new endorsements. They are expected to start issuing them in the near future. The Seafare rs LOG next month will publish specific information about when the endorsements may be obtained. According to the regulation, the Coast Guard no longer will conduct tankerman exams. Instead, the agency will certify schools (such as the Paul Hall Center's Harry Lunde berg School of Seamanship) and possibly operators to give the tests. In another change from the current system, the new tankerman tests will include practical (hands-on) testing, so that mariners will have to demonstrate their skills in transferring liquid cargoes. 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 liquids course, a 40hour 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 agency also is strongly considering what amounts to a grandfather clause, through which a mariner could obtain one or more of the new endorsements by either submitting discharges proving at least 30 days of deck service on a tanker (with a discharge date within five years of the date of application), or submitting a letter on company letterhead from the owner, operator or master of a vessel attesting that the applicant has served at least 30 days of deck service on tankships within five years of the application date. The new tankerman endorsements will be valid for five years. It is likely that if the grandfather clause is utilized, then a mariner who obtained certification through that clause would be required to successfully complete one of the new courses in order to renew the endorsement. For those who initially secure an endorsement by successfully completing a new course, the procedure for renewal probably will consist of producing evidence of having performed two cargo transfers within a specified period. The rule partly stems from the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90), but also has roots in other legislation (the Port and Tanker Safety Act) dating back approximately 15 years. Its intent is to improve safety in the handling, transfer and transport of hazardous liquid cargoes. Although the rule's full effect on the Paul Hall Center's curriculum will not be known until the Coast Guard finalizes it, the school aheady offers a number of hazardous materials courses and firefighting training which seemingly could be adapted to f\Illy meet the new requirements. In accordance with the regulation, the school also may request that certain classes or parts of classes be counted toward a Seafarer's fulfillment of the new requirements. In the confined-space training portion of the tanker course, Seafarers SIU members who plan to take the four-week tanker operation/safety course will practice proper use of simulate a rescue of a fellow crewmember. protective equipment, including breathing gear. 5 �---------------~-------- · -- - -- - 6 - SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 Lease Extension for Queen Mary Keeps Jobs for SIU Affiliate Union • The SIU-crewed Osprey is one of six ocean-going Allied tugboats covered by the new three-year contract. Allied Seafarers Ratify New Three-Year Pact SIU members who navigate Allied Towing tugs and barges ratified a new three-year contract that includes wage and benefit increases as well as improved working conditions. The new agreement, which began September 1, covers Seafarers who sail aboard the company's six ocean-going tugboats and one coastal tugboat. Representatives for the Norfolk, Va. based company and the SIU held three negotiating sessions at the Norfolk union hall in August. The union's delegates to the talks were able to secure, for the first time, out-patient medical care for the spouses and dependents of the SIU members who sail aboard the Allied Towing vessels. The Seafarers also will receive wage increases throughout the life of the contract. Delegates to the talks included Captain Bobby O'Neill, Captain Dexter Moore, Chief Engineer Richard Naigle, Mate Carl Moore, Deckhand/Cook Bill Hudgins and Deckhand/Cook George Bourcier. They were joined at the negotiating table by SIU Port Agent Mike Paladino. "Negotiations went excellently," Paladino told the Seafare~s LOG. "We got everything that we asked for. All across the board this is an excellent contract. The membership was extremely satisfied and voted accordingly. They got it~·" the port ag~nt added. . . While the company's operations are based m Norfolk, its eqmpment can be found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. The six ocean-going tugs include the Falcon, Sea Ha~k, ~ea Robin, Sea Tern, Socrates and Osprey. The Petrel operates pnmanly between Philadelphia and Hopewell, Va. but can be called to other coastal ports along the Atlantic seaboard if needed. The tugs transport raw sugar, gasoline, oil, Phe!lol (a che~cal used in a variety of items from cough syrup to plastics) and vanous other chemicals and petroleum products. A Meeting of the Cooks A 20-year extension of the lease for the Queen Mary Seaport will keep members of the United Industrial Workers Union (UIW), an affiliate of the Seafarers International Union, working aboard the famous ocean liner and its surrounding complex well into the next century. The UIW represents housekeepers, chefs, waiters and waitresses, hostesses, bartenders, hotel clerks, operators, cashiers, bellhops, doormen and maintenance and groundskeeping personnel at the seaport, which includes the Hotel Queen Mary· The City Council of Long Beach, Calif. last month authorized the lease extension following two hours of debate over the historic ship's future. Thecurrentfive-yearleaseforthe passenger liner-turned-hotel, where hundreds of UIW members are employed, expires in February 1998. "The new lease puts us all at ease?" stated Housekeeper Dee Manneau, who. has been a ~W member for eight years. We know now that 'Ye have steady employment with the queen Mary for the next 20 years. "I am hopeful that now that we have a 20-year lease, we can put the Queen Mary and the surrounding acreage on sound footing," stated Joseph Prevratil, presiden.t of the .non-profit RMS Founda~1on, which operates the seaport m ~ng Beach. PrevratH noted that the long term l~as~ was needed to l.ure potential i~vestors to the cityowned tounst complex and to add much-needed attractions. . The 55 acres surroundmg the seaport will be develop~d by Prevratil. Part of the area is the Spruce Goose Dome, a la~ge ~tructure next to the hotel which is the former home of Howard Hughes' Spruce Goose airplane. The complex would be perfect f~r a special-event center, Prevrattl said. While Prevratil provided few details of his plans for development, he did note that he intends to add new attractions to the ship, bring special events to the dome, build a maritime museum and attract more merchants to the marketplace area of shops next to the ship. At the city council meeting last month, some opposition to the lease extension was raised, I Hundreds of members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers work at the Queen Mary Seaport, which includes the Hotel Queen Mary. but supporters of the Queen Mary spoke out in overwhelming support of the deal. "If ever there were a piece of American heritage that is in our hands, it's right here in Long Beach harbor," Linda Howell, president of the Long Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau said. The new lease contains safeguards giving the city power to approve Prevratil' s subleases and financial partners. After hearing that such provisions were included in the lease,thecitycouncilunanimously approved the 20-year extension. Immediately following the vote, a group of about 200 people, including UIW members Long Beach Chamber of Co~merce members merchants and other supporte~ of the Queen Mary, burst into applause and gave the city council a standing ovation. "The council really listened to us. It is all about jobs, and this is a really good deal. I think that in time the Queen Mary Seaport has the power to double-maybe even triple-the current number of Queen Mary workers," UIW National Director Steve Edney said. Marineau added, ''The meeting was fantastic. The entire council believes in the Queen Mary. We are all very happy." Prevratil' s Queen's Seaport Development Inc. will hold the lease through December 2015. He will pay $300,000 a year or a percentage of gross receipts of the seaport, whichever is the greater amount. The lease also calls for the establishment of a maintenance fund with a beginning balance of $5 million. All of the lease payme!1ts would be deposited into the mamte!lance fun?. . While Prevratil will pay for all regular maintenance, the city will assist in any repairs over $1 million by drawing on the established maintenance fund. "The union has al ways believed in Mr. Prevratil because he has always been true to his word and he has always listened to what the union has to say," Edneypointedout. 'Wesaidthatthe area needs jobs and this deal will help us create more jobs by building up the Queen Mary complex." Queen Mary Seaport features the Hotel Queen Mary (the former ocean liner, now permanently docked) and also ineludes a shoreside gallery of boutiques and restaurants. The Queen Mary reopened in June 1993, following a lengthy, intense struggle during which UIW members joined with other local residents, businessmen and elected officials in protesting the possible sale and overseas relocation of Long Beach's only major touri~t a~ction. . Smee its grand reoperung, the Queen Mary has established itself as a major attraction. In fact, the RMS Foundation released a financial statement earlier this year which verifies the success of the Queen Mary Seaport. It reported that the complex earned a profit of nearly $800,000 during the final three months of 1994. For the year, the operation's revenues reached almost $19 million. . In arguing for the extens10n ~f the Queen Mary's lease, Prevratil pointed out that the Queen Mary produces hundreds of jobs and an $8-10 million yearly payroll. The majority of the employees live in Long B~ach and ~erefo~. boost local .tax revenue, m ~d~tton to spendmg. money on th~ city s goods and services, Prevratil added. Tying Up a Turecamo Tug The wearing of life vests is mandatory on the docks at Mo~re's Landing, Mo., from which location Orgulf tugs and barge~ navigate up and down the Mississippi River. On a recent servicing call by SIU Rep. Becky Sleeper (left), the cooks aboard two of the tied-up tugs meet with her on the pier. They are Terry Godden (center), cook aboard the Olmstead, and Barry Cheeks, cook on the JD Geary. Deckhand Bill McDourgh ties up the tug Carly A. Turecamo at the Hess f?il terminal i~ Delran, N.J., near Philadelphia. The boat is operated by Turecamo Coast/Harbor Towing Corporation. �SEPTEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Refrigeration Technician Course Still Available at Piney Point The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education periodically is offering its two-day refrigeration technician certification course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. The class, which is approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is for SIU members who handle refrigerants. Passing the exam that immediately follows the course will result in a Seafarer obtaining government-mandated certification for handling refrigerants. The deadline for securing such certification was November 14, 1994. During the six months prior to the deadline, and for several months afterward, the Lundeberg School repeatedly conducted the refrigeration technician course at SIU halls throughout the country and at Piney Point. However, if an SIU member who sails as a QMED, electrician, refrigeration engineer, junior engineer or any other rating involved in the repair and servicing of shipboard refrigeration equipment and air conditioning systems has not obtained the certification, he or she should take the class as soon as possible. Bill Eglinton, director of vocational education at the Paul Hall Center, noted that when possible, the center has been conducting the course after regular school hours for students who already are attending upgrading courses at Piney Point and who are required to have the certification. "If an upgrader is here for another course, we will try to accommodate him or her by making the refrigeration certification class available on week nights or weekends," he stated. However, any members who need to take the refrigeration technician course at the Paul Hall Center but are not taking another upgrading class must pay their own expenses. Members who want to take only the refrigeration technician class should contact J.C. Weigman at the school at (301) 994-0010 for the latest information on course dates. In addition, Seafarers who plan to take another upgrading course and who also need the refrigeration technician class are requested to indicate this on their Lundeberg School enrollment application. As part of the refrigeration technician class, Lundeberg School instructor Eric Malzkuhn (left) and QMED Gary Frazier review proper procedures for maintenance work on air conditioning equipment. Nedlloyd Holland Crewmembers Come to Aid of Lone Boatman While many people celebrated the Independence Day holiday with barbecues and fireworks, Seafarers sailing aboard the Nedlloyd Holland did much more. They became heroes. In a letter sent to the Seafarers LOG, Chief Mate M .P. Shoemaker described a quick and efficient rescue by the Nedlloyd Holland crew of a Jone boatman who had been drifting for four days, 300 miles off the coast of Maryland. Shoemaker wrote that AB Larry Garvin was on the bridge of the Sea-Land Service vessel when the Seafarer spotted what he thought to be a sea buoy adrift. Because Garvin was unsure of what was floating in the distance, he notified the captain. The captain decided to turn the ship in the direction of the object and sail closer to investigate. "As we got closer, we saw one man aboard a small boat, frantically waving a red shirt in an attempt to gain our attention," recalled Garvin. AB Jim Rush was painting on the deck when he and other deck department members were notified that a small craft had been spotted on the port side of the ship and they were to prepare for a rescue. "I don't know how Larry spotted it," said Rush. "It was so far away and it took a while for us to recognize the boat as being more than just trash or debris floating in the sea. Larry was really on top of it. I'm not sure if I would have thought it was anything," the AB said. Garvin noted that after VHF contact proved futile, speed was reduced and the ship was manuvered beside the 30-foot craft. Under the direction of Bosun Freddie Goethe, a line was passed to the boat by ABs Rush, Serafin Milla and Wayne Driggers. AB Milla climbed down the pilot ladder onto the boat and assisted the passenger, who had only one arm, uptothedeckoftheNedlloyd Holland. "It was a strange situation," recalled Garvin. "He said his engines got flooded and he had been drifting for days. The place he said that his engines flooded was about 100 miles off the coast of Maryland. That means he drifted for more than 200 miles. "When we found him, he didn't have anything. No life jackets, no survival devices. It was a disgrace. Even his radio was without batteries. It was pure luck that we saw him and were able to help," said the Garvin. According to Rush, after the man had been brought safely aboard the Nedlloyd Holland, the chief mate and Milla were sent down into the craft to salvage what was left of the boater's belongings. They found only assorted fishing equipment and a few articles of clothing. Once all crewmembers were back on deck, the U.S. Coast Guard was contacted, and the bosun was told to cut the lines to the boat. The rescued boatman was given dry clothes by Rush and Driggers, and the galley gang prepared a special meal. "It was a really fast rescue. Everything went perfectly," recalled Garvin. "Everyone did a great job and worked hard together to bring him to safety. From the captain and the chief mate to the bosun and the rest of the crew ... we all pulled together and did an exceptional job," said Garvin. Rush echoed Garvin's statement concerning the speed and efficiency of the crew, and they both complimented each other's role in the rescue. While Garvin called Rush "the real hero," Rush noted that it was Garvin who first spotted the distressed boat and brought it to the attention of the captain and crew. "I'm just an ordinary seaman," said Rush. "But the captain and entire crew of the Nedlloyd Holland are the best, and it takes a situation such as this to prove what I have known all along." The rescued boatman remained on board the Nedlloyd Holland until the vessel arrived at the port of Rotterdam. He thanked the crew and boarded a plane for home, 10 days after the rescue. Seafarers who work for Crowley in Puerto Rico prepare for a rally protesting the newly enacted labor measure. From the left are Louis Ferrer, Pablo Navarro and Pascasio Rivera. Seafarers Join Protests Against Puerto Rican Labor Law Reversals Seafarers have joined with thousands of other Puerto Rican trade unionists to protest a measure passed by the island's assembly and signed by the governor that turns back 50 years of worker advancements. Dubbed the '1abor reform law'' by the elected officials, the legislation changes the way Puerto Rican workers are paid and modifies their working conditions. Protests, rallies and information campaigns have been held weekly by the Puerto Rico AFL-CIO since Governor Pedro Rossello signed the bill on June 30. The legislation reverses more than a half-century of rights fought for and won by Puerto Rican trade unionists. The new measure will cut overtime, reduce rest periods between shifts and eliminate cash payments on payday among other things. 'The SIU has really become involved in this fight," said Santurce Port Agent Steve Ruiz. ''While the law will not directly affect our deep sea union members, it will certainly affect many of our union brothers and sisters in Puerto Rico. We must stick together for the rights of the workers," the port agent stated. According to Marilu Sanchez, a representative for the SIU of Puerto Rico, Caribe and Latin America (a shore-based union affilitated with the SIUNA), the concentrated protests staged by Puerto Rican workers have caused the Rossello administration to take notice and re-think their policy toward labor laws. The governor has said he will give the new measure six months to work. If the people still are opposed to it, Sanchez said the governor may be willing to reconsider the legislation. Sanchez, whose union would be affected, added that the law is part of Governor Rossello's plan to make Puerto Rico a more competitive marketplace. "The workers are very unhappy," noted Sanchez. "After 50 years of fair labor laws, this government wants to change everything." Labor officials have referred to the Rossello administration as being anti-labor and anti-worker, according to The San Juan Star. The officials also have said they are considering other actions to call attention to the plight of workers in Puerto Rico. In late June, more than 1,000 delegates representing more than 50 Puerto Relaxing in the crew lounge following the rescue of a boatman 300 miles off the coast of Maryland Rican-based unions unanimously approved a general work stoppage to protest the "labor reform" legislation. are (from left) Bosun Freddie Goethe, AB Jim Rush, AB Serafin Milla and AB Wayne Driggers. 7 �8 SEPTEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG NAnA Nightmare Comes True in America ~~!~~l:~~I~::~;;:~~ The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFfA) and Mexico's economic crisis already have combined to cost tens of thousands of U.S. jobs and devastate America's former trade surplus with Mexico while enriching the owners of Mexicanbased border plants that assemble goods for export to the U.S. Those are some of the conclusions recently put forth in a report by the AFL-CIO Task Force on Trade. The analysis is based on official U.S. government data. NAFfA is the tariff-removing trade deal among the U.S., Mexico and Canada. It was enacted in January 1994, over the vehement objections of American trade unions (including the SIU) and many other groups. The report reveals that since NAFfA's enactment, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has received petitions involving more than 70,000 dislocated American workers who believed NAFfA caused their unemployment. The DOL already has certified more than 35,000 citizens as experiencing NAFTA-related unemployment, and other certifications are expected to follow. Moreover, an AFL-CIO economist described the 70,000 figure as "the tip of the iceberg, because not everyone who loses a job because of NAFTA goes through the trouble of applying" for retraining benefits. Another point concerns America's pre-NAFTA trade surplus with Mexico. Since NAFTA's enactment, that surplus has become an $8.58 billion deficit, according to the report. (Meanwhile, Mexico continues to receive funding from a $20 billion emergency U.S. credit line.) However, at least one group has benefitted from NAFfA, the AFL-CIO study notes: the owners of the more than 2,100 exportonly border assembly plants known as maquiladoras. Those plants are characterized by extremely low wages and unsafe working conditions. Most are owned by Americans. And they have become Mexico's top cash generator-an average of three new maquiladora plants is opening every week. Last year, maquiladora employment grew by 6.2 percent to more than 600,000 employees, according to the report. Economic Crisis The huge devaluation of the peso late last year and early in 1995 spotlig~ts ~ne of NAFTA:s many defic1enc1~s .. The peso s plunge also ~ultiplie~ .many of the trade deal s provlSlons that are ~ost harmful to U.S. workers. Nme months before NAFTA becan:ie law, .AFL-CIO representatives testified before Congres~ that "the recent histo~ of Mex1can ~xchange r~te policy, together with economI~ pressure, suggests that devaluation (of the peso) is inevitable." Despite .such warnings, NAFTA spec1fically.e~cludes exchange rate po1Ic1~~ from cover~ge. If s~ch policies had been mcluded m NAFTA, then the U.~. would ~a~e had more ~f a say m e~tabhshing the peso s value relative to the dollar, because America "would have been in a position to dampen the volatility of the currency markets," observed Mark Anderson, director of the AFL-CIO's Task Force on Trade. Instead, as the AFL-CIO analysis notes, ''The peso became grossly overvalued in large part because it was effectively pegged against the dollar even as Mexican rates of inflation were much higher than rates of inflation in the U.S. Thus, while the real value of the peso declined relative to the dollar, Mexican governmentpolicy did not allow this to be reflected in the official exchange rate. The overvalued peso contributed to a surge in imports to Mexico by making them artificially inexpensive, and contributed to an accountdeficitforMexicoinexcess of $29 billion in 1994." The man behind _the eff~rt ~o prop up the peso is Mexico s fo~er p~es.iden~ Carlos Salinas. His admm~st_ration spent 1?-1o~e than. $21 b~llion from ~eXJco s fore1gn capital reserves 1_I1 order to ~ur ~esos to ~eep therr valu~ art1f1cially high. As Rudi Dornb~sch, a professor of eco~omics at the Massachu~etts Institute of Techn.ology who is an expert on ti;~de .issues, told the A~-c;m. Sahnas I>«?r.severed with .his strategy of politics first, re ah ty later, and the peso remai~;d disastrously overvalued. L~s~ Decem.b~r, . w~en Mexico s new adm.imstration 1mplemented a long-overdue devaluation of the peso, it touched off a free fall. By midJanuary,thevalueofthepesohad fallen nearly 50 percent. American exports to Mexico and thus eliminating thousands of jobs in U.S. export industries, states the AFL-CIO report. The devalued peso increased the price of U.S.-made products beyond what millions of Mexican consumers can afford. Meanwhile, since goods made in Mexico became cheaper in dollars, imports from Mexico significantly increased. As a result, America's pre-NAFfA surplus has become a huge deficit. This year, from January to June, U.S. exports to Mexico dropped by 12 percent compared to that period in 1994. By contrast, Mexican exports to the U.S. skyrocketed 29 percent. The pattern is expected to continue. "For U.S. workers, especially in manufacturing industries, devaluation can only mean the loss of more jobs" points out the report by the fed~ration of U.S.based trade unions. "At the new exchange rate, the Mexican real hourly compensation for production workers in manufacturing would be only about one-twelfth of that of the United States." The report further notes that for the U.S. worker whose job moves to Mexico, "it is unlikely More Lost Jobs that he or she will find employAs a result, the price of U.S.- ment opportunities that pay made products bought with pe~os wages and be~efits anJwhere has increased, thereby reducmg near the level paid by the JOb lost. Efforts Under Way to Stop Bill Reducing Runaway-Flag Liability Runaway-flag companies are seeking to undo one of the few protections crewmembers and passengers have who sail on foreign-flag vessels: the ability to take advantage of the United States legal system to redress grievances. SAB Issues Seniority Clarification For Graduates of Tanker Ops Class The Seafarers Appeals Board (SAB) has issued a clarification regarding seniority status to action number 376 which was printed in the April 1995 edition of the Seafarers LOG. Action number 376 calls for shipping priority to be given to members who have successfully completed the tanker operation/safety course given at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. However, the action did not specifically note that priority would be given only within each class of seniority. The amendment to action number376, which was signed on July 11, specifies that as of January 1, 1996, priority for jobs aboard tankers and tank vessels will be given within each class of seniority to those members who show proof of graduating from the tanker operation/safety course. The SAB, which is composed of representatives from the union and its contracted companies, also implemented two new additional actions. Action number 379 modifies the trip reliefs, permanent ratings provision of the shipping rules. The new action allows a member with a permanent rating to retain his or her job if the mariner is taking a training class to comply with federal law or regulations that runs longer than the normal timeoffthevessel. Finallr, action number 380 ineludes time away from work while being treated on an outpatient basis to reduce the amount of days needed during a calendar year to keep seniority status. Until the action was taken, only inpatient care was listed within the shipping rules. The three proceedings undertaken by the SAB are reprinted in their complete text. hardship and a. re.ductlon m ~e sta~~ar~ of hvmg for theu fanuhes. Such is the case in Springfield, Mo., where Zenith Corp. earlier this year shut down a television plant that once employed more than 4,000 citizens. Zenith, which lobbied in support of NAFfA, sent most of those jobs to Mexico. U.S. workers in non-manufacturing fields are affected, too. For instance, in Laredo, Texas, daily truck crossings to Mexico carrying American exports have plummeted almost 25 percent. Not coincidentally, the unemployment rate in Laredo has reached a 16year high of 14 percent. Press reports state that this example is emblematic of what is happening all along the American side of the border. The AFL-CIO has asserted that the pending negotiations to possibly expand NAFfA to inelude Chile provide an opportunity to redress some of the defects in the current agreement. In particular, the federation insis ts that policies on worker rights,laborstandardsandcapital markets must be improved. At the same time, the AFLCIO will continue both monitoring the effects of NAFTA and making the~ ~ow!l to Congress and the adlTilmstration. all departments, priority for jobs aboard tanker and tank vessels covered by these rules shall be giventothoseseamenpossessing a cer:tificate of satisfactory completwn of the Tanker Safety Course offered by the Seafarers Harry Lu_nd~berg School of Sea_~ns~zp, . zn the eve!!t such traznmg is being offered. Action #379 A provision slipped into the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act (H.R.1361) shortly before the bill was passed overwhelmingly by the House of Representatives in May would prevent foreign mariners access to U.S. courts, blocking their ability to enforce time-honored rights to wages and necessary medical treatment for injuries. The language also reduced the liability of runawayflag passenger ships' owners sailing out of U.S. ports with regard to injuries and injustices to passengers traveling on the vessels. The main purpose of H.R. 1361 was to provide funds for the activitiesoftheU.S.CoastGuard. Many members of the House wereunawareofthecontroversial language added to the bill, so H.R. 1361 passed without debate or discussion. The Senate now is considering its own funding bill (S. 1004) for the Coast Guard. As the Seafarers LOG went to press, the language reducing the liability of runawayflag ship owners had not been ineluded in the Senate measure. 13. Trip Reliefs. Permanent Ratings (a), add the following to paragraph 7. By mutual agreement, the Union and the Employer may Amendment Action #376 modify the seaman's tour of duty If the Senate agrees with the Whereas the Seafarers Ap- when assigned to a training pro- House language, foreign peals Board promulgated a gram that conflicts with the marinersworkingaboardforeignchange in the Shipping Rules as a vessel's operational schedule. registered ships that dock in U.S. h d ports would no longer be able to if result o Agreements reac e at Action #3SO file a suit in a U.S. court for comthe 1993 negotiations with the pensation caused by work-related AMA Standard Tanker negotiaTo be consistent with the intent tions, and and purpose ofShipping Rule 1 F. injuries or to seek back wages. Whereas, the Board promul- concerning employment credit The provision (known as section fi · ds he · Ni 430) of the House bill would d gates rules that are intende to or peno w n a seaman zs ot reverse maritime law that has enhance and protect the job FitForDuty; thesecondsentence security oifthe membership, and should be amended to read as fol- been upheld by U.S. courts since this nation was founded and Whereas, after farther review lows. the Board has decided to amend "Forexample,four(4)months repudiate decisions in foreign the Shipping Rules as follows. in- or out-patient time during a lands going as far back as the Article IX, Shipping Rules, 5 given calendar year reduces the creation of English common law. Preferences and Priorities, will ninety (90) day employment reThis point was made by be amended by adding a new 13, quirement for that year by one- Maritime Trades Department which shall read as follows. third to sixty (60) days." (MTD) President Michael Sacco "Effective January 1, 1996; in a letter urging the Senate to not within each class of seniority in July 11, 1995 adopt Section 430 in its bill to Senator Larry Pressler (R-S .D. ), chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee. (The MID is composed of 40 unions and 28 port councils representing 8 million workers.) Sacco, who also is president of the SIU, noted that section 430 reverses two centuries of maritime law which has recognized the right of all seafarers to pursue claims for wages and necessary medical treatment in U.S. courts. "Time and time again, the U.S. Supreme Court has zealously guarded this minimum level of protection for seafarers at sea or in foreign ports. Without continued access to_U.S. courts, foreign seafarers Will have few, if any, alternative means of protecting their basic rights," Sacco continued. Sacco added, "Section 430 will exacerbate the disadvantages that American-flag operators face when they compete against convenience flag carriers employing cheap, foreign labor." Father Sinclair Oubre, a member of the SIU and president of the North American Maritime Ministry Association, an association of 175 agencies serving seafarers in North America, also wrote expressing his concern with the section to Sen. Pressler. In urging the chairman to exclude section 430 from the final bill, Oubre noted, "Since maritime law was first recorded, seafarers have been assured that if they fell ill or were injured while in the service of the ship, it would be the duty of the ship to provide the best care possible as well as salary during their recuperation, up to a specified length of time; and this protection has been enforced by the courts of the port states into which the vessel sails." �SEAFARERS LOG SEl'TEMBER 1995 9 Leaming Is the Key, Graduating Stewards Tell Fellow Seafarers Six members of the steward department advised their fellow Seafarers to learn everything they can about their jobs in order to be prepared for the future. The galley gang members, who were taking part in the August membership meeting at Piney Point, Md., had just completed five weeks of steward recertification training at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The steward recertification course is the final rung in the SIU steward department educational ladder. Speaking to the other Seafarers gathered in the school's auditorium, Oswald Stoiber, the oldest member of the class at 54, from the port of San Francisco, told the audience, ''It is never too late to learn something new. You have to keep an open mind and bend with the wind, or you will break." Following up on Stoiber' scornments was Matthew Scott who sails from the port of Houston. After noting that some representatives of the government and maritime industry are scrutinizing everything done by mariners, Scott stated Seafarers need to maintian their reputation as the best. "Don'tjustdo a good job," the steward stressed to those Seafarers in the audience, "Do the best job you can to ensure a job for tomorrow!" Adding to the importance of Seafarers knowing how to perform their jobs aboard ship was Francis DiCarlo Jr. "If we don't do the best job we can out there, they won't want us," the steward from Brooklyn said. I Showing off their entries in a chili cook-off are recertified steward class members (from the left) Instructor Ed White, Matthew Scott, Vainuu Sili, Ozzie Stoiber, James Harper, Instructor Allan Sherwin, Dorothy In order to do the best possible Carter and Francis Dicarlo Jr. Learn New Recipes jobs while at sea, the six stewards added new recipes and cooking techniques to their repertoire through classroom and hands-on training while at the school. Among the ideas passed along by instructors Allan Sherwin, Ed White and others were ways to prepare healthy menus for crew- members as well as utilizing base sauces and soups to create variety in meals. The six Seafarers also received special classes on the handling and preparation of seafood, poultry, meats and produce. To assist them when ordering stores, the stewards received training in the school's computer center. With many SIU-contracted companies tracking their stores through computer programs, stewards now are able to place orders through the machines rather than writing them out by hand. While specialists in galley procedures and cooking, the stewards recognize their responsibilities as members of a crew. To this end, the six galley gang members took refresher courses in CPR, first aid and firefighting. They also received instruction in communication skills. The six conducted questionand-answer sessions with repres en ta ti v es of the union• s contracts, communications, government affairs and welfare, training, vacation and pension fund departments. These meetings provided the Seafarers with the latest information from each department that they could take back to crewmembers aboard ships. 'Do Your Best' After thanking the union for the opportunities it bas provided him since he finished the trainee program at the school in 1982, James Harper, who sails from Wilmington, Calif., informed the assembled Seafarers, "I encourage every member to press on and do your best.•• The other stewards also stated their appreciation to the school and the union for making upgrading courses available. ''This has been the biggest step of my life,,, Vainuu Sili of Honolulu told the audience. "I hope and pray it will continue forever." Sili, who began his seafaring career in 1969 as a graduate of the old Marine Cooks and Stewards training school in Santa Rosa, Calif., noted, "We must support our union. Your support will help us keep our jobs." Dorothy Carter took the time to thank all of the instructors involved in the course. "This has been fantastic," recalled the steward from Jacksonville, Fla. "I have been able to learn so much and can't wait to get back to work.,, Like Father, Like Son Recertified Steward DiCarlo Follows in Father's Footsteps James Harper (right) practices his CPR technique as classmate Matthew Scott takes notes. When he walked across the stage last month at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship to receive his certificate as a recertified steward, Francis Dicarlo Jr. is believed to have been the first steward department Seafarer to follow in the steps of his father. Fifteen years earlier, Francis DiCarlo Sr. graduated as a recertified steward. That same year, 1980, DiCarlo Jr. was finishing his work in the trainee program at the school. Before his fellow Seafarers, DiCarlo Jr. stated how proud he was to be the second generation in his family to reach the highest level of training offered to galley gang members by the SIU. "I want to thank my father, who really got me started," said the 34-year-old steward from Brooklyn. "I was born SIU and will probab1y die SIU." He remembered that on his third ship, the Sea-Land Long Beach, he was able to sail with his father. "I didn't get any special privileges. He didn't cut me any extra slack, but I en- joyed it," DiCarlo said of his father. The younger DiCarlo said he will work hard to uphold the family name within the union. Francis Dicarlo Jr. thanks his father, Francis DiCarlo Sr., for helping him get started in the SIU. The father and son (inset) sailed together in 1981 aboard the Sea-Land Long Beach. �10 SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 Fishing Is a Favorite Off-Time Hobby in Diego Garcia I RIGHT: The American Merlin is part of the U.S. Military Sealift Command's prepositioning fleet. Dozens of privately owned fishing boats, which carry up to five passengers apiece, may be rented in Diego Garcia by American Merlin crewmembers in their time off. When sailing in Diego Garcia, Recertified Bosun Tony Trikoglou (left and above) spends some of his off-time fishing for red snapper and other catches. During a recent trip in Diego ' Garcia aboard the prepositioning ship American Merlin, Recertified Bosun Tony Trikoglou found some time to engage in one of his favorite hobbies. A number of his shipmates joined him in the fishy (but not peculiar) activity. "We don't have much spare time, working seven days a week," noted the 33-year member of the SIU. "But when we do get a few hours off, a lot of us like to grab a fishing rod and play." Trikoglou and other crewmembers from the U.S. Military Sealift Command's (MSC) fleet of prepositioning ships based in Diego Garcia occasionally rent one or more of the dozens of privately owned fishing boats at the small island in the British Indian Ocean Territories. ''There are two sizes of boats. The bigger ones can take five people. They provide the rods, you provide the lures," noted Trikoglou, who graduated from the Paul Hall Center's bosun recertification program in 1985. Last spring, Trikoglou and other unlicensed mariners as well as officers from the American Merlin (which is operated by Osprey Acomarit) enjoyed a number of bountiful catches. Trikoglou's hauls included a 32pound barracuda and an 11pound red snapper. He and others also caught wahoos and jacks. Most of the catches were cleaned and cooked by members of the ship's steward department, and consumed by all who wished to partake. "I've fished all my life," said Trikoglou, 62, who joined the SIU in Baltimore and who provided the photos accompanying this article. "It's something I truly enjoy." But the bosun emphasized that he and his fellow Seafarers who sail aboard the ship anchored in Diego Garcia spend the vast majority of their time working, even as the temperatures there routinely exceed 100 degrees. "We have (military) exercises every two weeks and practiceconvoys once a month. We do maintenance, repairs and other upkeep. Butnomatterwhatwe're doing, safety is our top priority." Trikoglou added that all crewmembers realize the importance of manning the prepositioning vessels, which must be ready to sail, fully loaded, at a moment's notice. The military' s prepositioning fleet is comprised of privately owned Americanflag ships under charter to MSC. Many of the ships are loaded with cargo for the U.S. Marine Corps. During a recent visit to SIU headquarters, Trikoglou stated that he would like to continue sailing for "at least another year or two," even though he already has accumulated enough seatime to retire with a full pension. "I'm still healthy," he said. ''What shall I do if I retire, sit and watch TV all dayT' Chief Cook Jeff Sanchez displays 70 lbs. worth of catch after a recent fishing trip. Bosun Tony Trikoglou lifts a 32-pound barracuda that he caught in May. Oiler Fred Gibson hoists a 40-pound wahoo. AB Tim Duggan tests his grip as he lifts a 30pound barracuda. ABOVE: Grilling the day's catch and other food is Chief Steward Wayne Wilson. RIGHT: Chief Cook Steve Dickson keeps an eye on dinner. Heading for the galley with a snack is Chief Steward Charlie Roldan. Crewmembers American Merlin enjoy the fruits of their fishing labors during a cookout on deck. , AB Jim Keevan makes his contribution to the crew's fishy activity. Pleased with catching a 15-pound red snapper is OMU Pete Rice. �SEPTEMBER 1995 Ii Maritime Briefs SEAFARERS LOG 11 Sacco and Fay Meet With Seattle Membership 11 USCG Designates Lightering Zone In Gulf for Single-Hull Tankers The U.S. Coast Guard recently ruled that single-hull tankers formerly banned from U.S. waters are now allowed to transfer their cargoes to smaller ships in a designated zone near Houston, Texas refineries. Single-hull tankers would be allowed to lighter their cargoes in the South Sabine Point, a zone located 60 miles off U.S. shores. The Coast Guard also designated three other lightering zones in the Gulf of Mexico. In the recent ruling, the Coast Guard stated that single-hull tankers will be allowed to transfer their cargos in the South Sabine Point onto smaller, double-hull vessels that will take the imported oil into U.S. waters until 2015. Under the Oil Pollution Act of 1990, single-hull tankers are being phased out gradually from use in U.S. waters. The other three zones are called Gulfmex, Offshore Pascagoula and Southtex. Gulfmex is located south of Louisiana, Offshore Pascagoula is south of the Alabama and Florida coasts, and Southtex is off the southern coast of Texas. Zebra Mussels Threaten California Agriculture Zebra mussels have invaded California waters and could spread to the state's vast agricultural irrigation system, according to a recent Washington Post report. During the past nine months, state border checkpoint inspectors have found two instances where live zebra mussels have been attached to the water intakes of yachts being transported from the Great Lakes to California. The speed at which the mussels breed may create a big danger to the Golden State's irrigation systems by getting into water lines and clogging them. Scientists report that zebra mussels would do very well in the warm waters of California. The tiny, hard-shelled organisms first arrived in the United States via the Great Lakes from Europe's Caspian Sea in 1986 in the ballast of a European tanker. Within a few years they had infiltrated all the Lakes. While the zebra mussel problem persists in shipping circles, it has spread to the waters across the country. They have caused numerous difficulties, including disrupting navigation by causing marker buoys to sink, ruining fishing nets and grounds, fouling beaches with sharp shells, and blocking water intake systems of many municipalities, utilities and factories. The mussels impede ships by causing increased drag, thereby lowering fuel efficiency. In addition, they harm native mussels and fish by consuming large amounts of algae. Agricultural inspectors at the California border have found live or dead zebra mussels attached to a half-dozen boats arriving by truck from the Midwest since 1993. Unsafe Ships Detained In British Ports SIU President Michael Sacco and Secretary-Treasurer John Fay met with Seafarers in the Seattle hall during the July membership meeting. Gathered for a picture following the meeting are (from left) Fay, AB Joe Frometa, Patrolman Joe Mieluchowksi, DEU Katherine Rivera, AB Allan McCoy, Sacco, AB Tillman Churchman, VP West Coast George McCartney and Asst. VP Bob Hall. Blessings for a Bountiful Year .'' ; Warm weather brought thousands of spectators to the New Bedford, Mass. waterfront and dozens of boats into the harbor for the 26th annual ritual which pays tribute to those fishermen who have died during the past year and asks for protection, good luck and safe and bountiful seas for the year ahead. The highlight of this year's annual blessing of the fleet in New Bedford was the awarding of prizes for the best boat decorations. Following a parade of vessels, the top two places were captured by Seafarers-crewed fishing boats. The first prize went to the Blue Seas II, (above), owned and captained by Antonio Pereira. (It came in second place in last year's contest.) Second place this year was won by the T. Luis, owned and captained by Tony Santos. Eleven foreign ships were detained by British authorities in July after they failed safety checks. Three of those detained were registered in Malta. Of the 11, three were general cargo ships, two were bulk carriers, one was a gas tanker and one was a chemical carrier. Most of those vessels held in port had faulty life-saving equipment or expired certificates of operation. While the number of ships detained last month was lower than usual, Britain's Marine Safety Agency published the names of the ships in an effort to shame the owners into raising the safety standards of their ships. The agency began the practice of publishing the names of unsafe ships last year. Continued from page 3 port the merchant marine will enhance the Pulver Commissions Statue economic, political and military security of our nation." As was done when the House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel held a hearing on the subject on April 6, Sacco told the senators that maritime labor would work with them to pass maritime revitalization legislation. Senate Committee Clears U.S. Ship Bill SIU Representative Ed Pulver (right) and artist Mykola Holody view the bust honoring Filipinos who fought side-by-side with American troops during World War II. Pulver received assistance from Carpenters' Local 6, which donated the base for the memorial. The statue, located in Jersey City, N.J., was unveiled July 30. Vital for ilitary Also testifying during the July 27 Senate subcommittee hearing was the head of the U.S. Transportation Command, which oversees the movement of military cargo by land, sea and air. . U.S. Air Force Gener~ Ro1?frt L. Rutherf~rd rnfo_r~ed. the subcomnntte~, Th~ commercial m~tune i~dustry has and will conti!1ue to play a maJor role m th~ Defense Transport;ation Syst~ma go~emment/mdustry partnership for national secunty. . . . "Just as we did m the [Persian] Gulf War, Somalia and, most rec:ently, back to the Persi.an Gulf, we rely extensively o~ our co~merci~l partners to support our worldwi~~ comrrutments. Rut~erf?~d also n~ted ~~ ~htruJ: depends on the av~1!ab1l~ty of tr~~ c.lVlhan manners to cr~w tht? nnlttary s prepos1t10mng vessels, fast sealift ships and Re~dy Reserve Force vessels. When he mtroduced S. 1139 to the Senate, Lott pointed out the legislation already had strong bipar- tisan support from the bill's sponsors. They include Senators Ted Stevens (R-Alaska), Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Olympia Snowe CR-Maine), Ernest Hollings (D-S.C.), Daniel Inouye (DHawaii), John Breaux (D-La.) and Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.). He added the proposal also is backed by the Clinton administration. Snowe deemed the S. 1139 "very, very essential" during the committee session. "It is certainly long overdue and much needed. We need to have a strong maritime industry in this country, essential to our economic well-being," the Maine senator added. Hutchison noted that she supported the bill because of the strong maritime influence in her state of Texas. "We do want those jobs to remain American jobs," she told the committee. Breaux stated that several administrations had worked on maritime revitalization legislation. ''There is no other justification for having a strong merchant marine operating assistance program other than it is partofournational security. It's just that simple. "It is much more efficient, much better, in every sense to have these commercial private ships available than having to have the Defense Department and Navy have these ships just sit up in dry dock and spend millions of dollars keeping them there so they can be used in times of national emergency," he told his fellow senators. No date for Senate action has been set. �12 SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 World War II Maritime Poster Art Exhibit While the World War II battlefields were located in Africa, Asia and Europe, Americans back home were made aware that they also were part of the war effort, thanks to the thousands of posters displayed in factories, businesses and many other locations. A collection of 25 of these World War II-era posters dealing specifically with the merchant marine is on display at the Paul Hall Memorial Library at the Seafarers Harry Lunderberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. The posters are on loan from the collection of former Seafarer Rendich Meola, who sailed for three years as a deck engineer during the war. The posters involved all aspects of the war-from urging workers to produce top quality goods for the soldiers in the field, to purchasing war bonds, to keeping quiet about any knowledge of troop or convoy movements. Many citizens of that era remember the posters for their graphic and colorful portrayal of life during the war years. The exhibit, which opened at the library in July, will be on display indefinitely. The Sea/are rs LOG will highlight some of the posters from the exhibit in this and upcoming issues. Filling in the coupon below to receive a copy of the 1996 SIU scholarship program booklet just might be the start of something big-the opportunity for Seafarers and their spouses and dependent children to realize their educational goals. Since the inception of the program in 1952, 242 scholarships have been awarded to Seafarers and their dependents, some of whom have gone on to become doctors, lawyers, engineers, pharmacists, librarians, teachers, computer specialists and scientists-most of whom have pointed out that without the SIU' s help, they never would have had the opportunity to pursue their education. This year, as in the past, the union will offer seven scholarships. Four $15,000 awards will be set aside for spouses and dependent children of Seafarers and may be used at four-year colleges or universities. The other three will go to Seafarers; one in the amount of $15,000, to be used over a four-year period, and two for $6,000, which can be applied over a twoyear time frame. Eligibility requirements for all applicants are spelled out in the scholarship program booklet which also contains an application form. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of secondary school records; the college entrance tests (Scholastic Aptitude Test or American College Test); college transcripts, if any; the applicant's autobiography, character references and extra-curricular activities. One recurring theme in the poster art was to alert citizens that enemy spies and saboteurs always were lurking nearby, and that even a seemingly small bit of information regarding convoys could prove useful to the enemy-and fatal to the Allies. Although history shows such warnings to have exaggerated the prevalence of enemy spies, the "don't talk" posters were among the most-often utilized throughout the war. This particular poster was printed by the Office of War Information (OWi). Remember, it will take time to gather all the necessary information and paper- work by the April 15 deadline, so plan ahead. Applicants should also remember that in order for SAT or ACT test results to be available for inclusion in the scholarship application package, the tests must be taken by February 1996. (Applicants should take the appropriate test required by the college or trade school he or she plans to attend.) April 15, 1996 is the deadline for sending in a completed application for review by the scholarship committee. This impartial panel of distinguished professional educators, appointed by the Board of Trustees of the Seafarers Welfare Plan, will-after studying the records and qualifications of all applicants-make the final awards in May or June of next year. Scholarship recipients may use their awards at the institution of their choosing, as long as it is an accredited school in the United States or its territories, and provided also that the school offers standard academic, professional or vocational degrees or certification. The scholarship program booklet describes the process in detail and contains instructions for Seafarers, their spouses and their sons and daughters who wish to be considered for one of the awards. The opportunity is here. Take the first step toward a $6,000 or $15,000 scholarship by sending away for a copy of the current program booklet for yourself or a family member. As merchant shipping was a vital tool for the Allies, some of the posters were directed at recruiting merchant mariners. Many of these posters appeared in and around SIU halls. Thousands of SIU members sailed the dangerous convoys before, during and after the war, and some 1,200 SIU members were among the 7,000-plus merchant seamen who gave their lives during World War II. No matter the danger or the destination, merchant mariners answered their nation's call. The poster at right was printed by the U.S. Government Printing Office in 1944. I I Vi I EXPERIENCED SEAMEN NEEDED! Hard at Work in Retirement r--------------------------~ lease send me the 1996 SIU scholarship program booklet which contains Peligibility information, procedures for applying and the application form. Name~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- BookNumber~-------------------~ Address ~---------------------­ City, State, Zip Code - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Telephone Number ___________________ This application is for: D Self D Dependent Mail the completedfonn to the Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. L __ - _:19~ Joseph "Frenchie" Fruge retired in December of 1994 in Louisiana, and is now keeping busy doing the things he likes best. The former deck department member and his wife, Geri, go fishing every chance they get. They also have a craft business. Frenchie does the cutting and assembly of wooden planters, birds and welcome signs while Geri paints the items. In photo above, Frenchie starts a new project in his home workshop. �SEAFARERS LOB SEPTEMBER 1995 13 Decatur Workers Battle Union-Busting Companies The battle for respectable wages, better working conditions and decent benefits continues to be waged by union members in Decatur, Ill. who are either on strike or have been locked out of their jobs by three major manufacturing companies. Nearly seven percent of Decatur's workforce has been affected by the union-busting actions taking place at A.E. Staley Manufacturing, Caterpillar, Inc. and Bridgestone/Firestone Tires. While members of the United Auto Workers (UAW) have been seeking a contract with Caterpillar since 1991, they walked out of the Decatur facility and three other factories on June 20, 1994 to protest illegal actions by the company. The longest continuous job action in Decatur began two years ago when Staley locked out on June 27, 1993 some 760 Paperworkers when they refused accept the company's demands for reduced working conditions and lower benefits. Rubber Workers recently announced they would end their 10-month strike against Bridgestone/Firestone and return to work without a contract. However, the company brought in thousands of replacement workers during the strike and continues to use the scabs rather than allow the striking workers to resume their jobs. Trade unionists from all over the country have contributed time, money and much more to assist the Decatur workers. Rallies of support, attended by union members, labor officials and other supporters, have been held to focus the nation's attention on the plight of the affected workers as well as how these companies treat their workforce. Thousands participated in the latest march and rally, which took place June 25. State Lifting Tax Breaks Because of the attention drawn to the unionists of Decatur, the state of Illinois has started actions designed to lift the tax breaks given to Staley for operating its plant in the city. Staley, as well as Caterpillar and Bridgestone/Firestone, is located in the town's enterprise zone, where companies receive property tax abatements and credits on their state income taxes for keeping Decatur residents employed. Last year, Staley received a tax break for purchasing new machinery. The reduction was contingent on Staley showing the equipment would save jobs. However, the machinery actually is designed to further automate the facility and reduce jobs, according to the Paperworkers. The lockout at Staley began when union members refused to sign a contract imposing 12-hour rotating shifts, cuts in health benefits and safety conditions as well as allowing work to be subcontracted. Staley, a maker of corn sweeteners and starches, imposed the lockout as part of its drive to slash hundreds of jobs. This July, the union members once again rejected a give-back contract proposal. Union leaders criticized the package for failing to address bargaining issues at the heart of the long dispute. The union was especially unsatisfied with the company's continued demands for unlimited rights to subcontract jobs as well as 12-hour rotating shifts. Seafarers join with other trade unionists, family members and friends to show their support for the 2,500 striking Detroit News and Detroit Free Press workers. On the picket line are (from left) Bosun John Hickey, Wheelsman Walter Szelag, AB Alan Maury, OS Mike Davis and OS Robert Burns. Striking Newspaper Workers Supported by SIU Members Seafarers were among a crowd of 5,000 trade unionists, families and friends who turned out in support of 2,600 striking workers of the Detroit Free Press and the Detroit News. In the sweltering heat of July 17, SIU members joined with other supporters to fill the street in front of the Detroit News building to demand a fair contract for members of six unions represented by the Metropolitan Council of Newspaper Unions. Newspaper workers on strike include drivers, circulation employees, reporters, photographers, mailers, copy editors, artists, graphic workers, press operators, printers and engravers. Algonac Patrolman Tim Kelley noted that the SIU is actively supporting all the striking newspaper workers. "The picket Consumer Campaign Begins lines are really strong," Kelly stated. F0 11owmg · the reJec · f10n of the company ' s offier, the 1ocked-ou t workers esca1ated "Many of their our members going into Detroit on time off toare walk the lines their campaign against one of Staley's biggest customers-Pepsi Cola-which acwith the striking workers. We are supportcounts for up to 30 percent of Staley's sales of corn sweeteners. In an attemptto publicize Pepsi's connection to the Staley lockout and bring an end ing the strike 1OO percent and hope that a settlement will be reached soon. to the situation, workers organized "Action on Pepsi Weekend," August 25-27. "In supporting the unions involved, we According to the union, the campaign against Pepsi has generated thousands of are showing our solidarity-an injury to one consumer protests demanding that the beverage giant stop using Staley sweeteners. is an injury to all," the patrohnan added. A similar union campaign against Miller Beer Co. led to the brewer's announcement last October that it would no longer buy sweeteners from Staley. Contract Expired April 30 Rubber Workers Seek to Return The workers went on strike July 13 after negotiations failed to formulate a new While the actions by the Paperworkers continue, members of the United Rubber agreement. Contracts expired April 30 at Workers are trying to go back to work without a contract following their 10-month the News, Free Press and the jointlystrike. owned Detroit Newspaper Agency, which The Rubber Workers stated they would return to the plant following the National is responsible for the non-editorial acLabor Relations Board's (NLRB) rejection of a union complaint that the strike was tivities of the two papers. over unfair labor practices. (Due to a loophole in the law, it is legal for an employer to Management at the two papers is permanently replace striking workers if it is decided by the NLRB that the dispute is demanding an end to overtime pay; 200 not over unfair labor practices.) job cuts; concessions on health care, sick More than half the 4,000 union workers were permanently replaced as a result of leave and vacation; restrictions on the the strike; however, the company has called back some of the former workers. There grievance procedure; shifting of some fullare still more than 20 charges filed with the NLRB against the company by the union. time jobs to part time without benefits; and Bridgestone/Firestone remains under an international AFL-CIO boycott. the elimination of 1,600 news carriers. Since the strike began, the companies UAW, Caterpillar Resume Talks SEAFARERS have continued to publish the papers using scab workers who have been recruited from around the country. Gannett owns the afternoon Detroit News and Knight-Ridder owns the morning Detroit Free Press. The two companies have hired non-union workers from other newspaper affiliates across the country to replace the striking union members. However, the newspapers have had trouble getting out to the streets. According to the striking unions, only 25 percent of the normal circulation of both papers has been delivered since the beginning of the strike. Stores Pull Ads By July 21, more than 130 advertisers (roughly 90 percent) had pulled their advertisements from the papers in support of the striking workers. Dana Houle, an SIU field representative from the port of Algonac, is currently a member of a committee assisting the striking workers. Committee members have visited more than 300 gas stations and convenience stores in the Detroit area, passing out leaflets and encouraging community support for the strike effort. Approximately 200,000 readers already have canceled their subscriptions, and most Detroit-area store owners no longer sell the papers. Council Creates Fund At its summer meeting in Chicago, the AFL-CIO Executive Council created a $1 million fund to assist the striking newspaper workers who are not currently receiving strike benefits. The federation contributed $100,000 and affiliated unions have promised to raise the remainder. The executive council also approved a plan to use the AFL-CIO' s reserve fund to provide interest-free loans of up to $1 million to any union involved in the strike whose emergency fund is depleted. In an attempt to gain a contract for the first time in four years, members of the UAW -~ INTERNATIONAL . UNION and Caterpillar in late August held their first talks in months. Thousands of UAW members at eight Caterpillar facilities in Decatur and Peoria, Ill. and Denver and York, Penn. have been on strike since June 20, 1994, to protest illegal actions by the company. f_ 'D\ ~ Four years ago, UAW members walked out of factories in the three states after their old agreement expired and contract negotiations between the union and the company stalled. That strike-the first of 11 since 1991-lasted 163 days. Union members returned to work without a contract. Union officials have been attempting to negotiate a fair contract ever since. From the time the workers returned to the Caterpillar plants without a union contract, the company's illegal campaign against the UAW and its members has resulted in a record 130 unfair labor practice charges issued by the NLRB against ~Tt.»{TIC, ()Ul..f.1.A!<ES ,\UD L'ILAND WATERS OtSl>l\Cl. .o.n.-cK> Caterpillar, the world's leading manufacturer of heavy-construction equipment. No U.S. company has ever been charged with so many violations of U.S. labor law. Since the June 1994 strike began, Caterpillar has employed a makeshift workforce of managers, retirees, temporary workers and new hires. Because the strike was called due to the company's unfair labor practices, the workers cannot be lawfully permanently replaced. In May, a U.S. Court of Appeals agreed to allow striking UAW members to participate in Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) inspections of the Caterpillar plants. OSHA has issued more than 70 citations against the company, Joining their fathers on the picket line of striking newspaper workers are Shane Thoruton (left), son of Tugman Don Thoruton, and Dan Kelley, son of SIU Patrolman Tim Kelley. with fines totalling in excess of $500,000. SUPPORTS (_)_)R.F'oRATE_ ~RE:£Di{ SEAFARERS 1JiTERAATIOllA\.1JMON �( - 14 SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 Crusader Crew Keeps Ship Steaming Along Steaming into San Juan harbor is no different from entering any other port for the crew of the Sea-La.nd Crusader. Tying up means the deck crew will be busy handling loading and offloading operations, the engine department will check on the wear and maintenance of the vessel's steam power plant, and the galley gang will prepare the day's meals. Santurce Port Agent Steve Ruiz, who took these photographs after meeting with the crew, noted all was going well for SIU members sailing on the Sea-Land Crusader during its recent visit to Puerto Rico. The vessel, built in 1969, is a 700-foot containership capable of speeds of up to 21 knots. It can carry both 20- and 40-foot containers. The Sea-Land Crusader is on the "Americas' Service" run which transports cargo between San Juan, P.R.; the Dominican Republic; Kingston, Jamaica; New Orleans; Jacksonville, Fla.; and Elizabeth, N .J. every 28 days. AB Angel Toucet stands watch on the deck of the Sea-Land Crusader during cargo operations in the port of San Juan, P.R. Steward/Baker Nick Andrews checks on a cake in the oven aboard the Sea-Land Crusader. SA Luis Rivera (left) and Chief Cook Leopold Ruiz prepare dinner for crewmembers aboard the Sea-Land Crusader. Guiding an arm for a crane to unload containers from the Sea-Land Crusader while it docked in the port of San Juan, P.R. are (from left) engine department member Rafael Vergara, Chief Electrician Marcial Pedro, AB Antonio Rodriguez, Bosun Luis Perez and engine department member Jose Zayas. Seafarers Return to Sea-Land Expedition Following Layup AB Kirk Cully attends a shipboard union meeting after signing on the Sea-Land Expedition in the port of Norfolk, Va. Seafarers returned to the Sea-Land Expedition recently after the containership had been laid up in Norfolk, Va. for repairs. In preparation for the next voyage, crewmembers took on fresh stores, loaded cargo and performed routine maintenance. Port Agent Mike Paladino met with the crew shortly before the vessel returned to service. He answered questions raised by the members concerning the contract, medical benefits and other union matters. He also reviewed maritime legislation pending in Congress. The 670-foot Sea-Land Expedition then left port to resume its 28day run between the Atlantic and Gulf coasts and the island of Puerto Rico. Chief Steward Eddie Vazquez (left), SA Jose Padilla and Chief Cook Mike Robles sign on the Sea-Land Expedition in the port of Norfolk, Va. following a short layup. During a union meeting aboard the Sea Land Expedition in the port of Norfolk, Va. are (from left) AB Robert Diez, Chief Electrician Tony Negron and OMU Joe Perez. �SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea JULY 16 - AUGUST 15, 1995 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Cl~ C Port New York 35 Philadelphia 3 4 Baltimore 16 Norfolk 14 Mobile New Orleans 21 Jacksonville 29 San Francisco 23 Wilmington 19 Seattle 23 Puerto Rico 12 Honolulu 7 Houston 30 St. Louis 0 2 Piney Point Algonac 1 239 Totals 21 6 7 13 10 2 3 10 14 19 16 2 2 5 30 3 13 24 2 15 28 1 5 5 1 5 7 1 1 0 1 0 215 57 15 5 1 0 1 3 0 2 0 0 6 0 Port New York 14 3 Philadelphia 2 Baltitnore Norfolk 7 Mobile 6 New Orleans 18 Jacksonville 11 San Francisco 10 Wilmington 6 15 Seattle 2 Puerto Rico Honolulu 0 7 Houston St. Louis 0 1 Piney Point Algonac 0 Totals 102 Port 14 ewYork Philadelphia 0 4 Baltimore Norfolk 3 7 Mobile New Orleans 11 Jacksonville 8 San Francisco 38 Wilmington 11 Seattle 15 1 Puerto Rico 14 Honolulu Houston 12 St. Louis 0 Piney Point 4 Algonac 0 142 Totals 7 7 5 22 19 17 11 17 3 9 11 0 3 1 3 5 0 0 156 18 11 1 2 2 0 1 1 1 3 5 4 14 5 12 0 10 1 3 0 1 1 11 10 I 7 0 0 1 0 93 20 0 3 0 2 1 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Cl~ C DECK DEPARTMENT 3 15 18 4 3 0 5 1 3 15 6 17 27 20 8 25 10 7 28 0 1 1 187 7 9 24 12 8 9 18 1 11 22 I 1 1 150 107 3 6 14 12 14 3 8 18 2 2 6 3 49 12 8 18 25 26 4 2 11 2 10 2 0 2 0 0 11 11 23 23 31 53 33 44 45 31 46 17 42 0 8 39 1 1 0 25 40 107 399 3 0 41 3 2 0 0 0 20 8 2 0 0 1 5 16 4 12 6 1 11 0 1 5 1 2 4 9 3 4 11 1 4 5 5 4 36 45 3 3 6 2 406 35 5 8 11 11 12 28 23 30 12 34 18 30 18 30 24 26 3 7 6 7 9 3 8 11 10 0 1 0 94 5 0 3 5 1 6 1 2 8 0 2 9 3 4 4 5 0 0 1 19 19 5 0 0 3 0 10 0 0 52 234 264 46 8 0 0 28 20 3 1 23 0 4 1 1 4 6 5 14 23 2 12 1 October & November 1995 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Piney Point Monday: October 2, November 6 New York Tuesday: October 3, November 7 P~delphia Wednesday: October 4, November 8 Baltimore Thursday: October 5, November 9 Norfolk Thursday: October 5, November 9 Jacksonville Thursday: October 5, November 9 Algonac Friday: October 6; Monday, November 13* *changed by Veterans' Day holiday Houston Monday: October 9, November 13 New Orleans Tuesday: October 10, November 14 Mobile Wednesday: October 1I, November 15 San Francisco Thursday: October 12, November 16 Wilmington Monday, October 16, November 20 Seattle Friday: October 20, November 24 San Juan Thursday: October 5, November 9 St. Louis Friday: October 13. November 17 Honolulu Friday: October 13, November 17 Duluth Wednesday: October 11, November 15 Jersey City Wednesday: October 18, November 22 New Bedford Tuesday: October 17, November 21 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals 2 1 ELEFTHERIS KARAOGLANIS 2 Please contact your sister, Christine Purvey, or your nephew, Bob Purvey, at (818) 883-1376. 8 1 3 DAVID LEE "Sonny Boy" MULLER 4 Anyone knowing the whereabouts of David Lee Muller, please contact his cousin, Janie Bovain Jenkins, at 327 Broward Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204; or telephone (904) 388-7892. Mr. Muller shipped from the port of New York and would be approximately 65 years old. Ms. Jenkins last heard from him between the spring and summer of 1945. 2 0 1 8 71 18 12 23 1 IO 20 17 2 3 1 2 4 0 0 4 33 5 23 10 2 19 1 1 16 15 0 1 GARYW. VANSTADEN 0 Please contact the postmaster at the Aylett, Va. Post Office regarding your mail. He may be reached at (804) 769-3306. Ask for Postmaster Stewart Edwards. 1 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 98 34 7 0 70 2 14 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 12 5 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 2 5 11 2 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Cl~ B Class C 5 1 1 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 8 1 7 7 0 1 0 I 5 1 6 3 7 0 8 1 12 10 12 10 0 8 0 7 1 1 9 0 9 8 2 0 2 3 I 5 1 17 11 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 73 Trip Reliefs 15 0 0 8 3 0 0 0 53 20 19 0 7 0 272 5 1 167 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port 55 23 0 1 4 19 5 25 New York 13 1 2 0 1 3 0 2 3 Philadelphia I 12 I 0 2 0 3 1 8 Baltimore I 18 1 0 8 4 I 9 1 9 Norfolk 2 33 0 4 0 0 0 2 15 Mobile 33 8 0 14 5 4 19 9 New Orleans 5 35 5 0 2 1 1 15 7 2 Jacksonville 43 21 0 2 8 3 13 25 San Francisco 6 34 2 0 11 4 3 5 11 Wilmington 3 34 10 0 1 11 8 3 17 Seattle 9 11 9 0 0 3 1 7 8 4 Puerto Rico 77 8 0 2 2 10 34 24 Honolulu 0 24 3 0 15 0 2 2 17 0 Houston 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 St. Louis 16 1 0 16 0 0 24 0 1 Piney Point 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Algonac 0 432 105 0 23 115 30 101 220 48 Totals Totals All 212 406 58 1%010 1,269 388 196 684 De2artments 531 * ''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 2 0 38 25 3 7 21 2 23 13 24 26 12 16 126 9 0 3 0 310 488 FRANK WONG Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Frank Wong, formerly of 3rd A venue in San Francisco, Calif. and a former crewmember aboard the General Meigs, is asked to please contact Sam H. Boykin at 15055 East Highway 20, Clearlake Oaks, CA 95423. Correction A photo on page 13 of the August 1995 WG was misidentified. The caption should have read: Larayne Koide (right), secretary at the Honolulu hall, assists QMED Bob Powers with his registration. Notice NEW MERCHANT MARINE VETERANS CHAPTER BEING FORMED The High Seas Mariners Chapter of the Philadelphia area is now being formed and is looking for WWII merchant mariners, members of Public Health Services who treated U.S. seamen, Navy Armed Guards who served on merchant marine vessels, members of any U.S. armed services with a DD-214, widows of veterans with a D D-214 and present day seamen. The chapter will be a very active one with luncheon meetings, field trips, social events and other gatherings. For more information, call John J. Corbett at (215) 659-9297 or Captain Frank L. Darling at (215) 324-3486. �16 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers International Union Directory SEPTEMBER 1995 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes JULY 16--AUGUST 15, 1995 CL-Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP-Non Priority Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Contracts George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck'' Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey 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) 7944988 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 (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. BrookJyn. NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604S. 4 St. 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 l 6V2 Santurce, PR OO'J07 (809) 721-4033 SEATILE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-1960 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Cla&9 NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 16 4 0 9 4 0 5 1 0 18 23 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 52 0 12 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 12 7 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 13 13 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Cl~ L Class NP 0 31 13 0 14 4 0 7 1 0 36 50 48 32 Totals All Departments 0 0 77 32 0 88 * ''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. 68 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters JULY 16 - AUGUST 15, 1995 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Cla&9 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 3 3 34 0 2 2 14 1 0 5 0 14 42 17 19 2 0 13 0 0 0 9 0 15 9 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 2 5 0 6 3 0 0 4 6 5 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Cla&9B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 4 0 0 1 1 0 15 3 0 32 2 8 52 6 8 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 0 0 0 13 1 0 0 0 0 14 1 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 1 0 0 2 1 2 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Cla&9 C 14 4 2 5 22 16 9 4 0 6 0 29 49 27 35 2 0 9 0 11 1 0 l2 0 0 0 0 13 1 0 3 10 0 13 0 2 0 4 0 9 0 13 1 12 14 25 68 8 73 53 Totals All Departments 31 10 63 * "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. LOG to Print Personal Holiday Greetings One of the more popular features in the Seafare rs LOG is included each year in the December issue: holiday greetings from active and retired Seafarers and their families to other members of the seafaring community and their families. In order to have a holiday message included in the December issue, it must reach the Seafarers LOG by Monday, November 13, 1995. Simply PRINT or TYPE (in 25 words or less) the message in the space provided at right. All (legible) greetings that are written in the holiday spirit will be included if they are received in time. (Please, no more than three entries per person.) Photographs also are welcome. Holiday greetings should be sent to the Seafarers WG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. After November 1, facsimile copies also will be accepted 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 patroman at a vessel's payoff. To ensure that your holiday greeting is printed, please be sure all information is printed clearly. HOLIDAY MESSAGE (PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE) Message: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Check the block which describes your status with the SIU: D Active Seafarer D Retired Seafarer D Family Member of Active Seafarer D Family Member of Retired Seafarer Send your greeting to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. The greeting should be received at the LOG office by Monday, November 13, 1995. 9195 �SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 ourteen Seafarers have F retired this month after having spent many years on the world's oceans and U.S. waterways. Ten of the retiring merchant mariners sailed in the deep sea division; two navigated the inland waterways, and two worked in the Railroad Marine division. Among those joining the ranks of SIU pensioners are Frank Costango, who completed the steward recertification course, and William P. Cronan, who graduated from the bosun recertification course. Both of the classes were held at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Nine of the retiring Seafarers served in the U.S. military- four in the Army, four in the Navy and one in the Air Force. 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 Sea/are rs 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. From 1947 to 1952, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Dobloug currently resides in Norway. ROBERT HUNTER JR., 66, graduated from the Santa Rosa, Calif. steward training school in 1969 and joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in the port of San Francisco before that union merged with the SIU' s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother Hunter upgraded to chief steward at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy from DEEP SEA 1945 to 1968. Born in Texas, BENITO A. Brother Hunter now makes his CAMACHO, home in California. 59,began sailing with NAJI the SeaMATRAHI, farers in 59, started 1968 from his career the port of with the SIU New York. in 1965 in He shipped in both the deck the port of and steward departments and Baltimore. upgraded at the Lundeberg --"=--= He sailed as School in Piney Point, Md. a member of the steward departBrother Camacho has retired to ment. Born in Arabia, Brother his native Puerto Rico. Matrahi became a naturalized U.S. citizen. He has retired to Maryland. FRANK COSTANG0,68, WILLIAM started his R. career with MILLER, the SIU in 65,began 1963 in the sailing with port of New the SeaYork. farers in Brother Costango sailed in the 1956from steward department. He the port of upgraded at the Lundeberg Philadelphia. He upgraded his School, completed the steward deck department rating at the recertification course there in Andrew Furuseth Training 1980 and served as manager of School in 1958. The Pennsylfood services at the facility for vania native last sailed as a a year. From 1944 to 1946, he bosun. Brother Miller calls Penserved in the U.S. Army. Born nsylvania home. in Delaware, Brother Costango now makes his home in Florida. WILLIAM P. CRONAN, 70, joined the union in 1947 in the port of New York. Brother Cronan sailed as a member of the deck department and graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1960. He upgraded regularly at the Lundeberg School and graduated from the bosun recertification course there in 1983. Brother Cronan continues to live in his native Pennsylvania. ALIH. MOHAMED,55, joined the union in 1963 in the port of Seattle. He -=~_.=.J sailed as a member of the steward department. Born in Arabia, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Brother Mohamed has retired to California. INLAND as a bosun. From 1950 to 1952, Brother Ruiz served in the U.S. Army. A native of Puerto Rico, he retired to the island of his birth. CECIL J. MARLOW, 68, began his career with the SIU in 1972 in the port of Houston. The Florida native sailed in both the steward and engine departments. From 1944 to 1945, he served in the U.S. Almy. Boatman Marlow is a Florida resident. CHARLIE A. WILLIAMS,66, started his seafaring career with the union in 1966 from the port of San Francisco. Brother Williams shipped as a member of the engine department. From 1956 to 1961, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Williams lives in his native Philippines. SAMUEL G. MORMANDO, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1974 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He saiJed in the engine department, most recently as a chief engineer. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1950 to 1973. Born in New Jersey, Boatman Mormando now lives in Virginia. RAILROAD MARINE BERNARD BUCHANAN, 63, joined the Seafarers in 1959 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The Virginia native sailed in the deck department, working primarily for Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad. From 1950 to 1951, he served in the U.S. Air Force. Brother Buchanan continues to reside in Virginia. JOSEPHC. CASAZZA, 72, started his career with the SIU in 1959 in the port of New York. He sailed as a member of the deck department, working mainly for ErieLackawanna Railroad Co. Brother Casazza served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. Born in New Jersey, Brother Casazza makes his home in Iowa. Shipboard Meeting Provides ~ Gopher State Seafarers With Update from States Morale is good aboard the Gopher State, according to SIU Assistant Vice President Bob Hall, who recently got a chance to board the vessel in Guam and meet with its crewmembers. Being in such a remote location, Seafarers naturally were interested in hearing the latest information regarding job security for U.S. merchant mariners, particularly news about the export of Alaskan oil and maritime revitalization. Hall also answered questions posed to him on everything from benefits coverage to how SPAD can improve job security for all SIU members. Operated by Interocean Management Company (IOM), the Gopher State is one of the Military Sealift Command's fleet of prepositioning vesselsready to sail to at a moment's notice to wherever it is needed. It was standing room only on board the Gopher State during the recent union meeting. Engine department members in attendance include, from left, Wiper Chad Flunarty, Oiler Randy Pearson, Chief Electrician Jim Demouy and OMU Bill Cassel. r--~~~--, JAMES A. DOBLOUG, 65,began sailing with the Seafarers in 1969 from the port of New York. The New York native sailed in the engine department, most recently as a QMED. He upgraded frequently at the Lun- JOSE A. RUIZ,66, began sailing with the SIU in 1960 from the port of Houston. Brother Ruiz sailed in the deck department and upgraded regularly at the Lundeberg School. He last sailed 17 During a shipboard meeting in Guam, SIU Asst. Vice President Bob Hall was able to update crewmembers on the state of the maritime industry. Taking part in that meeting are, from left, AB Tony Carvalho, OS Bob Gaudreau, Bosun Bob Wilson, SA Stan Ellis and AB Milton Graham. �- 18 SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 During one of the meetings held in the Honolulu hiring hall to inform Constitution crewmembers of their employment and upgrading options during the vessel's year-long layup, (from left, front row) Waiter Frank Krushinski and Cabin Attendants Rhonda Rigsby and Deidre O'Neill review paperwork. Seafarers Prepare for Year-Long Refurbishing of Passenger Ship Seafarers signing off the SS Carting their personal belongings through the passageways of the Constitution, before it began a soon-to-be-refurbished crew quarters on board the SS Constitution are (from front to rear) Cabin Attendant Rachel Schweirer, Cocktail Server year-long layup for refurbishing, received assistance on employHeidi Mclaughlin and Chief Refrig. Maintenance Tai-Ming Tung. mentand upgrading opportunities from the union's hiring hall in Honolulu. Representatives from the hall The sign at the had met with them several times entrance to the aboard the American Hawaii hall in Honolulu inCruises passenger ship to let them dicates the SIU's know they could sail aboard the preparation to asConstitution's sister cruise ship, sist crewmemthe SS Independence, register to bers disemwork aboard other SIU-crewed barking from the vessels or attend classes to laid-up Constituupgrade their skills at the tion. Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney ,,___ __.__~-·,----,...,_-"""--""'----~~~-------- Point, Md. Port Agent Neil Dietz continued to hold special meetings at the union hall following the members' discharge from the cruise ship to keep them apprised of all their options. However, work did not stop for the Constitution's Seafarers when the last passengers left the vessel in early July. Approximately 200 members, from all three departments, remained aboard for about two weeks to make sure everything in their areas was cleaned, stowed and locked up. Because the vessel would still have to sail to the shipyard in Portland, Ore., a barebones crew of Seafarers in all three departments stayed aboard to carry out their normal routines while the vessel was crossing the Pacific. They remained on the ship for an additional week in the shipyard to secure all hatches, seal refrigerated areas and bring all systems down, including the main power plant. American Hawaii Cruises plans for refurbishing to begin first on the decks, swimming pools and crew quarters of the Constitution. Later, the vessel will undergo renovations and redecoration of all passenger cabins, public areas and stairways. The ship's electrical, air conditioning and plumbing systerns also will be ungraded during this period in the shipyard. The Constitution is not expected to return to servi until next summer. The Independenc underwent a similar upgrading during 1994. With necessary paperwork in hand, Dispatcher B.J. Baker (left) assists Cabin Attendant Deborah Calder- Cocktail Server Sarah Rotter-Canon The crew payoff was well organized and went very smoothly at the wood to register at the Honolulu hall after the Constitution's layup. makes her way off the vessel. company's dockside loading warehouse. Long Lines Operation Deemed 'A Memorable Experience' ·- A two-month assignment to lay and repair a trans-Pacific cable off the coast of California provided Seafarers and outside engineers working aboard the cable ship Long Lines the opportunity to learn more about each others' jobs, thus making it a more memorable trip, according to a letter from the vessel's deck storekeeper, Gary J. Rhyne. The Long Lines was loaded with an unmanned robot submarine as well as the equipment and engineers to operate it. Meanwhile, Seafarers aboard the ship were in charge of operating the Long Lines and maintaining the vessel's position when the submarine was placed in the ocean to handle the cable operation. The engineers maneuvered the submarine from its controls on the deck of the cable ship. The cable, known as Trans-Pacific Cable #5 (TPC-5), runs along the continental shelf. In order to keep it from being pulled up by other seagoing operations, the cable is buried by the remote arms of the submarine. When the cable breaks or is uncovered, the submarine is called out aboard an SIUcrewed Transoceanic Cable Ship, like the Long lines, to take care of the situation. Because of the time together on the Long Lines, the mariners and engineers got to know each other better, Rhyne reported. "By the end of the cruise, we all had nicknames. And we were calling ourselves the TPC-5 SCARABIANS." (The name SCARABIANS refers to the term used for these missionsSCARAB-which stands for Submersible Craft Assist, Repair And Burial.) "It was a tough job in the choppy winter waters off the northern California coast, but it was a memorable experience for everyone involved," Gathering on the fantail of the Long Lines to celebrate a successful mission to rebury a Rhyne stated. trans-Pacific cable are the ship's crewmembers and SCARAB engineers. �SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 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. STONEWALL JACKSON (Waterman Steamship), January 29--Chainnan Carl Lineberry, Secretary Ernest Hoitt, Educational Director Wayne McKeehan, Deck Delegate John Lewis, Engine Delegate Cres Suazo, Steward Delegate John Bennett. Chairman announced trip through Suez Canal to Newport News, Va. and New Orleans. Secretary advised members of availability of union forms on board vessel. Educational director discussed shipboard policies and encouraged members to upgrade at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $480 in movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested ice machine and larger refrigerator. Galley gang thanked for excellent job. NUEVO SAN JUAN (NPR, Inc.), May 18-Chairman William Card, Secretary Marvin St. George, Educational Director S. Moore, Deck Delegate Ray Fernandez, Engine Delegate Manuel Holguin. Chairman reported vessel scheduled for shipyard stay. He reminded crew to return room keys and clean quarters before signing off. Secretary advised crewmembers to "think safety" at all times. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended vote of thanks to steward deparunent for job well done. AMERICAN CORMORANT (Osprey Shipping), June 25Chairman Vernon Huelett, Secretary D.K. Goggins, Deck Delegate Matt Dimm, Steward Delegate Robert Wright. Crew discussed rusty water corning from ship's pipes and requested water filters for galley and wash room. Bosun advised crew that headquarters had been notified of problem and it is being looked into. Chairman asked contracts department for copy of standard agreement. Secretary asked for information concerning reflagging of Sea-Land ships and current update of union activities from headquarters. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new washer and dryer for laundry room. Members thanked galley gang members Goggins and Wright for providing excellent meals and SA Sallis Tifaro for job well done keeping house clean. CHARLES L. BROWN (Transoceanic Cable), June 23-Chairman Roger Reinke, Secretary Kenneth Hagan, Educational Director Faustino Pereira, Engine Delegate Ernest Cox, Steward Delegate Charlfred Autrey. Chairman advised crew of five-day cable exercise scheduled for end of July. Educational director encouraged members to attend tanker operations course at Piney Point. Crew requested cooler for deck. Members discussed shipboard smoking policy. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department announced bottled water received for drinking and noted chair in lounge being reupholstered. Steward department thanked for weekly cookouts. Next port: St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. CHARLESTON (Apex Marine), June 22-Chairman Anthony Maben, Secretary German Rios, Educational Director Moses Mickens Jr., Deck Delegate Juan Ayala, Engine Delegate Chris Clements, Steward Delegate James Harris. Chairman announced ship payoff upon arrival in port. Secretary urged members to write congressmen and ask them to stop flagging-out of American ships. Educational director reminded members to enroll in tanker operations course at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Charleston, S.C. OOCL INNOVATION (Sea-Land Service), June 25-Chainnan Allan Rogers, Secretary Jonny Cruz, Educational Director R. Tannis, Deck Delegate Joerg Witte, Engine Delegate Martin Kimmel, Steward Delegate Benigno Santos. Chairman noted upcoming payoff in Charleston, S.C. He discussed reflagging of Sea-Land ships and encouraged crewmembers to support SPAD, giving Seafarers a voice in future of industry. Educational director discussed importance of upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center. Educational director reminded crew to wear goggles while chipping paint and use safety procedures at all times aboard ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for providing excellent meals and clean house. SEA-LAND DEVELOPER (Sealand Service), June 28- Chairman Dana Cella, Secretary Hans Schmuck, Deck Delegate Norman Taylor, Steward Delegate E.J. Rue. Chairman noted change of schedule with ship sailing into Long Beach and Oakland, Calif. and returning to port of Tacoma, Wash. next voyage. Chairman encouraged members to donate to SPAD. Treasurer announced $150 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into possibility of negotiating 401 K plan during next contract talks. SEA-LAND EXPRESS (SeaLand Service), June 10-Chairman Ernie Duhon, Secretary Mark Scardino, Deck Delegate Marc Cella. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck, engine or steward delegates. Chairman read letter from Assistant Vice President Bob Hall concerning Seattle newspaper article about seamen. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. LIBERTY SPIRIT (Liberty Maritime), July 8-Chairman Lee Frazier, Deck Delegate Terry Dennis Cowans Sr., Engine Delegate German Valerio, Steward Delegate Roderick Gordon. Chairman reminded crew to leave rooms clean before payoff. Secretary requested fresh provisions in every port. Educational director advised members to upgrade skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked that mail service to ship be investigated. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), July 26--Chairman J.W. Moore, Secretary F.L. Washington. Chairman announced upcoming room inspection. Secretary asked crewmembers to clean quarters and turn in room keys. No beefs or disputed OT reported. LNG GEMINI (ETC), July 16Chairman Ramli Mohamad, Secretary Dana Cunningham, Educational Director Daniel Wise, Deck Delegate Paul Jagger, Engine Delegate Kevin Conklin. Secretary thanked crewmembers for keeping lounge in order and reminded crew signing off to leave rooms clean. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School as soon as possible and contribute to SPAD. Treasurer announced $331 in ship's fund. Crew discussed purchasing snorkeling equipment with money from ship's fund. Dictionary and world atlas for crew lounge requested. Beef reported in deck delegate. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Chairman noted telex from SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez received concerning ABs on watch. Engine delegate thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Nagoya, Japan. Chairman informed crew of upcoming payoff and ship departure. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed unemployment insurance and letter from Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. Steward department thanked for fine food and clean ship. RANGER (OMI), July 30-Chairman Daniel Laitinen Jr., Secretary Neville Johns, Engine Delegate Willie Franks, Steward Delegate Stephanie Smith. Chairman announced ship scheduled to arrive in Argentina on July 31. He advised crew that upon arrival, ship will be lightering to another vessel before discharging remaining cargo in port. Upon comple- 19 SEA-LAND TRADER (SeaLand), July 2-Chairman Loren Watson, Secretary Kevin Dougherty, Educational Director Milton Sabin, Deck Delegate John Williamson, Engine Delegate Brent Johnson, Steward Delegate Kenneth Clark. Chairman reminded crewmembers to separate food from plastic items and place in proper storage areas. He noted this will help protect the oceans. He also stressed safety as first priority aboard ship and ashore and advised crew to ask for help when in doubt. He reminded members to check z-card expiration dates and attend tanker operations course at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Standing by Their Work -- NEDLLOYD HOLLAND (SeaLand Service), July 26--Chairman Freddie Goethe, Secretary Cleo Jones, Engine Delegate Rich Williams. Chairman reminded all crewmembers who want to continue sailing aboard tankers to attend tanker operations course at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. OVER~EAS ARCTIC (Maritime Oven..::as), July 9-Chairman Frank Lyle, Secretary Reachell Armstrong, Educational Director Edward Self. Chairman announced payoff in port of Houston and pending shipyard stay. He urged Seafarers to write members of Congress and ask them to help stop Ameri~an ships from flaggingout. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate requested non-skid pads for galley and pantry. Crew asked that bug extermination be carried out in next port. OVERSEAS JOYCE (OSG Car Carriers, Inc.), July 23-Chairman Richard Bradford, Secretary Pablo Alvarez. Chairman advised crew of payoff in port of Portland, Ore. Secretary reminded crew to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Crew reported very smooth trip and thanked galley gang for job well done. OM/ PATRIOT(OMI), July 10Chairman Ralph Gibbs, Secretary Robert Davis, Educational Director Herman Castro, Deck Delegate Richard Nicholas, Engine Delegate Cliff Evans, Steward Delegate Bertrand Wright. Chairman reminded crewmembers to leave movies on board ship when signing off and close doors in passageways. Secretary noted news and communications posted in mess hall. Educational director advised members to sign up for tanker operations course at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $1,766 in ship's fund. Crew discussed purchase of new T.V., videos and books. Deck and steward delegates reported disputed OT. Crew stated mail service to ship very slow. Crew requested copies of contracts be sent to each department head and asked contracts department for clarification of clothing allowance for new crewmembers. Additional washing machine also requested. Steward department asked crew to help keep lounge area clean. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Honolulu. PFC EUGENE A. OBREGON (Waterman Steamship), July 17Chairman Henry Bouganim, Secretary Patrick Helton, Educational Director Robert Farmer, Deck Delegate Edward Gerena, Engine Delegate Ronald Lukas, Steward Delegate Leslie Davis. When a vessel is at sea and a broken part needs to be replaced, there are a number of options: replace the part with a new one; do without the piece of equipment, if possible; repair the old one; or fabricate a new one. That was the situation aboard the Mayaguez recently when a part from the ventilation fan would not operate. Fortunately, three SIU members aboard the Navieras NPR, Inc. vessel were able to remedy the situation by fashioning a new one from parts available aboard ship. The three-Engine Utility Salome Castro, OMU Gary Winter and DEU Curtis Lang-proudly stand by their work. tion, crew will clean tanks before loading vegetable oil bound for Caribbean area. Secretary noted ship to take on 90-day stores in next port. Steward department members thanked entire crew for job well done during recent voyage. Educational director encouraged members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for excellent meals. SEA-LAND PACIFIC (Sea-Land Service), July 12-Chairman Stanley A. Gurney, Secretary George M. Bronson, Educational Director Lorance Pence. Chairman urged members to contribute to SPAD and read Seafarers LOG. He advised crew to check in with immigration, customs and patrolman upon arrival in port. Bosun asked crewmembers to keep laundry room clean. Secretary stressed importance of upgrading at Piney Point. Educational director encouraged members to attend tanker operations course and oil spill safety recertification at Lundeberg School. Steward delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or engine delegates. Crew noted parts on order for washing machine. Crewmembers extended special vote of thanks to galley gang for wonderful job on holiday cookout. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND RELIANCE (SeaLand Service), July 27-Chairman Dennis Brown, Secretary G. Sivley, Educational Director Steve Bigelow. Chairman asked all crewmembers to use tunnels when going ashore in port of Tacoma, Wash. He announced payoff upon arrival in port. Educational director encouraged members to donate to SPAD and upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Chairman noted recent flaggingout of U.S. ships is of concern to every U.S. seaman. He urged Seafarers to write congressmen and donate to SPAD to help protect seafaring jobs. Bosun advised crew of shipyard period in February. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for menu variety. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Service), August 6Chairman Carlos Loureiro, Secretary William Bragg, Engine Delegate Juan Garcia, Steward Delegate Munassa Mohamed. Chairman disclosed payoff date for Long Beach, Calif. and reminded crewmembers always to practice safety while working. Secretary updated crew on latest news concerning export of Alaskan oil aboard U.S. tankers. He urged members to attend tanker operations course at Lundeberg School as soon as possible. Educational director also reminded crew of importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer reported $90 in movie fund and discussed purchase of new movies in next port. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate reminded crewmembers to report all injuries and illnesses. Crew noted repair list to be completed and thanked steward department for excellent job preparing nutritious and delicious meals. Next port: Kaohsiung, Taiwan. WILLAMETTE (Kilby Tankships), August 5-Chairman Eugene Beverly, Secretary Oscar Angeles, Educational Director Joe Spell, Deck Delegate J.D. Foster, Engine Delegate Ernest Gibson, Steward Delegate Herbert Archer. Chairman announced payoff in Lake Charles, La. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. �20 SEAFARERS LOG hen Seafarers purchase WJuanita's Foods products, they not only buy tasty nourishment, but also put their dollars to work for themselves and their fellow trade unionists. That's because the factory and warehouse workers at Juanita's Foods are members of the United Industrial Workers (UIW), a union affiliated with the Seafarers International Union. Juanita's Foods is a family-owned business founded nearly 50 years ago. Today, Juanita's is the world's largest producer of menudo, a popular and traditional Mexican stew. The product line also includes meatball soup, various hot sauces and taco sauces, Mexican-style hominy and pozole. SEPTEMBER 1995 Company: Juanita's Foods Products: Menudo, meatball soup, taco sauces, hot sauces and more UIW members at Juanita's: Most work in canning, bottling or crating departments. Others drive trucks or forklifts, work in maintenance or operate filling machines or pressure-cookers. Distribution: Throughout most of U.S. Facilities: Packaging plant and warehouse in Wilmington, Calif. That's a fact: A number of other food manufacturers contract with Juanita's to produce canned meat products. Juanita's has U.S. Department of Agriculture and Food and Drug Administration licenses for such operations. Summary Annual Report for The SIU Pacific District Pension Plan This is a summary of the annual report for the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan [Employer Identification No. 94-6061923, Plan No. 001] for the year ended July 31, 1994. The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (BRISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust arrangement. Plan expenses were $15,136,118. These expenses included $663,949 in administrative expenses and $14,472, 169 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 5,667 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $150,347,276 as of July 31, 1994, compared to $166,849,849 as of July 31, 1993. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $16,502,573. This decrease included unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan's assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of ($1,366,455), including employer contributions of $15,599, earnings from investments of $8,310,624, stock dividends of $281,574, less investment expenses of ($382,334), unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of assets of ($9,605,306) and other income of $13,388. Employees do not contribute to this plan. Minimum Funding Standards The actuary's statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards ofERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information r 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 t~e ~ru AtlantI~, ~ulf, L~es and Inland Vi(aters Distn~t .are admu~istered m accordance with the provisrnns of van~us trust fund agree!11ents. All these agreements specify that t~e trustees. m charge of these funds shall equ~y consist umon and managem~nt representatlves and therr 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. SmPnNG RIGHT& A memb~' s ili~p~g 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,returnreceiptrequested. Theproperaddressforthis 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 forovertime (01) 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 ~on, officer or member. It also~ refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the ~on or its collective membership. This established policy ~ beenreaffinned 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 sru unless o! 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 1:-e !llade 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. RIGHTS AND C 0 NS TIT UTI 0 NA L 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 wellasallotherdetails,themembersoaffectedshould immediately notify headquarters. You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant's report, 2. Assets held for investments, 3. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan, 4. Transactions in excess of five (5) percent of plan assets and 5. Fiduciary information, including transactions between the plan andparties-in-interest(thatis,persons whohavecertainrelationshipswith the plan). To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of the plan administrator, SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105; telephone number (415) 495-6882. You also have the right to receive fITrm. tb.e plan mstrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabi e plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses o the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements will be included as part of that report. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department of Labor should be addr to: Public Disclosure Room, N4677, Pension and Welf e 1t Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 2 tlon Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20216. EQ~AL_ RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal ~ghts m employment an? as members ~f ~SIU. These nghts are clearly set forth m the SIU const:ttutmn and in the~~~hthe~oo~~~~-----------------------~ e~p~oyers. C:onsequently, no member may be ~s­ crumnated ag~t ~use of race, creed, color, sex, nat:tonal or. geo~hic ongm. If 3;11Y member. feels that he ~r she. 1s derued the equal nghts to w~ch h~ or she is entitled, the member should notify uruon headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION-SPAD.SPADisaseparatesegregated 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. L-------------------------American Pride 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. There's no doubt about the loyalties of the crewmembers aboard barge Ocean 215. The U.S. flag-painted on a fuel tank of the Maritrans Gulf Division barge (which works as a married unit with the tug Freedom)-measures approximately 13' x 30'. It was designed and laid out by Seafarer and Mate Stephen Rhodes. The actual painting was done by SIU members AB'Tankerman Steven Brundage, pictured sitting atop the fuel tank, and AB!fankerman Greg Luce. Brundage sent this photograph to the LOG. �SEPTEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 21 Final Departures Pensioner Joseph DiGrazia, 91, passed away June 15. Born in Argentina, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Brother DiGrazia began sailing with the union in 1947 from the port of Norfolk, Va. He was a member of the deck department. Brother DiGrazia retired in February 1972. MITCHELL J. ABDO Pensioner Mitchell J. Abdo, 81, passed away June 18. Brother Abdo graduated from the Marine Cooks and Stewards training school in 1963, before that union merged with the SIU' s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Born in Minnesota, Brother Abdo retired in October 1979. THOMAS J. HEGGARTY Pensioner ThomasJ. Heggarty, 68, died June 30. Born in Ireland, he joined the SIU in 1947 in the port of New ==--===~ York. He sailed in the deck department and graduated from the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Brother Heggarty retired in August 1976. HERBERT E. ATKINSON Pensioner Herbert E. Atkinson, 86, died June 30. Born in Florida, he started his seafaring career in 1951 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Atkinson sailed as a member of the steward department and began receiving his pension in August 1976. FRED F. RASHID Pensioner Fred F. Rashid, 70, passed away June5. Born in Massachusetts, he began his career with .___ _ _ _ ____, the Seafarers in 1956 from the port of New York. Brother Rashid shipped in the deck department. From 1943 to 1945, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Rashid retired in June 1990. ARTHUR J. HEROUX .B@iJ50GV?~:--I Pensioner Ar- EHLEN. CARTWRIGHT thur J. Heroux, 82, passed away July 1. Brother Heroux Pensioner EhleN. Cartwright, 82, passed away July 3. He began sailing with the SIU in 1951 in the port of ~--------' Houston. Brother Cartwright shipped in the deck department. Born in Iowa, he retired in October 1975. MEL VIN ROBINSON union in 1956 from the port of Baltimore. He shipped as a member of the deck department and began receiving his pension in July 1979. Pensioner Melvin Robinson, 83, passed away May 3. A native of Georgia, he began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Robinson began receiving his pension in June 1975. JAMES C. HEYLIGER GLENN C. SOMERVILLE Pensioner James C. Heyliger, 80, died June 7. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1948 from the port of New York. Brother Heyliger shipped in the steward department. From 1943 to 1945 he served in the U.S. Army. Born in the U.S. Virgin Islands, he retired in October 1983. Pensioner GlennC. Somerville, 73, died June 30. He joined the SIU in 1968 in the port of New York. The _ _ _ _ _ ___, Wisconsin native sailed in the deck department Brotli.er Somerville served in the U.S. Army from 1941to1954. He retired from the SIU in November 1992. His ashes were buried at sea from aboard the Sea-Land Tacoma. .:~~- .i: ~~e!!ailing .....__~ _ _ _ _ _-....___, ALLENE. CUBIC Allen E. Cubic, 51, died August 1. Brother Cubic started his career with the Seafarers in 1979 in the port of San Franci~co. Born in New Yor.lc, Brother Cubic sailed as a member of the deck department. WILLIAM E. CUMMINGS THOMAS H. HOLT Pensioner William E. Cummings, 79, passed away November 22, 1994. A nntive of New York, he joined the Mmine Cooks and Stewards before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Cummings st:r..rf.ed receiving his pension in Jme 1973. NICHOLASR. TATAR Pensioner ThomasH. Holt, 73, passed away July 22. Born in Tennessee, he joined the SIU in 1963 in the port of _ ___;..==-=::;:,:.::_~New York. Brother Holt sailed in the deck depattment. He was a 1976 graduate of the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School. The World War II veteran served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. Brother Holt began receiving his pension in March 1988. WILLIAM J. DONALD Pensioner William J. Donald, 75, rued June 12. A native. of Michigaa, he joined the SIU in 1944 in the p01t of L----===="-~ Norfolk, Va. Brother Donald sailed as a member of the deck department and began receiving his pension in April 1974. Pensioner Nicholas R. Tatar, 71, died May 8. Brother Tatar started his career with the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck department. The World War II veteran served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Brother Tatar began receiving his pension in January 1983. JAMES 0. THOMAS Pensioner James 0. Thomas, 73, passed away May 24. He began sailing 1, with the SIU in 1951 from the port of ·· Galveston, Texas. The Texas native sailed in the engine department and retired in August 1979. ORVILLE R. MEFFERT Pensioner Orville R. Meffert, 77, died August 2. Brother Meffert began sailing with the union in 1956 from the port ~· of New Orleans. He shipped in the deck departrnent. In 1974, he completed the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School. Brother Meffert retired in March 1984. BASILIO ESTRELLA Pensioner Basilio Estrella, 87, passed away June 16. He became a charter member of the Seafarers in 1939 in the port of New York. Brother Estrella sailed in the engine department. Born in Puerto Rico, he began receiving his pension in May 1971. Arkansas, he started sailing with the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of New . York. Brother Rainey shipped in the steward department, last sailing as chief cook. The World War II veteran served in the U.S. Army Air Force from 1942 to 1945. Brother Rainey began receiving his pension in March 1978. JOSEPH DIGRAZIA DEEP SEA I I I Pensioner Charles N. Stephens, 93, passed away March 24. Brother Stephens joined the Seafarers as a charter member in 1939 in the port of New York. The U.S. Virgin Islands native sailed in tlJe steward ' to 1946 he RENE M. WITTBECKER Pensioner ReneM. Wittbecker, 83, died March 19. A native of Illinois, he began his career with the SIU in :_....::=--=-_, 1954 from the port of Frankfort, Mich. Sailing in the steward department, Brother Wittbecker started out in the Great Lakes division and later sailed aboard deep sea vessels. He retired in December 1976. HARRY M. WONG Pensioner HarryM. Wong, 75, passed away April 10. · Brother Wong started sailing with the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of San Francisco. The deck department member upgraded to quartermaster at the Lundeberg School. Brother Wong began receiving his pension in October 1978. INLAND WILLIE CREDEUR Pensioner Willie Credeur, 71, passed away .July 4. Anative of Louisiana, he began sailing with the '--------"-= union in 1957 from the pod of Houston. Boatman Credeur sailed in the deck department mainly as a tugboat captain. He began receiving his pension in September 1985. HORACE E. HUDGINS Pensioner Horace E. Hudgins, 93, died April 14. Boatman Hudgins started sailing with the Seafarers in 1962 from the port of Norfolk, Va. During his career, the Virginia native advanced in the deck department from the rating of mate to captain. Boatman Hudgins retired in July 1966. FRED KELLY Pensioner Fred Kelly, 81, passed away May 28. A native of Alabama, he began sailing with the SIU in 1953 from the port of Mobile, Ala. Boatman Kelly started out in the deep sea division and later transferred to inland vessels as a member of the steward department. He began receiving his pension in August 1973. WILLIE G. MIDGETTE CHARLES N. STEPHENS THOMAS 0. RAINEY Pensioner Thomas 0. Rainey, 81, passed away June 21. Born in department and began receiving his pension in December 1967. Pensioner Willie G. Midgette, 75, passed away June 21. Boatman Midgette started his career with the Seafarers in 1957 in the port of Philadelphia. He sailed in Lhe deck department as a mate and worked his way up to captain. From 1942 Pensioner fames L. Mohan, 78, diedMay3. A native of New York, he began his career with the SIU in 1967 from the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Mohan shipped primarily with McAllister Brothers in the deck department and last sailed as a pilot. He began receiving his pension in October 1982. HAROLD MOLL .-----::-~------. Pensioner Harold Moll, 70, passed away June 12. Born in Pennsylvania, Boatman Moll started sailing with the union in 1968 from the port of Philadelphia. The deck department member held the rating of captain at the time of his retirement in February 1987. WILLIS G. SCRIBNER Pensioner Willis G. Scribner, 84, died March 28. Boatman Scribner began sailing with the SIU in 1964 from --'-'--___.;;;:::::;;; the port of St. Louis. The Illinois native was a member of the engine department and held the rating of engineer. Boatman Scribner retired in December 1978. GREAT LAKES WILLIAM M. McDOUGAL . - : - - - - - - - - , Pensioner WilliamM. McDougal, 77, died June 17. A native of Ohio, he started his shipping career with ' - - - - - -- ---' theSIUin 1961 in the port of Cleveland. Brother McDougal sailed in the deck department. The World War II veteran served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1946. Brother McDougal retired in December 1981. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN LA WREN CE A. SCOLA Pensioner Lawrence A Scola, 66, passed away May 20. Born in Massachusetts, he joined the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in 1966 in the port of Gloucester, Mass., and last sailed as a fishing boat captain. From 1950 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Scola began receiving his pension in December 1993. �22 SEPTEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Lundeberg School Graduating Classes SEAFARERS HARRY LUNDEBERG SCHOOL :f:t\~ LIFEBOAT CLASS o~~~l Marine Electrical Maintenance I-Marking their completion on June 28 from the marine electrical maintenance course are (from left, first row) Paul Pagano, Anthony Ripoll, Tony Albright, Mark Jones (instructor), (second Trainee Lifeboat Class 539-Graduating from Upgraders Lifeboat-Receiving their lifeboat row) Scott Duckworth, Michael Martykan, Dennis Baker, Don trainee lifeboat class 539 are (from left, kneeling) Theodore enaorsement on June 27 are Gary Housman (left) and Wroten and Fadiga Koutougou. Darby, Joshua Cannizzaro, Edgar Nelson, Raul Carranza, Wittred Lambey (center) with their instructor, Jeff Swan( second row) Orlando Sierra, Justin Vieira, Richard Crutchfield, Terry Allen and Jeff Swanson (instructor). l J. DDFJLimited License Preparation-CompletBridge Management-Seafarers co · the ing the two-week curriculum on June 28 which prepares Diesel Engine-Receiving their diesel engine bridge managemem course on July 27 are (from left, kn students to take the Designated Duty Engineer (DOE) exam endorsements on July 26 are (from left, sitting) Michael ing) Tom Gilliland (instructor), Antonio Colon, (second ro~) are (from left, front row) Larwrence Clark, Ricky Shumock, Brennan, Don Hurtz, Anthony Ripoll, (second row) Allan Steven Bush, Darren Collins, Nicholas Marcantonio, Donnie William Twiford, Eric Malzkuhn (instructor), (second row) Rogers, Samuel Addo, Eric Malzkuhn Qnstructor) and Collins, Mohamed Bazina and Jim Brown (instructor). Mark Stewart. Jeffrey Potter, Rafael Campos and Michael Morrissey. Tankerman OperationsReceiving their certificates of completion for the tankerman operations course · g Monell ing on July 26 are (from Liburd Ro , eorge Carter, John 1 11 raig Perry, Israel Rivera, Byran - --'.-. Cummings (instructor), (second row) Michael Rueter, Wilfredo Velez, Mark Blom, Fernando Onativia, Michael Eaton, Ramadan Elmobdy, Eric Martinez, Juan Green, Isabel Miranda, David Alexander, (third row) Claudio Romano, Brad Haines, Salvatore Gilardi, Billy Hill Sr., Richard Gracey, David Guyton, Patrick Carr?ll, Richard Daisley, Ear1 Gray Sr., Cathenne Scott, Timothy Koebel, William Beatty Jr., Sonia Felix, (fourth row) Bertram Hickman, John Nichols, Patrick Corless, James Shepard, Elieser Montalvo, Jonathan White, Stanley Krystosia.k, Scott Snodgrass, (fifth row) Ross H1mebauch, Dale Kirsch Jr., Edward Krebs, Hamada Kasem, Dwight Wuerth, John Foster and Frank Footer. 111. Tankerman Operations- SIU members completing the tankerman operations course on July 11 are {from left, sitting) James Hagner, Richard Decker, Anthony Sabatini, Joel Spell, Peter Westropp, Teodulfo Alanano, Edwin Rivera, Mohamed Bazina, (second row, kneeling) Daniel Ticer, John Konetes •. N.eil Carter, (third row) Jake Karaczynsk1 (instructor), George Moxley, Charlie Durden, Blair Baker, Robert Caldwell, Arthur Baredian, Timothy Null, Robert Allen, Richard Daisley, Michael Hall, (fourth row) Steven Bush, Stephen Garay, Roger Plaud, Douglas Konefal, Jeffrey Phillips, Patrick Scott, Carey Heinz, Darrell Moody and Daniel Eckert. �23 SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1995 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between September and December 1995 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Please note that students should check in the Saturday be/ore their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. Deck Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion Bridge Management (Shiphandling) October9 October20 Celestial Navigation November6 DecemberlS Limited License/License Prep. September 25 November3 Radar Observer/Unlimited October2 October6 Course Special One-Day EPA Refrigeration Course Lundeberg School instructors will conduct a one-day Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-approved refrigeration technician certification course on Friday, September 22 at the school. The intensive program will cover all the necessary material related to the repair and servicing of refrigeration equipment and air conditioning systems and will prepare students for the EPA exam. The exam will be given in the afternoon. Call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010 for additional information. Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Diesel Engine Technology October9 November3 Fireman/Watertender & Oiler October2 December 15 Welding October23 November17 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Firefighting September 11 September 22 Oil Spill Safety Recertification September 21 October 19 September 21 October 19 Sealift Operations and Maintenance October9 November3 Tanker Operations September 11 October9 November6 November20 October6 November3 December! December 15 Inland Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Deck Inland October 23 November 3 Designated Duty Engineer/ Limited License/License Prep. November 13 November 24 Radar Observer/Inland November 6 November 10 Start Date September S Date of Completion October27 Course Start Date Date of Completion Session ill Septembers October27 Additional Courses Course Adult Basic Education (ABE) and English as a Second Language (ESL) Recertification Programs Course Start Date Date of Completion Bosun Recertification October2 November6 NOTICE TO SEAFARERS Steward Upgrading Courses Start Date November3 Course Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker, Chief Cook, Chief Steward Date of Completion January 26, 1996 The Lundeberg School is presently working on its 1996 calendar of courses. As soon as the dates are finalized, the schedule will appear in upcoming issues of the Seafarers LOG. Members with any questions regarding future courses may call the school's admissions office at (301) 994-0010. --~----·····---·---·---·-------------------------------·--········-····--·-····-----------------------------··------------------------------------------ UPGRADING APPLICATION Primary language spoken (Street) (City) (Zip Code) (State) Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone~-~-----(Arca Code) (Moath/Day/Ycar) Deep Sea Member 0 Lakes Member 0 Inland Waters Member D .· With this application, COPIES ofyour discharges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourselffor the course(s) requested You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and completed The admissions office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. END BEGIN COURSE DATE DATE If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # Book# _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Seniority _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Department _ _ _ _ _ __ U.S. Citizen: D Yes D No Home Port - - - - - - - - - - - Endorsernent(s) or License(s) now h e l d - - - - - - - - - - - - - - LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating: _ _ _ __ Date On: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date Off: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? SIGNATURE_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _.DATE _ _ _ _ _ _~ DYes DNo If yes, class# - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS 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 D No CPR: D Yes D No 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. 9195 �SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT The summary of the annual report for the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan may be found on page 20 in this issue of the LOG. Volume 57, Number 9 September 1995 Ferry Crew Executes 2 Rescues in a Week; Seafarers Willette and Terzakos Honored For Captain John Willette and AB Teddy Terzakos, working aboard the commuter ferry Manhattan means adhering to a strict schedule and remaining extremely alert as the boat crosses New York's East River 72 times during their daily shift from 3:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. But as the Seafarers recently discovered, there are times when it is okay to deviate from their route between Manhattan and Queens. Two such occasions took place in midJuly, as Willette and Terzakos executed a pair of nighttime rescues. On July 13, the captain and the AB rescued five people who had been guests on a yacht that capsized. Six days later, the SIU members saved a local man who had attempted suicide by jumping from the Pulaski Bridge-but who promptly changed his mind once he hit the water. "One woman wouldn't give back a life jacket even after she had been on ltznd for an hour. Eventually I told the ambula.nce driver to let her keep it." -AB Teddy Terzakos "It's like the TV show 'Baywatch' around here," joked Terzakos, 33. The two Seafarers, as well as personnel from the U.S. .,,, . . . . ,,,.,>···~····· t>• Here We Go Again Six nights after the yacht rescue, Willette and Terzakos heard an announcement from the Pulaski Bridge operator around 10 p.m. "He put out a call that there was a jumper who seemed ready to throw himself off the bridge," said Terzakos. ''Two minutes later, ·~a..?m he came back on and said, 'He jumped, he jumped, he's in the water!' "We were two minutes _;~ away, so we went to the site Photo by Leo Belarmino d fl · d Captain John Willette (left) and AB Teddy Terzakos, who work aboard the commuter ferry Manhattan, an saw a guy oppmg aroun were involved in two rescues during a six-day period in mid-July. The Seafarers saved a total of s · µQ\.'VRl''"hi::.::-n the water. We threw him a in New York's East River. They were acclaimed "heroes" by N.Y. Mayor Rudolph Giuliani. The man, a local resi e , Coast Guard, fire department zakos. "We're constantly He and Terzakos had ressaid he was too tired to pull himand police department, were moving; we only sit on one cued three women and two self aboard the Manhattan folhonored at City Hall by New side or the other for a couple men from the life raft by the lowing his 70-foot plunge from time the Coast Guard and York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani of minutes." other rescue boats arrived. the bridge. But before Terzakos for the first rescue, in which He noticed "something "The Coast Guard and the barreached out to lift him on board, all 38 people from the yacht drifting" near the middle of the Seafarer wanted to be cerwere saved. "The Manhattan the river and shouted to Wilbor police were only about a tain that the man wouldn't pull acted quickly and bravely to lette, who was in the wheelhalf-mile away, so they adhim off the ferry. "Is · ' help those in distress," said the house. The men then aimed w , right? vised us that they would take mayor, who described Willette the ferry's spotlight toward the over," said Terzakos. "NanIT:aI.-+"'<Tou're not going to take me and Terzakos as "heroes." water, where they saw the cap- ly, they're better equipped for with you?' He said, 'No, no, I sized Other Office, a 50-foot those situations, and they res- made a mistake.' He was thankmotor yacht. cued the rest of the people." ful. I pulled him aboard." Yacht Capsizes In all, two helicopters, four "At first I saw the [yacht] Moments before the first and then I saw someone stand Coast Guard vessels, three rescue, the ferry was docked "I said, 'You want to police boats and a fire departup," said Willette, 44. on the Manhattan side of the be rescued, right? ment boat were involved in East River around 9:20 p.m. Willette sent a mayday on the rescue and search. All the You 're not going to The tide was coming in at 5 the region's emergency radio to nearby victims were taken knots, with a swift current frequency as he quickly take me with you?' guided the Manhattan toward Bellevue Hospital Center, but heading north. "We were He said, 'No, no, I no serious injuries were the stranded passengers, who ready to make our 9:22 run reported. made a mistake. "' back to Queens," recalled Ter- either were in the yacht's life Terzakos estimated that raft (which automatically in-AB Teddy Terzakos flated) or standing on the hull. fewer than five minutes elapsed between the time he "We got there in less than a The man suffered bruises but noticed the yacht and the res"Somebody minute," he said. Exploited Children at (800) otherwise appeared unbanned. 843-5678 or the Missing Per- (among the victims) had their cue of the first five passons Unit of the Anne Arundel wits about them, because they sengers. "They were only in "He said he had girl (Md.) County Police Depart- were organized. The nonthe water a few minutes. But problems," added Terzakos. ment at (410) 222-8050. swimmers were in the life lift." they were lucky their boat The Manhattan is one of 14 SIU-crewed ferries operated Willette and Terzakos said didn't sink completely, because half of them couldn't by NY Waterway. In total, the most of the passengers-the swim. They might have been ferries transport approximately majority of whom are memhistory." 20,000 passengers each day bebers of New York-area law tween lower and midtown firms-were surprisingly He added that two of the women rescued by the ManManhattan, the Colgate Center calm. The Seafarers disin New Jersey and the towns hattan initially "seemed like tributed life jackets to them of Weehawken and Hoboken, and extended a rescue ladder they were in shock. One wouldn't give back a life jack- N.J. Each boat has a capacity from the forward part of the of about 400 passengers, et even after she had been on deck as Willette asked if all travels at an average speed of the passengers were accounted land for an hour. Eventually I for and if anyone was hurt. told the ambulance driver to let between 15 and 18 mph and is roughly 100 feet long. her keep it." "Fortunately, everything The crews all take part in According to newspaper was okay," Willette said. "It safety training, which includes reports, the accident occurred was amazing that no one was practicing with the rescue ladmissing and there was no loss when the yacht's pilot turned Kristie Leigh Allen der. the craft just as a swell of life." Help Locate This Missing Child The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) has asked the Seafarers International Union to assist them in locating Kristie Leigh Allen. She disappeared last September from Glen Burnie, Md. at the age of 15. She is believed to be in the company of an adult male and took all of her belongings with her. The NCMEC considers her an endangered runaway. Now 15, the brown-haired blue-eyed girl was 5 ft. 3 in. at the time of her disappearance. She weighed 100 pounds and has a small indentation on the upper left side of her forehead. Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Kristie Leigh Allen should contact the National Center for Missing and crashed against the starboard side. ''The boat turned and everybody started to slide," one of the passengers told The New York Times. "It shifted the weight to the right, and it didn't recover. It went over." � 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 September 1995 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SENATE NAMES CONFEREES FOR LEGISLATION EXPORTING AK OIL ON U.S. TANKERS SIU TO CREW 5 ARMY SUPPORT SHIPS UNION COMPANY WINS BID FOR T-AGOS VESSELS MARITIME REVITALIZATION CLEARED FOR CONSIDERATION BY SENATE FEDERAL COURT SETS DATE TO HEAR WORK TAX APPEAL COAST GUARD PROBED CRUISE SHIP SAFETY MATSON TO PURCHASE 6 APL SHIPS 3 MORE TANKER SAFETY COURSES ARE OPEN TO SEAFARERS IN 1995 COAST GUARD FINALIZING NEW TANKERMAN REG LEASE EXTENSION FOR QUEEN MARY KEEPS JOBS FOR SIU AFFILIATE UNION ALLIED SEAFARERS RATIFY NEW THREE-YEAR PACT REFRIGERATION TECHNICIAN COURSE STILL AVAILABLE AT PINEY POINT NEDLLOYD HOLLAND CREWMEMBERS COME TO AID OF LONE BOATMAN SEAFARERS JOIN PROTESTS AGAINST PUERTO RICAN LABOR LAW REVERSALS NAFTA NIGHTMARE COMES TRUE IN AMERICA EFFORTS UNDER WAY TO STOP BILL REDUCING RUNAWAY-FLAG LIABILITY SAB ISSUES SENIORITY CLARIFICATION FOR GRADUATES OF TANKER OPS CLASS LEARNING IS THE KEY, GRADUATING STEWARDS TELL FELLOW SEAFARERS RECERTIFIED STEWARD DICARLO FOLLOWS IN FATHER’S FOOTSTEPS AMERICAN MERLIN CREW REELS ‘EM IN WWII MARITIME POSTER ART EXHIBIT STRIKING NEWSPAPER WORKERS SUPPORTED BY SIU MEMBERS CRUSADOR CREW KEEPS SHIP STEAMING ALONG SEAFARERS RETURN TO SEA-LAND EXPEDITION FOLLOWING LAYUP SEAFARERS PREPARE FOR YEAR-LONG REFURBISHING OF PASSENGER SHIP LONG LINES OPERATION DEEMED ‘A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE’ FERRY CREW EXECUTES 2 RESCUES IN A WEEK; SEAFARERS WILLETTE AND TERZAKOS HONORED 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 09/01/1995 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. 9 1995 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/1de0900e2d3610a365e1aa6e746740fe.pdf b387bbaad19c8eebe045fbfbfd80f433 PDF Text Text Anti-Jones Act Bills Are Bottled in Congress Measure Threatening Cabotage Law Surfaces in House Page3 THE COALITION IMMEDIATE ATTENTION P~uuiftt Ww!Nt J Amnu U J_C"-'"' et<-• ! block conarc11io ... cfforU to reduce the lllC of aovc~ which would dveaten the only srowdl area i.n unioa mernbcnbip - public sector worken _ who now accouat for more than 40 pcrcem of AFV CIO mcmbe11; and enlist the media 10 prey on workers' UWC1ica ~d unccriaintiol a.. chlnlina economic times thu1 roviiall" the UNl>I\ mowmenl. LNG Seafarers Ratify 5-Year Agreement Seafarers who sail aboard vessels operated by Energy Transportation Corp. last month overwhelmingly approved a new five-year contract that increases wages and benefits while providing job security into the next century. Voting took place aboard each of the eight LNG vessels while they were docked in Japan. Shown above are members from several of the ships casting their "aye" votes. PageB The oraanization members o(The Coalition havo all aareed to ~d ~ univenal fundrais ' peal with their respective members. For small and mid·11aed buunc11c1 ~ havt ans ap . . al sl 10 cm loyee co match oraanized labor'• $3, million sugcstcd a conh. thnbutton, equto SI COIO ~r u~ rner:m,cr For larger businesses such as yours, we Na&tlt usc11mcnt, " 1c amoun • . .... . your CONldcration o( I contribution based Upotl the follawin& formula. tivmbcr gf Emoloyccs • up to 10,000 employees • • • 10,001 tol5,000cmp\oyccs 2,,001 io 100,000 cmplO)ICCS 100,001 and up 1996 Voter RegistraUon Deadlines Approach 'ontribution S1.80 per cmplO)'CC $20,000 to $25,000 s2,.ooo to S5o,ooo SS0,000 to $75,000 The Coalition is 111 exceptionally broad-based effort, des1Jt1atcd to maximize financial resources necessary for advertisins buys. Our request is uracnt. Tune 1s of lhc euence and we a.sk f'or your prompt respontc co tlus request. Election Day is November 5, but in most states, there is one date in early October that is just as important. That is when all but a few voter registration offices close their books. In order to help ensure that SIU members are registered, this issue of the Seafarers LOG contains detailed information about registration and polling in the U.S. and its territories. Page 10 �President's Report A Glimpse at the Future There are very few opportunities in life when anyone has the chance to see the future. One of those times happened last month when I joined with fellow SIU officials, AFL-CIO President John Sweeney and representatives from other labor unions to inspect the first double-hulled tanker to be built in a U.S. shipyard since the enactment of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990. The union-contracted Newport News Shipbuilding is working on the first of its Double Eagle-class tankers. While the one presently under construction in the Virginia shipyard will fly a foreign flag, work will begin soon on the first of five U.S.-flag tankers that will be operated by Interocean Ugland Management for Hvide-V an Ommeren. And, as announced earlier this year, Seafarers will crew the tankers. The first of the five is expected to be ready for sailing sometime in 1998. The Double Eagle project means a great deal to our industry and our nation. First and foremost, it is producing jobs. The construction aspect alone will create and maintain approximately 12,000 union jobs for steelworkers, operating engineers, electricians and plumbers. Then, when the fleet is transporting oil along the nation's Atlantic and Gulf coasts, it will provide more than 100 jobs for SIU members well into the next century. Next, the Double Eagle project shows that American know-how combined with union craftsmen still can compete with and beat the best that exists or is produced anywhere else in the world. These vessels will set the standard that others will follow. Thanks to their double hulls, the Double Eagles are designed to be environmentally sensitive and meet the guidelines set forth in OPA '90. The tour of the Newport News shipyard showed the facility is ready to meet the demands of commercial shipbuilding through the use of a skilled union workforce, bigger cranes and state-of-the-art technology. But, most important of all, the Double Eagle project shows a strong faith in the future of the U.S.-flag merchant marine. As the present tanker fleet approaches the cutoff dates set by OPA ' 90 for sailing in the domestic waters, new vessels must be ready and available to move America's goods. The Double Eagle project will meet that challenge so the nation can continue counting on Seafarers to deliver petroleum and other cargo aboard U.S.-flag vessels. The construction of these vessels also is proof that the Jones Act-the nation's freight cabotage law-will continue to play an important role in America's economic and national security. These ships will sail in domestic trade where they will help contribute to the billions of dollars generated each year for the U.S. economy through the jobs and services associated with the Jones Act. Seafarers have shown they are worthy of this faith. SIU members have a long and proud history of answering the nation's call during times of war or national emergency. They are the best-trained merchant mariners in the world, thanks to the vocational upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center. And SIU members are ready to meet this new challenge of crewing the Double Eagles. Thanks to this little glimpse ahead, the future of the SIU as well as the nation's shipbuilding industry promises great things as we sail into the 21st century. Sweeney Meets With Double Eagle Builders AFL-CIO President John Sweeney (right) talks with union shipbuilders during a tour of Newport News (Va.) Shipbuilding on August 16. Sweeney, SIU President Michael Sacco and other union officials inspected the facility where five U.S.-flag, SIU-crewed, double-hulled tankers will be built beginning next year. Behind Sweeney is the hull for the first Double Eagle-class tanker, which will fly a foreign flag. Volume 58, Number 9 ~ 71 • September 1996 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 207909998 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. 2 Seafarers LOG Big Business Shakes Dawn Companies Ta Finance Anti-Worker Ad Campaign A group of corporate interests, led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is putting the squeeze on other businesses to orchestrate a campaign against the recent political education effort launched by the AFL-CIO earlier this year. Calling itself simply "The Coalition," the Washington, D.C.based organization is urging businesses and companies to "contribute" as much as $75,000 each to bankroll ads attacking the nation's federation of trade unions, of which the SIU is a member. In a letter dated May 31 and sent to the chief officials of major businesses in the United States, "The Coalition" warns that the AFL-CIO is out "to 'unseat' the pro-business majority in Congress by targeting 75 congressional incumbents." In fact, the address listed on "The Coalition's" letterhead is the same as the U.S. Chamberof Commerce headquarters in Washington, D .C. The telephone number on the stationery is listed in the 1996-97 District of Columbia telephone directory as being the congressional relations office for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Repeal Labor Laws One of the objectives of "The Coalition" as stated in the letter is to return the nation "to 1930'sstyle labor laws." Prior to the creation of the Wagner Act in 1935, workers-including mariners- THE COALITION _ .................._ ... ............ ............. ................ ......... -.-......... _,_,,....,,. _.....,....... .,__ ...,._..,.._.....,. ._ •-.vLdO ............... ........ ,._. .....,.~ __ .._-.~ ._ ., _~_ . .. ._,...._ ....,.T _._.._,~ ___ ~ -- .....,.n. ................,__..,._, ..... fl .. Ml.OO"o _ . . . W . . . . _..._. ......._. .. ,....... ...... a......... "_.. ............ ....._. . .. .............._ ....... -----...... ................. .. All.40 .... . ... _......c....., ..... -..111 . . . . ...... . --~ . ..... ---. - ............... .....,__9111111111 ............... ........,..... ...............,..... ___ ~ • . ~ ..... __ __ =--==----. . ___________ .-.. . _ .._...,.... .. . . . ...,_... ............ _fl, . . . _ . . . ........,. ~ ...,. _ ~ ...-flAft.,. - ............ ____ -=_ --- ........... Letters like these are being sent to the chief executives of companies to bankroll an anti-worker advertising campaign during this election year. barely had the ability to organize. Attempts to do so were overwhelmed by business bosses who broke up workers' protests through the use of local police forces and hired goon squads. The famous "Bloody Thursday" incident took place in San Francisco during this period on July 5, 1934 when mariners honored a strike by longshoremen who were seeking an increase over Trade Organizations Bankroll Attacks on Labor In February, the executive council of the AFL-CIO announced it would launch a $35 million political education campaign to let American workers know how members of Congress were voting on issues of importance to them. The radio and television ads have played in cities and towns all across America, providing information on votes cast by individual elected officials on such issues as Medicare, Social Security, the budget and minimum wage. Big business, led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is trying to keep the AFL-CIO' s message off the airwaves. It has created an anti-worker organization, dubbed "The Coalition," to bankroll an effort to run ads against AFL-CIO President John Sweeney and others seeking to promote legislation for working men and women. According to its stationery, "The Coalition" is based in the office of congressional relations at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. In a fund-raising letter to business executives dated May 31, the group states it is "under no obligation to make the donor list public and it is our intention to keep the list confidential." However, its letterhead does list 28 organizations which have pledged to seek up to $75,000 per member to finance the anti-worker effort. The members of "The Coalition" executive committee include: American Bakers Association American Furniture Manufacturers Association American Insurance Association American Petroleum Institute American Trucking Associations American Wholesale Marketing Association Americans for Tax Reform Associated Builders and Contractors Associated General Contractors of America Business Leadership Council Citizens for a Sound Economy Environmental Industry Association Food Distributors International International Franchise Association International Mass Retail Association National Association of Convenience Stores National Association of Independent Insurers National Association of Manufacturers National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors National Council of Chain Restaurants National Federation of Independent Business National Paper Trade Association National Printing Equipment Suppliers Association National Restaurant Association National Retail Federation National Roofing Contractors Association Printing Industries of America/Master Printers of America U.S. Chamber of Commerce the $10 weekly salary they were being paid. Shipowners and port officials tried to break the strike by running loaded trucks through the picket lines. Police attacked the lines and a riot ensued, leaving two picketers dead. Attacks AFL-CIO Efforts The anti-worker group warns its members that the AFL-CIO is attempting to "geta union-friendly Congress, which would then be expected to rewrite the nation' s labor laws to increase union membership, bargaining clout and economic weapons." "The Coalition" goes on to claim the AFL-CIO is trying to "enlist the media to prey on workers' anxieties and uncertainties in changing economic times and thus revitalize the union movements." And, in a separate letter dated August 20, the group states it has been involved in the effort to keep AFL-CIO ads off the airwaves. While urging business leaders to enlist their companies within "The Coalition," the group states the main threat to its objectives is an effort by environmentalists, consumer activists, trial lawyers, labor and "other anti-business constituencies" to oppose legislation sought by big business, including free trade. Further, while claiming in the May 31 letter that the anti-worker organization would "not involve explicit support for or opposition to any political party or candidate," the August 20 letter states the campaign is being coordinated by former Republican National Committee communications director Chuck Greener. Sugested Contributions In order to support its advertising efforts, "The Coalition" suggests small and mid-size businesses contribute $1.80 per employee. For larger businesses, the scale begins at $20,000 to $25,000 for companies with 10,000 to 25,000 employees. For those with more than 100,000 employees, "The Coalition" recommends $50,000 to $75,000. In an attempt to acquire more money for the anti-worker cause, the May 31 letter notes, "Legal counsel has advised us that we are under no obligation to make the donor list public, and it is our intention to keep the list confidential." September 1996 �Anti-Jones Act Bill Bottled in House Measure Sent to Panels Opposed to Any Changes A last-minute effort to gut the Jones Act appears to be blocked in the House of Representatives because of widespread bipartisan support among the panel and subcommittee members who have jurisdiction over a newly introduced bill. Because the measure was submitted so late in the congressional session, it has very little chance for passage when Congress returns after Labor Day, noted Terry Turner, SIU governmental relations director. The union has long opposed efforts to alter or eliminate the Jones Act. Just hours before members of the House and Senate left Capitol Hill in early August for their summer recess, Rep. Nick Smith (RMich.) introduced the Coastal Shipping Competi6on Act (H.R. 4006). The bill proposes to alter the nation's freight cabotage law (the Jones Act) by allowing foreign-flag, foreign-built vessels to carry cargo between U.S. ports. The measure was assigned to both the House Transportation Committee and the House National Security Committee, both of which have oversight on matters I dealing with maritime issues. However, the chances for movement of H.R. 4006 may be minimal because of an April 15 statement of support for the Jones Act signed by 19 legislators, including the complete membership of the House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel. The panel is part of the National Security Committee and would be the first congressional group to consider H.R. 4006. Support Existing Law In presenting the letter to the House, the panel's vice chairman, Rep. Randy "Duke" Cunningham (R-Calif.), stated the group's "commitment to America's cabotage laws is unanimous. We will continue to oppose any changes to these important laws." The remaining five elected officials to sign the statement are members of the Transportation Committee, with four of them serving on the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee. That subcommittee would be the first component of the committee to review the anti-Jones Act legislation. Denouncing H.R. 4006 as it was introduced was the Maritime Local Support Grows for Keeping I Cabotage Laws Intact : Cabotage Task Force, a coalition of more than 400 transportation and maritime-related organizations (including the SIU) to promote the Jones Act. "We believe the benefits of the Jones Act will not be overlooked and that H.R. 4006 will not be enacted this year," noted Phil Grill, chairman of the task force. "All 14 members of the Merchant Marine Panel, which has jurisdiction over this bill, have publicly announced their opposition. In addition, a majority of the members of the House Coast Guard Subcommittee, enough to prevent passage of any changes to the Jones Act, have publicly opposed similar legislation," Grill added. Senate Bill Denounced H.R. 4006 is similar to a measure introduced in the Senate in May by Sen. Jesse Helms (R-N.C.). S. 1813, also called the Coastal Shipping Competition Act, was strongly attacked by 71 retired U.S. Navy flag officers who said the introduction of foreign-built, foreign-crewed and foreignowned vessels into the U.S. domestic trades "would significantly lower our safety standards, and it could destroy the American shipping industry." Speaking on behalf of the officers, who make up the American Security Council, . retired Navy Reserve Rear Admiral Robert H. Spiro Jr. added the group "believes that the U.S. merchant fleet has been our lifeline of freedom." No hearings have been scheduled in Congress for either of the measures. U.S. Ship Bill Set for Senate's Return Maritime Security Act A waits Final Congressional Action As the Senate returns from its summer recess, one major piece oflegislation that awaits its consideration is the Maritime Security Act (H.R. 1350). This measure, which cleared the House of Representatives with strong bipartisan support last December, would create a 10-year, $1 billion program to help fund approximately 50 militarily useful U.S.flag vessels. The SIU supports the legislation and has testified in favor of it during hearings held in both the House and Senate. Urges September Vote While the Senate was preparing to leave for the recess in July, Sen. Trent Lott (R-Miss.) urged his colleagues to pass the bill when they resumed work on Capitol Hill in September. Lott, who as majority leader is the highest ranking member of the Senate, said the legislation "will ensure that our nation will continue to have access to both a fleet of militarily useful U.S.-flag commercial vessels and a cadre of trained and loyal U.S.-citizen crews." He then went into some of the details of the bill, which calls on the companies who receive the funds to not only make their ships available to the military in times of war or national emergency, but also their infrastructure. "What's more, under this bill, our military planners will gain access to the onshore logistical and intermodal capabilities of these U.S.-flag operators. Instead of just getting a ship, our military gets access to port facilities worldwide, state-of-the-art computer tracking systems, intermodal loading and transfer equipment, and so on," Lott added. (H.R. 1350 also allows the military to use the vessels in the program to move cargo during times of peace.) National Security Needs The Mississippi senator emphasized the importance of the legislation to America's national security. "In order to protect our military presence overseas, we must have a modem, efficient and reliable military sealift. On this point, the assessment of our nation's top military leaders is unequivocal. "Our military needs a U.S.-flag merchant marine to carry supplies to our troops overseas. We cannot, in fact, rely on foreign ships and foreign crews to deliver supplies into hostile areas," the son of a union shipyard worker stated. Lott is a longtime supporter of the U.S.-flag merchant marine. Prior to his election by his fellow Republicans to the position of majority leader following the resignation of Bob Dole, the Mississippi legislator was the chairman of the Senate Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Subcommittee. Bipartisan Support His request for the Senate to act on H.R. 1350 followed statements of support from other members of the Senate from both political parties. Among the elected officials to recently speak out for the Maritime Security Act are Senators Robert Smith (R-N.H.), John Warner (R-Va.), Ted Stevens (RConti.nued on page 4 Support at the local level for preserving the Jones Act continues to grow across the country. Just days before Rep. Nick Smith (R-Mich.) introduced on August 2 a measure attempting to alter the nation's freight cabotage law, Byron Kelley, SIU vice president for the Great Lakes, told the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force that the Jones Act is as important on the northern waterways as it is elsewhere in the country. In his July 25 address, Kelley pointed out that any measure allowing foreign-crewed, foreign-built and foreign-owned vessels to carry American domestic cargo could have drastic implications on other forms of transportation based in the area. ''What happens when the ripple effect of shifting cargoes from U.S. road carriers to foreign water carriers lowers demand for new trucks, parts and tires-all industries which are essential to the health of the economy for the Great Lakes region?" Kelley asked during the Capitol Seafarers who operate Mc- separate contracts for each of the Hill meeting, which included several members of Congress. Allister ship docking tugs in the ports. This new five-year agreeHe reminded the group of its steadfast support for the Jones Act and ports of Philadelphia, Baltimore ment, however, brought together "the effort to defeat those who would undermine U.S. maritime policy and Norfolk, Va. have ratified a delegates from the three ports to with sound bites and outright lies." contract that improves wages, negotiate one master pact coverThe Great Lakes Maritime Task Force promotes the U.S.-flag medical benefits and working con- ing all Seafarers working aboard maritime industry on the Great Lakes. Its membership includes shipping ditions into the next century. McAllister vessels. companies, shipyards, labor unions and other U.S.-flag maritime-related Negotiators from the port of The agreement, which is businesses. retroactive to May 1, covers SIU Philadephia included SIU AssisOn the other side of the country, 29 maritime industry and labor members who sail aboard Mc- tant Vice President Dave Heindel, organizations working together as the Hawaii Chapter of the Maritime Allister tugboats in all three ports. Patrolmen Jim Malone and Joseph Cabotage Task Force continue to push for the islands' domestic maritime In the past, union and company Soresi, Captain Jeff Parkins and transportation industry. representatives negotiated Deckhand George Lord. "Without the Jones Act, Hawaii would need to invest hundreds of millions of dollars in new warehouses and distribution systems to replace the excellent ocean shipping schedule Oahu and the neighbor islands now receive," noted SIU Honolulu Port Agent Neil Dietz, who serves as co-chairman of the chapter. "We want beaches on our beaches, not warehouses on our beaches,'' he added during an August 6 meeting with members of the press. Dietz noted the nation's cabotage laws-the Jones Act and the Passenger Vessel Services Act-employ more than 6,000 workers and generate more than $400 million annually in labor expenditures in Hawaii. "Cabotage laws prevent foreign companies, subsidized by foreign governments, from stealing Hawaii business and jobs from Hawaii residents and companies," Dietz stated. The Jones Act is the name given to the portion of the Merchant Marine Act of 1920 that deals with the movement of cargo from one domestic port to another, known as cabotage. The measure, named for its sponsor, Sen. Wesley Jones of Washington, states that freight moved between two U.S. ports must be carried aboard U.S.-flag, U.S.-built and U.S.crewed vessels. The Passenger Vessel Services Act permits only U.S.flag, U.S.-built and U.S.-crewed ships to move passengers from American port to another. Besides Smith's bill, a similar measure attacking the Jones Act was introduced in the Senate in May. So far, neither the House nor the Senate Seafarers who sail aboard Turecamo tugboats in the Philadelphia area, has scheduled any hearings on the legislation to alter the Jones Act. recently approved a new five-year contract, as did McAllister SIU boatmen. Philadelphia Seafarers Approve Pacts With Two Ship Docking Companies September 1996 From the port of Norfolk, negotiators included Port Agent Mike Paladino, Captain George Thompson, Chief Engineer George Noble, Mate Robert Walker ·and Deckhand Robert King. From Baltimore, Port Agent Dennis Metz, Captain Jeff Fackett, Engineer Joe Zorbach and Deckhand Lance Watts represented the union in the talks. The pact calls for wage increases throughout the life of the contract, improvements in working conditions and expanded health benefits for SIU members and their dependents. For the first time, dependents of Seafarers will be covered by a dental plan, while dependent medical coverage has been extended to include 100 percent coverage of reasonable and customary charges. In addition, the medical and optical benefits for SIU members have been improved. "Considering all of the issues we have before us in the maritime industry in addition to the state of the ship docking industry, we feel that we got a very good agreement,'' stated Heindel. "This was the first set of negotiations that I ever participated in," noted Lord. "It was Conti.nued on page 4 Seafarers LOG 3 �Committee Reviews Credentials for Union Election The credentials committee, made up of six rank-and-file Seafarers, has reviewed all nominating petitions of SIU members seeking office in the 1996 district-wide elections in the union's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District. The full text of the credentials committee report appears on page 6. After meeting throughout the first half of August and studying the nomination applications to ensure each candidate had complied with the criteria spelled out in the SIU' s constitution, the credentials committee issued its report, which will be presented to the membership for its approval at the September meetings. Thirty candidates for 27 ballot positions qualified to run in the election, which takes place November 1 through December 31, the committee reported. Members of the committee were elected at the August headquarters membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. Voted to the committee by their fellow Seafarers were Recertified Steward Laura Cates, from the port of Seattle; Recertified Steward Ivan Salis, from the port of Jacksonville, Fla.; AB Michael P. Mahoney, from the port of Philadelphia; Wiper John McLain, from the port of Philadelphia; Captain Jake Joyce, from the port of Philadelphia; and QMED Charles J. Pomraning, from the port of Piney Point. McLain was selected by the committee members to serve as chairman. During the August 5 meeting, SIU Secretary-Treasurer John Fay called the election to order for the credentials committee positions. Members had to present their union books in order to be nominated to the committee. Each person seeking to serve introduced himself or herself to the membership before voting took place. Results immediately were made known. Working and Voting on the OS Philadelphia Each Department Represented The union constitution establishes guidelines for the credentials committee in Article XIII, Section 2. According to those rules, the committee must be elected at the port where headquarters is located (Piney Point). The credentials committee must comprise six full-book members, including two members from each of the three shipboard departments: deck, engine and steward. Additionally, no elected official or candidate for union office is permitted to serve on the committee. Members seeking the position of president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, vice president, assistant vice president, one of two headquarters representative positions or one of 10 port-agent posts had to submit nominating papers between July 15 and August 15. Seafarers on the Overseas Philadelphia were among the first crewmembers who voted on the new standard contract while aboard ship. On June 8, when the Maritime Overseas vessel was docked in Portland, Ore., the SIU crew unanimously approved the five-year agreement, which calls for increases in wages and benefits, among other gains. After the vote, Seafarers quickly returned to work. ABOVE: Bosun Jerry Borucki operates a crane to hook up the ship's access ladder. BELOW, from left: OS Mike Holly, Second Mate Chris Altback and Borucki are ready for the next assignment. BOTTOM: a view of the ship from the fly deck. Members of the rank-and-file credentials committee pose for a photograph before beginning their work. From the left are Steward Laura Cates, Steward Ivan Salis, AB Michael P. Mahoney, Wiper John McLain, Captain Jake Joyce and QMED Charles J. Pomraning. President Signs Health Care Bill Measure Calls for Insurance Portability Tug Crews Vote on Contracts President Clinton on August 21 signed into law health care legislation that will enable American workers to keep their insurance if they lose or change jobs. The Health Care Availability and Affordability Act (H.R. 3103), which had near-unanimous support from Congress, also strictly limits insurance companies' ability to deny medical coverage to citizens with preexisting conditions. The legislation's insurance changes will take effect July l, 1997, while a four-year experiment with medical savings accounts will start January 1. The AFL-CIO, the national federation of trade unions (of which the SIU is a member), supported the health care reform bill, sponsored by Senators Nancy Kassebaum (R-Kan.) and Edward Kennedy (DMass.). However, the federation and many other backers pointed out that, among other shortcomings, the bill does nothing for many of the 40 million Americans who don't have insurance. "While this legislation does not address the still serious and unmet need for broad health care reform, it does what appears to be possible to accomplish in this Congress-it provides insurance portability, a much needed remedy to the problem of insurance loss that too often comes with a job change or unemployment," stated AFL-CIO President John J. Sweeney. "The bill also makes important progress in addressing the problems of Americans who have been excluded from coverage because of preexisting conditions. This is a step in the right direction." President Clinton described the bill's passage as "a long overdue victory for the millions of Americans who live in fear of losing their health insurance." Despite its flaws, H.R. 3103 is the first major piece of health insurance legislation passed by both houses of Congress in a decade. In 1986, a measure was passed that allowed workers who leave jobs to temporarily retain coverage under their former employer's insurance plan by paying 100 percent of the premiums. (Because of the expense and the time limit, this type of coverage is intended to be utilized as a stopgap measure until a worker secures coverage 4 Seafarers LOG at his or her new job.) The new bill bars insurance companies from denying coverage to people if they change or lose their jobs, even if they have preexisting medical problems. Insurers will be permitted to create new policies for people moving from group to individual coverage, but restrictions will be implemented to keep the premiums for such policies affordable. Similar protection is called for in instances where workers leave an employer-sponsored health plan and attempt to secure their own insurance. But in all of these cases, the level of protection probably will vary according to where a person lives, because regulation of premiums is left to the states. While there was overwhelming support for portability and offering coverage to people who have preexisting conditions, the legislation's most severe sticking point involved the use of tax-sheltered medical savings accounts. For the most part, Democrats opposed such accounts, while Republicans favored them. People who secured such accounts would use that money to pay for minor and routine medical expenses. Presumably, they also would purchase fairly inexpensive policies, with high deductibles, to cover major illnesses or injuries. Kennedy cautioned that in this scenario, well-off, healthy people would be most likely to establish the medical savings accounts, while the poor and the sick would remain in the traditional insurance market, where rates undoubtedly would rise. The AFL-CIO expressed similar concerns. Sweeney warned that the accounts "will be used primarily by th~ wealthy and the healthy to the disadvantage of the overall insurance system." With the disagreement regarding the accounts looming as a threat that might block passage of the overall legislation, a compromise was reached that calls for a four-year experiment involving no more than 750,000 families who may enroll in medical savings accounts. The two sides agreed to carefully monitor the growth and effects of the accounts. Congress then will decide whether to let the program continue. Continued from page 3 great getting around the bargaining table with guys from all three ports with everyone looking out for the same goal. I feel that we got some things put on the table that we really needed," the Philadelphia native added. Also reaching an agreement late last month were Seafarers who work aboard Turecamo ship docking tugs operating in the port of Philadelphia. The five-year Turecamo agreement includes wage increases and improved medical benefits for Seafarers and their dependents, according to Heindel. Maritime Bill Awaits Senate Vote Continued from page 3 Alaska) and Charles Robb (DVa. ). Recent backing for the Maritime Security Act also has been given by Deputy Defense Secretary John P. White. In an April letter to the Senate, White stated he wanted "to dispel any questions or concerns about the position of the Department of Defense with respect to this legislation." Prior to White's letter, Transportation Secretary Federico Pena and Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger had repeatedly stated the administration's support for the measure. President Bill Clinton has stated he would sign the measure when it clears the Congress. While H.R. 1350 was making its way through the House, hearings on the Senate version of the bill were held by the Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Subcommittee, followed Senator Trent Lott by the full Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee during summer 1995. However, the Senate elected to consider the House version since it had already cleared that chamber of Congress. The Senate and House are expected to remain in session through September before adjourning for the November elections. September 1996 �Paul Hall Center Adds Firefighting Courses For Qualification as Tankerman Assistants Oct. 1 Is STCW Certificate Deadline The Paul Hall Center has added four firefighting courses to its schedule this year in order to help ensure that SIU members who sail as pumpmen, bosuns or ABs aboard tankers are qualified to secure a supplementary form of shipboard identification known as an STCW certificate. The center's Lundeberg School of Seamanship is offering basic firefighting on the following dates: October 14-18, November 18-22, and December 16-20. An advanced firefighting course is scheduled for December 2-13. Bosuns, ABs and pumpmen who sail aboard tankers will have priority when applying for these extra courses. The maximum enrollment in each class is 25 students. If additional spaces are available, they will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. (See page 23 for information about enrolling.) Additionally, as reported in previous issues of the Seafarers LOG, all active deep-sea Seafarers who hold a lifeboat ticket should secure the STCW certificate- which states they are "proficient in the use of survival craft"-by October 1. In the cases of bosuns and ABs who sail aboard tankers, their STCW certificates also must designate them as tankerman assistants AND as a "rating forming part of a navigational watch." In order for ABs, bosuns and pumpmen to receive the tankerman-assistant designation on their STCW certificate, they should go to a U.S. Coast Guard regional exam center (REC) and present their z-card, plus Cischarges or letters indicating at least 90 days' sea time aboard tankers within the last five years, along with certificates reflecting successful completion of a firefighting course. There is no charge for the STCW certificates. Previously, due to the workloads at the RECs, the union recommended that Seafarers apply for certificates by mail. However, given the October 1 deadline, mariners who haven't secured the certificates should consider first telephoning an REC to make sure they can handle the issuance, then Captain Sentenced Under OPA 1 90 For 1994 Puerto Rico Oil Spill The captain of the non-union tug Emily S., held partially responsible for a major oil spill that contaminated a popular beach near San Juan, P.R., has been sentenced under the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90)for his role in the 1994 disaster. Roy McMichael, Jr. was given five years probation, one month of home confinement and 120 hours of community service by a federal magistrate-judge. McMichael was piloting the Emily S., which was towing the barge Morris J. Berman on January 7, 1994, when the towing cable snapped and caused the barge to drift onto a coral reef. Several of the Berman's holds were ripped open, spilling 750,000 gallons of heavy number 6 bunker oil into the water. According to press reports, the towing cable that broke and released the Berman had been mended in a makeshift manner by crewmembers. McMichael has testified that he knew the cable repair was inadequate and failed to notify the U.S Coast Guard of the break. Investigations into the causes surrounding the oil spill revealed that the captain and crew did not realize the barge had broken away until they received a phone call from a company office notifying them that the Berman had run aground. McMichael could have been sentenced to up to a year in prison, as well as been required to pay substantial fines. However, McMichael testified against the owning and operating companies of the tug and barge as well as a company manager, all of whom in April were found guilty of felony violations of U.S. environmental laws, including OPA '90. For his cooperation in the case, McMichael received the lighter sentence of probation, home confinement and community service. The three companies involved, New England Marine Service, the Bunker Group Inc. and Bunker Group of Puerto Rico, are corporately connected to the Frank family of New York and New Jersey, which in 1990 was barred from doing business in New York because of repeated environmental violations. The manager of the Bunker Group of Puerto Rico, Pedro Rivera, faces up to five years in prison. Rivera and the three companies will be sentenced in Puerto Rico on September 9. According to press reports, the sentences against Rivera and the companies to be handed down this month could involve fines and restitution payments of more than $100 million. The cost to clean up the San Juan area following the oil spill was reported to be $81 million. More than 200 SIU members, many of whom are employed aboard Crowley Maritime vessels, were involved in cleaning the San Juan area after the oil spill. Seafarers worked with booms and skimmersand were called out to crew tugs needed to capture the oil from the water. The SIU-crewed Caribbean Responder, an oil spill response vessel operated by Dyn Marine, was involved in the cleanup project. In the end, Seafarers had assisted in the recovery of 336,000 gallons of the oil and were praised by the Coast Guard for their immediate action, which allowed San Juan Harbor to remain open. September 1996 going to the REC to apply. (See list of phone numbers below.) If Seafarers still choose to apply by mail, they should include photocopies of the following: their z-cards, certificates reflecting successful completion of a firefighting course, and discharges or letters proving at least 90 days' sea time aboard tankers. Be sure to indicate that the application is for the STCW certificate, and that the certificate should include the designation "tankerman assistant." Also, keep a photocopy of what has been mailed, for personal records. Seafarers may want to send their information by certified mail to ensure receipt by the Coast Guard. If SIU members have any problems in these matters that are not being addressed at the RECs, they may contact the Paul Hall Center at (301) 994-0010, extension 5270. The STCW certificate is a letter-size piece of paper listing a mariner's ratings and any applicable limitations including medical waivers. It utilizes terminology to create a universal form of identification as called for by the STCW convention, but it provides the same information found on a z-card. The standard format was adopted by the nations which signed the STCW agreement in order to facilitate port-state control functions. Ship inspectors will check the standard form rather than reviewing each nation's version of a z-card. This is expected to simplify the inspectors' jobs and thereby bolster shipboard safety. International Agreement STCW stands for the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for mariners. Approximately 100 nations, incJuding the United States, are signatory to the STCW convention. Their fleets represent nearly 95 percent of the world's merchant-ship tonnage. The treaty first was ratified in 1978 and since then has been amended, most recently in 1995. (The SIU regularly participated in the two-year series of meetings leading to last year's amendments.) As its name indicates, its purpose is to help promote and enforce safety at sea by establishing certain standards for the endorsement, training and skills needed by mariners worldwide. According to the STCW amendments which were approved last year (most of which take effect in February 1997), the International Maritime Organization (IMO) will have the authority to enforce the pact's rules on the training and certification of mariners. The IMO, created by the United Nations in 1959 to improve safety at sea, will require reports on the efforts of signatory nations to comply with the updated STCW convention. With the IMO' s expanded enforcement authority, vessels crewed by mariners from flagstates whose training facilities and procedures for certification do not meet the STCW' s standards may be turned away from ports worldwide, the updated agreement states. With that in mind, the shipping industry should have plenty of incentive to help bolster training standards, noted a number of convention participants. As in the past, signatory nations still may have more stringent rules than those set out in the STCW. In those cases, the agreement does not override the laws of countries which maintain higher standards and stricter qualifications. The U.S., for instance, has more rigid laws than the rules of the STCW. U.S. Coast Guard Regional Examination Centers' Telephone Numbers Anchorage, AK (907) 271-6733 or271-6735 41 962-5132 617 223-3040 803 724-7693 ! Baltimore, MD Boston, MA Charleston, SC Honolulu, HI Houston, TX Juneau, AK Long Beach, CA Ol ! 808! 522-8258 713 947-0044 907 463-2450 (310) 980-4483 or980-4485 901) 544-3297 305) 536-6548 504 589-6183 212 668-6395 503 240-9346 314 539-2657 510 437-3092 or437-3093 (206) 217-6115 (419) 259-6394 or 259-6395 Memphis, TN Miami, FL New Orleans, LA New York, NY Portland, OR St. Louis, MO Alameda, CA Seattle, WA Toledo, OH President Pushes Ports' Success, Jobs During Calilorn· ress Seafarers Attend August Event in Long Beach Dozens of Seafarers were among an audience of approximately 1,000 people who turned out for an address by President Clinton last month on the docks in Long Beach, Calif. With an SIU-crewed Matson ship at anchor in the background, the president talked about the success of Southern California's ports, the need for fair trade laws and the importance of maintaining and creating high-wage jobs. "The speech was beautiful," stated Ike Givens, a retired member of the Marine Cooks & Stewards who attended the event August 8. "President Clinton always talks about the working class, and it's evident he wants to help working people." "He really emphasized the amount of business done at the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles," added Wilmington, Calif. SIU Port Agent George Tricker. "It was very worthwhile to be there." Shipyard workers, longshoremen and port employees also joined the crowd that gathered at Long Beach Harbor to hear the president. "I'm here to celebrate the success of the ports," Clinton told the approving audience. ''They are the largest in our nation, and they are the gateway to the future." The president noted that the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach combined last year handled more than $150 billion in cargo. He also pointed out that California's exports substantially increased from 1993 to 1995. "This is only the beginning," he said. ''The best is yet to come." Regarding personal income 1' ~ ~"" and job growth throughout the nation, Clinton stated that in 1995, more than half the new jobs created in the United States paid greater than average wages "largely because they were in the industries and the activities of the future, and they were tied into global trade and our ability to be more productive and more competitive than anybody else in the things that we do well. "You are going to benefit if you will continue supporting this approach," he added. ''This should be an American issue, not a Republican issue, not a Democratic issue. This should be something that we say as Americans we're committed to more trade both free and fair. And we are going to be aggressive in promoting our economic interests around the world. That will help us, but it will help others as well, because it will help other people to grow their economy and to be even better trading partners with us in the future." Isaac "Ike" Givens, retired member of the Marine Cooks & Stewards (which merged with the SIU in 1978), listens as the president discusses the success of Southern California's ports. Seafarers LOG 5 l I �Credentials Approved for Candidates to 27 Union Offices Rank-and-file Seafarers, elected during the August membership meeting to serve as the credentials committee, met last month to review the credentials of SIU members seeking to run for union office. What follows is the complete text of the credentials committee report which is being submitted for approval by the SIU membership during this month's meetings. Report of Credentials Committee On Candidates for 1996 Election Of Officers, 1997-2000 SIUNA·AGLIWD We, the undersigned members of the Credentials Committee, were duly elected at the regular membership meeting held in Headquarters-Port of Piney Point on August 5, 1996. We have examined the credentials of candidates for elective office or job in the Seafarers International Union of North America-Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District for the years 1997-2000, in accordance with Article XI, Section l, and submit the following report. Your Committee qualified or disqualified those members who submitted for office based upon the Union Constitution, particularly those provisions contained in Articles XII and xm. The applicable constitutional provisions are as follows: ARTICLE XII, Qualifications for Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Headquarters Representatives, Port Agents, and Other Elective Jobs. Section 1. Any member of the Union is eligible to be a candidate for, and hold, any office or the job of Assistant Vice-President, Headquarters Representative, or Port Agent provided: (a) He has at least three (3) years of seatime in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels. In computing time, time spent in the employ ofthe Union, its subsidiaries and its affiliates, or in any employment at the Union's direction, shall count the same as seatime. Union records, Welfare Plan records and/or company records can be used to determine eligibility; and (b) He has been a full book member in continuous good standing in the Union for at least three ( 3) years immediately prior to his nomination; and (c) He has at least one hundred (JOO) days ofseatime, in an unlicensed capacity, aboard an American-flag vessel or vessels covered by contract with this Union or one hundred ( 100) days of employment with, or in any office or job of, the Union, its subsidiaries and its affiliates, or in any employment at the Union's direction or a combination of these, between January 1 and the time of nomination in the election year, except if such seatime is wholly aboard such merchant vessels operating solely upon the Great Lakes or, if such seatime is wholly aboard tugboats, towboats or dredges and contractual employment thereon is for fixed days with equal amount of days off, he shall have at least sixty-five (65) days of such seatime instead of the foregoing one hundred (100) days; and ( d) He is a citizen ofthe United States ofAmerica; and ( e) He is not disqualified by law. He is not receiving a pension from this Union's Pension Fund, if any, or from a UnionManagement Fund to which Fund this Union is a party or from a company under contract with this Union. (f) He has not sailed in a licensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels within 24 consecutive months immediately prior to the opening of nominations. Section 2. All candidates for, and holders of, other elective jobs not specified in the preceding sections shall be full book members of the Union. Section 3. All candidates for, and holders ofelective offices andjobs, whether elected or appointed in accordance with this Constitution, shall maintain full book membership in good standing. ARTICLE XIII, ElectionforO!ficers, Assistaht Vice-Presidents, Headquarters Representatives and Port Agents. Section 1. Nominations. Except as provided in Section 2(b) of this Article, any full book member may submit his name for nomination for any office, or the job of Assistant Vice-President, Headquarters Representative, or Port Agent, by delivering or causing to be delivered in person, to the office of the Secretary-Treasurer at Headquarters, or sending, a letter addressed to the Credentials Committee, in care of the SecretaryTreasurer, at the address ofHeadquarters. This letter shall be dated and shall contain the following: (a) The name of the candidate. (b) His home address and mailing address. (c) His book number. (d) The title of the office or other job for which he is a candidate including the name of the Port in the event the position sought is that of Port Agent. 6 Seafarers LOG (e) Proof of citizenship. (f) Proof of seatime and/or employTTumt as required for candidates. (g) In the event the member is on a vessel, he shall notify the Credentials Committee what vessel he is on. This shall be done also ifhe ships subsequent to forwarding his credentials. (h) Annexing a certificate in the following form, signed and dated by the proposed nominee: "/hereby certify that I am not now, nor, for the five ( 5) years last past, have 1 been either a member ofthe Communist Party or convicted of, or served any part of a prison term resulting from conviction of robbery, bribery, extortion, embeZl.lement, grand larceny, burglary, arson, violation of narcotics laws, murder, rape, assault with intent to kill, assault which inflicts grievous bodily injury, or violation of Title II or Ill of the Landrum-Griffin Act, or conspiracy to commit any such crimes. " Dated . ....................... . . Signature ofMember . ............ . Book No .. . .. . . .. .. . .. . ..... . . . . . Printed forms of the certificate shall be made available to nominees. Where a nominee cannot truthfully execute such a certificate, but is, in fact, legally eligible for an office or job by reason ofthe restoration of civil rights originally revoked by such conviction or a favorable determination by the Board of Parole of the United States Department of Justice, he shall, in lieu of the foregoing certificate, furnish a complete signed statement of the facts of his case together with true copies of the docu- ments supporting his statement. Any full book member may nominate any other full book member in which event such full book member so nominated shall comply with the provisions ofthis Article as they are set forth herein, relating to the submission of credentials. By reason of the above self nomination provision the responsibility, if any, for notifying a nominee of his nomination to office, shall be that of the nominator. All documents required herein must reach Headquarters no earlier than July 15 and no later than August 15 of the election year. The Secretary-Treasurer is charged with safekeeping of these letters and shall tum them over to the Credentials Committee upon the latter's request. In order to ascertain the meaning of the term "member in good standing" which is used in Article XII, Subsection 1(b ), the Committee referred to Article XXIV, Section 9 of our Constitution which reads as follows: Section 9. The term 'member in good standing' shall mean a member whose monetary obligations to the Union are not in arrears for thirty days or more, or who is not un1er suspension or expulsion effective in accordance with this Constitution. Unless otherwise expressly indicated, the term 'member' shall mean a member in good standing." Your Committee sought guidance from the Union's General Counsel and the Secretary-Treasurer as to whether this section would apply to a member who is unable to pay dues because of employment List of Persons Who Submitted Credentials to the Credentials Committee. PRESIDENT Charles Burdette Collins, C-1652 ............ Qualified - Credentials in order. Michael J. Sacco, S-1288 ......................... Qualified - Credentials in order. EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Joseph M. Sacco, S-1287 ......................... Qualified - Credentials in order. SECRETARY-TREASURER John Fay, F-363 ....................................... Qualified - Credentials in order. VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT William Parker, P-1067 ........................... Qualified - Credentials in order. Augustin Tellez, T-764 ............................ Qualified - Credentials in order. VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST Jack Caffey, C-1010 ................................ Qualified - Credentials in order. VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Dean E. Corgey, C-5727 .......................... Qualified - Credentials in order. VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST Kevin Bertel, B-1832 ............................... Qualified - Credentials in order. George McCartney, M-948 ...................... Qualified - Credentials in order. VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS Byron F. Kelley, K-12039 ....................... Qualified- Credentials in order. VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Roy A. Mercer, M-25001 ..... ... ................ Qualified - Credentials in order. ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OFCONTRACTSANDCONTRACTENFORCEMENT Kermett T. Mangram, M-2394 .. .............. Qualified - Credentials in order. ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST Robert A. Pomerlane, P-437 .................... Qualified - Credentials in order. ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST David W. Heindel, H-1443 ...................... Qualified - Credentials in order. ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST Don Anderson, A-5244 .................... ........ Qualified - Credentials in order. ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS James P. McGee, M-5945 ....................... Qualified - Credentials in order. ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Robert Hall, H-5727 ................................ Qualified - Credentials in order. HEADQUARTERS REPRESENTATIVE Leo Bonser, B-1193 ................................. Qualified - Credentials in order. Carl Peth, P-755 .................... ................... Qualified- Credentials in order. PINEY POINT PORT AGENT Edward "Edd" W. Morris, M-1358 ......... Qualified - Credentials in order. NEW YORK PORT AGENT Robert Selzer, S-1258 .............................. Qualified - Credentials in order. PHILADELPHIA PORT AGENT Joseph Soresi, S-2658 .............................. Qualified - Credentials in order. BALTIMORE PORT AGENT Joseph Allum, A-1275 ............................. Disqualified - Was not in continuous good standing for 3 years prior to time of nomination. Mike Paladino, P-5581 ............................ Qualified- Credentials in order. MOBILE PORT AGENT David M. Carter, C-12088 ....................... Qualified - Credentials in order. Wayne C. Kinsey, K-1027 ....................... Disqualified - Was not in continuous good standing for (3) years prior to time of nomination. NEW ORLEANS PORT AGENT Jose (Joe) Perez, P-846 ............................ Qualified - Credentials in order. HOUSTON PORT AGENT Ambrose L. Cucinotta, C-1795 ................ Qualified - Credentials in order. SAN FRANCISCO PORT AGENT Nick Celona, C-1578 .. .................. ........... Qualified- Credentials in order. ST. LOUIS PORT AGENT Thomas Orzechowski, Jr., 0-601 ............ Qualified - Credentials in order. DETROI~ALGONACPORTAGENT Timothy S. Kelley, K-5287 ..................... Qualified - Credentials in order. aboard an American flag merchant vessel as stated in Article ill, Section 3(e). Your Committee was advised that, in keeping with past practice and constitutional interpretation, the same thirty (30) day grace period should be applied in these situations. Accordingly, whenamemberwhoisworking on foreign articles leaves the vessel, the dues for the applicable quarter must be paid within thirty (30) days from the date of discharge in order to maintain good standing. Your Committee also referred to Article XXIV, Section 13 for the definition of the term "seatime." This section reads as follows: "Section 13. The term 'seatime' shall include employment upon any navigable waters, or days of employment in a contracted employer unit represented by the Union." We also noted in Article XXIV, Section 14, the meaning of the term "in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels." This portion of the Constitution reads as follows: "Section 14. The term 'in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels' shall include persons employed in an unlicensed or licensed capacity aboard dredges, tugboats, towboats and similar vessels used to tow, propel, or push barges or other conveyances or assist merchant vessels in docking or undocking, or persons otherwise employed in a contracted employer unit represented by the Union. " After full and careful deliberations, the Committee made its decisions and sent appropriate notification to candidates. The ultimate decisions of this Committee are later set forth. In arriving at these ultimate decisions, the Committee was most concerned with carrying out a stated principle of our Union which is that "every qualified member shall have the right to nominate himself for, and, if elected or appointed, to hold office in this Union." In connection with the foregoing, we have also consulted with the SecretaryTreasurer who, under our Constitution, has the obligation to insure appropriate election procedures as legally required (Article XIII, Section 7). Our Secretary-Treasurer has further consulted with the Union's Counsel as to the law applicable in Union nominations and elections. On this page is a complete listing of all men who submitted their credentials to the Committee. Their names and the office or job for which they submitted such credentials are listed in the order in which this Committee feels they should be placed on the general ballot, that is, in alphabetical order under the office or job for which they run, and that the Ports, following the Headquarters offices, beginning with Piney Point, be arranged on the ballot geographically, as has been done in the past. After each man's name and book number is his qualification or disqualification, followed by the reason for that decision. As you will note in the foregoing sections of the Committee's Report, the provisions of the SIU Constitution governing election procedures made it mandatory that some of the nominees be disqualified. In light of these circumstances, the Committee wishes to call to the attention of all members the necessity of following all requirements and procedures which are established by our Constitution to govern eligibility to candidacy to Union office. However, at this time, the Committee particularly desires to point out the provisions of Article XIII, Section 2(c) of the Constitution, which spell out in detail the right of a disqualified candidate to appeal from the decision of the Credentials Committee and how he does it. In compliance with Article XIII, Section 2(b) of our Constitution, and in an attempt to give every nominee every consideration and to try to prevent any disqualifications by this Committee, John McLain, Book No. M-2204, of the Credentials Committee, remained at the entrance of the Headquarters building of the Union until midnight of Thursday, August 15, 1996, to receive any credentials that might have been delivered either by mail or by hand after the closing of business hours by the Union. The Committee points out that in the President's Pre-Balloting Report approved by the membership as per the Constitution and published in the May Seafarers LOG the exact offices and jobs for which nominations were to be made was set forth. In passing upon the credentials forcertain of the nominees, this Committee had to make two (2) disqualifications, and the following are the details relative to each of those disqualifications: 1. Joseph Allum, A-1276 - Candidate for Port Agent - Port of Baltimore. Your Committee noted the receipt of a certified letter dated July 22, 1996 addressed to John Fay in which Brother Allum requested his name be placed on the ballot for election to six (6) different elected positions. Your Committee noted that Secretary-Treasurer John Fay, by letter dated July 24, 1996, advised Brother Allum that "any member who satisfies the Constitution's eligibility requirements may run for office for any one (1) of the various positions." Your Committee further noted that Brother Allum, by letter dated July 27, 1996, submitted his name for nomination for that of Port Agent of Baltimore or any other Port Agent position. Your Committee decided to interpret Brother Allum's second letter as one nominating himself for the position of Port Agent of Baltimore. Union records indicate that Brother Allum paid his dues for the Fourth Quarter of 1993 on May 16, 1994, whereas they should have been paid no later than October 31, 1993; Brother Allum paid his dues for the First Quarter of 1994 on May 16, 1994, whereas they should have been paid no later than January 31, 1994; Brother Allum paid his dues for the Second Quarter of 1994 on May 16, 1994, whereas they should have been paid no later than April 30, 1994; Brother Allum paid his dues for the Third Quarter of 1994 on September 7, 1994, whereas they should have been paid no later than July 31, 1994; and Brother Allum paid his dues for the Fourth Quarter of 1994 on January 17, 1995, whereas they should have been paid no later than October 31, 1994. Based upon the provisions of Article XII, Section l(b), and further supported by Article ill, Section 3: Article V and Article XXIV, Section 9, previously carried herein, the Committee disqualified Brother Allum for the job of Port Agent - Port of Baltimore. In accordance with the requirements of Article XIII, Section 2(c) of our Constitution, and in order to assure adequate notice of its decision, the Committee informed Brother Allum of his disqualification by mailgram sent on August 15, 1996 to the address stated in his letter of nomination. Moreover, the mailgram was followed by a Certified Mail Return Receipt Requested letter dated August 15, 1996 from the Committee to Brother Allum that set forth the reason for his disqualification. A copy of the Union Constitution was enclosed with the aforementioned letter so that Brother Allum would have available the procedure to be followed in appeal from the disqualification decision of the Committee. 2. Wayne.Kinsey,K-1027-Candidate for Port Agent - Port of Mobile. Union records indicate that Brother Kinsey paid his dues for the Fourth Quarter of 1993 on November 12, 1993, whereas they should have been paid no later than October 31, 1993. However, since Brother Kinsey was aboard ship on foreign articles and the dues were paid within one month of his discharge, your Committee excused the lateness of this dues payment. Union records also indicate that Brother Kinsey paid his dues for the First Quarter of 1994 on February 4, 1994, whereas they should have been paid no later than January 31, 1994; Brother Kinsey paid his dues for the Second Quarter of 1994 on June 23, 1994, whereas they should have been paid no later than April 30, 1994; and Brother Kinsey paid his dues for the Fourth Quarter of 1994 on December 5, 1994, whereas they should have been paid no later than October 31, 1994. Based upon the provisions of Article XII, Section l(b), and further supported by Article ill, Section 3; Article V and Article XXIV, Section 9, previously carried herein, the Committee disqualified Brother Kinsey for the job of Port Agent - Port of Mobile. In accordance with the requirements of Article XIII, Section 2(c) of our Constitution, and in order to assure adequate notice of its decision, the Committee was advised that Brother Kinsey was currently working aboard a vessel and accordingly, informed him of his disqualification by mailgram sent on August 15, 1996 to him in care of the Padre Island, North American Trailing Company. Moreover, the mailgrarn was followed by a Certified Mail Return Receipt Requested letter dated August 15, 1996 from the Committee to Brother Kinsey at his home address that set forth the reason for his disqualification. A copy of the Union Constitution was enclosed with the aforementioned letter so that Brother Kinsey would have available the procedure to be followed in appeal from the disqualification decision of the Committee. All credentials received as of August 6, 1996, were turned over to the Committee in good order, and those received by mail subsequently, but not later than August 15, 1996, have similarly been furnished to the Committee in good order. All credentials have been examined in strict accordance with the Constitution. Any defect in the credentials disposed of by the Committee has been the sole responsibility of the sender and no person adversely affected by such defect has denied this to the Committee. Fraternally submitted, Credentials Committee. August 16, 1996 September 1996 �Stewards Reach Galley Pinnacle at Piney Point They came to the Paul Hall Center from San Francisco, Seattle, Houston, Honolulu, Jacksonville, Fla., Norfolk, Va., New Bedford, Mass. and Waldorf, Md. with a common goal: attaining the highest level of education the union has to offer members of the steward department. And for the 11 newly recertified stewards, the instruction and training received at the Lundeberg School was well worth it. In remarks delivered during the August membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., each Seafarer noted the importance of his or her accomplishments at the school. "This is the biggest step of my life ... I hope it will continue like this forever," announced Lito Acosta of San Francisco as he thanked union officials and Lundeberg School instructors when he accepted his graduation certificate. "I am very proud to be here today, a graduating recertified steward and an SIU member. I have accomplished one of my dreams," added 47-year-old Dianne Lupton, who sails from the port of Seattle. Lupton summarized the importance of being a Seafarer and continuing to upgrade when she said, "We should all think of being a member of this union the same as being a member of a family ... the SIU family. We have an obligation to do our best and make our family proud. We should take advantage of everything there is to learn here in Piney Point. The SIU is committed to us and we should stay committed to the SIU," she said. The Seafarers completing the five-week steward recertification program received classroom and hands-on training not only in the galley but also in other areas such as first aid, communications principles and computer skills. Professional and Positive In their graduation remarks, all of the stewards revealed details of their lives at sea and stressed the professionalism of SIU members aboard ship. The galley gang members also thanked Chef Allan Sherwin, the director of culinary education at the Lundeberg School, for his guidance. Alonzo Belcher, a 1984 graduate of Piney Point, extended a vote of thanks to union officials for leading him in the "right direction" and to Sherwin for his knowledge and expertise. "Thank you all so very much. This means the world," proclaimed the steward, who sails from the port of Norfolk. Chronicling a difficult past, 40year-old Laura Cates thanked the SIU for giving her "guidance and direction" in her 17 years of sailing. "It's scary to think where I might have ended up. What turned me around was the chance to join the SIU. This is my sixth trip to Piney Point and I promise to go out and give it 110 percent," stated the steward from Seattle. Cates then thanked all union officials and Sherwin for "inspiring the best in all of us." Attending upgrading courses as much as possible helps Seafarers better themselves, noted Richard Seligman. "We must all remember that through education we are helping ourselves give back to the union the best person we can be," the Jacksonville native told his fellow Seafarers. "The more education we receive, the stronger it makes our union," said the 41-year-old. He added that all Seafarers need to be positive and solution-oriented while at sea. Seligman urged crewmembers to "be part of the solution, not part of the problem." A 1980 graduate of the Lundeberg School's trainee program, Ivan Salis noted that Seafarers are "very lucky" to have the opportunity to learn at the school. "Many people don't have the same benefits that we in the SIU do. So, take care of your job and ask yourself daily, 'What have I done to make this union better?' It is up to us to help serve the union," said Salis, a third generation union member, who sails from the port of Jacksonville. A Seafarer since she was 18 years old, Donna Decesare told the audience that by applying herself and maintaining a positive outlook on life, she was able to fulfill her ambition of becoming a recertified steward. "At 18 years old, your whole life is in front of you and many times we don't make the right choices. Fortunately, I did find the SIU, and through the years I have kept coming back to Piney Point to take all the courses offered to me. It has brought me to where I am today--0n this stage accepting my certificate--and I am very grateful," she said. DeCesare reminded other steward department upgraders in the crowd of SIU members to "look, listen and learn! The school is here for you, so apply yourself. "Don't be negative and most of all, be professional. When you get aboard that next ship, you will be trained as the best steward you can be," added DeCesare, who is married to Bosun Johnny Zepeda and sails from the port of Houston. Manuel Faria of New Bedford echoed DeCesare's statements when he urged Seafarers to "keep on upgrading." Stressing the importance oflongrange goals, Maryland native and 1983 Piney Point graduate Glenn Williams told the trainees in the auditorium, "I used to be where you are, and today I am standing up here receiving recognition for the recertified stewards program. You can have your goals and reach them, too," Williams stated. Various Topics The stewards covered an abundance of material during their Lundeberg School stay. They worked on creating new recipes and practiced the most contemporary cooking techniques through a combination of classroom instruction and practical training. Special low-fat and healthful meals were developed by the galley gang members to meet an increased demand by SIU members to maintain a fit lifestyle while at sea. The stewards also studied the safest food-sanitation practices. Because many SIU-contracted companies keep records of the shipboard stores by using computer programs, the students spent time in the school's computer center learning how to maximize their computer skills to order food and other staples while aboard ship. The stewards also took refresher courses in CPR, first aid and firefighting. They also took a course on effective communication styles. Question-and-answer sessions between the stewards and repre- Chef Allan Sherwin (second from left) coaches (from left) Dianne Lupton, Lito Acosta and Donna Decesare on how to create low-fat recipes. sentatives of the SIU's contracts, communications, government affairs, and welfare, training, vacation and pension fund departments also were part of the course. The meetings are designed to help enhance Seafarers' understanding of the union's operations and provide the upgraders with the latest information from each department so that they, in tum, may relay it to crewmembers aboard ships. "I found the whole recertification session to be extremely useful," concluded Lynn McCluskey, who sails from the port of Honolulu. In addition, the stewards met with SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco during a visit to SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. With the union officials, the students were able to discuss matters of importance to the union and the maritime industry. "I am very thankful to our elected union officials who work diligently on providing us with new contracts and continuing the fight for the maritime industry on Capitol Hill," stated Gregory Keen, a 1978 graduate of the union's trainee program. In the Lundeberg School's lecture/demonstration galley, Glenn Williams (left) and Ivan Salis chop vegetables for a stir~fry. -· i Cooking in the lecture/demonstration galley is part of the five-week recertification course. Above, Manuel Faria grills beef ribs. September 1996 Looking through the files of prospective candidates for next year's recertified stewards' classes are three recent graduates of the program. From the left are Manuel Faria of New Bedfor~. Lynn M~Cluskey of Honolulu and Glenn Williams of Piney Point. Each year, graduates from the class, which 1s the highest level of training available at the Paul Hall Center for galley gang mef!lbers, r~view the a~plications on ti.le with the SIU contracts department to determine the Seafarers who will study m the following year's sessions. Seafarers LOG 7 �LNG Crews Approve 5-Year Paci Contract with ETC Provides Job Security 8 Seafarers LOG By an overwhelming majority, Seafarers aboard eight ships operated by Energy Transportation Corporation (ETC) recently approved a five-year contract that increases wages and benefits while providing job security into the next century. Voting took place ftom July 27 through August 18 aboard the ships, which transport liquefied natural gas (LNG) between Indonesia and Japan. SIU Assistant Vice President Bob Hall conducted shipboard meetings with each of the crews. Hall reviewed provisions of the new pact and answered members' questions before a vote was conducted aboard each vessel. ·"Based in part on the contract recommendations made by the membership, we negotiated a five-year agreement in order to help ensure ongoing job security for SIU members who work aboard the LNG carriers," noted SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. "But more important than the length of the contract is the fact that we did not give up one job during the negotiations." Among the pact's other highlights are annual wage increases, expanded health benefits for union members and their dependents, and establishment of an innovative annuity savings plan for individual SIU members (a benefit that is in addition to the SIU wage-related pension). Further, the agreement calls for the creation of an LNG recertification program at the Paul Hal1 Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. The ETC contract, which in many regards parallels the union's standard tanker agreement, will cover SIU members through 2001. The ETC vessels crewed by Seafarers include the Aquarius, Aries, Capricorn, Gemini, Leo, Libra, Taurus and Virgo. September 1996 �Seafarers Back Striking Machinists St. Louis Rally Draws Thousands of Supporters Approximately a dozen SIU members from the port of St. Louis and their families were among the estimated 10,000 trade unionists and other backers who participated in a massive demonstration August 11 in support of Machinists on strike at the McDonnell Douglas plant in that city. The rally, dubbed "March for American Jobs," featured a 3-mile trek that culminated near the company's world headquarters. also based in St. Louis. The event drew union members from several states. "This is the first time I've been part of a rally like this. I was surprised at the number of people who showed up, but the turnout was great," said SA Brian Sargent. "I hope our support helps spur further negotiations and resolve the strike." A 1992 graduate of the Paul Hall Center's program for entrylevel mariners, Sargent noted that his father, Ron, who is a member of the United Auto Workers, also participated with him in the march. Approximately 6, 700 members of the International Association of Machinists' (JAM) District 837 have been on strike at McDonnell Douglas in St. Louis since June 5, after they rejected a contract proposal by the company that threatened their job security. Specifically at issue is the company's increasing amount of "outsourcing"-a fancy name for taking away work from union members and giving it to nonunion contractors. In this case, the aircraft manufacturer also has been transferring work to nonunion plants in Mesa, Ariz. and Macon, Ga. as well as overseas factories. The union also has noted that McDonnell Douglas, America's largest defense contractor-which raked in $770 million in profits last year-has given workers at the St. Louis plant one raise in the last four years and proposed the same for the next four years. The workers build military aircraft and missiles. Following the march, AFLCIO Secretary Treasurer Richard Trumka told the crowd, "America is sick of corporate greed. That's why thousands of people traveled hours to be here today. America is sick of rich corporations sending our best jobs and technologies overseas, and taking huge executive bonuses while laying off loyal American workers. "And McDonnell Douglas is a taxpayer-supported corporation, which makes their behavior doubly offensive," he added. JAM President George Kourpias stated that District 837's battle for job security "is a fight for all American workers. We all have to think about our children and their future. How would it be if we told them they will have to change jobs five times in their lifetime? That wouldn't be right. That wouldn't be American." He pointed out that the Machinists at McDonnell Douglas simply want the same job-security terms that exist elsewhere throughout the industry. "We seek the same basic job-security provisions that already cover workers at Boeing, General Electric, Pratt & Whitney." The job skills of the strikers, as we11 as the folly of McDonnell Douglas' attempts to continue production with out the union members, gained national attention on June 19. That day, a Navy Fl A-18C Hornet fighter crashed outside a St. Louis suburb after having major repair work done by white-collar super_visors at the plant. The test pilot was killed. Despite that incident and the union's warnings against having high-performance aircraft manufactured, inspected and maintained by people untrained and unfamiliar with that complex work, the company later hired approximately 2,000 temporary scabs to work at the plant. "McDonnell Douglas does $9.2 billion a year in business with the U.S. taxpayers, and they are spending millions of our tax dollars hiring, training and housing strikebreakers. That is absolutely unacceptable," observed Kourpias. Negotiations have been sporadic since the strike began, although the union proposed a new contract early last month that the company rejected. Shocking Comments Perhaps the most shocking moment of the Machinists' ordeal took place nearly two months before the strike, during an April 11 meeting between union contract negotiators and company president Herb Lanese. According to the AFL-CIO News, the union filed a National Labor Relations Board complaint against the company because of Seafarers and their families were part of a major rally August 11 in St. Louis in support of striking Machinists. Among those making up the SIU contingent were (kneeling, from left) Joseph and Trevor Manion, (standing) Betty Miller, Eileen Palmer, Brian Sargent, Becky Sleeper, Ron Sargent and Patty Hefner. alleged suppression and shredding of company records from that meeting. But union records of the meeting show Lanese said McDon n e 11 Douglas closed an electronics factory in St. Charles, Mo. in 1990-putting 300 people out of work-"out of spite ... to prove to the union that we could do it," and that he hoped children of union members at Boeing and Lockheed Martin "starved to death," according to the newspaper. The article further quotes Lanese as saying, according to union records, "You in the JAM think of the people in Boeing in Seattle and the people at Lockheed Martin as your brothers and sisters. You have to look at them like I do: as your mortal enemy. I wish they were dead. I wish their children starved to death. I wish they would lose their houses. When you all get that mind set, then we'll be in synch." The president of IAM District 837, Gerry Oulsen, said the remarks "demonstrate a shocking and destructive mind set." The union subsequently refused to accept an informal settlement of the complaint "because it required the company to post a notice in the shop, and our members aren't in the shop," Oulsen said. Honoring America's Mariners U.S. merchant mariners past and present were honored throughout the nation on Maritime Day, May 22, with Seafarers participating in many of the ceremonies. Above, AB Sinclair Oubre (at microphone), an SIU member who also is a Catholic priest, says a prayer to open the service that took place in Port Arthur, Texas. Former Seafarer Carries OlyJnpic Torch Through Florida ToW"n Watching his son carry the Olympic torch through Florida stands out as one of the highlights of SIU retiree Ken Shorkey,s life. "There has been no greater thrill," the 69-year-old former Great Lakes member told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. That may be hard to imagine, considering that this energetic retiree sailed for 4 7 years in such ratings as watchman, wheelsman and bosun. In addition, Shorkey served as port agent in Detroit, Alpena and Algonac, Mich. as well as Buffalo, N.Y. His son, Martin Shorkey, a former Seafarer, was chosen by the United Way to run the Olympic torch between Hallandale and Hollywood, Fla. on July 5, 1996. Martin was one of five "community heroes" selected as a torch runner. "It was a great honor to see my son carrying the torch," said the former union official. "I just am so proud of him. It touches me deeply when I talk about him. He is a great kid who worked hard to get where he is today," noted Shorkey. "It was a phenomenal experience," recalled Martin Shorkey of the Olympic torch relay. "It brought tears to the eyes of grown men. It was something our country really needed. I don't remember a time recently when people all over America gathered for a common cause. Being a part of such an event was the most important experience of my life." Seafaring Career Martin followed in his father's footsteps and began sailing on the Great Lakes in 1978. However, his was not to be a lifelong career. In Seattle Hall Relocates in October The Seattle SIU hall will be moving to Tacoma, Wash. and is scheduled to begin operations there on October 14. The new hall will be located at 3411 South Union Street. The phone numbers for the new hall-effective October 14-are as follows: (206) 272-7774, 272-7775 and 272-7776. The FAX number will be (206) 272-4121. Directions to the hall follow: •From Seattle, take Interstate 5 South to Exit 132 (South 38th Street/West). • Go approximately one mile to the fourth stoplight (Union Street) and turn right. • Go to the next stoplight. The union hall is located on the corner of 35th and Union, diagonally to the right. The building is light green with a stone exterior. OR •From south of Tacoma, take 1-5 North to Exit 132 (South 38th Street/West), then follow directions above. September 1996 1981, after receiving an associate' s degree in criminal justice from St. Clair Community College in Port Huron, Mich., Martin moved to Hallandale, Fla. where he has been an officer for the Hallandale Police Department for 13 years. "While I would not trade a minute of my time sailing on the Lakes, I always knew it was not what I wanted to do for the rest of my life," he said. "I sailed specifically to raise the money I needed to go to school and get an education. Sailing was an incredible experience that taught me a lot. The jobs are very tough, and working on those ships made me admire my father for the career path that he had chosen for himself," Martin stated. According to the younger Shorkey, he has always wanted to be a police officer. "It is all that I have ever wanted to do in life, and I love it," he said. Rising Community Star Since becoming a member of the Hallandale Police Department, Martin has received numerous awards and gained public recognition for programs and projects he originated to help Hallandale's children. He teaches a drug awareness program to children in kindergarten through fifth grade at Hallandale Elementary School. In addition, he began a special reading program for kindergarten classes at the elementary school. Known as a "community hero," former Seafarer Martin Shorkey proudly holds his Olympic torch following his participation in the torch relay on July 5. He is surrounded by (from left) his father, SIU Pensioner Ken Shorkey; mother, Barbara; daughter, baby daughter, Cassidy; and wife, Doris. He designed the program to help young children feel comfortable talking with police officers. "It started with just me spending 20 minutes a week going over and reading to the kids. Then other officers became interested and enthusiasm for the project has spread throughout the force. "Also, we have local firefighters who go over once a week. It is really touching to see how involved everyone has become. The biggest reward of all is to see the wonderful response we are getting from small children who know that police officers, and now firemen, are their friends," he said. In fact, unknown to Martin, the children of Hallandale Elementary School spent the winter and spring months popping and selling popcorn in order to raise $300 to buy the Olympic torch carried by Martin in the relay. They presented the torch to Martin who said he felt "touched beyond words." "I'm very proud of Martin. He does so much and everyone who knows him, loves him," his father stated. Seafarers LOG 9 �Registration Books Will Be Closing Soon Many States Shut Off Voter Eligibility During Early October The political conventions are over. Labor Day has come and gone. And schools all across the country have reopened their doors. Now is the time many people begin paying attention to the fact that there will be a national election in two months. However, in most states, there is one date that will occur in early October that is just as important as the November 5 election. That is when voter registration offices close their books. Thus, only those individuals who have registered will be allowed to cast ballots on November 5. A majority of states as well as the District of Columbia, American Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands close their rolls to register new voters within the first days of October. Other states have different registration dates throughout October, while six states (Idaho, Maine, Minnesota, New Hampshire, North Dakota and Wisconsin) permit voters appearing at the polls to register on Election Day itself. Because there is no national election or registration system, the Seafarers LOG is providing members and their families with this chart listing each state and territory, its registration deadline, residency requirement and a telephone number for additional information. The chart also shows if there will be a senate election in that state, the number of representatives the state sends to Congress and the time the polls will be open on November 5. Like all other elections, the voting that will take place Election Day is very important to Seafarers and their families. SIU members will join other voters across the country in electing the president and vice president, who will serve for the next four years. Out of the 100 U.S . Senators serving in Washington, D.C., 34 of their seats will be up for grabs November 5. All 435 members of the House of Representatives will face the voters. And 11 states as well as American Samoa and Puerto Rico will be selecting governors. Government at all levels plays a very important role in the way Seafarers are able to do their work. No matter if a member is sailing aboard a vessel in the ocean, along a Great Lake or on an inland waterway, how the job is performed will be affected in one way or another by federal , state or local Jaws. In fact, at the federal level alone, more than 140 agencies and nearly 100 congressional committees and panels have some type of oversight jurisdiction over the U.S .-flag merchant marine. Then, there are the numerous regional , state and local agencies that deal with America's ports, harbors, Great Lakes, inland waterways and fishermen. The legislators who will be elected November 5 face a number of issues that are important to Seafarers and their families. Among them is the revitalization of the U.S.-flag commercial fleet. Last year, legislation was enacted that allowed U.S.-flag tankers to export Alaskan North Slope crude oil. Shortly 10 Seafarers LOG Registration and Polling Information by States and Territories STATE Registration Deadline General Election Residency Requirement More Information Telephone Number Senate Race No.of State Congressmen Polling Hours Alabama Oct. 25 None (334) 242-7210 Yes 7 Varies Alaska Oct. 5 30 days (907) 465-4611 Yes 1 7am-8pm Am.Samoa Oct. 5 2 years (684) 633-4962 No 1 del. 6am-6pm Arizona Oct. 7 29 days (602) 542-8683 No 6 6am-7pm Arkansas Oct.6 None (501) 682-1010 Yes 4 7:30am-7:30pm California Oct. 7 None (800) 345-VOTE No 52 7am-8pm Colorado Oct. 7 29 days (303) 894-2680 Yes 6 7am-7pm Connecticut Oct. 22 None (203) 566-3106 No 6 6am-8pm Delaware Oct. 15 None (302) 739-4277 Yes 1 7am-8pm D.C. Oct. 7 30 days (202) 727-2534 No 1 del. 7am-8pm Florida Oct. 7 29days (904) 488-7690 No 23 7am-7pm Georgia Oct. 7 None (404) 656-2871 Yes 11 7am-7pm Guam Oct. 25 None (671) 477-9791 No 1 del. 8am-8pm Hawaii Oct. 7 None (808) 453-8683 No 2 7am-6pm Idaho Election Day 30 days (208) 334-2852 Yes 2 8am-8pm Illinois Oct. 31 30 days (217) 782-4141 Yes 20 6am-7pm Indiana Oct. 7 30 days (317) 232-3939 No 10 6am-6pm Iowa Oct. 24 10 days (515) 281-5865 Yes 5 7am-9pm Kansas Oct. 21 None (913) 296-4559 Yes-2 4 7am-7pm Kentucky Oct. 7 28days (502) 573-7100 Yes 6 6am-6pm Louisiana Oct. 11 None (504) 389-3940 Yes 7 6am-8pm Election Day None (207) 287 -4186 Yes 2 Varies Maryland Oct. 7 29 days (800) 222-8683 No 8 7am-8pm Massachusetts Oct. 16 20days (617) 727-2828 Yes 10 7am-8pm Michigan Oct. 7 30 days (517) 373-2540 Yes 16 7am-8pm Yes 8 7am-8pm 7am-7pm 6am-7pm Maine Minnesota Election Day 20days (612) 296-2805 Mississippi Oct. 5 30 days (601) 359-1350 Yes Missouri Oct. 9 None (573) 751-3295 No 5 ·9 Montana Oct. 7 30days (406) 444-4732 Yes 1 8am-8pm Nebraska Oct. 25 None (402) 471-2554 Yes 3 8-8 central 7-7 mountain Nevada Oct. 5 30days (702) 687-3176 No 2 7am-7pm N.Hampshire Election Day None (603) 271-3242 Yes 2 8am-7pm New Jersey Oct. 7 30 days (609) 292-3760 Yes 13 7am-8pm New Mexico Oct. 8 None (505) 827-3600 Yes 3 7am-7pm New York Oct. 11 30days (518) 474-6220 No 31 6am-9pm N.Carolina Oct. 11 30days (919) 733-7173 Yes 12 6:30am-7:30pm No Registration 30 days (701) 224-2904 No 1 Varies Ohio Oct. 7 30 days (614) 466-2585 No 19 6:30am-7:30pm Oklahoma Oct. 11 None (405) 521-2391 Yes 6 7am-7pm Oregon Oct. 15 21 days (503) 378-4144 Yes 5 7am-7pm Pennsylvania Oct. 7 30 days (717) 787-5280 No 21 7am-8pm Puerto Rico Sept. 17 1 year (809) 724-4979 No 1 res. comm. 8am-4:30pm Rhode Island Oct. 5 30 days (401) 277-2340 Yes 2 7am-9pm S.Carolina Oct. 5 30 days (803) 734-9060 Yes 6 7am-7pm South Dakota Oct. 21 None (605) 773-3537 Yes 1 8-8 central 7•7 mountain Tennessee Oct. 5 None (615) 741-7956 Yes 9 Varies Yes 30 7am-7pm North Dakota Oct. 6 None (512) 463-5701 Oct. 15 30 days (801) 538-1040 No 3 7am-8pm Vermont Oct. 26 None (802) 828-2464 No 1 Varies Virginia Oct. 7 None (804) 786-6551 Yes 11 6am-7pm Virgin Islands Oct. 6 6 months (809) 774-3107 No 1 del. 7am-7pm Washington Oct. 5 30 days (360) 753-7121 No 9 7am-8pm West Virginia Oct. 7 30 days (304) 558-6000 Yes 3 6:30am-7:30pm Election Day 10 days (608) 266-4121 No 9 Varies (307) 777-7186 Yes 1 7am-7pm Texas Utah I Wisconsin Wyoming l Oct. 4 I None ! after passage, tankers came out of layup to handle the new work. Earlier this year, the Maritime Administration announced it would provide loan guarantees to build five new double-hull tankers that will sail along the Atlantic and will be crewed by Seafarers. Other parts of the U.S-flag fleet also have drawn the attention of elected officials. Congress has been debating legislation that would provide money to help fund nearly 50 militarily useful U.S.-flag vessels, including containerships. This 10-year program, known as the Maritime Security Act, cleared the House with solid bipartisan support, but awaits final action in the Senate. Another issue of importance to SIU members which has been before Congress and some state and local bodies in the last year is the preservation of the Jones Act, the nation's freight cabotage law. This measure has a direct impact en all Seafarers no matter where and on what type of vessel they sail. Besides maritime concerns, there are the issues that touch on the lives of all Americans: the economy, health care, education, safety on the job and so many more. Since its inception in 1938, the SIU has had a strong tradition of being politically active. Members and their families know the value of writing letters, making telephone calJs, attending rallies and volunteering in campaigns. Seafarers also are able to support candidates who back maritime issues through their voluntary contributions to the Seafarers Political Action Donation (SPAD) fund. Tirrough its membership in the AFL-CIO, the SIU participates politically with the federation of the nation's trade unions. The AFL-CIO provides information about candidates, issues and voting records to union members at the state and local levels. With its involvement with the Maritime Trades Department, the SIU works with other unions to furnish details on maritime-related concerns. Attention: Seafarers Who Will Be Aboard Ship Election Day SIU members who know they will be away from borne on November 5 and who are registered to vote should contact their local or state election office to receive an absentee ballot. This can be done in person, by phone or through the mail. For those members already sailing who will not be able to return home before Election Day, all SIU halJs have been sent information and forms to use the Federal Post Card Application, which is recognized by all states for members of the merchant marine and armed services, to register to vote and to receive an absentee ballot. Finally, for those sailing overseas, U.S. embassies and consulates around the world as well as U.S . military bases should have voter registration and absentee ballot forms and information. September 1996 �Ii Maritiine Briefs II SIU-Crewed Oil Response Vessel Relocated to Delaware The SIU-crewed Delaware Responder, a Dyn Marine oil response vessel, is being relocated on the Delaware River to help clean up oil spills that may occur as a result of heavy tanker traffic. The Delaware Responder is being ttansferred from Gloucester City, N .J. to Delaware City, Del. The vessel will be situated close to various refineries on the river, where giant tankers regularly sail to and from oil terminals. The ship, which is owned by Marine Spill Response Corp.(MSRC), has a nine-person operating crew. In the event of an oil spill, the Delaware Responder (as well as the other 15 SIU-crewed oil response vessels) has quarters for up to 38 people. The 208-foot vessel is equipped with a helicopter landing pad and carries a 32-foot boom boat, two work boats, oil containment booms and skimmers. Dyn Marine, a subsidiary of DynCorp., operates the oil spill response ships in behalf of MSRC, a not-for-profit corporation created by major oil companies following the passage of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90). The oil response vessels are located at various ports along America's coastlines, Hawaii and the U.S. Virgin Islands. J, Crowley American Transport Identified as 'Best of the Best' J, J, SIU-contracted Crowley American Transport has been named a "Best of the Best" ocean carrier in the August issue of Distribution magazine. The title is a result of the magazine's 1996 "Quest for Quality Survey." The survey is the only industry-wide quality recognition program in transportation, according to the magazine. The quality questionnaire was distributed to shippers who have used Crowley and other services in the past year. The Jacksonville, Fla.-based subsidiary of Crowley Maritime Corp. received high marks in on-time performance, value, equipment and operations, customer service, and administration and staff. To receive the honorary title of "Best of the Best," Crowley met and/or exceeded the industry average in all five categories, based on the survey. Crowley American Transport provides liner and common carrier service between Canada, the United States and countries in Central America, South America and the Caribbean. Taiwanese Officers Charged With First-Degree Murder of Romanian Stowaways A Taiwanese ship captain and six fellow Taiwanese crewmembers were released from jail on bail after being charged with the first degree murders of three Romanian stowaways during two separate voyages between Spain and Canada in March and May. At press time, the captain, first mate, second mate, chief engineer, ship's carpenter, chief cook and radio operator of the Taiwanese-flag Maersk Dubai had been released from jail in Halifax, Nova.Scotia. News reports state that the crewmembers were ordered to remain in Nova Scotia for an extradition hearing later this month. The Maersk Dubai crewmembers will face murder charges in either Romania or Taiwan. Lawyers from both countries continue to argue over who will get custody of the accused murderers. On March 12 the captain of the Maersk Dubai ordered Filipino crewmembers to create a raft out of empty barrels for the forced departure of two Romanian stowaways who were discovered by the ship's officers. The stowaways were mercilessly thrown over the side by the officers, after one of the Romanians begged on his knees to be allowed to live. The Filipino crewmembers, who reported the incident to authorities, stated the stowaways were last seen in the ocean struggling to stay afloat on the quickly disintegrating raft. In a different event two months later, another Romanian stowaway was caught, beaten and stabbed by officers on the deck of the containership. He was not seen again and was presumably thrown to his death at sea. In late May, eight Filipino crewmembers fled the ship when it docked in Halifax and informed authorities of the atrocities that had taken place. Included among those who left the ship was one Romanian stowaway whom the Filipino crewmembers kept hidden and fed during the trans-Atlantic voyages. The captain and six crewmembers were arrested in Halifax by the Canadian port police after investigators, immigration officials and an International Transport Workers Federation (I1F) inspector boarded the vessel. The captain and crewmembers deny the murder charges, stating that the stories were made up by the Filipino crewmembers who seek asylum in Canada. Canada has very strict regulations on stowaways which have resulted in shipping companies being required to pay fines in the hundreds of thousands of dollars for transporting them into Canadian ports. However, it is easy for stowaways to get refugee status in Canada, thus resulting in a high number of unauthorized passengers aboard ships headed to that country. '96 Figures Show Increase In Lives Lost at Sea A report released by the Institute of London Underwriters (ILU), an insurance group that gathers global statistics of ship casualties, notes that in the first half of 1996, 730 people were killed or reported missing as a consequence of shipping accidents. The figure is substantially higher than the 1995 total of 316 lives lost at sea. Many of the lives lost in the first half of this year were victims of the May 21 sinking of the Tanzanian ferry Bukoba, which capsized and sank on Lake Victoria in eastern Africa. The ferry carried nearly 600 passengers, many of whom perished at sea. Other ferry incidents in the Philippines, Bangladesh and Indonesia may account for some 500 additional deaths, according to the ILU. However, the institute only collects information surrounding the misfortunes of ships that are 500 gross tons or more, so accidents involving small ferries and other small craft are not included in the figures. According to Stephen Redmond, the chairman of the institute' s hull committee, aging vessels, poorly trained crews and inadequate maintenance have contributed to the increase of maritime accidents. Panamanian-flag vessels had the worst accident record with 11 ship losses this year, said the ILU. September 1996 AP Photo/Ricardo Figueroa A view of the rooftops of a housing project on St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. after Hurricane Bertha shows how the storm ripped off tarps that were being used as temporary covers following the September 1995 devastation caused by Hurricane Marilyn. Bertha hit the island in July. Hurricane Bertha Unleashes Her Fury SIU Crews Keep Ships Out of Storm's Wrath In July, Seafarers were called to duty in Baltimore, Norfolk, Va. and San Juan, P.R. as Hurricane Bertha, the first hurricane of the Atlantic season, threatened the Atlantic Coast. SIU-crewed vessels were sent out to sea, diverted from the ports and moved to different berths in order to escape possible damage from the storm-which had a circumference of 460 miles. In early July, SIU members began feeling the effects of Bertha when the storm approached the U.S. Virgin Islands. At that time, Bertha was a Category 1 storm, with sustained winds between 80 and 90 miles per hour. (Category 5 storms are the most severe.) Seafarers React to Storm tightly in place during the turbulent conditions. SIU Port Agent Mike Paladino noted that of the hundreds of SIU members who reside in the Norfolk, North Carolina and South Carolina areas, no one was hurt or suffered serious damage to their homes. All Seafarers who manned the SIU vessels during Hurricane Bertha remained safe. "The crewmembers aboard all of the vessels under the hurricane emergency plan did an outstanding job," noted Paladino. "They worked hard through the entire storm. They were out on deck manning the lines in the high winds and rain. We were very fortunate that the storm was not worse and that there were no casualties or damage done to the vessels or port," Paladino said. On Monday, July 8, following a warning about Hurricane Bertha from the National Weather Service, the U.S. Coast Guard shut down the port of San Juan for 36 hours. A hurricane emergency plan was activated and Seafarers sprang into action by assisting in operations to prepare the port for the storm. Ships scheduled to arrive in San Juan were diverted and vessels remaining in port were secured. All material and equipment on the piers were tied down. Seven SIU-contracted Crowley American Transport tugboats in the port were crewed and their barges were tied up to berths along piers. However, Puerto Rico was spared the total force of the storm as the eye of Bertha passed just to the north. The storm came within 45 miles of the island and winds of 50 miles per hour, with gusts of about 75 miles per hour, were felt. After leaving the Caribbean, Bertha was upgraded to a Category 3 storm when its winds reached more than 115 miles per hour. On July 12, the hurricane hammered several coastal towns along the Carolina Outer Banks with winds of 118 miles per hour. The forceful gales ripped roofs off houses, downed trees, knocked out power and spawned small tornadoes. Bertha also forced the evacuation of ocean-front resort towns in South and North Carolina. SIU emergency crews were called aboard the Cape Lambert and Cape Lobos, which were docked in Wilmington, N.C., where the eye of the hurricane hit. Seafarers kept the ships tightly secured in the driving rain and 115 mile-per-hour gales by maintaining 24-hour watches. On July 11, in Norfolk, a hurricane emergency crew including SIU members boarded the USNS Altair to sail out of the port to avoid the remaining effects of Bertha. Sustained winds in the storm had dropped to 80 miles per hour, but weather forecasters warned that Bertha would maintain that much force or strengthen as it continued along the Atlantic coastline. Additional SIU members were called aboard the Cape Race, Cape Rise, Cape Ray, Flickertail State and Comhusker State, which were also docked in Norfolk. The military-contracted vessels were secured to the dock to wait out the storm. SIU members maintained around-the-clock watches to make sure the vessels remained at the dock with the lines Paladino noted that officials from Amsea, the company that operates the Cape Lambert and Cape Lobos, called to commend "the excellent SIU crews who worked aboard the two ships and who did an incredible job keeping the vessels safe in very dangerous conditions." According to the National Weather Service, Hurricane Bertha was a rare storm because of how early in the hurricane season it hit and the enormous area of the U.S. that was affected. (Hurricane season officially began June 1 and extends through November 30.) In addition, the National Weather Service said the force of this early storm initially resembled Hurricane Hugo in 1989, which devas~ated the Caribbean region and the southeastern U.s. · with winds of more than 140 miles an hour. While the storm left Seafarers unscathed, for thousands of UIW members who reside in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Hurricane Bertha undid most of the repairs that have dragged on since Hurricane Marilyn hit, a much more severe storm that crippled the Caribbean region in September 1995. On July 8, Hurricane Bertha battered St. Thomas and St. John with heavy rain and wind gusts of up to 100 miles an hour. The storm shredded temporary tarpaulin roofs that had been the only cover for thousands of residents, including many UIW members who suffered major damage to their homes less than one year ago. Doors and roofs were ripped off an additional number of homes, and tree limbs and power lines were whisked away. St. Croix, located approximately 40 miles from St. Thomas and St. John, sustained very minor wind and water damage. According to Amos Peters, vice president of the UIW' s Caribbean region, which is home to approximately 4,000 UIW members, Hurricane Bertha added to the stress of the already hurricane-battered residents. "We are all coping as best as we can but it is very stressful. There are so many repairs yet to be completed and Hurricane Bertha was just the beginning. August and September are when we really start to worry because it is the peak of the entire hurricane season," Peters stated. Crews Praised Seafarers LOG 11 �Basketball-Playing Seafarer Advances In Life and Game For Bosun Sonny Pinkham, basketball is much more than a sport. It is a lifelong love that has contributed to his self esteem, confidence and, ultimately, his success in life. "Basketball gave me something to do and someone to become. I began playing in second grade and I have played ever since.'' Pinkham told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. From elementary school rookie to a college all-star captain, and most recently as an international competitor, basketball has always helped Pinkham shape his goals and build ambitions. A native of Bath, Maine, where the Bath Ironworks shipyard is located, Pinkham also grew up around the maritime industry. In fact, according to Pinkham, about one out of four of his high school classmates went on to attend Maine Maritime Academy. "I wanted to play basketball and the academy didn't have a team, so I applied and was accepted into the University of Maine in Machias (a NAIA Division ill school). In my senior year I was named captain of my team and became a conference all star," recalled Pinkham. Injury Forces Change After his college graduation in 1979, he was offered a spot on a Continental Basketball Association team. ''I loved basketball with my entire being but right around then I was beginning to have some trouble with my knee and had to have a couple of operations. I knew that if I started a professional basketball career that I would only be able to play for about 10 years before my leg really began to give me trouble. I really needed a lifetime career," Pinkham said. After a brief period spent working at Bath Ironworks, Pinkham moved to Texas. It was there he decided to begin his sailing career with Sabine Towing. However, his plan fell short. "When I went to a Sabine employment office, they told me that they only hired SIU members," he said. Soon after, Pinkham made the first of many trips to the Lundeberg School. He enrolled as a member of trainee class number 319 and graduated from the entry level program in 1980. His first ship was the Santa Mercedes. In 1993, Pinkham returned to Piney Point and once again graduated - this time from the bosun recertification program. "My time spent at Piney Point, both as a trainee and as an upgrader was a great experience," said the bosun. "I have made a great living as a Seafarer and it all lies in continuing my education. Others need to realize that they need to keep up with the industry. Education and ambition is the key to everything," noted Pinkham. "You can make a lot out of yourself through the SIU. There is a lot of opportunity if you keep your nose to the grindstone. It is worth every minute of time that I have spent improving myself," he added. The Salt and Soot In his 16 years of sailing, Pinkham' s love and enthusiasm for basketball has never wavered. "Whenever I am out at sea, I do my best to get my crewmembers to take an active interest in the sport. From just throwing the ball around on our off time to forming leagues for games, we play whenever we get the chance," he stated. Pinkham put his passion for the sport to work aboard the /TB New York. After getting permission from Sheridan Transportation, which operates the vessel, the bosun and his crewmembers created a regulationsized basketball court. ""We put up a net behind the housebetween the two stacks-so the ball couldn't bounce over the side during the games. In addition, we put up a basket and backboard and painted the deck area with non-skid paint. "We then lined the court with a foulshot line and a three-point line and set up lights so that we could play at night," described Pinkham. ''The enthusiasm of others has been incredible. When you are out at sea, there is very little to do for exercise. When I formed the teams I made sure that everyone knew that they didn't have to be a good player. They just needed to want to get out and exercise and have a good time. Just about everyone has the interest and motivation to get out and enjoy themselves with their crew mates. It is a lot of fun for us and it keeps morale up while at sea," he said. As the success and excitement for the /TB New York "Salt and Soot" teams grew, similar courts and teams were established aboard the /TB Baltimore and /TB Mobile. "Basketball was all I had growing up as a kid and it helped open a lot of doors for me-both personally and professionally. It made me competitive and helped teach me how to enjoy life. It has given me something to constantly strive for, something to Jook forward to. So while we are out at sea, if I can teach others a bit of what I have learned over the years, then I am happy," Pinkham stated. International Games Early this summer, Pinkham took his basketball talents to the international level when he tried out and made a team representing the USA in the International Basketball Tournament held in Worcester, Mass. July 8 - 13. "It was so exciting to be part of such an important event," noted Pinkham. "Here I was on the same team as some of the best players in the world and meeting some of my boyhood basketball favorites," said the bosun. "One of the neatest parts of the entire tournament was that it featured some of the best 6'2" and under basketball players from around the world. That is short when you're talking in terms of basketball players," he noted. According to Pinkham, the tournament was begun by basketball great Bob Cousy and the city of Worcester. The week-long event was designed to help spark the interest of international students in East Coast colleges. The tournament was attended by some of the most prominent college coaches in the U.S. as well as numerous basketball greats. "It wasn't just about basketball," recalled the bosun. "There was music, good food and educational seminars. We all had the opportunity to bring our families and the whole thing was good fun," Pinkham said. Pinkham noted that one of the greatest thrills of the event was participating in a seminar led by basketball legends Cousy and "Red" Auerbach. Others taking part in the seminar included University of North Carolina head coach Dean Smith, Univer- Bosun and Team USA member, Sonny Pinkham, displays some of the gifts given to him by members of the Israeli team following his playing in the International Basketball Tournament in Worcester, Mass. this summer. sity of Connecticut head coach Jim Calhoun and Georgetown University head coach John Thompson. The tournament included more than 600 athletes from 17 different countries. In many ways, Pinkham noted, the tournament paralleled the Olympics where gold, silver and bronze medals are presented to the winning teams. Games were held at various area colleges during the weeklong tournament. In addition to Pinkham, Team USA included NBA all-star Randy Smith (New York Knieks), Tim Welchons of Siena College, Dave Pryzebyo of Wichita State, James Ryan of Utica College, Karl Heiner of Bucknell University, John Tryon of the University of Georgia and Dave Diwerc of Syracuse University. Team USA battled squads from Israel, Azerbaidzhan, Lithuania, Albania, Canada and Moldavia. Pinkham' s team won three games which allowed them to play in the finals. It was subsequently defeated by Lithuania. "Playing in the tournament was exciting as well as great fun. Playing with some of the best ballplayers from around the world challenged my physical condition and tested my skills. I think I did pretty good and I am proud to have participated," concluded Pinkham. Retired Bosun Donates Knot Boards to Union The Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. has been added to the list of places that displays unique knot boards created by retired Bosun John Joseph "Jack" Pierce. Pierce, who has created nearly 70 knot and splice displays, presented two of his creations to the school during the August membership meeting in Piney Point. Each of the boards exhibits 26 hand-tied knots and splices and includes a description of the uses of each. "I thought that they might be used as an instructional tool here at the school. While not all of these knots are as popular today, some of the young guys going through the trainee program might enjoy learning about the background and uses of some of the old-time knots and splices," said Pierce, an SIU member since January 9, 1946. Adorned with tapered back splices, double beckets, mast- head knots, common sheepshanks, ship's bell cords, monkey fists, carrick bends, running bowlines and many other knots and splices, Pierce's boards hang in the homes of Seafarers as well as aboard several SIU-contracted vessels. In fact, Pierce presented his crewmembers aboard the USNS Wright, the last ship on which he sailed prior to his 1988 retirement, with one of his creations. The board still hangs in the crew Retired Bosun John "Jack" Pierce says a few words at the August membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. after presenting two of his knot and splice boards to the school. Acting Paul Hall Center Vice President Nick Marone (middle) and SIU Asst. Vice President Dave Heindel (right) show off the creations to the audience. 12 Seafarers LOG lounge, Pierce proudly notes. "After 43 years with the SIU, old habits die hard," said Pierce, who recently spent a week vacationing with his wife in Piney Point. "I know how to make every knot there is and create all types of splices. While I was still sailing, my crew started encouraging me to create boards giving examples of all of the different knots and splices. So I just began by making a few and got better with time. Now everyone who sees the boards loves them and I get requests from all over," said the Drexel Hill, Pa. native. One of Pierce's works donated to the Paul Hall Center is an oak-colored board that displays cotton fiber knots and splices. The second consists of Manila hemp knots and splices which are mounted on a light pine background. The retired Seafarer, who describes his SIU career as "an interesting life," notes that after signing off his last vessel eight years ago, he has kept busy. In addition to making the knot and splice boards in his spare time, Pierce helps out at a local golf course, another of his passions. "I don't think anyone who has sailed as long as I did can lead a sedentary life. I keep busy all year through or I feel like I'm going to go crazy," noted Pierce, who graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1974. .· "The SIU has been good to me," he said. "I am the father of five kids, a husband of 41 years and have become a grandpa three times over. The SIU helped me provide for a wonderful family. I was never home-at least not as much as I would have liked to have been-but I am still thankful. It was a good life," said Pierce. Every two weeks, Pierce and a handful of other SIU retirees meet for lunch and dinner. The former SIU members gather at the Philadelphia union hall where they begin their biweekly reunion by swapping old sea stories over coffee. "It is a way for us all to keep in touch and reminisce about our lives as SIU members. It is fun and we all enjoy telling the young guys how things used to be in our day," recalled Pierce. "I have made some boards for my friends and a few of the young guys at the union hall. There is a real interest by others so I keep doing them. But most of all, I make them because I love to and it is a part of my past that I am passing on," concluded Pierce. September 1996 �Seafarers Scholarships Help Ease Financial Burden As industries evolve and job markets become more competitive, the need for education in the United States continues to grow. But the price of education in America also continues to rise-at an average of 6 percent over last year. The Seafarers Welfare Plan scholarship is one means of helping Seafarers and their family members attain their educational goals without breaking the bank. Applications now are being accepted for the 1997 Seafarers scholarship program, which will award seven monetary grants to three SIU members and four dependents (spouses and eligible children). The announcement of the 1997 scholarship program was made by the board of trustees of the Seafarers Welfare Plan, the sponsor of the program. All Seafarers and their spouses and children who plan to attend college are encouraged to complete a scholarship application. The deadline for submission of all required paperwork is April 15, 1997. In 1952, the Seafarers International Union, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters District became the first maritime union in America-and one of the first trade unions in general-to establish a scholarship program to help qualified members and their dependents finance their college and vocational educations. Since the inception of the program, an impartial committee of professional educators from colleges and universities has recommended 249 such awards. Each year, three scholarships are reserved for SIU members. One is a $15,000 award intended to help cover a four-year, collegelevel course of study. The other two are $6,000, two-year awards for study at a post-secondary vocational school or community college. Four scholarships are awarded in the amount of $15,000 to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. The $15,000 college scholarships will be paid at the rate of $3,750 per year over a four-year period. The $6,000 awards are paid at the rate of $3,000 per year. For most scholarship winners, receiving the cash award can greatly ease the financial burdens associated with attending college or university courses-room, board, living expenses, food, books, tuition, etc. And many former Seafarers scholarship winners-among them doctors, lawyers, engineers, pharmacists, librarians, teachers, computer specialists and scientists-would never have had the opportunity to pursue their educational interests without the SIU' s help. While the program is open to all eligible Seafarers and their dependents, there is one catch: One must apply in order to be considered for the award. And the full scholarship application will need to include a number of items-so the first step is to send away for the Seafarers Scholarship Program booklet to find out exactly what those items are. The booklet contains all the necessary information a prospective student will need to complete the application. To receive a copy of this guide, fill out the coupon at the bottom of September 1996 '· •••• this page and return it to the address listed on the form. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should first check the eligibility information. For a Seafarer to be eligible for a scholarship, he or she must: • be a high school graduate or its equivalent. • have a total of 730 days of employment with an employer who is obligated to make contributions to the Seafarers Welfare Plan on the Seafarer's behalf prior to the date of application. • have at least one day of employment on a vessel in the six-month period immediately prior to the date of application. • have 120 days of employment on a vessel in the previous calendar year. (Pensioners are not eligible for scholarships.) For a spouse to be eligible for a scholarship award, he or she must: • be married to an eligible Seafarer or SIU pensioner. • be a high school graduate or its equivalent. For a dependent child to be eligible for consideration for a scholarship, he or she must: • be an unmarried child of an eligible Seafarer or SIU pensioner for whom the member or pensioner has been the sole source of support the previous calendar year. (However, should a dependen t child win an SIU scholarship and marry while receiving the award, he or she will not lose the grant by reason of such marriage.) • beahighschoolgraduateor its equivalent, although applications may be made during the senior year of high school. • be under the age of 19--or be under the age of 25 and be a full-time student enrolled in a program leading to a baccalaureate or higher degree at an accredited institution authorized by law to grant such degrees. For both a spouse and dependent child to be eligible, the following conditions must be met: • the sponsoring Seafarer must have credit for 1,095 days of covered employment with an employer who is obligated to make contributions to the Seafarers Welfare Plan on the Seafarer's behalf prior to date of application. • the sponsoring Seafarer must have one day of employment in the sixmonth period preceding the r--------------------- -----------, lease send me the 1997 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility infor- Pmation, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Street Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ City, State, ZIP Code _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone Number - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - This application is for: D Self D Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. L ____________________________ _ date of application and 120 days of employment in the previous calendar year (unless the eligible parent is deceased). 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 such items as transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since schools are often quite slow in handling transcript requests, it behooves applicants to ask for copies as soon as possible. Another part of the application package includes letters of recommen da ti on solicited from individuals who know an applicant's character, personality and career goals. Since the scholarship awards are made primarily on the basis of high school grades and the scores of either College Entrance Examination Boards (SAT) or American College Tests (ACT), these exams need to be taken no later than February 1997 to ensure that the results reach the scholarship selection committee in time to be evaluated. A photograph of the applicant and a certified copy of his or her birth certificate are two other items that must be included in the total application package. All completed applications MUST be mailed and postmarked ON or BEFORE APRIL 15, 1997. If an applicant sent in a form last year and was not selected, he or she should try again this year. Two 1995 applicants were not selected that year but tried again in 1996 and were awarded scholarships. So-don't be discouraged. Just send in another updated application form. Labor Day has come and gone-and that means schools have re-opened. So it is time to start thinking about your educational future. Remember to fill out the coupon below and return it to the Seafarers Welfare Plan--or ask for a 1997 Seafarers Scholarship Program booklet at any SIU hall. Financial Aid Offered By Other Labor Unions Any financial assistance can help bear the brunt of paying for a college education. In addition to the Seafarers Welfare Plan scholarship, many other international and local unions as well as AFLCI O state and local central bodies currently provide similar monetary awards. The AFL-CIO has printed a catalogue of the major scholarship programs and offers a guide to $4,000,000 in union-sponsored scholarships, awards and student financial aid. It should be noted that the scholarships listed are NOT offered by the national AFL-CIO, but rather by the individual unions directly. A union member may order a single free copy of the guide by writing to: Scholarship Guide, AFL-CIO Publications and Materials Office, 815 16th Street, N.W., Room 209, Washington, DC 20006. Seafarers LOG 13 - �The ever-expanding SIU family is what keeps this union strong. With members being away at sea for months at a time, the precious moments they share with their families are ones to be treasured forever. This page from the Seafarers family album captures some of those memories. As always, the LOG welcomes your photos and will publish them on a periodic basis. 14 SeafaretS LOG September 1996 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea October &November 1996 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters JULY 16, 1996 - AUGUST 15, 1996 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Cl~ A Class B Class C Totals Trip Reliefs ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 36 26 4 4 13 5 11 14 12 28 22 22 8 19 17 21 21 1 4 5 1 0 1 0 0 0 207 0 2 1 240 1 4 12 11 2 8 8 15 16 3 0 0 2 9 27 17 2 18 17 17 15 14 0 13 12 3 15 6 0 6 3 9 7 27 22 4 12 5 4 12 3 I 0 183 0 1 0 0 0 25 0 2 0 102 5 1 0 5 1 8 0 21 3 13 10 1 19 21 35 17 5 26 18 1 2 3 16 2 9 3 2 1 36 2 11 1 154 2 Piney Point • • • • Monday: October 7, November 4 New York . . . . • Tuesday: October 8, November 5 DECK DEPARTMENT Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 63 6 13 42 23 25 20 35 50 42 27 57 17 9 39 0 2 2 410 6 11 14 29 23 31 26 5 1 1 7 1 0 5 1 7 35 3 2 21 3 45 1 3 3 313 9 0 0 0 45 3 Philadelphia •••• Wednesday: October 9, November 6 Baltimore • • • • • Thursday: October 10, November 7 Norfolk ...•... Thursday: October 10, November 7 Jacksonville . . . . Thursday: October 10, November 7 Algonac ••..•• Friday: October 11, November 8 Houston . . . . . . Monday: October 14; Tuesday: November 12* *Change created by Veterans Day New Orleans • • • • Tuesday: October 15, November 12 Mobile ••••••• Wednesday: October 16, November 13 San Francisco ••• Thursday: October 17, November 14 Wilmington . . . . Monday: October 21, November 18 Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Ho ton St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals 19 8 0 1 1 9 7 18 13 8 11 16 13 10 9 16 2 6 25 1 8 4 2 7 7 7 15 0 5 7 0 0 112 143 3 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 6 3 0 0 0 17 Totals Totals 3 0 0 40 0 0 1 2 7 12 25 5 21 6 1 1 1 11 13 7 5 1 16 7 5 0 8 20 24 1 5 23 23 1 Jersey City . . . . . Wednesday: October 23, November 20 3 10 18 15 6 1 5 8 5 9 New Bedford ..• Tuesday: October 22, November 19 3 2 0 0 0 13 11 0 28 7 6 28 2 0 0 6 10 3 7 8 4 3 16 0 3 0 91 0 10 1 2 3 7 1 9 9 3 0 5 2 3 9 6 5 15 6 7 3 4 17 4 11 3 2 0 1 0 28 6 4 14 2 6 18 9 2 0 5 9 0 166 1 70 2 4 3 0 0 0 23 St. Louis . . . . . . Friday: October 18, November 15 11 6 8 2 17 San Juan • • • • • • Thursday: October 10, November 7 1 2 5 20 1 10 12 0 1 0 93 1 17 0 1 4 11 0 61 0 214 0 189 9 8 18 4 6 9 1 2 0 107 4 0 2 1 6 7 4 6 1 1 3 4 3 0 0 0 42 0 2 0 4 0 6 0 27 1 21 7 4 3 4 3 5 12 2 12 6 6 8 15 14 25 48 2 14 20 39 0 5 0 2 17 6 0 0 0 14 1 1 0 0 1 5 6 15 7 7 3 Duluth ••••••• Wednesday: October 16, November 13 1 4 7 0 0 0 27 1 0 0 3 2 4 3 0 2 0 5 6 3 0 17 12 0 28 3 16 0 2 12 8 1 0 84 0 264 1 130 0 30 14 55 18 1 1 3 1 10 4 4 3 7 Honolulu •.•••. Friday: October 18. November 15 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. I Personals ROBERT KNOWLES BODDEN Sharon Ann Bodden Mock is trying to locate her father. Anyone with any infonnation on the whereabouts of Robert Knowles "Handsome Red" Bodden, who sailed from San Francisco, New Orleans and Houston, should contact Sharon at 1014 Lake A venue South, Duluth, MN 55802; or telephone (218) 722-6026. IN SEARCH OF UNDERWATER TREASURE HUNTERS Former SIU member Nelson Jecas would like to hear from other seamen who would like to join him in searching for treasures of the sea. Contact Jecas at P. 0. Box 324, Bernardville, NJ 07924. ANTHONY JOSEPH WENDEL Please contact Jimmy Bonnot at (423) 429-5698 concerning a reunion of shipmates scheduled for next year. Attention: SIU Members ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Seattle • . . . . • • Friday: October 25~ November 22 20 4 4 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 6 12 2 0 0 2 0 4 2 5 3 0 1 7 7 0 0 0 33 13 2 0 216 3 0 4 0 118 0 137 0 62 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 605 194 414 426 114 247 21 6 4 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 6 6 16 0 1 0 5 0 14 2 2 12 l 13 13 0 0 6 0 7 4 13 3 1 3 2 2 3 7 3 15 10 7 9 1 3 0 4 33 47 4 14 1 0 0 0 2 3 7 21 6 12 8 17 5 39 15 1 7 6 0 0 0 49 Totals All Departments 598 11 2 28 1 2 62 2 0 0 2 5 4 24 21 29 31 19 25 8 22 43 12 7 9 24 6 7 4 13 5 0 0 0 94 10 53 22 4 30 0 378 3 0 200 982 1,010 302 * "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. September 1996 24 1 12 69 12 0 - Support Sl'AD Seafarers LOG 15 �Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Union Directory JULY 16 - AUGUST 15, 1996 CL-Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP-Non Priority Michael Sacco President John Fay *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Contracts George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. ''Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey 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 DULUm 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 770Cfl (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 0 28 15 0 15 5 0 6 8 0 32 32 DECK DEPARTMENT 0 19 8 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 12 1 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 3 4 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 17 19 Totals All Departments 0 81 60 0 51 32 * "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. **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP 0 9 7 0 3 4 0 3 4 0 15 13 0 30 28 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters JULY 16 - AUGUST 15, 1996 *TOTAL REGISTERED AU Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast GuJfCoast 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 5 4 0 3 0 0 12 0 7 49 3 19 1 0 0 9 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 2 3 37 0 10 1 0 5 1 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 6 9 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A ClassB Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 2 0 0 2 2 2 16 0 0 17 4 0 37 2 6 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 0 0 0 0 0 7 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 15 2 2 1 33 0 0 IO 1 22 60 4 40 3 0 1 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 14 1 6 2 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 12 20 5 66 11 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 2 4 0 6 8 4 Totals All Departments 48 66 3 30 2 12 82 * ''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. 0 18 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 Holiday Issue of LOG to Feature Personal Greetings (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 As has been done in past years, this HOLIDAY MESSAGE December's edition of the Seafarers LOG will include holiday greetings from active (PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE) and retired Seafarers and their families to other members of the seafaring community and their families. To: To ensure that your holiday message is --------------------------published, please follow the instructions From: below: -------------------------• PRINT or TYPE (in 25 words or less) the message in the space provided at Sender's Telephone Number: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 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 16lh Santurce. PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-1960 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Seafarers LOG right. Photographs also are welcome. • Be~re~mgre~~~ ~the Me~~~------------------------­ holiday spirit. • Do not send more than three entries per person. • 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.) • The holiday greetings must be received no later than Friday, November 15, 1996. • Send your entries to the Seafare rs 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 Check the block which describes your status with the SIU: in any union hall and turned in to the D Active Seafarer D Family Member of Active Seafarer official at the counter--or may be given to the boarding patrolman during a D Family Member of Retired Seafarer D Retired Seafarer vessel's payoff. Send your greeting to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. The holiday greetings section of the The greeting should be received at the LOG office by Friday, November 15, 1996. December LOG is a popular feature, so be sure to get your message in on time. 9196 September 1996 �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. Joining the growing number of SIU pensioners this month are 12 Seafarers who have retired to the beach after many voyages on the world's oceans as well as the nation's Great Lakes and inland waterways. Of those signing off their ships for the last time, seven sailed in the deep sea division, three navigated the inland waterways and two worked aboard Great Lakes vessels. Seven of the retiring Seafarers served in the U.S. military-five in the Army and one each in the Air Force and Marine Corps. This month, the favorite region for retirement is the East Coast, where four of the retirees make their homes. Three have retired to the midwest, two each have retired to the Gulf states and West Coast, and one resides in Puerto Rico. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of this month's pensioners. DEEP SEA ABDULLAH AHMED,65, joined the Seafarers in the port of New York in 1966. Brother Ahmed sailed l..!.!-.!.!--~=~.!:...!..J in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Born in Yemen, he makes his home in Brooklyn, N. Y. ti ve sailed in the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. From 1953 to 1955, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Johnson makes his home in Mobile, Ala. r-"~'7"""""~;:::='"~ BILLIEL. MASON,65, began his SIU career in the port of Tampa, Aa. in 1965. Brother Mason sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. The Tennessee native served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954. Brother Mason has retired to Lake Panasoffkee, Fla. VIRGILIO C. ROMERO, 68, joined the Seafarers in 1979 in the port of Yokohama, Japan. A Ti~e for Brother Romero sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the union's training ~ ~ facility in ,_..___ _ _ _ _-'="---' Piney Point, Md. Born in the Philippines, Brother Romero has retired to San Francisco. r--.ip;==;;:;--, INLAND WILLIAMJ. CRIBBS,56, began his SIU career in 1957 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. Born in Washington, D.C., Brother Cribbs has retired to Harahan, La. MARVIN EMANS,67, LEWAN- While the Robert E. Lee is laid up in the Brooklyn, N.Y. Navy Yard (above), Bosun Jerry Corelli (right) and AB Michael Moore get to work, performing some of the tasks that can only be done when the vessel is empty. GREAT LAKES .TOHNJ. FITZGERALD, 61, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1968 from the port of Chicago. The Illinois native sailed as a member of the deck department. From 1953 to 1955, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Fitzgerald has retired to Chicago. DOWSKI,62, 62, began his career with the Seafarers in 1964 in the port of St. Louis. Anative of Missouri, he sailed as a member of the engine department. From 1952 to 1957, he served in the U.S. Army. Boatman Copeland makes his home in Festus, Mo. \-·_ 63, joined the SIU in 1976 in the port of Houston. Boatman Gaillard last sailed 1-b....~i..:;.;:...--.i~..:.:.J in the engine department as an engineer. The South Carolina native served in the U.S. Air Force from 1953 to 1957. Boatman Gaillard has retired to Mt. Pleasant, S.C. BRUNOJ. JAMEST. COPELAND, Unco~~on JAMESL. GAILLARD, started his career with the Seafarers in 1976 in the port of Philadelphia. A native of Pennsylvania, Boatman Lewandowski sailed as a member of the steward department. From 1953 to 1956, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Boatman Lewandowski makes his home in Philadelphia. Shipboard Chores LEEC. HOWARD, 55, first sailed with the SIU in 1963 from the port of Frankfort, Mich. Brother Howard was a member of the deck department. The Michigan native makes his home in Benzonia, Mich. When the Robert E. Lee sailed into the Brooklyn, N. Y. Navy Yard for layup and repairs recently, all but a few of the crewmembers took the opportunity to head for home or go on vacation. Of those remaining aboard, Bosun Jerry Corelli and AB Michael M. Moore held down the fort for the SIU. But the 30-day layup was not a time of leisure for the Seafarers aboard the Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. Rather, it was a chance to take care of a few of the more uncommon tasks that can be performed only while the ship is empty-such duties as cleaning out the anchor locker and draining, sweeping and cleaning the holds. The vessel took on a new crew at the beginning of July and headed for Morehead City, N.C. and New Orleans before sailing abroad. Aboard the Alex Bonnyman in Bahrain became a member of the Seafarers in 1973 in the port of Seattle. The Min.___ _.___ ____, nesota native sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the union's facility in Piney Point, Md. From 1951 to 1953, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Emans is a resident of Edmonds, Wash. REYES FLORES,49, joined the SIU in the port of New York in 1969. Anative of Puerto Rico, he sailed as a member of the deck departme11t. Brother Flores has retired to Carolina, Puerto Rico. MARCUS S. JOHNSON, 67, started his career with the Seafarers in 1971 in the port of Mobile, Ala. The Alabama na- September 1996 Khamis "Nick" Mageed, chief steward aboard the 1st Lt. Alex Bonnyman, sent these two photos to the Seafarers LOG along with his sincere thanks to all the crewmembers for their good work. Above, in the galley of the prepositioning ship, are (from left) Chief Cook Elnaggar Elhusseiny, SA Juho Carlos, Mageed, SA Perez Simion, SA Samuel Spain and 3rd Cook Zapata Natividad. In the photo at right, taken on the deck of the Maersk Lines vessel, are (from left, front row) 3rd Cook Zapata Natividad, SA Julio Carlos, AB Alvin Thompson, AB Christopher Moore, (second row) Chief Cook Elnaggar Elhusseiny, AB Robert Crapo, AB Joseph Cornwell, Bosun Jone Grosskurth, Mageed and (third row) AB Gordon Claude. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA PEDRO ALMA Pensioner Pedro Alma, 71, passed away July 10. Brother Alma joined the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of San Francisco. A native of Puerto Rico, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Brother Alma began receiving his pension in October 1989. ALBERT E. ''TONY'' BOURGOT Pensioner Albert E. "Tony" Bourgot, 82, died July 11. A native of Alabama, he was a charter member of the SIU,joirjng the union in December 1938 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Bourgot sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the bosun recertification course in 1974. Although he retired in September 1975, he and his wife remained active with the SIU in Mobile, Ala. They served as cooks for the retirees' fish fries and barbecues, as well as for port council dinners. ERVIN I. BRONSTEIN Ervin I. Bronstein, 38, passed away July 13. He graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry • level program for seamen in 1980 and joined the Seafarers in the port of Piney Point, Md. The Texas native sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he completed the bosun recertification course in 1991 . JAMES CATANIA Pensioner James Catania, 71 , died June 26. Born in Connecticut, he joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of New Yorlc. Brother Catania sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. From 1945 to 1947, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Catania began receiving his pension in December 1990. SALVADOR CONDE Bll~I Salvador Conde, 64, passed away December4, 1988. Brother Conde began his career with the Seafarers in the Great Lakes division in 1967 and later transferred to deep sea vessels. Born in the Philippines, he sailed as a member of the engine department. From 1946 to 1949, he served in the U.S. Navy. HENRY L. DILL Pensioner Henry L. Dill, ' 68, died July 4. He began sailing with the SIU in 1951 from the port of New York. Starting out in 18 Seafarers LOG the steward department, Brother Dill later transferred to the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. From 1945 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Navy. Born in Mississippi, Brother Dill lived in Mobile, Ala. He began receiving his pension in March 1984. JOHN E. DOYLE Pensioner John E. Doyle, 67, passed away July 13. Anative of Ohio, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1946 in the ~-~---~ port of New York. Brother Doyle sailed as a member of the deck department and retired in March 1991. From 1948 to 1950, he served in the U.S. Army. PAULDUDNIKOV Pensioner Paul Dudnikov, 68, died January 10. Born in Russia, he escaped from his native land in 1972 aboard a fishing trawler. Dudnikov began sailing with the SIU in 1978. He was among the crew that first sailed the Frances Hammer to Odessa in 1989. Brother Dudnikov worked in the deck department and upgraded to third mate at the Lundeberg School. Prior to his retirement in September 1992, he sailed aboard the Sea-Land Atlantic. ROBERT H. ERICKSON RobertH. Erickson, 71, passed away March 23. Brother Erickson began sailing with the Seafarers in 1969 from the port of Seattle. ·T he Washington native worked in the deck department. He last sailed in 1981 aboard the Worth, operated by Westchester Marine. SHERMAN L. FEGGE'IT Sherman L. Feggett, 33, died December 9, 1994. He graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level program for seamen and joined the SIU in 1979 in the port of Piney Point, Md. A native of Houston, Brother Feggett sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He last sailed in 1983 aboard the Del Valle, operated by Delta Steamship Lines. CURTIS GAITER Pensioner Curtis Gaiter, 91, passed away April 16, 1995. Born in Utah, he first sailed with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1928, before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother Gaiter retired from the union in July 1968. JAMES G. HEATHERLY James G. Heatherly, 41, died July 12. Born in Oklahoma, he began his SIU career on deep sea vessels sailing from the port of San Francisco in 1981 . Heatherly also sailed in the inland division. He worked in both the deck and steward departments. ROBERT HAYDEN Robert Hayden, 55 , died July 7. A native of Alabama, he joined the SIU in 1991 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Hayden last sailed in the steward department as a chief cook. RICHARD J. JUAN Richard J . Juan, 43, died June 27. He first sailed with the Seafarers in 1978 as a member of the deck department. He was a resident of Slidell, La. He last sailed in December 1992 aboard the Liberty Wave, operated by Liberty Maritime. AHMED S. KASSIM Pensioner Ahmed S. Kassim, 81, passed away July 19. Brother Kassim started his career with the SIU in 1951 in the port of Nor<---"---"""!!!!'-~~ folk, Va. Born in Arabia, Brother Kassim sailed as a member of the engine department. He began receiving his pension in August 1972. JOSEPH KEARNES Joseph Kearnes, 66, passed away July 13. He joined the SIU in 1955 in his native New York. Brother Kearnes last sailed in 1985 aboard the SeaLand Express as a member of the steward department. From 1946 to 1949, he served in the U.S. Army. PETER R. PEDDELL Pensioner Peter R. Peddell, 58, died October 4, 1995. A native of Boston, he graduated from theMC&S training school in Santa Rosa, Calif. in 1967 and joined the MC&S in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Peddell began receiving his pension in May 1994. AUGUSTINE S. POENTES Pensioner Augustine S. Poentes, 93, passed away May 12. He first sailed with the MC&S in 1943 from the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Born in Manila, Brother Poentes last sailed as a chief cook. He retired in September 1967. GEORGE H. RICHARDSON ~ Pensioner GeorgeH. Richardson, 73, passed away June 18. A native of Alabama, he began his career with the i.====---=== Seafarers in 1976 in the port of New York. Brother Richardson last sailed as a chief steward. He began receiving his pension in June 1985. PHILIP RIVEIRA Pensioner Philip Riveira, 78, died June 7. Brother Riveira joined the MC&S in 1958 in the port of Seattle, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. A native of Hawaii, he began receiving his pension in April 1982. sailed as a bosun aboard the SS Constitution and SS Independence as well as on Sea-Land vessels. A memorial service was held March 4 aboard the SS Independence. MICHAEL D. TARABA MichaelD. Taraba, 37, died July 15. Brother Taraba graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level program for seamen in 1983 and joined the Seafarers in the port of Piney Point, Md. The Texas native sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the union's training facility at Piney Point, Md. PETER B. VALENTINE Pensioner Peter B. Valentine, 79, passed away July 20. A native of Louisiana, he joined the SIU in 1952 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Valentine sailed as a member of the deck department and began receiving his pension in November 1977. A veteran of World War Il, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1941to1947. JOHN D. WHITLEY John D. Whitley, 45, died July 2. A native of California, he first sailed with the Seafarers in 1988. Brother Whitley sailed in the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. From 1968 to 1971, he .erved in the U.S. Navy. INLAND WILLIAM C. CRAWFORD JAMES A. KENNEY DANJ.ROTAN James A . Kenney, 70, died April 11. Brother Kenney began sailing with the Seafarers in 1988. Born in Virginia, he =---==----== lived in Baltimore and was an active member. Brother Kenney sailed in the deck department. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy. Pensioner Dan J. Rotan, 71, passed away May 10. A native of Washington, he first sailed with the MC&S in 1951 from the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. (His twin brother, Don, former West Coast assistant editor of the Seafarers LOG, died in 1990.) Brother Rotan retired in July 1980. WALTER L. MCCOMBS Walter L. McCombs, 65, passed away March 11. Born in Texas, he joined the SIU in 1968 in the port of Houston. Brother McCombs sailed as a member of the engine department ABDEL G. MOHAMED Pensioner AbdelG. Mohamed, 88, passed away July 10. Brother Mohamed started his --~-·-' career with the ----~ SIU in 1943 in the port of New York. Born in Egypt, he last sailed in the deck department as a bosun. Brother Mohamed retired in October 1967. JULIO C. RUIZ Pensioner Julio C. Ruiz, 87, died June 21. He started sailing with the Seafarers in 1945 from the port of New York. Brother Ruiz sailed as amemberoftheenginedepartment. Born in Puerto Rico, he began receiving his pension in April 1971. CHARLES R. SA WYER Pensioner Charles R. Sawyer, 70, passed away July 18. Born in Massachusetts, he first sailed with the SIU in 1945 from the port of Boston. Brother Sawyer sailed in the deck department. He retired in January 1989. ! JAY J.PASTORAL Pensioner Jay J. Pastoral, 84, died June 24. Born in the Philippines, he joined the MC&S before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Pastoral began receiving his pension in May 1977. MELVINL. TALALOTU Melvin L. Talalotu, 34, died recently. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1980 from the port of Honolulu and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Brother Talalotu Pensioner William C. Crawford, 65, died July 12. He began sailing with the SIU in 1953 from the port of Galveston, Texas. '--- _:__-== The Ohio native last sailed as a chief cook. From 1946 to 1948, he served in the U.S. Army. Boatman Crawford began receiving his pension in March 1979. JOHN E. ELLARD Pensioner John E. Ellard, 79, passed away July 15. A native of Texas, he joined the Seafarers in 1973 in the port of Philadelphia. Starting out in the deck department as an AB, he became a licensed operator, last sailing as a captain. He was a veteran of WWII, having served in the U.S. Army Air Force from 1941 to 1945. Boatman Ellard lived in South Carolina and retired in December 1982. THOMAS A. PAIGE I' ., Pensioner Thomas A. Paige, 68, passed away July 17. Born in Georgia, he joined the Seafarers in 1977 in the port of New Or- Continued on page 21 September 1996 �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. COURIER(OMI Corp.), May 23Chairman Evan Josep Bradley, Secretary Le'Vont McCall, Educational Director Monte Pryor, Deck Delegate Brian Sandlin, Engine Delegate Charles Sandino, Steward Delegate Andre Zene. Chairman reported new mattresses and pillows received for crewmembers and noted extras stored for future use. Bosun announced base wage increase effective April 1. He informed crew about STCW certification. Information received and posted on tankerman assistant ratings. Chairman thanked crewmembers for participation in recent safety meeting on oil spill response emergency drills. He advised crew that captain has asked mariners to maintain pirate watches in certain international waters. Secretary reported that he and bosun attended recent meeting concerning special shipboard safety issues. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $50 in movie fund. Deck delegate, OMU, chief cook and third mate participated in recent check-up of galley, engineroom and all other areas of ship to ensure emergency and safety equipment properly stowed. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested second washing mach· ordered. Entire crew ed special vote of thanks galley gang for clean ship, good food and cheerful attitudes. Next port: Kuwait City, Kuwait. FRANCES HAMMER (Ocean Chemical Transport), May 21Chairman Richard Wilson, Secretary Herbert M. Davis, Educational Director Terry Jacobson, Deck Delegate Kenneth Boone, Engine Delegate Mike Novak, Steward Delegate Ronnie Hall. Crew requested new ice machine. Crew also seeking adjustment for temperature setting on shower to allow for more cold water. Chairman thanked all departments for job well done and good trip. Educational director reminded crewmembers to obtain STCW certificates before October 1 and advised deck and engine department members to inquire about additional STCW requirements. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun thanked Steward/Baker Davis and Chief Cook Hall for suburb culinary department. Next port: Mexico. CHAMPION (Kirby Tanks hips), June 30-Chairman Gabriel Bonefont Jr., Secretary Catherine Scott, Educational Director James McDaniel, Deck Delegate Donald Clotter, Engine Delegate Oscar Garcia, Steward Delegate Jose Santiago. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in port of Corpus Christi, Texas. He reported 49 new movies added ~o ship's videotape collection and asked crew to continue donating to movie fund. Bosun advised members to take special precautions during fueling and bunkering. Crew noted ice machine not keeping up with demand. Chairman encouraged members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Lundeberg School and to donate to SPAD. Secretary reminded crew to get STCW certificate from Coast Guard before October 1. He noted forms available on ship and may be sent directly to REC by mail. Educational director urged members to attend tanker operation/safety course at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer announced $29 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into change of eligibility for vacation pay. Crew re- September 1996 quested new couch for lounge and thanked steward department for job well done. Kevin Hall elected ship's treasurer by crew. Next ports: Savannah, Ga., Lake Charles, La., Corpus Christi and Long Beach, Calif. CHARLES L. BROWN (Transoceanic Cable), June 27-Chairman Francisco Sousa, Secretary Kenneth A. Hagan, Educational Director Joseph Stores, Deck Delegate Russell Kleinsmith, Engine Delegate Ahmed Madari, Steward Delegate Edward Dunn. Chairman distributed STCW identification certificate applications. He advised crew of July I payoff and reminded them ship is on cable repair standby. Secretary noted new memorandum of understanding included in new contract and is posted in crew lounge. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $700 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun reminded crew to return movies to movie locker after viewing. He noted only one of two washing machines in crew laundry is working. Next port: St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. CHARLESTON (Apex Marine), June 29-Chairman Anthony Maben, Secretary Glenn Bamman, Educational Director Charles Mispagel, Deck Delegate Clemente Figueroa, Engine Delegate C. Clements Steward Delegate Cecilio Suarez. Chairman and crew discussed new contract. Educational director stressed importance of attending tanker operation/safety course at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. DUCHESS (Ocean Shipholding), June 23-Chairman Robert E. Allen, Secretary Raymond Jones, Educational Director Lawrence Wright, Engine Delegate Willie Franks, Steward Delegate Erasmo Guevara. Bosun advised crew to have clinic cards, benzene cards and z-cards up-to-date when returning to vessel following shipyard layup. Secretary reminded crew that vessel is going for repairs in Mexican shipyard. He asked members to clean rooms and tum in keys prior to departing vessel. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into lowering age requirement for retirement. Crew extended special vote of thanks to galley gang for jobs well done. Next port: Veracruz, Mexico. LIBERTY WAVE (Liberty Maritime), June 9-Chairman Neil Matthey, Secretary Vincent Sanchez Jr., Educational Director Charles Kirksey, Engine Delegate Guadalupe Campbell, Steward Delegate Gery Byrd. Chairman announced ship due to arrive in Oregon at midnight on June 10. He reported payoff to take place upon arrival and reminded those signing off to tum in keys to captain. Chairman stated repair list has been circulated and new washing machine on order. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for cookouts. OVERSEAS JOYCE (OSG Car Carriers), June 30-Chairman Richard Bradford, Secretary Walter Hansen, Deck Delegate Adam Noor, Engine Delegate Edward King, Steward Delegate Carmelo Dela Cruz. Chairman announced ship to dock in ports of Portland, Ore. and Los Angeles, where crew will receive discharge papers for foreign voyage. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Piney point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate noted request for new lounge chairs submitted to captain. SAM HOUSTON (Waterman Steamship Co.), June 30---Chairman Bobby Riddick, Secretary Roderick Bright, Educational Director William Thomas, Deck Delegate C. Merida, Engine Delegate Stanley Spoma, Steward Delegate Dionce Bright. Bosun announced payoff in port of New Orleans. He noted letters from union received and posted. He urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Chairman extended to deck, engine and steward department members a vote of thanks for safe and good voyage. Secretary thanked bosun, deck and engine department members for making the long trip a safe and happy one while maintaining clean vessel. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading at Lundeberg School and keeping up with union news through Seafarers LOG. Deck and engine delegates reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by steward delegate. Deck crew addressed safety concerns while doing jobs on watch. Crew requested contracts department look into raise in pension monies. Steward department members thanked by crew for job well done in creating pleasant atmosphere and delicious meals. SEA-LAND DEFENDER (SeaLand Service), June 30--Chairman William J. Dean, Secretary Roger Linasan, Educational Director Henry Paquin, Deck Delegate Gheorghe Savencu, Engine Delegate Horst G. Baetjer, Steward Delegate Colleen J. Mast. Chairman advised crew that gangway watch will be appointed while vessel is in shipyard. He asked contracts department for additional information on new wage scale. Secretary thanked entire crew for job well done and for keeping ship clean. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman thanked entire crew for good voyage. Steward delegate reported cleaning supplies needed and reminded crew to place batteries, cans and bottles in separate trash containers. Next ports: Oakland, Calif.; Dutch Harbor, Alaska; Yokohama; and Pusan, South Korea. SEA-LAND EXPLORER (SeaLand Service), June 15-Chairman Hayden Gifford, Secretary Norman Johnson, Deck Delegate James Henry, Engine Delegate Roy Coleman, Steward Delegate Mack Bradford. Chairman reminded crewmembers to get STCW certificates as soon as possible and attend upgrading courses at Lundeberg School for secure future in maritime industry. Deck and steward delegates reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine delegate. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND INTEGRITY (SeaLand Service), June 30--Chairman Robert Bakeman, Secretary Pedro Laboy, Educational Director Gerald Daley, Deck Delegate Douglas Hodges, Engine Delegate Reginald Abrams, Steward Delegate Donald Williams. Educational director advised crew to attend upgrading classes at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward and chief cook for good meals. SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land Service), June 30-Chairman Loren Watson, Secretary K. Dougherty, Educational Director M. Sabin, Deck Delegate John Williamson, Engine Delegate E. Cox, Steward Delegate Blaine Amundson. Crew expressed appreciation for installation of new washer for dirty work clothes in crew laundry. Chairman noted Honolulu Port Agent Neil Dietz reported a new five-year contract has been reached that includes a money purchase plan and improved medical and dental benefits for de- pendents of members. The treasurer announced $360 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested additional information on new contract. Bosun reminded crew not to slam doors outside sleeping quarters. Steward department members praised for job well done with special thanks to Chief Cook Jasper Jackson for great food during last eight months. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu and Guam. USNS POLLUX (Bay Ship Management), June 1-Chairman Michael Shallbetter, Secretary Harold M. Ward, Educational Director Dwayne Jones, Steward Delegate Gary Favalord. Chairman reported old washer needs to be connected and requested a new dryer. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun read and posted information concerning STCW certificates and formed on what is happening within union. Secretary passed out information and applications for STCW certificates and explained application process. He reminded members that all active deep sea Seafarers who hold a lifeboat ticket should secure STCW certificate by October 1. Bosun noted that a letter will be sent to headquarters inquiring about STCW requirements for steward department members. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for fine meals and holiday barbecues. Next ports: Souda Bay, Crete and Rota, Spain. OVERSEAS OHIO (Maritime Overseas), July ?-Chairman Kevin Kellum, Secretary Earl Gray, Educational Director Dimarko Shoulders, Engine Delegate Andre Farewell Party Held Aboard Titus Crewmembers aboard the L TC Calvin P. Titus held a shipboard farewell party in Diego Garcia for Seafarers who sail aboard the Maersk Lines' sister ship, the Eric G. Gibson, which was ready to return to the United States. From the left are AB John Dean, QMED Dave Patterson, AB Ron Johnson, DEU Carlos Dominguez and Bosun Scott Heginbotham. tankerman assistant ratings for ABs and pumpmen. He noted copies of forms will be made available. WILLAMETTE (Kirby Tankships), June 26--Chairman Billy Hill, Secretary Oscar Angeles, Educational Director C.W. Dahlhaus, Deck Delegate Frank Hedge, Engine Delegate Craig Croft, Steward Delegate Juan Gonzalez. Chairman and crewmembers discussed recent renovation of crew lounge. Bosun advised crew of payoff in port of Los Angeles. Chairman noted port agent boarded vessel to explain details of recent contract to crewmembers who extended votes in favor of adopting new pact. Bosun thanked all departments for jobs well done. Educational director urged members to get STCW identification certificate before October 1 deadline and advised crew to read Seafarers LOG to keep informed. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman reminded crew to keep noise down in all passageways. Crewmembers gave special thanks to steward department members for doing great job in preparing meals. OOCL INSPIRATION (Sea-Land Service), July 7-Chainnan Ross Barrack Secretary Gerhard Schwarz, Deck Delegate Ronald Mena, Engine Delegate Horace Jones, Steward Delegate James Padmore. Chairman commended crew for great trip. Secretary reported crew doing well. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew noted exceptional job by galley gang. PFCEUGUENEA.OBREGON (Waterman Steamship), July 1Chainnan Henry Bouganim, Secretary Patrick Helton, Educational Director Robert Fanner, Deck Delegate Charles J. Frisella, Engine Delegate Ronald Lukas, Steward Delegate Rudolph A. Xatruch. Chairman advised members to attend monthly union meetings at the hall or aboard ship and read Seafarers WG to keep in- Carriere, Steward Delegate Elena Curley. Chairman thanked crew for participation in recent safety meeting. Secretary advised all members to continue upgrading at Lundeberg School in order to secure best future possible in maritime industry. He stressed importance of being registered to vote in upcoming U.S. presidential election. Educational director urged all members to obtain a Piney Point education. Crew asked contracts department for clarification on some new contract issues and thanked members of negotiation committee for job well done. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. Beef reported by engine delegate. No beefs or disputed OT reported by steward delegate. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department members for excellent work. Crew extended special thanks to SIU President Michael Sacco and all SIU officials for great work in negotiating new contract. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND ANCHORAGE (SeaLand Service), July 18-Chainnan Glen Christianson, Secretary James Wright, Educational Director William Pinkham, Engine Delegate Richard Stuverud, Steward Delegate Tommy Belvin. Chairman noted upcoming payoff and asked all crewmembers to leave rooms clean and orderly. Steward delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or engine delegates. Crew asked contracts department to look into allowing crew to collect vacation benefits at end of 30 or 60 days seatime instead of 120. Crew discussed need for a new TV and creation of movie fund. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Crewmembers asked that van be provided for transportation of crewmembers to and from ship while in port due to dangerous harbor conditions. Crew reported excellent fishing in Dutch Harbor, Alaska and steward department is creating plenty of delicious halibut dishes. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. Seafarers LOG 19 �Know Your·Rights News while sailing its flagship paper, USA TODAY into • union hoines. Letters to the Editor Reader Responds To July LOG Article On page lOoftheJuly 1996LOG, under Maritime Briefs, is a story on the trip of the Jeremiah 0 'Brien to the Pacific Northwest and Canada. Paragraph number 6 tells of efforts in Canada to save the last of the WWil-built Park ships. The article tells that they were built for the British Royal Navy. Not so. Those ships were built for the Canadian Merchant Navy (called the merchant marine in America) and manned by Canadian civilian seamen, just as merchant ships were in both Britain and the U.S. Some might have been turned over the British, as were some American-built Liberty ships. But most were, as I've written, crewed by Canadians and flew a red ensign with Canadian colors in the red field. Also, "British Royal Navy" is a redundancy. Either "Royal Navy" or "British Navy," but not both. That's akin to saying "American United States" Navy in a story! This is only to point out a minor fault in the story. Robert A. Mackeen Portla~d, Ore. cially the AFL Wall Street clerical workers union, which consisted mostly of women. It was men like Hall who gave American workers the highest standard of living in the world. Without people like him, American workers today would be living like slaves. Peter Salvo McKeesport, Pa. Paul Hall served as president of the SIU from 1947 until his death in 1980. (Editor's note: The writer sailed with the SIU from World War II into the 1950s. This letter also was published in the McKeesport, Pa. Daily News in August.) Remember Paul Hall On Labor Day Paul Hall, the late SIU president, was one of the greatest union leaders of our time. He died in 1980 as a member of the executive board of the AFL-CIO, and he was greatly admired and respected for the leadership and courage he displayed. His strength and foresight will always serve as an example to those who strive to further the mission of the labor movement. My association with Hall many years ago was as a picket captain on the New York waterfront. We had to battle the Commies and the company goons wearing steel helmets and using garbage-can lids as shields. Paul Hall helped many unions in distress, espe- 20 Seafarers LOG Charleston Chairman Commends Steward Crew I would like to express a vote of thanks-in the strongest possible terms-to this steward department [aboard the Charleston, operated by Apex Marine]. For only three guys to put out such good food, day in and day out, is a feat in itself. But they also kept a 40-year-old ship in top condition. These guys are truly amazing. Thanks again for sending us German Rios, Francisco Torres and Cecilio Suarez. Dave Palumbo Ship's Chairman srr Charleston 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 secretmytreasurer. 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 (heir 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 Boanl. 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 pmposes of any individual in the mrion, 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 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 cany 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 methcxls, 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 dearly 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 righl8 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 bec3.use 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 contri bu ti on 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 TIIE 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 207 46. September 1996 �Final Departures Continued from page 18 leans. Boatman Paige sailed in the deck department and began receiving his pension in May 1990. From 1944 to 1945, he served in the U.S. Navy Reserve. ROYB.TOLER Roy B. Toler, 54, died July 18. He began sailing with the SIU in 1981 as a member of the deck department. Boatman Toler sailed primarily on vessels operated by Mariner Towing, last sailing in April 1991. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1960 to 1964. ...::::...__ __J RAYMOND E. WISE Raymond E. Wise, 38, passed away March 18. Born in New Yorlc, he graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level program for seamen in 1978 and joined the Seafarers in the port of Piney Point, Md. Boatman Wise sailed in the deck department primarily aboard vessels operated by Sabine Towing. GREAT LAKES JOHN F. BIONDO John F. Biondo, 58, passed away June9. A native of Massachusetts, he first sailed .-'ft with the SIU in ..,.. . • 1977 from the ~ \ port of Detroit. '----=:...=:.._.;;___;__...::i Brother Biondo worked in the deck department and made his home in Vermont. From 1955 to 1968, he served in the U.S. Marine Reserve. DAVID T. BRUNSBERG · David T. Brunsberg, 61, died June 3. Born in Min- nesota, he joined the Seafarers in 1976 in the port of Duluth, === Minn. Brother Brunsberg sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. BERNARD J. KROGMAN Pensioner Bernard J. Krogman, 84, passed away May 24. Brother Krogman began sailing on the Great Lakes in 1937 and joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of Detroit. He last sailed in the deck department as a wheelsman and began receiving his pension in February 1976. RICHARD D. WHITFORD Pensioner Richard D. Whitford, 74, died March 5. Brother Whitford began his career with the SIU in 1961 in the port of Ash=~--!::!!!!!.J tabula, Ohio. The Ohio native sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII, from 1944 to 1946. Brother Whitford began receiving his pension in September 1983. RAILROAD MARINE COLIE L. CUTLER Pensioner Colie L. Cutler, 79, passed away May 15. Brother Cutler joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The Virginia native sailed as a member of the deck department and began receiving his pension in January 1982. ~lilitiiliiiiiL-1 Former LOG Asst. Editor, Ray Bourdius, Dies at 74 Raymond Pierre Bourdi us, assistant editor of the Seafarers WG for 13 years, died in Miami, Fla. on May 14 following a heart attack. He had retired in 1987. Born in New York City in 1922, Bourdius graduated from Long Island University with a bachelor of arts in journalism. He also attended Columbia University. During his long career in publishing, he worked as a copy editor for several New York area newspapers, including the old New York Mirror. He also served a stint onthecopydeskofthelntemational Herald-Tribune in Paris, France. Bourdius was a veteran of World War II, having served with the Ninth Air Force in England and France, and was awarded a Bronze Service Star for the Northern France Campaign. Ray Bourdius was proud to be an American citizen, but his heart belonged to France, his father's native country. He was particularly fond of Paris, where he will be buried according to his wishes. A memorial Mass was held in New York on May 25. He leaves behind his wife, Catherine, and his sister, Marilyn. Bill Armstrong, the longtime New York port agent for the Sailors' Union of the Pacific (SUP), passed away July 17 in Cape Coral, Aa. He was 83. Armstrong began his career with the SUP in 1935. He sailed as an AB and bosun. The California native made several voyages in the North Atlantic during World War Il prior to coming ashore in 1944 to work in the union hall in New York. Armstrong became port agent in 1957 when Morris Weisberger became president of the SUP upon the death of Harry Lundeberg. He served in that position until April 1986 when the SUP closed the New York office and Armstrong retired. George McCartney, SIU vice president for the West Coast, remembered Armstrong as "having lots of friends. He was very well known to the SIU mem- September 1996 Issuance Year Renewal Year II The April 25, 1986 issue of the West Coast Sailors, the SUP's newspaper, noted of Armstrong's retirement that "he has served with dedication and distinction." Only Weisberger and Armstrong served as New York port agents, according to the West Coast Sailors. 11 House Passes Measure Allowing 'Comp Time' Instead of OT Before leaving for its summer recess, the U.S. House of Representatives approved a bill that would allow employers to replace overtime pay with compensatory time off. A similar bill is pending in the Senate Committee on Labor and Human Resources, although it appears unlikely the Senate will act on the legislation this year. While the House bill calls for a verifiable, voluntary agreement between employers and each indi victual worker when it comes to choosing overtime pay or time off, opponents of the bill - including the AFL-CIO, the national federation of trade unions (of which the SIU is a member) - warn that such arrangements will have many pitfalls for the employees. ''The concept of a 'voluntary arrangement' in most workplaces is a cruel hoax.. If the employer wants to 'pay' for overtime work in compensatory time, not cash, the employer will find a way to exert his considerable influence over the workers to accept that arrangement," notes AFL-CIO Legislative Director Peggy Taylor, adding that the so-called worker protections in the bill are "weak and virtually meaningless." The federation further cautions that the bill would have the damaging effect of significantly reducing workers' wages in an era when millions of families count on overtime pay to meet their budgets. Conversely, employers would save great sums of money (and earn interest on it) by reducing or eliminating overtime pay. Finally, there is no apparent protection for employees of companies which, for whatever reasons, may go out of business. In such instances, workers who had accrued comp time - essentially paying the employer up front - would receive no reimbursement. Oregon Citizens Defeat Fraud of Right-to-Work Workers in Oregon recently defeated a petition drive to put a public employee right-to-work measure on the November ballot. According to news reports, the ballot initiative would have forbidden mandatory payment of union dues by public employees and banned the government from deducting union dues from employees' paychecks. The petition drive was headed by Bill Sizemore, described by the AFL-CIO as an anti-union lobbyist. "Even with their purported budget of $672,000, Sizemore and his millionaire backers were unable to buy their way onto the ballot," Oregon AFL-CIO President Irv Hetcher said in a statement. ''The Oregon public was able to see past the empty rhetoric and reject this attempt to tinker with the state constitution." Both the state and national AFL-CIO played key roles in assisting rank-and-file workers to defeat the initiative. During one campaign activity, a rally at the state Capitol, hundreds of public employee union members told legislators that they wanted Oregon to remain a "fair share" state- meaning one that requires dues payments of all employees who work in a union shop. (So-called right-to-work laws allow employees to freeload by not paying dues while still enjoying the protections and other benefits of a union contract.) Some 40,000 government workers in Oregon are represented by unions, including more than 22,000 who are members of the Oregon Public Employees Union, an affiliate of the Service Employees International Union. A local official from that union described the initiative as one "that would have hurt more than the public workers. It would have hurt families and communities throughout the state." Labor Federation Utilizes Internet Count the AFL-CIO among the massive number of groups who have found a home on the Internet, the global network of computers. The labor federation has a home page on the World Wide Web, the most popular segment of the Internet. Anybody with a computer and a modem may access the site at http://aflcio.org. Additionally, the national federation of trade unions offers a service via CompuServe (an Internet provider) called LaborNET. Featuring electronic bulletin boards (areas for exchanging messages also known as forums), voting information, lists of unionmade goods and services and more, LaborNET is a priva~e service available only to union members and their families who subscribe to CompuServe. The AFL-CIO home page provides similar information, including the current edition of the AFL-CIO News, federation policy statements, issue papers, press releases and congressional testimony. The federation site also provides links to two dozen other union and labor-oriented sites. Visitors simply read the list and select the other Web pages they want to see. One advantage of maintaining a home page is that it allows the AFL-CIO to deliver its messages directly to the public, rather than rely on media coverage. Another plus is that it may be used to quickly spread the word about key legislation and subsequently facilitate organized·labor's efforts regarding the measure. For instance, if union members participate in a letter-writing campaign, they may communicate with their elected representatives via electronic mail (e-mail). This could be particularly useful if there is a need to immediately communicate with the representative. Recently, the AFL-CIO home page has averaged about 2,000 "hits" (accesses by visitors) per week. 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1986 1981 1976 1971 1966 1961 1956 1951 1946 1941 1987 1982 1977 1972 1967 1962 1957 1952 1947 1942 1937 1997 1988 1983 1978 1973 1968 1963 1958 1953 1948 1943 1938 1989 1984 1979 1974 1969 1964 1959 1954 1949 1944 1939 1990 1990 1985 1980 1975 1970 1965 1960 1955 1950 1945 1940 2000 1996 bers who sailed out of New York, because the SUP office was within our hall." Labor Briefs Seafarers Must Renew Z-Cards Every Five Years 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. - Retired SUI' NY Agent Bill Armstrong Dies in Florida 1998 ATTENTION: SEAFARERS HELP Seafarers LOG 21 �Lundeberg School Graduating Classes SEAFARERS LUNDEBERG SCHOOL LIFEBOAT CLASS =-·· 551 Trainee Lifeboat Class 551--Braduating from trainee lifeboat class 551 are (from left, kneeling) David Mark Hoffman II, David Tompkins, Manuel Alvarez, (standing) Osvaldo Rios, Jason Vogel, Jason McCormick, Eric Orscheln and Tom Gilliland (instructor). U pgraders Lifeboat-Posing with their instructor are Seafarers who graduated from the upgraders lifeboat class on July 22. From the left are Fred Burton Jr., Tom Gilliland (instructor) and Donald Reed. Oil Spill Containment-Seafarers graduating from the oil spill containment class on August 1 are (from left) Ralph Martin, Bill Holcombe, Robert Wooton, Mike Lanham and Jim Shaffer (instructor). Tanker Operation/SafetySeafarers completing the tanker operation/safety course on July 31 are {from left, kneeling) Byran Cummings (instructor), Gary Walker, Monte Pryor, Cleveland Westo Jr., Jerry Borucki, Samuel Addo, Jose Calix, James Keith, Barry Hamm, (second row, kneeling) Rafael Evans, Gerald Ray, Raymond Gorju, Dudley James, Sukirman Suraredjo, Amante Gumiran, William Behan, Leslie Jacobs, Gina Lightfoot, Leticia Perales, (standing) Eddy Usmany, Isabel Sabio, Joseph Emidy, James Bates, Jerry Bankston, Eddie Hall, Jack Marting, Ralph Morgan, Jose Guzman, Anthony Bonin, David Collins, Frank Martin, Louis Santiago, (last row) Karmell Crawford, James Saunders, Nathaniel Leary, Arthur Machado, Paul Nathan, Arnold Neff, Manuel Camara, Robert Gilliam, Michael Guerrin and Daniel Laitinen. 22 Seafarers LOG September 1996 �LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1996 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following i$ the schedule for classes beginning between October and·December.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 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 1 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. Safety Specialty Courses Start Date Date of Completion Basic Firefighting October 14 November 18 December16 October18 November22 December20 Advanced Firefighting December2 December 13 Tanker Operation/Safety October21 November18 Novembers December6 Tankennan Recertification October 14 November 11 October25 November22 Course Inland Courses Dede Upgrading Courses Start Start Course Date Date of Completion Able Seaman October 14 December13 Date of Completion Course Date Radar Observer/Inland (see radar courses listed under deck department) Additional Courses Start Engine Upgrading Courses Start Course Date Date of Completion Fireman/Watertender & Oiler October14 December13 Hydraulics November11 November29 November4 December 13 ~ntenance Course Date Date of Completion Adult Basic Education (ABE) October 14 November22 The Lundeberg School is presently working on its 1997 calendar of courses. As soon as the dates are finalized, the schedule will appear in upcoming issues of the Seafarers LOG. Members with any questions regarding fature courses may call the school's admissions office at (301) 994-0010. ---~---------------------------------------------------------------··-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Primary language spoken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ UPGRADING APPLICATION (Street) (City) (State) Telephone___._______..___ _ _ __ (Zip Code) Date of B i r t h - - - - - - - - - - (AreaCode) (Month/Day/Year) Deep Sea MemberD Lakes Member D With this application, COPIES ofyour discharges ITlllSt be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourself for the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each ofthe following: the first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lund.eberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and completed. The admissions office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. COURSE BEGIN DA TE 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 U.S. Citizen: D Yes D No Department - - - - - - - Home Port _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DYes DNo ff yes, c l a s s # - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? DYes DNo ff yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Firefighting: D Yes September 1996 D No CPR: D Yes 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. Date On: Date O f f : - - - - - - - - - - - SIGNATURE_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _DATE_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D N~ LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - - - - R a t i n g : - - - - - - D No RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 9196 Seafarers LOG 23 �Seafarers Scholarships Applications now are being accepted for the 1997 Seafarers scholarship program. See page 13 for eligibility rules and information on how to obtain an application form. Docking large ships is all in a day's work for SIU boatmen who sail aboard McAllister Brothers tugboats on the East Coast. Recently, however, 20 such Seafarers handled an out-of-theordinary docking assignment. In late July, five SIU-crewed tugsthe Philadelphia-based Teresa McAllister, James McAllister, Eric M. McAllister, and Suzanne McAllister and the Baltimorebased America-guided the historic ocean liner SS United States along the Delaware River to a berth at Philadelphia's Packer A venue Marine Terminal. The SIU boats pushed the unmanned United States, the former passenger ship which once was the flagship of the American fleet, some 93 miles from the entrance of the Delaware Bay. ''There was no fanfare or festivities, but the crews were all excited about the ship coming," stated Captain Allen Baker, who sent the photos accompanying this article to the Seafarers LOG and who sailed aboard the Eric M. McAllister during the job. "It was overcast, but what I remember is seeing the ship in the distance, a few miles away. The sun was going down, and the clouds broke just enough that sun shone SIU Boat1nen Dock 'The Big Ship' SS United States Returns Home Today, the vessel's engines and boilers still are in place, but otherwise the United States is gutted. Its owners, Marmara Marine Inc., have not announced their plans for the ship, although recent newspaper reports have speculated on a number of possible uses. Such has been the case literally since the first day the United States was laid up. In his book about the vessel and its designer, ''The Big Ship," author Frank Braynard wrote in 1981: " ... the story of the countless plans for her reactivation will not be described here, except to say that they run the gamut from insane and even humorous to the serious and quite possible." Rare Assignment on the ship. The lofty, gigantic r~~~=~~~---~ smokestacks are the first thing b you see. It gave me a chill down my back, it really did. I don't think anyone thought they'd see it in the United States again." (The vessel had been docked overseas the last four years.) Baker and Captain Steve Hardin of the America particularly were interested in this task. Baker is well-versed in the background of the United States and had seen the 990-foot ship in Norfolk, Va. almost 10 years ago, during one of his first jobs with the union; while Hardin sailed aboard the vessel when he Long History was enrolled at the Merchant With much publicity, the SS Marine Academy in Kings Point, United States was constructed at N.Y. Newport News (Va.) Shipbuild"I'm not old enough to ing from 1950 to 1952. The turremember its glory days, but bine steamer's maiden voyage, from what I've read, you can from New York to England, comhave an understanding and even menced July 3, 1952, and on that a little compassion for the ship ittrip the vessel set a transatlantic self," noted Baker, 30. ABOVE: SIU-crewed tugs assist the unmanned SS United States along the Delaware River to a berth in Philadelphia. LEFT: Frank Braynard's book chronicles the history of the well-known vessel, once the flagship of the American fleet. speed record that still stands. The United States sailed from the Ambrose lightship, outside New York Harbor, to Bishop Rock (near Cornwall, England) in three days, 10 hours and 40 minutes (see story, this page). Designed by the late William Francis Gibbs and his brother, Frederic, the United States featured 240,000 shaft horsepower Seafarers aboard five McAllister Brothers tugboats based in Philadelphia and Baltimore push the famous ship near the Walt Whitman Bridge.. Twenty Seafarer$ were involved In the job. (reportedly 100,000 horsepower stronger than any other liner of that era) and four propellers. During most of its 17 years of service, it primarily served as a means of transportation, rather than as a cruise ship, for its heyday partly preceded the boom of airline travel. In all, the vessel logged nearly 2,800,000 miles, carried more than 1 million passengers across the Atlantic and also transported another 22,800 people on cruises before laying up in Newport News in 1969, following its final voyage. Four years later, the U.S. Maritime Administration bought the ship and moved it to Norfolk, where the vessel remained berthed for almost 20 years. Then, in 1992, the United States was towed to Turkey, where it underwent removal of asbestos and lead piping. It stayed idle overseas before recently being towed back to America. Regardless of the United States' future, Baker and his fellow boatmen took note that their brush with the 'big ship' was something out of the ordinary. ''This assignment was a surprise to all of us," he recalled. ''The ship was a novelty for most of the guys, but they all seemed interested in it It's something to see, even when it's not under way." Baker's fellow crewmember , including Mate John Toomey and Deckhand George Lord, enjoyed the benefit of his familiarity with the liner's history, which Baker shared during parts of the docking assignment. Much of that know edge c~-m-e--"--.... from reading Braynard's book in 1986. "While we were there, I thought about all the people who had traveled back and forth on that ship, all the immigrants, all the rich and famous people," Baker added. "Yet here it was with not one person on board." In the long run, though, the Seafarers' professionalism made them primarily focus on simply doing the best possible job. ''The ship had no mooring lines, so everything was brought from shore," Baker concluded. "But it wasn't difficult. We got her up to Pbiladelphia, tied her up, and that was about it. "With 20 SIU men employed on this job, I knew we would have no problem getting the job done. We've got good people on these boats." How Fast? No one apparently questions that the SS United States holds the transatlantic speed record, established on its maiden voyage 44 years ago. The ship sailed from New York to England in three days, 10 hours and 40 minutes. But determining the liner's top speed proved difficult for many years. The U.S. government did not reveal the vessel's design secrets until 16 years after it was built-and even then, the United States' top speed was inaccurately reported. In ''The Big Ship," a thoroughly detailed book about the vessel, author Frank Braynard noted that a 1968 New York Times article about the United States stated, "without any particular attribution, that the ship 'could make 42 knots, or better than 48 land-miles an hour."' Amazingly, other newspapers as well as maritime magazines subsequently mentioned the 42-knot top speed, "having picked it up without attribution from the Times piece," Braynard wrote. ''The whole world accepted these statements and the 42-knot speed was repeated in other places and even in books about the sea. It would come as quite a shock ten years later when JOhn Kane's technical paper on the speed and power of the superliner ... disclosed that her best speed had been 38.32 knots," Braynard wrote. � 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 September 1996 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES BIG BUSINESS SHAKE DOWN COMPANIES TO FINANCE ANTI-WORKER AD COMPAIGN ANTI-JONES ACT BILL BOTTLED IN HOUSE U.S. SHIP BILL SET FOR SENATE’S RETURN LOCAL SUPPORT GROWS FOR KEEPING CABOTAGE LAWS INTACT PHILADELPHIA SEAFARERS APPROVE PACTS WITH TWO SHIP DOCKING COMPANIES COMMITTEE REVIEWS CREDENTIALS FOR UNION ELECTION PRESIDENT SIGNS HEALTH CARE BILL MEASURE CALLS FOR INSURANCE PORTABILITY PAUL HALL CENTER ADDS FIREFIGHTING COURSES FOR QUALIFICATION AS TANKERMAN ASSISTANTS CAPTAIN SENTENCED UNDER OPA’ 90 FOR 1994 PUERTO RICO OIL SPILL PREIDENT PUSHES PORTS’ SUCCESS, JOBS DURING CALIFORNIA ADDRESS CREDENTIALS APPROVED FOR CANDIDATES TO 27 UNION OFFICES STEWARDS REACH GALLEY PINNACLE AT PINEY POINT LNG CREWS APPROVE 5-YEAR PACT SEAFARERS BACK STRIKING MACHINISTS FORMER SEAFARER CARRIES OLYMPIC TORCH THROUGH FLORIDA TOWN HURRICANE BERTHA UNLEASHES HER FURY SIU CREWS KEEP SHIPS OUT OF STORM’S WRATH BASKETBALL-PLAYING SEAFARER ADVANCES IN LIFE AND GAME RETIRED BOSUN DONATES KNOT BOARDS TO UNION SEAFARERS SCHOLARSHIPS HELP EASE FINANCIAL BURDEN SIU BOATMEN DOCK ‘THE BIG SHIP 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 09/01/1996 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. 9 1996 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/1e21052fea52cddaddb00b0e8dc00f8a.pdf bd069ad9628d5a2c90096cae3ca0459a PDF Text Text .SIONA Convention Details Call to Action Seafarers March in Solidarity More .Jobs On the Way Teamsters Win More Full-Time Jobs at UPS After 16-Day Strike Watson Christened; 2nd of 8 RO/ROS To Be Crewed by SIU -~ When members of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters went on strike last month against UPS, Seafarers around the country turned out in a show of solidarity for their fellow trade unionists. Pictured above are SIU members Angel Rivera, Steve Ondreako and Michael Gomes along with striking Teamsters in Houston. Page 2. The christening of the USNS Watson in San Diego represents new jobs for SIU members, who will crew the roll-on/roll-off prepositioning ship for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. The Watson is part of the eight-ship package awarded July 31 to SIU-contracted Maersk Line Limited of Norfolk, Va. Crewing of the vessel is expected to begin early next year. Page 3. Jones Act Resolution Gains Support at Majority in Hause ~~~----~--------------~------Page4 �................... ~ .... ~~---- ----------------------...._---------------------~~~~~~~~~ - President's-Report Making ft Happen Michael Sacco delivered this speech August 12, 1997 accepting his re-election as president of the Seafarers International Union of North America al the conclusion of the Sf UNA Convention. First of all, I want to thank you very much for the confidence that you have shown in me by reelecting me as your president for the next five years. But, you know, the last 10 years was a time of triumph and tears for our union. We scored some spectacular victories, yet felt the disapMichael Sacco pointment of temporary setbacks. We forged new and important alliances, but we lost many-too many-of our friends and brothers to untimely death. We experienced a radical change in our history. As we entered the '80s, we were manning C-3s, C-4s, jumboized T-2 tankers and a few baby supertankers. Today, SIU members are crewing LASH vessels, roll-on/roll-offs, LNGs, sophisticated chemical carriers, integrated tug and barge units, high technology hoppers and dredges, and thousand-foot superbulkers and self-unloaders on the Great Lakes, A Time of Progress Indeed, there has been progress for us-great progress. But. let's never forget one very important thing. This progress didn't come easy. SIU members are manning most of this equipment today because we worked for them. we planned for them and, ultimately, made it happen. The front doors of our union halls would have rusted solid if we had sat around waiting for someone to knock on our door to give us one job-let alone an impressive fleet. You know the old saying "All comes to he who waits" has never, nor ever will apply to us! Complacency must never enter our daily lives! The word "satisfy" must never creep its way into the pages of our dictionary! Pride In Marttime Security Act In retrospect, one of the most crucial events of the past decade has been the Maritime Security Act. We can all take a great deal of pride in the fact that the SIU spearheaded this bill through the Congress. The Maritime Security Act gave us hope-new hope-and a chance to survive. And we can also be proud that SIU members sail on most of these vessels. Again, this just didn't happen to us! We made it happen! We geared up the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship by instituting the programs needed to enable Seafarers to acquire the ever-changing skills for the new ships. We also made it happen by constantly looking toward the future to capitalize on promising concepts even before they actually came into being. For sure, the past decade was a time of great challenge to our union and the entire maritime industry. We met this challenge with intelligence and enthusiasm. As a result, we prospered where others barely survived. Plan for the Future The important thing to do now is to plan for the corning decade. It will bring challenges and problems and crises-some similar, some very different from the past decade. We must meet each of these challenges as it comes and never, never back down or sidestep a tough issue! However, we should never forget where we came from and what it took in the way of blood, sweat and tears to get where we are today. And we should never forget the people who worked so hard in the years past to ensure that our union remains strong and on a steady course. Our job is cut out for us. The next decade will not be an easy one. But it is one that holds tremendous opportunities if we're strong enough and determined enough to take advantage of them. And, by God, I think we are! Volume 59, Number 9 Seafarers LOG Public Support of Strikers Helps Gain More Full-Time Jobs Seafarers joined other trade unionists last month across the country in showing their support for Teamsters striking against United Parcel Service (UPS). The 16-day strike ended August 20 with a tentative fiveyear contract, which is being considered and voted on by the rankand-file Teamsters through the middle of this month. The agreement includes the creation of 10,000 new full-time jobs by combining existing reducedwage, reduced-benefits positions. The job action, which started August 4, called the nation's attention to the growing trend of using part-time workers instead of hiring full-time employees. An increasing number of employers have been using part-time and temporary workers instead of full-timers. By doing this, the companies lower wages and either eliminate or reduce benefits to their employees. They have rationalized such tactics as a way to increase profits. The Teamsters pointed out that UPS had been increasing the number of part-time workers on its payroll. At the time of the strike, nearly 60 percent of the UPS workforce of 190,000 Teamsters were considered parttime workers. Some of these "part-timers" were employed more than 40 hours a week, yet were not receiving the pay and benefits of full-time employees. The company had been holding out the promise of offering full-time work, but continued to bring on more part-timers. All of this was taking place as the company posted record profits. In the early days of the strike, AFL-CIO President John Sweeney • \ pledged that the national federation of trade unions would provide loans to fund the Teamsters' strike fund in the event of a long job action. "Because this fight is our fight, we are making this strike our strike," Sweeney stated during an August 12 press conference. 'This struggle is over the basic issues faced by every worker in our economy." As Seafarers and other union members marched with Teamsters in front of UPS sites around the More than 400 trade unionists and other supporters, including QMED Mark Francois (left) and New Bedford Port Agent Henri Francois, march to the Dartmouth, Mass. UPS warehouse during the Teamsters strike. Displaying his support for UPS Teamsters is AB Steve Estrela from New Bedford, Mass. country, popular support for the strikers grew. National polls revealed a majority of Americans agreed with the issues presented by the Teamsters. Despite stating UPS would not deviate from its final offer presented days before the strike was called, the company's negotiators -meeting with Labor Secretary Alexis Herman, Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service Director John Calhoun Wells and their staffs--came back to the table to iron out the contract. SIU President Michael Sacco congratulated Teamsters President Ron Carey at the conclusion of the strike. ''The labor movement got a real shot in the arm as a result of your determined stand. During the days the UPS Teamsters were on the picket lines, you demonstrated how American businesses take advantage of workers by converting full-time jobs to part-time with lower salaries and reduced benefits, while at the same time increasing their own profits:' Besides the increase in fulltime workers, UPS agreed to stay within the Teamsters' multiemployer pension fund. Teamsters at UPS also gained an increase in wages over the bfe of the pact and new limits on the use of subcontractors. S~ptember f 997 The Seafarers WG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 8990675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998 and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers WG, 520 I Au th Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Daniel Duncan; Managing Editor, Jordan Biscardo; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Corrina Christensen Gulierrez; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Copyright © 1997 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 During UPS Strike, Teamsters Shine Spotlight an Use at Part-Time Workers Seafarers from around the country showed their solidarity with UPS Teamsters. In Philadelphia, SIU members Scott Smith (left) and Mike Vanderwoude (right) march with Patrolman Joe Mieluchowski (back) and a Teamster. In Jacksonville, Fla., QMED Sindy Davis, OS Florencio Bermudez, AB Thomas Higgins and SREC Gregory Melvin demonstrate their backing for striking Teamsters. September 1997 �SIONA: 'Full Ahead' Convention Delegates Map Plans for 21st Century Delegates representing the 17 affiliated organizations of the Seafarers International Union of North America, during the SIUNA's 23rd convention, called for actions to revitalize the U.S.- and Canadian-flag merchant marine, improve the living standard of America's working families, maintain an effective political presence at the local, state and federal lev· els, organize new members, and support the work of the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) in its fight against runaway-flag shipping. More than 300 delegates and guests met August 11-12 for the quinquennial convention, conducted at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. under the theme "Full Ahead for the 21st Century." They heard from members of Congress and the administration, who pledged their support for such key items as the Jones Act and the Maritime Security Program (MSP). They also were addressed by AFL-CIO President John Sweeney, who outlined the national labor federation's strategy for helping affiliated unions (including the SIUNA) organize new members. In addition, SIUNA affiliates reported on their recent activities, and delegates re-elected by acclamation President Michael Sacco and Secretary-Treasurer John Fay. Seventeen vice presidents also were chosen by the convention. Sacco identified one of the convention's key themes-political action-when he recounted the four-year battle to enact the MSP. ''As you all know, our biggest legislative victory during that period took place last fall, when President Clinton signed the Maritime Security Program into law. Nothing less than the survival of the U.S.-flag liner fleet was at stake," he continued. "In fact, we have a banner hanging in this auditorium, to remind us of how important the Maritime Security Program is-and how hard we worked to get it." Preserve Jones Act Additional convention coverage on pages 5, 6, 11-14 ''There is no way to overstate the importance of political action in the SIUNA," he declared. "It is as vital to our existence as bread and water. Just look at some of the events that have happened since our last convention. Sacco also reminded delegates that they must continue waging the political fight to preserve the Jones Act with the same energy and determination they applied toward the MSP battle. "The Jones Act represents jobs for our membership," he said. "It is a law which protects the economic security and national security of the United States. It pro- Seafarers Will Crew New RO/RO USNS Watson Christened in San Diego When the USNS Watson recently slid into San Diego Bay for its christening, it marked new jobs on the horizon for Seafarers. The 950-foot roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) prepositioning ship will be crewed by SIU members when it gets under way in 1998. It is one of eight such vessels being constructed for the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC); the USNS Bob Hope was christened earlier this year, while the other six have various delivery dates between 1998 and 2000. All eight vessels (four Watson class and four Bob Hope class) will be crewed by SIU members, the union announced on July 31. They will be operated for MSC by Maersk Line Limited of Norfolk, Va. This represents hundreds of new jobs for Seafarers. Built at National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) shipyard in San Diego, the Watson will carry U.S. Army vehicles, supplies and other equipment. Its primary cargo will be transport items such as tanks, helicopters, armored personnel carriers, tractor-trailers and highmobility military vehicles, known as HMMVs. It also may be used to provide stores for surge sealift support of remote military actions. Named after U.S. Anny Private George Watson, a posthumous recipient of the Medal of Honor for heroic actions off the coast of New Guinea in 1943, the ship will be strategically prepositioned near potential areas of conflict. As with other ships in MSC's Afloat Prepositioning Force, it will be fully loaded and ready to sail at a moment's notice. Both the Watson and the Bob Hope are part of a multi-ship package intended to satisfy the nation's need for increased sealift capability as identified after the Persian Gulf War. Five converted RO/ROs operated by Bay Ship Management also are included-the SIU-crewed USNS Shughart, USNS Gilliland, USNS Yano, USNS Soderman and USNS Gordon. of NASSCO Thousands employees and military personnel attended the Watson's christening on July 26, the shipyard announced. Army Secretary Togo D. West Jr. was the featured speaker. SIUNA President Michael Sacco (right) welcomes AFL-CIO President John Sweeney, one of the featured speakers at the union's convention last month in Piney Point, Md. The labor federation president told delegates that organizing new members is the key for the resurgence of America's working families. vides the U.S. economy with literally billions of dollars each year, and more than 100,000 U.S. citizens have jobs directly related to the Jones Act. Yet the Jones Act is under attack-mostly by foreign bulk agriculture-business interests who want to put our companies out of business and our members out of work. 'This is one battle we can't afford to lose, and we have no intention of losing," Sacco emphasized. "So far we've done a good job of getting our point across and rallying support. But we cannot let our guard down, even for one minute." Organize Both Sacco and Sweeney stressed the vital need to organize new members. (See article on page 5.) "Common sense tells us that if we don't organize, we won't be around," Sacco said. "Common sense also should tell us that when it comes to organizing, we have to be aggressive. It's not easy, but it is essential." He pointed out that unions currently represent about 13.5 percent of the work force in the U.S. Projections from the AFL-CIO show that 300,000 new members must be organized each year in order to remain at 13.5 percent. For an increase of just 1 percent, 1.3 million people must be organized each year. "Now here's another figure that we should consider," he continued. "Did you know that in the United States, union members earn an average of $153 per week more than non-union workers? That equals an $8,000 dollar a year raise simply by being a union member, brothers and sisters.... There is a legitimate opportunity to organize right now. More and more people are becoming aware of the benefits of union representation." In other news from the convention, delegates approved resolutions calling for U.S. adoption of an international treaty that would place the American shipbuilding industry on a level playing field with foreign competition; promotion of the U.S.-flag passenger fleet; enactment of a National Marine Policy that will revitalize the Canadian-flag merchant fleet; continued backing of the ITF's campaign against runaway-flag shipping; rejection of any trade policies that fail to sufficiently address workers' rights and environmental protection; and extension of the cutoff date for veterans' benefits for World War II merchant mariners, among other resolutions. Additionally, the following officers were elected by acclamation: President Sacco; SecretaryTreasurer Fay; Vice Presidents George Beltz, Jack Caffey, Marcos Cordero, Dean Corgey, Henry Disley, Steve Edney, Charles Gover, Roman Gralewicz, David Heindel, Theresa Hoinsky, Gunnar Lundeberg, George McCartney, Roy Mercer, Edward Pulver, Augustin Tellez, Richard Vezina and Tom Walsh. Fire Damages SIU-Crewed Manulani Training Prepared Galley Gang to Tackle Shipboard Blaze Kim Lee/National Steel and Shipbuilding Co. The USNS Watson, christened July 26, is one of eight prepositioning ships being constructed for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. September 1997 Thanks to firefighting training they had received while upgrading at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship as well as from weekly shipboard fire drills, four SIU steward department members aboard the Matson Navigation containership Manulani were stretching fire hoses on the deck even before alarms sounded on the morning of August 30. More than a hundred shoreside firefighters were called to the vessel, which was offloading in the port of Seattle, to battle the blaze. According to Matson, the fire was contained to one cargo hold. No injuries were reported. The cause of the accident was being investigated as the Seafare rs LOG went to press. Just after 9 a.m. on August 30, Chief Steward Patrick Briggs was in his office doing paperwork after the vessel had taken on stores. Chief Cook Willie Rose and Third Cook Jaime Racpan had finished putting the stores away when they began to smell smoke. (The SIU represents steward department members on Matson ships.) According to both Briggs and Rose, the chief mate already was donning protective gear to find the source of the smoke. Racpan grabbed a fire extinguisher and handed it to the mate as he was preparing to go into the hold. Then the galley gang members started laying out hoses without waiting for an alarm. The vessel had docked the night before and a skeleton crew was aboard the ship. 'The chief mate climbed out of the hold, shouting for us to ring the alarm," Rose told a reporter for the LOG. "We did it and he saw we already had the hoses out and connected." In a separate conversation, Briggs confirmed that the galley gang was prepared to help fight the fire when the chief mate ordered the alarm to be sounded. "That was part of our training at the school and on the ship. We knew what we had to do," noted the chief steward. Both steward department members stated the crew of the Manulani conducted thorough fire drills weekly, so all crewmernbers on board knew what to do when the bells sounded. As the galley gang (which now included SA Ruben Fiel) and other crewmembers stood by to tackle the fire, the shoreside fire marshal came aboard and took command of the situation. He sounded the alarm for firefighters on the docks to report to the ship. At the same time, he relieved the crewmembers of their duties and ordered them off the ship. While the shore-based fire crews fought the fire, Briggs and Rose reported hearing explosions taking place in the hold. According to the Seattle Times, the blaze was contained within two hours. The vessel will undergo repairs once the investigation is completed. No time has been set for when the 27-year-old ship will return to service. Seafarers LOG 3 �House Majority Announces Jones Act Support ~ny legislative. . action designed to alter or ehmmate the ~ation:s frei~ht cabotage law du.rmg this session of Congress will face a major impedim~nt in the House of Representatives as a n:iajority ?f its members have signed thetr names as cosponsors &cerpfs from Ht:R 65 Supporting the Jones Act A majority of the members of the House of Representatives have signed on to co-sponsor House Concurrent Resolution 65 (HCR •. 65). This resolution calls on Congress to preserve the Jones Act, the · nation's freight cabotage law. It has been sent to the House National Security Committee for consideration. The following are excerpts from HCR 65. The Jones Act and related statutes are necessary to prevent America-s domestic economy from being dominated and controlled by foreign shipping interests which today operate in international commerce outside the scope of United States government laws and regulations, including tax obligations, that apply to all types of United States-flag vessels and their crews, to the entire domestic transportation infrastructure, and to all other industries located in the United States; The Jones Act and related statutes, along with comparable requirements applicable to America's aviation, rail and trucking industries, play a vital role in ensuring that America's shippers and consumers continue to have a reliable, efficient and competitively balanced domestic transportation system that uses equipment built t(I American ~tandards and operated by trained American-citizen I• w<>rkers; The Jones .Act and related statutes and the construction and operation of the privately owned United States-flag do~stic fleet contribute significantly to the national tconomy, generating approximately $300 million annually in corporate tax revenues for . the federal treasury. and another $55 million in state tax revenues, ifforeign vessels and foreign crews are allowed to enter America -s domestic trades; Americans working aboard United States-flag domestic vessels and in related domestic industries pay $1.1 billion annually in fed- .. all of which would be lost eral income taxes and another $272 million in state income taxes, revenue which will be lost if foreign vessels and foreign crews are allowed to enter America's domestic trades; The domestic maritime industry provides a significant source of employment to maintain a cadre of well-trained, loyal American;· citizen merchant mariners ready and able to respond, as always, to QUr nation's call in time of war or other emergency. Narragansett Plucks Four From Waters Near Singapore Early in the morning of August 12, the wind was calm and the seas were flat in the Pacific southeast. Things did not remain quite so placid aboard the SIU Government Services Division-crewed USNS Narragansett after AB Rashid Rashid spotted a man standing knee-deep in water, slowly waving his ams over his head. The Military Sealift Command crew of civilian mariners and military personnel quickly swung into action. Captain Pat Huetter, the Narragansett's master, maneuvered the 226-foot-long fleet ocean-going tug into position alongside half-submerged plywood rafts while his crew stood ready to assist. The slowly drifting plywood was all that remained of a Sumatran fishing boat, the Nahoda. Four men were clinging to the makeshift rafts, and all were too exhausted to climb the tug's ladder to safety. The crew lifted the survivors aboard, and within a half-hour, the rescue operation was completed. Using an Indonesian language book to interpret, the Narragansett's crew learned the men were all fishermen from the island of Sumatra. The men had sailed aboard the Nahoda from Labuhan Balik, Indonesia, on August 8. During the night, a ship hit their fishing boat, splitting it in two. They said a fifth man had been below deck sleeping, and was missing. The four treaded water for nearly three-and-a-half 4 Seafarers LOG days through busy traffic lanes before the Narragansett's crew pulled them to safety. AB Julius Will and Petty Officer First Class Carl Morganstern treated the men for minor injuries, dehydration and malnutrition. Mattresses and blankets were brought on deck so the survivors could rest topside in the warm air. Chief Steward Rod De Jesus also made sure the men were well fed . "After eating, the four survivors started sleeping and continued sleeping, almost constantly, for the remainder of their stay aboard our ship," said Huetter. A search for the fifth man was unsuccessful, and the Narragansett proceeded to Singapore. Representatives from the Indonesian Embassy and the Singapore police took the men ashore for additional medical treatment and to return them to their homes. Military Sealift Command ships are often involved in at-sea rescues since military and government missions often take MSC ships to low-traffic, out-of-theway locations where rescue by commercial vessels is unlikely. In addition to Rashid Will and De Jesus, other Seafarers aboard the Narragansett at the time of the rescue included ABs John Kapsner and Wallace Norton and OSs Henri Starks and Cesar Gonzales. Also aboard were Engine Utility Michael Webster, Storekeeper Johnson Fletcher, Second Cook Romeo Mina and Utility Jose Vanta. of a resolution in support of the Jones Act. As legislators returned to Capit I Hill following the August recess, several more members of the House announced their support for House Concurrent Resolution 65 (HCR 65). Introduced earlier this year by Reps. Joseph Moakley (D-Mass.) and Gerald Solomon (R-N.Y.), the resolution points . . out the eco. nom1c and nat10nal secunty aspects of t he Jones Act,. part of the 1920 Merchant Manne Act. HCR 65 h b' · as strong 1part1san support. Because a majority of the House's 435 members have demonstrated their support of the freight cabotage law, efforts to undermine the Jones Act-like the Coastal Shipping Competition Act (R.R. 1991) or measures being considered in the Senate- are not likely to reach the House floor during the 105th Congress which ends in 1998. While a resolution like HCR 65 does not carry the same weight as a law, it does deliver a formal statement or opinion of the legislators. Also, Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott (R-Miss.) reaffirmed in April his support for the Jones Act. He then announced the senate wou Id un dertake a resoI u_ tion backing the law· HCR 65 has the . support of . several corrumttee chamnen in the House. They include Solomon, who ~eads th~ J:Iou~e Rules Committee; BenJ.amm Gilman. (RN.Y.), . Internatlon~I. Relatrnns Committee; Bob L1vmgston (RLa.), Appropriations Committee; Bob Stump (R-Ariz.), Veterans Affairs Committee; Don Young (R-Alaska), Resources Committee; and Herbert Bateman (R- Va.), Merchant Marine Oversight Panel. Besides backing the resolution, legislators have been speaking out for the Jones Act. In a recent letter to a constituent, Rep. John Duncan (RT~nn.l, an HCR 65 .co-sp?~sor, sai~, The Jones Act is a cntically .1m~ortant co'!1ponent o.f . our natio~ s economic and m1htary secunty and should stron I su rted " be fully and Adgd~mg PhiJ?O · rt t o the 1aw s suppo d unng · the summer was Rep. Jay J h (D w· )· "Th · ere 1s no o nson - 1s. . doubt in my mind that requiring domestic trade cargo to be carried on U.S. ships means jobs for Americans and security for our American maritime industry. As a member of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, I will give the Jones Act my full support and oppose any effort to weaken it." SIU Seeks End of User Fee Case The Seafarers International Union along with six other maritime unions and five individual mariners have entered into a proposed settlement with the U.S. Coast Guard to end litigation on the fees paid for merchant mariner's documencs, licenses and certificates. The settlement was offered last month to U.S. District Court Judge Louis Oberdorfer, who has presided over the case since it was filed in April 1993. Judge Oberdorfer has to decide if the terms of the settlement are satisfactory. Under the terms agreed to by the SIU, the other plaintiffs and the Coast Guard, the Department of Transportation agency will be allowed to extend the time needed to recalculate its fees for the documents, licenses and certificates. Presently, the Coast Guard is working under an April 30, 1998 deadline set by the judge during a May 1997 hearing. Additionally, the document states that if the lawsuit is settled, the plaintiffs would be invited by the Coast Guard to participate in the agency's discussions on the entire mariner documentation and licensing system. The fees now charged by the Coast Guard were implemented on April 19, 1993. They range from $35 for an entry-level mer- chant mariner's document to $250 for an upper-level license. The federal agency was given approval to charge for merchant mariner's documents, licenses and certificates by the 1990 Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act. This law removed longstanding restrictions against charging mariners for documents and licenses. On April 15, 1993, the SIUalong with the Sailors' Union of the Pacific, Marine Firemen's Union, District 4-National Maritime Union/MEBA, District No. I-Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association, American Maritime Officers, International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots as well as five marinersfiled a suit charging that the fees were calculated in an arbitrary manner and that making mariners and boatmen pay such fees was unconstitutional. Judge Oberdorfer held his first hearing on the suit in February 1994. Nine months later, he ruled that the Coast Guard did have the right to charge for mariner documents, licenses and certificates. But, he also ruled the agency should recalculate the fees. The judge additionally called on the agency to stop assessing a $17 fee for FBI background checks. The Coast Guard immediately stopped collecting the amount for the background checks while both plaintiffs and the agency appealed the case. In an April 1995 decision, the U.S. Appeals Court for the District of Columbia ordered Judge Oberdorfer to review his decision on collecting a fee for the FBI background check. The Appeals Court also ruled that the Coast Guard had the right to charge for documents and licenses. The Coast Guard released newly calculated fees in the Federal Register of October 31, 1996. Again, the SIU raised a number of questions concerning the agency's method of determining the fees. During the May 1997 hearing, Judge Oberdorfer advised the Coast Guard that the procedure it employed to recalculate and continue assessing the fees was not adequate. He, thereupon, ordered the agency to complete an appropriate recalculation procedure by April 30, 1998. Last spring, the judge also ruled, using the reasoning process required by the Court of Appeals decision, that the $17 fee for FBI background checks could be charged after receiving additional testimony from the Coast Guard as well as the plaintiffs. Thus, mariners can expect to be charged by the agency $17 for the FBI check when applying for documents and licenses. Hall Center Revamps Sealifl Course As part of its ongoing goal of providing the best possible training for Seafarers while staying a step ahead of the industry's needs, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education last month began offering an updated sealift maintenance and operations course. The revamped, three-week class is titled "government vessels" and is open to Seafarers sailing in any department. ''This course will enable the SIU to continue supplying fully qualified manpower for our military contracted companies and for MSC (the U.S. Military Sealift Command) itself," stated SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. J.C. Wiegman, assistant director of vocational education at the center's Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md., noted that the government vessels course is structured as three oneweek, stand-alone modules. "In other words, they may be taken in any order. This means that if a member is attending another upgrading class at the school, he or she may take the government vessels course right before or after that other class is completed," explained Wiegman. In fact, the SIU soon will mandate that all upgraders take the government vessels course. An exact date for this requirement has not been determined, but it is expected to be identified in the near future. (There will be a "grandfather" provision exempting members who successfully completed the old sealift course during the past five years and those who have taken the new class.) Included in the first week are an introduction to the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) and military vessels, damage control (aboard the training vessel Empress If) and hazardous materials training. The second week features forklift operations, underway replenishment and vertical replenishment. Cargo-handling and crane operations are included in the third week, with students utilizing the school's Hagglund crane. Because the class will be required for all upgraders, the SIU strongly encourages Seafarers to take the government vessels course as soon as possible. (The grandfather provision will apply.) For more information, contact the school's admissions office at (301) 994-0010, extension 5202. September 1997 �Forbes Pledges Support For U.S.-Flag Fleet, Labor Congressman Emphasizes Bipartisan Backing of Workers Describing the Jones Act as vital to America, and the Maritime Security Program as "an example of federal moneys spent wisely," Rep. Michael P. Forbes (R-N.Y.) told delegates to the 23rd SIUNA convention that he fully supports a strong U.S.-flag merchant marine. Speaking at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education on August 12, Forbes also emphasized that American workers "have goodfriendsin Congress on both sides of CONVENTION the aisle. Make them work for you." Forbes has represented New York's I st District, which includes Long Island, since 1995. He is a cosponsor of a House resolution calling for no changes in the Jones Act SIUNA U.S. Rep. Michael Forbes (R-N.Y.} asserts his support for the U.S.-flag merchant marine as SIUNA President Michael Sacco applauds. that has been signed by more than 200 of his fellow representatives. "Since every other major maritime nation has a law that prohibits foreign operations from transporting passengers and freight within their domestic waters, basic fairness requires that Congress support the Jones Act. I will work to see that it remains uncompromised," Forbes stated. "If not for these reasons, Congress must appreciate the fact that the Jones Act preserves U.S. sovereignty and national security, by protecting the exclusive jurisdiction of U.S.-flag ships, and making sure there are trained merchant mariners to crew them." He expressed similar support for the nation's other cabotage law, the Passenger Vessel Services Act, and asserted that the U.S. government should take steps to promote "the growth of the American-flag passenger ship fleet." Maritime Union Officials Emphasize Unified Action Officials of key maritime unions underscored the need for cooperation and political action to help ensure the continued strength of the U.S.-flag merchant marine. During the SIUNA convention last month at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, delegates heard from Masters, Mates & Pilots President Timothy Brown, District No. 4-National Maritime Union/MEBA President Rene Lioeanjie, American Maritime Officers President Michael McKay, Marine Engineers' Beneficial Alex Shandrowsky MESA President September 1997 Association (MEBA) President Alex Shandrowsky and AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Vice President William Zenga, who also serves as business agent for Local 25, Marine Division, of the International Union of Operating Engineers. The speakers reflected on the lengthy battle to secure enactment of the Maritime Security Program (signed into law last year by President Clinton) and the need to preserve the Jones Act. Both laws highlight the weight of politics and the ability of U.S. maritime unions to effectively work together, the officials explained. "Our No. 1 issue now is the Jones Act," said McKay. "There is a relentless effort to scrap it. If this law is weakened or eliminated, in my opinion, it will mean the end of the U.S.-flag merchant marine. Without this law and laws William Zenga MTD Vice President like it, we don't have jobs." Shandrowsky stated that the nation benefits from having a viable American-flag fleet. ''This country needs a strong U.S. merchant marine, plain and simple. Not because [maritime unions] need jobs, we're not looking for a handout. The country needs a strong fleet because young people need careers, and because of our economic and national security," he observed. Brown cited the enactment of the Maritime Security Program as an example of what it will take for the U.S.flag fleet to persevere. "It was a long time coming. We all worked for it, but make no mistake, the coxswain of the crew that got the program enacted was (SIUNA President) Mike Sacco. I thank Mike on behalf of all seafarers, licensed and unlicensed, for giving us the spirit to continue the fight." Zenga, who in recent years has been involved extensively in efforts to solidify a dredging program for the port of New York/New Jersey, said that legislative fights such as that one "are the lifeblood of organized labor. These wins don't come easy, but American workers are fighting back, and we're winning. Rene Lioeanjie District No 4NM U/M EBA President "I know Mike Sacco joins me in saying, we'll fight for every job, whether it's on a ship, dredge, dock or in an office. Because when one of us bleeds, we all bleed," he added. Lioeanjie echoed the theme of cooperative efforts. "Years ago, it was almost impossible to envision our various organizations getting together for the good of all. But today, I'm fully convinced that our principal objective is the same: jobs and continued employment opportunities," he stated. "That is reason enough for unity on the waterfront." The congressman then deRecalling the long battle to secure enactment of the Maritime scribed the IO-year program, budSecurity Program (which autho- geted at $1 billion, as an "investrizes money to help support the ment that supports American jobs operation of about 50 militarily and also provides for our national useful U.S.-flag ships), Forbes security. By keeping the U.S. flag commended the SIU for its per- on the high seas, this legislation sistent political activity which ensures the readiness of our merhelped advance the measure. chant ships and the crews that "It is the advocacy of people work them." Forbes concluded his remarks like SIU President Mike Sacco, (SIU Vice President Atlantic by reminding the audience, Coast) Jack Caffey and the SIU's "There are pro-labor Republilegislative director, Terry Turner, cans, I assure you. And I am far that make a difference for the from alone in this regard." He union," noted Forbes. "Speci- noted his opposition to the sofically, the undying efforts of called TEAM Act (which would Mike Sacco, from early 1992 resurrect company-dominated, until October of 1996, have pro- sham unions) and the comp-time duced a well-deserved victory for bill (which would cut employees' Seafarers in the passage of the · overtime pay) as other examples Maritime Security Act." of supporting worker issues. AFL-CIO's Sweeney Dubs Organizing As Resurgence Key The head of the nation's federation of trade unions, speaking last month at the SIUNA convention, described organizing new members on a nationwide scale as vital both for America's working families and for the resurgence of the labor movement. "America needs a raise-not just in family incomes, but in hope for the future and respect for workers and the jobs they do. The solution is a bigger, stronger labor movement," said John Sweeney, president of the 13.5 million member AFL-CIO, to which the SIUNA is affiliated. Elected to his post in 1995, AFL-CIO President John Sweeney characterized the results Sweeney tells convention deleof successful organizing cam- gates that organizing is the key to paigns as far greater than simple improving the living standards of statistical increases of member- America's working families. ship rolls. "Organizing is the way we win at the bargaining table in a national organizing campaign and the ballot box. That's the way to rebuild our membership and we control our city halls and state rekindle our movement." Additionally, he announced legislatures, our courts and the that the AFL-CIO organizing Congress. That's the way we prodepartment is forming a team that tect the I ones Act and the Maritime Security Program-by will assist rank-and-file workers organizing more members and in organizing campaigns and then putting those members to first-contract campaigns. "Bework, fighting for their families cause the truth is that in this most and their future, fighting for our advanced of industrial democrafamilies and our future;• he said cies, you lose all your rights when you try to .join or form a union," August 11 in Piney Point, Md. In addition to emphasizing the he observed. "No freedom of importance of organizing, Sweeney assembly-if you assemble, you praised the active role taken by get fired. No freedom of the SIUNA and its president, speech-if you speak up or out, you get fired." Michael Sacco. The key to overcoming such "Over the past 23 months ... I simply could not have made it obstacles is "making the right to without the complete support of organize the civil rights issue of Mike Sacco and the Seafarers. the last few years of this century, Every time we've found ourselves so that workers can regain the in a battle, you've been right there ability to join or form unions to with us. I want this convention to improve their lives," stated the know that Mike not only is a great labor federation president. "We leader of your union, but also of also must continue organizing the Maritime Trades Department despite the weakness of our laws and the AFL-CIO." (Sacco serves and despite the criminality of our as president of the Maritime employers. We must respond to Trades Department and is a vice the challenge of organizing, no matter what barriers the employer president of the AFL-CIO.) puts up, no matter what rules they Top PrlorHy break." Sweeney concluded his Although Sweeney also touched on some of the AFL-CIO's recent remarks, enthusiastically received activities as well as upcoming leg- by an audience which gave him islative fights, most of his remarks several standing ovations, by pointing out that the national focused on organizing. He noted that the federation is AFL-CIO "can only pave the "challenging every national and way. We need our affiliates to roll local union, every central labor out the heavy artillery and get the council, every state fed and every job done when it comes to orgabuilding trades council to join us nizing." Seafarers LOG 5 �FMCS Director Wells Advocates Union Contracts Collective Bargaining Betters 'Quality of Li/e for All Americans' John Calhoun Wells' job as the national director of the U.S. Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) requires that he possess a tremendously thorough understanding of the collective bargaining process. Wells has that knowledge, but, as the son of two CONVENTION longtime union members, he , sees far beyond the guidelines and legal aspects of signing a contract. A fonner union member himself, he knows from experience the security and fairness that a union contract provides for working families. S1uNA Cjiiiiiiiiii 'This institute of collective bargaining has helped create a quality of life and standard of living in America that we enjoy today," Wells said August 11 at the SIUNA convention in Piney Point, Md. "I am doing all I can to promote and protect collective bargaining, most of all because it means a higher standard of living and quality of life for all Americans." A longtime supporter of the SIU, Wells noted that the FMCS is an independent agency that provides dispute mediation. The service, with 73 offices nationwide, handled more than 5,200 cases last year, including involvement in the sale of the continental United States' only tuna-canning factory, whose workers are members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers. (Last month, Wells assisted in resolving the Teamsters strike against UPS.) Such experiences only have strengthened his belief in the value of a contract. ''My father was a Mine Worker for 15 years, my mother a 27-year nurse covered by a collective bargaining agreement," he told the convention delegates. "My brothers are Carpenters, another is in the Writer's Guild. Collective bargaining has been good for me and my family. "It has also been good for employers," he continued. 'That's because a union workforce is the most productive, the safest, the besttrained. And today, it is increasingly important that labor and management come together to help each other survive and prosper." Lauds Union's Activity Also in his remarks, Wells praised the SIU for its political activity. ''This union is always out front, doing what it takes to win. I see it as citizenship. You represent your interests at the ballot box, something all Americans should do," he stated. The fonner Kentucky secretary of labor commended the work of SIUNA President John Calhoun Wells (left) is greeted by SIU Executive VP John Fay (right) and SIU President Michael Sacco during the convention. Wells praised the SIU for its active role in politics that affects Seafarers' livelihoods. Michael Sacco. "Under his leadership, this union is strong and progressive. You stand up for the rank-and-file members, but you also stand up for your employers and make sure they have business. That's smart because it equals jobs for you. "Mike Sacco has the respect of employers, of Congress, of the AFL-CIO and, perhaps most importantly, the respect of the rank-and-file. That respect makes your union strong." SlfU Delegates Urge Janes Act Preservation Delegates to the Seafarers Maritime Union (SMU) convention said the union must remain activ~ in the fight to preserve the Jones Act. SMU delegates also elected their officers for the next five years and resolved to continue supporting fellow trade unionists by purchasing union-made, Americanmade goods and services. The union is an affiliate of the SIUNA and represents merchant mariners on U.S.-flag ships. Michael Sacco was reelected president, while David Heindel was elected secretary/treasurer. Carl Peth and Augustin Tellez were reelected SMU vice presidents. All four officials were elected by acclamation. Maintaining the Jones Act was a prime topic of the convention, which took place August 12 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The cabotage law requires that all cargo moving between U.S. domestic ports be carried aboard U.S.crewed, U.S.-flag, U.S.-built and U.S.-owned vessels. "This is one battle we can't afford to lose, and we have no intention of losing," stated Sacco. "So far we've done a good job of getting our point across and rallying support. But we cannot let our guard down, even for one minute. That is why I urge all of you to maintain the fight to preserve the Jones Act." Delegates and guests at the SMU convention begin the assembly by reciting the pledge of allegiance. Pictured in front row, from left, are delegates James Farley, Robinson Crusoe and Robert Pressley. ITF's Dickinson: 'We Have to Keep Fighting' Runaway-Flag Crews Live 'Real-Life Horror Stories' The International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) during the past five years has made notable progress in its battle against runaway-flag shipping, but the fight is far from over. ITF Assistant General Secretary Mark Dickinson delivered that important message August 11 at the SIUNA convention in Piney Point, Md. Also known as flag-of-convenience (FOC) shipping, runawayflag operations "allow the shipowners to hide behind flags of countries with no mechanism to enforce international regulations. It is convenient to them and them alone," said Dickinson, who heads the ITF's campaign against runaway-flag shipping. Comprising more than 470 transport-related unions, including the SIU and other SIUNA affiliates, in more than 120 nations, the London-based ITF features a maritime department. SIU Executive Vice President John Fay is chairman of the ITF's Seafarers Section, one of three segments of the maritime department. Dismal FOC Ships Members of the SMU resolutions committee look over the proposal to remain active in the fight to preserve the Jones Act. 6 Seafarers LOG Dickinson told convention delegates that he knows firsthand about the perils of runaway-flag Mark Dickinson, assistant general secretary of the ITF, explains the organization's campaign against runaway-flag shipping. shipping. He first sailed in the British Merchant Navy in 1978, and his five-year sailing career included time on FOC vessels. "It was particularly depressing. I left because my future was on FOC ships, because we didn't have a Maritime Security Program in the United Kingdom," he recalled. ''These are real-life horror stories, and there are hundreds of cases every day around the world," Dickinson continued. "The crews are hungry and cold, the ships are so rusty they shouldn't be in the water. And the ITF inspectors are the only thing between these crews and continued destitution. That's why we have to keep fighting, redouble our efforts." Because of the seriousness and scope of the problem of runawayflag ships, the ITF in recent years has stepped up its campaign. Since 1992, the organization has doubled its number of inspectors to 100, based in 40 countries. They include Spiro Varras, Edd Morris and Don Thornton of the SIU. Further, during the past three years the ITF has brought 2,500 foreign- · and runaway-flag ships under contracts the organization deems acceptable. This means that a total of 4,500 vessels are covered by ITF-approved contracts. "When labor took up this issue, we were ready to respond to a global issue by being global ourselves," Dickinson explained. "Globalization seems to mean one thing: Which labor force is the cheapest. This is what we have to fight, because the people asking that question don't care about our homes, our mortgages, our lives." He also pointed out that press coverage of runaway-flag shipping-its inhumane aspects as well as the overall scheme-has grown in recent years. Last year's incisive series in the Houston Chronicle is one example of how such exposure "can help make life difficult for those who've already fled the U.S. flag and the flags of other legitimate maritime nations," Dickinson declared. ''This type of publicity is why FOC has a negative connotation with anyone who knows anything about the system. Why? Because of the ITF campaign." Dickinson ended his remarks by thanking the SIU "for your support and solidarity. The ITF is there and ready to assist you anytime. You only have to ask, and we'll be there." September 1997 �.... ~-----.---- ---------------._..--~~-~-- -- Stewards Stress Significance of Upgrading Skills The value of a good education should never be underestimated, according to nine new graduates of the Lundeberg School's steward recertification program. In remarks delivered during the August membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., each Seafarer noted the significance of attaining the highest level of education the union has to offer. "Paul Hall not only understood the need for training and education, but planted the seed for the facility that we enjoy today," said Antoinette Spangler, a 1981 graduate of the Lundeberg Schoors trainee program. Spangler summarized the importance of being a Seafarer and continuing to upgrade when she said, "I want to appeal to each and every one of my SIU brothers and sisters. If as individuals, we do not utilize our God-given abilities, hone our skills, strengthen our minds so that we can work smart, how can we go to sea and deliver a quality product? "This accomplishment I accept today is not my own. It belongs to the many mariners before me who slept in cramped quarters, did without the proper stores and worked long hours with little respect. "It belongs to my crewmembers, union officials and the educators here in Piney Point who encouraged me to reach this level. It proves that hard work is well rewarded," concluded the steward from the port of New York. Thorough Training Spangler joined the other eight stewards in completing the five-week steward recertification program. The group received classroom and hands-on training not only in the galley but also in other areas such as first aid, communications principles and computer skills. In their graduation remarks, all of the stewards revealed details of their lives at sea and stressed the need for continued education and the professionalism of SIU members aboard ship. They also thanked Chef Allan Sherwin, the director of culinary education at the Lundeberg School, for his guidance. A Seafarer since 1987, Michael Pooler told the audience that completing the recertification program is "truly one of my biggest accomplishments in life. All of you out there need to keep going. You can do it," he said. After presenting her classmates and each union official with a lei made from flowers grown in her hometown of Kealalcekeua, Hawaii, 33-yearold Franchesca Rose stated, "As a proud member of this union, there are many reasons for furthering your education and advancing your skills. But no reason is as important as the personal satisfaction that comes from knowing the job you do has been done right. "Take a really good look at my class. We have all come a long way. It took time, determination and hard work to get to the top of our profession. I am very proud of myself, my fellow classmates and my union," added the steward who joined the SIU in 1983. Rose also delivered remarks on behalf of Kenneth Whitfield. The Mobile, Ala.based steward could not attend the graduation ceremony. "It is my honor to extend Kenneth's heartfelt thanks. He could not be with us today to share this wonderful moment which is not the end for us, but a new beginning," she said. Second Generation Speaking from experience, Floyd Bishop noted that attending upgrading courses as much as possible helps Seafarers better themselves. "My dad is a retired SIU member, and I knew I wanted to go to sea beginning at a very early age. As a 1970 graduate of the trainee program here at Piney Point, I have returned to Gwendolyn Shinholster (right) learns the proper technique for boning a fish from Instructor Eileen Hager. September 1997 Posing for a photo following the recertified steward graduation ceremony are (from left front row) Floyd Bishop, Phillip_ Orlanda, S!U President Michael Sacco, Franchesca Rose, VP Contr~cts Augie Tellez, Gwendolyn S_hmholster, Acting Lundeberg School VP Nick Marrone, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (back row) Michael Pooler, Lee Frazier and Amy Rippel. upgrade every chance I can," said Bishop. ''To you trainees in the audience I want to say that it is extremely important to continually upgrade your skills. This facility and its instructors are top notch in the maritime industry. Take every advantage of it," continued the 44-year-old from the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Stressing the importance of long-range goals, Lee Frazier, a 1984 graduate of Piney Point, told the trainees in the auditorium, "Keep going because this is the way to go. There is no better organization than the SIU," Frazier stated. "My thanks goes out to every one of my fellow recertified stewards, whose friendship will always remain with me and my union leaders who keep this union strong," said Gwendolyn Shinholster, who joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards in San Francisco before that union merged with the Sill's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District. Amy Rippel, who joined the union in 1985, extended a vote of thanks to union officials for their knowledge and expertise. "Thank you all so very much. This means the world," proclaimed the steward from the port of Wilmington, Calif. Extensive Curriculum The stewards covered an abundance of material during their Lundeberg School stay. They worked on creating new recipes and practiced the most contemporary cooking techniques through a combination of classroom instruction and practical training. Special low-fat and healthful meals were developed by the galley gang members to meet an increased demand by SIU members to maintain a fit lifestyle while at sea. The stewards also studied the latest food-sanitation practices. (See story on this page.) Because many SIU-contracted companies keep records of the shipboard stores by using computer programs, the students spent time in the school's computer center learning how to maximize their computer skills to order food and other staples while aboard ship. The stewards also took refresher courses in CPR, first aid and firefighting as well as a session on effective communication styles. Question-and-answer periods between the stewards and representatives of the SIU's contracts, communications, government affairs, and welfare, training, vacation and pension fund departments as well as SIU President Michael Sacco took place. The meetings are designed to enhance Seafarers' understanding of the union's operations and provide the upgraders with the latest information from each department so that they, in tum, may relay it to crewmembers aboard ships. "My favorite part of the course was learning the computer skills," recalled Phillip Orlanda, who sails from the port of Norfolk, Va. "I also enjoyed freshening up on my firefighting and CPR skills and meeting with union officials from the Seafarers Welfare Plan. I will be able to bring all of the information back to my crewmembers," stated the 53year-old, who joined the union in 1976. Food Sanitation Skills Vital Aboard Ship As reflected by the growing number of foodb?rne !llneses being reported in the press, it is vitally important to handle and prepare food prop~rly. Th!~ _is especially true on ships ~here medical fac1ht1es could be hundreds of miles away. That is why food sanitation is a primary course of study for all galley gang upgraders at the Paul Hall Center, according to Executive Chef Allan Sherwin, director of culinary education at the center. "Food-borne illnesses and deaths are in the news ev~~ day. It a very prevalent health problem that 1s increasing each day as more and more fruits and vegetables are imported. Americans are also consuming more chicken and pork as compared to 10 years ago. These factors and more have opened doors to a tremendous increase in food contamination," he said. Sherwin noted that the recertified stewards who graduated last month successfully completed a comprehensive test covering food sanitation and prevention of food-borne illness. As a result, they each received a certificate in food sanitation from the National Restaurant Association, as well as one from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. "It is vital for everyone in food service to understand the dangers of food-borne illnesses. It is especially important for stewards to know the proper food-handling procedures because they control the health and welfare of everyone on their !s vessel. If crewmembers are.infected by E.coli, they cannot work and may be hours away from medical treatment; said Sherwin. The food sanitation course taught to the stewards includes food preparation, storage, meat and poultry inspection, danger factors (such as storing and cooking food at appropriate temperatures) and a number of other relevant subjects. Through practical training, discussions and classroom instruction-including videotapes and journal articles-the stewards honed their skills for proper storage, preparation and disposal of foods, noted Sherwin. They also received telephone numbers of government agencies that may be contacted with questions or comments concerning food sanitation, including the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). One of the key facts stressed by Sherwin is 90 percent of occurrences of food-borne illnesses are related to personal cleanliness (such as handwashing or removing one's apron prior to using a restroom). "Stewards need to spread the word while at sea that the personal cleanliness of crewmembers visiting the galley is important. It is just as vital for the QMED who comes up from the engineroom to wash his hands before sitting down for lunch as it is for the cook to clean counters after cutting raw meat," stated Sherwin. Seafarers LOG 7 �-- -~ ~------- - -- - -- ~ ITF Secures Back Pay, Food, Safety Gear For Mariners Aboard Runaway-Flag Vessel Case Brings More Attention to Plight o/World's Mariners Responding to an urgent request for help, the International Transport Workers Federation (I1F) recently took the lead in acquiring back pay, fresh stores and proper safety equipment for the multinational crew of the runaway-flag ship Seorax. Crewmembers aboard the Panamanian-flag, Korean-owned ship contacted Edd Morris, an SIU representative and ITF inspector, shortly before the vessel docked in Baltimore. Once in port, they were met by Morris and went on strike for five days, until their issues were resolved. This included bringing the vessel under a contract recognized by the ITF. Morris noted that the crew--composed of Chinese, Burmese, Indonesian and Korean mariners-had sailed shorthanded and without work clothes or proper safety equipment. The lifeboats were inoperative, and the captain allegedly refused medical treatment for at least one injured crewmember. Safety further was compromised by a substantial language barrier, some of the mariners told the ITF inspector. Barer, Stevens to Receive Annual Admiral of the Ocean Sea Award In addition, meals were rationed because of a significant shortage of stores (breakfast often consisted of rice and water), and the crew went two days completely without food. The ship also lacked medical supplies. From Baltimore, Morris contacted the shipowner, Master Marine of Seoul. He secured approximately $42,000 in back pay for the mariners, along with fresh stores, work clothes, safety equipment and other needed items. He also helped arrange repatriation for those mariners due to sign off the vessel, and put in place a contract accepted by the ITF. Morris reported that the crew was very grateful for the ITF' s assistance. Runawar Scam Runaway-flag shipping is a scheme that involves multiple parties from different nations in the operation of vessels. In the case of the Seorax, for example, the vessel was owned by a Korean company, registered in Panama, used an Indonesian manning agent and hired crewmembers from four countries. 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. They do so by paying a nominal registration fee to the government of a non-maritime nation seeking to raise revenue-essentially buying use of a country's flag with no strings attached. In such instances, the country in question has neither the means nor the desire to enforce regulations protecting the crews or the environment, if such laws even exist. Then, they insulate themselves with often unscrupulous managers who hire the cheapest crews available. Such mariners in many cases are not mariners at all, but rather desperate individuals who paid for seamen's credentials. This cycle may be repeated fairly regularly, with vessels changing ownership, registers and agents every few years. Such circumstances make it difficult for authorities to hold the shipowners accountable for mistreating crews and operating unsafe ships. Moreover, by making virtually no investment in the upkeep of their vessels and paying minimal wages (often irregularly, as in the case of the Seorax), such owners can, unfortunately, turn a quick profit. l1'F Campaign In response to this widespread problem, the London-based ITF is engaged in a very active campaign against runaway-flag shipping, also known as flag-of-convenience shipping. The organization has 100 inspectors in 40 nations assisting in this fight. Because the ITF recognizes that completely eliminating runaways will not happen overnight, one of its immediate goals is bringing such vessels under I1F contract. This aspect of the campaign has been quite successful, with more than 4,500 ships now covered by I1F agreements. Overall, the ITF comprises more than 470 transport-related unions, including the SIU, in more than 120 nations. SIU Executive Vice President John Fay is chairman of the I1F's Seafarers Section. Accolades Greet Alaska Apprentice in Anchorage When unlicensed apprentice Greg Guay climbed the gangway Sen. Ted Stevens Stanley H. Barer Two longtime supporters of U.S.-flag shipping, Stanley H. Barer, co-chairman and chief executive officer of SIU-contracted Totem Resources Corporation (TRC), and U.S. Senator Ted Stevens CR-Alaska), have been selected to receive the United Seamen's Service 1997 Admiral of the Ocean Sea Award (AOTOS). Stevens and Barer were selected from more than 200 nominees representing maritime management, labor and government. The award is presented to those who have provided distinguished service to the U.S.-flag merchant fleet. SIU President Michael Sacco is a past recipient. This year's AOTOS winners embrace two of the most important sectors of ocean transport in the U.S.: the U.S.-flag shipping community and the government. Barer sits at the helm of TRC, a holding company for several U.S.-flag maritime operating entities in the Pacific Northwest. Two of TRC's subsidiaries, Totem Ocean Trailer Express, Inc. and Interocean Ugland Management Corporation, are SIU-contracted companies. Barer's interest in maritime began in the 1960s when he worked with the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee, including stints as maritime counsel, transportation counsel and acting general counsel. From 1969 to 1974, he was the administrative assistant to the late U.S. Senator Warren G. Magnuson (D-Wash.), who served as Commerce Committee chairman. While serving on the commit- tee, Barer had many opportunities to work on maritime legislation with the late SIU President Paul Hall. He also served as legal advisor to the U.S. delegation to the 1972 United Nations Conference on World Environment in Stockholm, Sweden. In 1979, Barer negotiated the establishment of reciprocal flag shipping services between the People's Republic of China and the United States. Barer delivered the Paul Hall Memorial Lecture in 1995. A strong advocate of the Jones Act, Stevens ranks sixth in seniority in the Senate and second among Republicans. Stevens has been a member of that body since December 1968. As chairman of the Appropriations Committee, Stevens also heads the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, where he has been a strong proponent of national security issues. Additionally, he serves on the Commerce Committee, as well as two subcommittees dealing with oceans, fisheries and the merchant marine. Stevens is a member of the Rules and Administration Committee Born in Indianapolis, Stevens has been an Alaskan resident since the early 1950s. A graduate of University of California at Los Angeles and Harvard Law School, he was a U.S. attorney in Fairbanks, Alaska. He also practiced law in Anchorage and Fairbanks and served two terms as a representative in the Alaska state legislature, holding positions of majority leader and speaker pro-tern. B Seafarers LOG of his first ship in the port of Anchorage, Alaska, he received an enthusiastic welcome by crewmembers, SIU officials, local government and company representatives. Guay is the first unlicensed apprentice from Anchorage to complete the initial training phase of the unlicensed apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center. His arrival aboard the Northern Lights on August 14 marked the start of his 90-day shipboard training and Unlicensed apprentice Greg Guay was given a warm welcome when he assessment segment of the boarded the Northern Lights in the port of Anchorage, Alaska. Pictured above, from left, are SIU Anchorage Port Representative Harold Holten, Lundeberg School program. The Nonhern Lights, a Totem Jerry Guay, Kathy Guay, Chief Engineer John Woodward, TOTE repreOcean Trailer Express (TOTE) sentative Ted Deboer, Chief Steward Bob Martinez, apprentice Guay, Bosun John Glenn, Captain Jack Hearn, TOTE representative Stacie roll-on/roll-off vessel, transports Sybrandt, Bill Sharrow of Rep. Don Young's (A-Alaska) staff, Bosun Dan cargo from Washington's Puget Tyser and SIU Assistant VP Bob Hall. Sound to ports in Alaska. Guay, accompanied to the ship located in Tacoma, Wash. by his parents, Jerry and Kathy Guay, was greeted Holten noted the apprentice program is becomon deck by SIU Assistant Vice President Bob Hall ing well-known throughout the region. "I have had a and Anchorage Port Representative Harold Holten. lot of inquiries and applications since we opened the Bill Sharrow, special assistant to U.S. hall. It is an excellent opportunity for Alaska's Representative Don Young (R-Alaska), was present young people," he said. as well as several TOTE officials. "It was a nice event. The entire crew came out to Tentative Sale of NPR, Inc. meet Greg, and everyone enjoyed coffee and pasTo Philadelphia Company Announced tries together before the vessel got under way," recalled Holten. "He was very confident and excited The SIU is closely monitoring the proposed about his first trip." sale of Seafarers-contracted NPR Inc. to Holt The SIU has been working with Alaska's conHauling and Warehousing Systems Inc. which gressional delegawas announced late last month. governor's tion, SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez office and local reports that all provisions outlined in the contract officials to provide between the union and NPR, Inc. remain unaffected. young Alaskan "The union will keep the membership men and women informed of all news related to the sale of the five with an opportuniNPR vessels to Holt,n stated Tellez. "The jobs of ty to join the entrySIU members sailing aboard the vessels are level apprenticesecure." ship training proHolt Hauling and Warehousing Systems Inc. gram. Before the is the largest private stevedore and terminal operAnchorage hall ator in the ports of Philadelphia and Wilmington, Del. The company has a variety of dry and refrigAfter boarding his first vessel, opened in May, the erated warehouses as well as a full line of truckthe Northern Lights, unlicensed nearest union hall apprentice Greg Guay is greet- available to Alasing services. ed by Captain Jack Hearn. kan residents was September 1997 �Steel, Stone and Seafarers Keep Presque Isle Hauling on the Lakes The dedication and hard work of crewmembers aboard the 1,000-foot Presque Isle, a Great Lakes self-unloader, contribute to its smooth operation. The SIU-crewed bulk carrier is primarily engaged in hauling taconite pellets, limestone aggregates and other materials for USS Great Lakes. The Presque Isle transports the commodities from the western end of Lake Superior to ports located on lower Lake Michigan and Lake Erie. The deck crew of Bosun William Root and ABs Lawrence Arseneau, Richard Bennet, William Goeltz, Adil H~in and Albin Filarski are charged with keeping the deck c1ean and safe. They work hard at maintaining the ship's clean. white appearance-a task made more challenging by the dust create.cl during loading and unloading. Below deck, Gatemen Mayfield Cousins, David Poree and Wiper Ronald Stephen Habermehl all maintain an eye on offloading and keep the vessel's belts moving at peak efficiency. In the engineroom, crewmembers work to ensure the diesels are operating in a safe manner. Wipers Shawn Landeira and Ronald Hackensmith check the oil, inspect parts and wipe down the engines before the next voyage begins. Porter James Beaudry makes sure the Presque Isle has enough fresh fruit, vegetables and dairy products for each six-day trip. "The Presque Isle is our only vessel, and the company and crewmembers work together like members of a big, happy family. We are very proud of the hard work our crews do," stated Ralph Biggs. vice president and general manager of Litton Great Lakes, the owner and operator of the vessel. The Presque Isle has been sailing on the Lakes since December 1973. Gateman Mayfield Cousins observes operations in the tunnel where the conveyor belts are located. Hackensmith makes sure the Presque Isle's engines are running properly. Presque Isle Gateman Stephen Habermehl monitors gauges in the engineroom. Algonac (Mich.) SIU Representative Don Thornton (center) goes over the contract with Gateman Stephen Habermehl {left) and Wiper Ronald Hackensmith. AB William Goeltz takes the wheel aboard the Presque Isle. Kelley, Congressman Support Detroit Strikers Enrollment Forms to Be Mailed Soon For Money Purchase Plan Participants Toll-Free Number Established to Answer Questions ~ NONewsor lfrec }llrcsn W.:ant.eul Lift.,,.. 1 More than 125,000 trade unionists (including Seafarers), community activists, politicians and clergymen from across the U.S. converged in Detroit on June 21 to demonstrate their support for tile 2,500 locked-out workers at the Detroit Free Press and the Detroit News. SIU Vice President Great Lakes Byron Kelley (third from left) poses with (from left) Wayne County (Mich.) Sheriff Robert Ficano, U.S. Rep. David Bonior (D-Mich.) and Judy Bonior during the event dubbed Action! Motown '97. Despite an NLRB ruling in favor of the workers, the newspapers continue their lockout. September 1997 A toll-free number is in place and Seafarers soon will receive enrollment forms as work continues to implement the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan (SMPPP). As noted in the May 1997 issue of the Seafarers LOG, the SMPPP was approved by the Internal Revenue Service. Since then, the plan's board of trustees (made up of representatives from the union and Seafarers-contracted companies) has been setting up the day-to-day operating procedures for the SMPPP. SIU members who have worked or are working for a company that is a signatory in the plan soon will receive in the mail an enrollment/beneficiary form. This form will allow an individual account to be set up in the name of the Seafarer as well as estab1ish the beneficiary for the account. This form should be filled out as soon as possible after it arrives and returned to the address on the form. Within the next 60 days, the plan also will send to participants a summary plan description. This booklet describes the SMPPP and its benefits. Seafarers should note that all companies who have signed on to the plan have been making contributions ip the name of SIU members working for them at the agreed upon contribution rate since the latest contracts were implemented. According to the rules of the SMPPP, those Seafarers who have had accounts established in their names also will be able to make voluntary contributions. The process for making voluntary contributions is being finalized at this time. When it is com- pleted and approved, Seafarers will be notified as to how they may make voluntary contributions. As noted in May, these voluntary contributions can only be made on an after-tax basis. Therefore, there will not be any income tax savings by making a voluntary contribution to the SMPPP. Such contributions may range from between 1 and 10 percent of a member's pay. Finally, for any members or their families with questions about the SMPPP, the plan has established 1-800-485-3703 as a toll-free number. This number operates between the hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. Work is under way to expand the hours of operation for the toll-free number. Members will be notified when this is completed. Seafarers LOG 9 �W hen he said "Education is the key," former SIU President Paul Hall was not just talking about the upgrading of Seafarers' skills. Rather, he meant that education should be available to everyone to pursue their hopes, their dreams, their goals. The Seafarers International Union, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters already understood the concept of education as a tool for self-improvement when, in 1952, it became the first maritime union in America-and one of the first trade unions in general-to establish a scholarship program to help qualified members and their dependents finance their college and vocational educations. Today, the Seafarers Welfare Plan (which sponsors the program) has awarded 255 scholarships and is now taking applications for the 1998 program, which will award seven monetary grants to three SIU members and four dependents. All Seafarers and their spouses and children who plan to attend college are encouraged to complete a scholarship application. The deadline for submission of all required paperwork is April 15, 1998. One of the three scholarships reserved for SIU members is in the amount of $15,000 and is intended to help cover the cost of attending a four-year, collegelevel course of study. The other two are for $6,000 each and are intenfied as two-year awards for study at a post-secondary vocational school or community college. Four scholarships are awarded in the amount of $15,000 to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. The $15,000 college scholarships will be paid at the rate of $3,750 per year over a four-year period. The $6,000 awards are paid at the rate of $3,000 per year. The first step in finding out more about the scholarship program and application process is to send away for the Seafarers Scholarship Program booklet. The booklet contains all the necessary information a prospective student will need to complete the application. To receive a copy of this guide, fill out the coupon at the bottom of this page and return it to the address listed on the fonn. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility information. For a Seafarer to be eligible for a scholarship, he or she must 0 be a high school graduate or its equivalent. D have a total of 730 days of employment with an employer who is obligated to make contributions to the Seafarers Welfare Plan on the Seafarer's behalf prior to the date of application. D have at least one day of employment on a vessel in the six-month period immediately prior to the date of application. D have 120 days of employment on a vessel in the previous calendar year. (Pensioners are not eligible for scholarships.) For a spouse to be eligible for a scholarship award, he or she must: D be married to an eligible Seafarer or SIU pensioner. D be a high school graduate or its equivalent. For a dependent child to be eligible for consideration for a Former Winner Relates Her Success For most scholarship winners, receiving the cash award can greatly ease those financial burdens associated with attending college-room, board, living expenses, books, tuition, etc. In 1962, Karen Anne Hilyer received word that she was one of four dependents who had won a Seafarers Welfare Plan scholarship. Her father, Vincent Hilyer, was a member of the SIU Railway Marine Region, working on NY Central tugs. At the time of her high school graduation, her father said that the "scholarship made possible by the union is a wonderful benefit for a working man's family." Just recently, Karen (Hilyer) Balko wrote to the Seafarers LOG to inform other potential college students how the scholarship affected her life. I attended the College of St. Rose in Albany, N. Y. for one year and transferred to Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, N.J., where I graduated with high honors and a BA in mathematics. The SIU scholarship provided for my education and allowed me to enter a very specialized field of applied mathematics as a Casualty Actuary. After graduation, I spent an additional nine years of self-study to become fully accredited and passed all the exams _ for Fellowship in the Casualty Actuarial Society Today, after 30 years of productive actuarial work, / look back on the SIU scholarship as a real blessing and honor. Aside from paying for my tuition and books, the scholarship gave me the opportunity to learn firsthand about culture and art. I used the excess from my scholarship to pay for a summer trip between my junior and senior years to 1O European countries. I still have the pictures and wonder at the things I can remember from that experience. My own children have reached the college stage, and tuition bills are substantial. My daughter, Jenness, has an academic scholarship for partial tuition at St. Michael's College in Colchester, Vt. I now know how significant my scholarship was to my parents. Your scholarship made life much easier for them. My father and mother, Vincent [who died last year] and Rita Hilyer, always thought it was just as important to give a girl an education as a boy. They valued education as the best stepping stone to a successful life. I have not disappointed them. I have had both an interesting career and a satisfying life. Although my work has never made headlines, it In a recent photo, Karen Hilyer has always been interesting and Balko (right), winner of a Seafarers creative. Sincerely, Welfare Plan scholarship in 1962, poses with her mother, Rita Hilyer. Karen (Hilyer) Balko 10 Seafarers LOG Steering Toward Success SIU Scholarship Program Can Help scholarship, he or she must: D be an unmarried child of an eligible Seafarer or SIU pensioner for whom the member or pensioner has been the sole source of support the previous calendar year. (However, should a dependent child win an SIU scholarship and marry while receiving the award, he or she will not lose the grant by reason of such marriage.) D be a high school graduate or its equivalent, although applications may be made during the senior year of high school. D be under the age of 19-or be under the age of 25 and be a full-time student enrolled in a program leading to a baccalaureate or higher degree at an accredited institution authorized by law to grant such degrees. For both a spouse and dependent child to be eligible, the following conditions must be met: D the sponsoring Seafarer must have credit for 1,095 days of covered employment with an employer who is obligated to make contributions to the Seafarers Welfare Plan on the Seafarer's behalf prior to date of application. D the sponsoring Seafarer must have one day of employment in the six-month period preceding the date of application and 120 days of employment in the previous calendar year (unless the eligible parent is deceased). After checking the eligibility requirements, applicants should start collecting other paperwork which must be submitted along with the full application by the April 15, 1998 deadline. These items include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since schools are often quite slow in handling transcript requests, the sooner the request is 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. Since the scholarship awards are made primarily on the basis of high school grades and the scores of either College Entrance Examination Boards (SAT) or American College Tests (ACT), arrangements should be made to take these exams no later than February 1998 to ensure that the results reach the scholarship selection committee in time to be evaluated. A photograph of the applicant and a certified copy of his or her birth certificate are two other items that must be included in the total application package. All completed applications MUST be mailed and postmarked ON or BEFORE APRIL 15, 1998. Remember to fill out the cot}pon below and return it to the Seafarers Welfare Plan-or ask for a 1998 Seafarers Scholarship Program booklet at any SIU hall. Let a Seafarers scholarship help steer you in the right direction-toward a better education and a bright, fulfilling future. r-------------------------------------, P lease send me the 1998 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Member's Social Security N u m b e r - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Street Address - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Ci~ State,Z~Code~------------~~~~~-~~~ Telephone N u m b e r - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - This application is for: D Self D Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 9191 L-------------------------------------~ September 1997 �From the invocation August 11 to the election of officers, the SIUNA convention featured insightful addresses from Congress, the Clinton administration, maritime labor and the AFL-CIO. The following four pages show the action from the gathering at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Bsptsmbsr 1997 Seafarers LOii 11 �SIONA SIUNA PRESIDENT MICHAEL SACCO STATES THAT THE JONES ACT IS GOOD FOR AMERICA'S ECONOMIC AND NATIONAL SECURITY. CONVENTION JOHN FAY IS RE-ELECTED AS SECRETARY-TREASURER OF THE UNION. ~----- During the Seafarers International Union of North America's 23rd convention, delegates representing the union's 17 affili- ates adopted a number of resolutions decreeing the organization's plans and goals for the next five years. Key topics addressed by the delegates included the importance of preserving the Jones Act, the need to organize, remaining politically active and supporting the international campaign against runaway-flag shipping. The convention took place at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. Delicious meals were the norm throughout the convention, thanks to the work of upgrading steward department members at the Paul Hall Center's Lundeberg School. At right, Chef Allan Sherwin, director of culinary education and Theresa Price of the school staff greet guests. 12 Seafarers LOS September 1997 �DELEGATES MARK DICKINSON SPIRO VARRAS ED SMITH RICHARD VEZINA NICK RIOS FRANK PECQUEX HAROLD ANDERSON GEORGE & HEIDI McCARTNEY JIM GIVEN SINCLAIR OUBRE WILLIAM KOFLOWITCH RED CAMPBELL TOM WALSH TIM KELLEY BYRON KELLEY KERMETT MANGRAM EDD MORRIS BENNIE WILSON MICHEL DESJARDINS JOE SIGLER MIKE PALADINO STEVE JUDD HENRI FRANCOIS TONY MCQUAY ED MOONEY BILL ROSS & GUESTS LONNIE PARTRIDGE JOHN LAREW September 1997 JAMES FARLEY JOE PEREZ JIM MARTIN Seafarers LOS 13 �Credentials committee (from left): Terry Hoinsky, Joseph Soresi, Harold Anderson, Steve Judd, Jim Given, Dave Carter, Tom Orzechowski and Joe Perez. SIUNA Vice President Dean Corgey (center) signs his approval to a committee report as Joanne Herrlein (left) and William Berger look on. COMMITTEES Convention arrangements and public relations committee (from left): Tony McOuay, Mike Paladino, Nick Cslona, Leo Bonser, Ambrose Cucinotta and Gunnar Lundeberg. Committees consisting of representatives from the SIUNA affiliates met during the convention and carried out their assignments. Each committee reported on its work to the full convention. Whether providing credentials to delegates, reviewing resolutions submitted by the member unions, or developing recommendations for rules by which to conduct the convention, the committees work to see that the event functions democratically and efficiently. International affairs committee (from left): Will Ross, Steve Ruiz, Tim Kelley, Michel Desjardins, Henry Disley, John Larew, Carl Peth. Not pictured: Amos Peters. SIONA CONVENTION Fulfilling the duties of the convention arrangements and public relations committee are (from left) Leo Bonser, Ambrose Cucinotta and Gunnar Lundeberg. Ed Pulver (above) and Roman Gralewicz serve on the legislative committee. Legislative committee (from left): Lonnie Partridge, Bob Hall, Nick Rios, Henri Francois, Ed Pulver, John Spadaro, Roman Gralewicz and Kermett Mangram. Members of the credentials committee review documents prior to the opening session. Resolutions committee (seated, from left): George McCartney, Augie Tellez, Donna Walsh, (standing) Nick Rios, Byron Kelley and Joe Soresi. Officers' and affiliates' committee (from left): Joanne Herrlein, William Berger, Steve Edney, Lonnie Partridge, Dean Corgey, Dave Billeci, Richard Vezina and Roy "Buck" Mercer. 14 811atar11r1 LOB Auditing committee (seated, from left): Bob Shaw, Jack Caffey, Joe Musher, Doug McMillan, (standing) Tom DeVivio, Tom Walsh, Dave Heindel, Kaj Kristensen and Tom Orzechowski. Not pictured: John Fay. 811ptember 1887 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea JULY 16-AUGUST 15, 1997 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port New York Philadelphi~ .· Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville 2 17 1 0 10 0 0 8 6 7 Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 13 22 2 {}° 2 0 4 3 0 4 11 4 6 8 1 7 9 4 13 10 4 6 13 2 7 15 6 12 9 5 24 26 16 17 4 24 5 27 ....,.J3 2 19 8 17 11 5 11 17 9 2 1 4 13 13 0 12 ·•.• ··.·.· ....... .,.... ' 15 Puerto Rico Honolulu 4 :st. Louis ,.J?j:ne.Y.,·: R9.i.n.~ ,:,._:.:.,_.:~:. .~··.·:... :. .3.. . Algonac Totals TOTAL SIIlPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 247 2 4 6 9 0 11 22 1 0 1 0 0 181 135 33 10 .... 29 6 22 o 1 o·. I I 0 46 t l 155 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Piney Point.. ............. Monday: October 6, November 3 69 32 4 New York .................Tuesday: October 7. November 4 10 10 2 2 Philadelphia ............. Wednesday: October 8, November 5 II Baltimore .................Thursday: October 9, November 6 16 6 14 19 9 30 23 50 46 24 20 15 53 24 28 4 11 26 32 ... 0 5 5 4 7 0 6 3 ::V{itfuingtQ~f : : <;. ::: 8 10 4 5 3 ~ 5 3 3 9 4 :-: .: 1 .~1:·:·:::.:.·:.:.'.:'';·:·;.·;::··7::·'·'··:~.i.,".:O:';j.;;;};_["~·.:i~· 'i; . ';·:·:·:~,' ,:_.1.'·:!;_'_'l! j _tj:;!·'['.·j:' !; :····.:;\·.::'_':;;·;··;,·":··_§}'.'.':··::·~·ji?'r''.'''4. 16 Seanle Puerto Rico Honolulu :.ff~uston 10 2 12 3 ::N~w Orleans.. .........Tuesday: October 14 Wcilne~day: November 12* 31 ) {) 3 .. 0 .1 3 0 0 MobjJe ...................... Wedoesday: October 15, November 12 1 106 427 237 62 San Francisco ........... Thursday: October16. November 13 7 · ·· · •Dare change due t(} Veten111$ Day lwliday - Wilmington .............. Monday: October 20, November 17 2 1 10 Houston ....... ,.. ,., ....... Monday: October 13, November JO 4 8 12 . 6" Atgonac .................... Friday: October 10, November 7 2 1 6 6 Jacksonville ..............Thursday: October 9, November 6 ·9 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port Norfolk .....................Thursday: October 9, November 6 10 40 1 4 1 - October & November 1997 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters 7 7 6 5 6 0 0 10 8 14 24 2 l 0 6 10 7 3 4 3 14 18 19 9 14 20 13 8 St. : 1.i~~is:.~;: .. ~;:..... .":....Friday,~ October 17, November 14 Honolulu ......... ., ....... Friday: October 17, November 14 Duluth ...................... Wednesday: October 15, November 12 Jersey City ............... Wednesday: October22, November 19 10 ~ 8 15 2 J 6 160 41 ~~~:~Bedford ............Tuesday: October 21, November 18 ;_s t·· · Louis ·:::·:·. . ·. Pi!i~i?9irif .: ·:.-.· . . Algonac Totals 1 131 0 0 92 106 46 2 203 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port ;.J~·ew 0 85 York Philadelphia ,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 · · · 13 4 4 5 3 3 19 6 ·· 22 'O . 6 0 2 3 5 6 3 3 3· 14 1 2 0 0 6 3 4 0 0 0 5 4 3 1 2 5 3 · I I II 11 9 0 6 5 0 4 9 9 2 32 4 3 0 7 8 2 5 14 0 10 54 21 43 13 0 7 8 1 0 5 2 8 0 8 3 2 1 1 21 9 27 4 0 22 5 2 4 2 0 3 0 1I 16 0 2 0 5 4 2 1 1 0 0 16 14 0 0 158 5 5 0 2 0 56 0 2 0 1 0 0 8 5 34 4 I 3 8 9 2 0 16 4 10 Mobile New Orleans 2 Jacksonville 1 San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals 8 1 O 0 37 182 178 Totals All Departments 573 499 271 11 15 19 3 5 3 3 20 2 13 9 4 5 5 0 5 23 70 13 5 2 1 6 43 0 0 0 0 37 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 8 9 0 118 w. 0 0 32 15 5 10 . 3' 2 8 0 0 0 19 21 0 8 0 69 262 97 9 l 0 53 1 12 3 6 15 19 38 21 30 25 II ENTRY DEPARTMENT 1 0 15 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 l 1 0 3 9 0 9 0 0 6 4 7 0 4 6 4 0 2 18 8 0 0 5 5 1 0 9 3 0 2 3 2 55 0 25 5 4 0 11 2 0 0 3 0 0 12 0 0 1 0 0 4 20 11 14 3 5 2 1 0 0 5 0 0 Personals LARRY HART Please call Christopher Daniels at 1-800-6854343, ext. 1408, in reference to the settlement. COLIN MURRAY Where are you? I miss you. Please contact Jennifer Hodges. JIMMY POULOS Please get in touch with Peter Versakos at (718) 238-3072. Corrections 10 1 0 0 29 Two Seafarers were misideutified in photos on page 4 of the August 1997 Seafarers LOG. Rafael Clemente is a recertified bosun and Paul Grepo sails as an AB. 20 3 2 On page 17 of the August issue, Pensioner Kane K. Leeteg's name was misspelled. 35 5 20 14 In the Final Departures column on page I 8 of the July 1997 issue, the incorrect photo appeared under Donald McClintock's obituary. Unfortunately, no photo is on file for Brother McClintock. 1 6 5 11 2 5 44 67 16 l 12 10 3 40 1 0 39 121 92 0 80 305 242 430 378 152 221 972 799 374 N ~EAFARERS *''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. September 1997 Seafarers LOG 15 �Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes · ·. Seahllin.llifemaflontil Union · · · ·· · Dlreotoq . · · JULY 16 -AUGUST 15, 1997 Michael Saci» President CL - . John.Fay ExefutiveVice President . ~ecretary·Treasurer Augustin Tellez Vice Presi~ent Contracts George McCartney 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 ~ HEADQUARTEkS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301} 899-0615 Al..GONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, Ml 48001 Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 34 8 0 16 3 0 7 2 0 37 19 L-Lakes NP - Non Priority TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Clas.5 CL Class L Class NP *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP ·· Da\lid Heindel Vice President West Coa.5t Company/Lakes DECK DEPARTMENT 5 29 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 12 3 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 4 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 25 8 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP 0 5 3 0 4 0 0 4 1 0 12 11 0 25 17 32 70 94 0 Totals All Dep~ 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. 15 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #IC Anchoraze. AK 9950~ (907) 561-4988 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters BALTIMORE JULY 16 -AUGUST 15, 1997 1216 E. Baltimore SL Baltimore, MD 21202 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C (410) 327-4~ DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Buifding Ll1d~t.h, MN ~S~01 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Clas.5 B Class C **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B OassC (218) 722-4110 HONOLULU 606Kalihi SL 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 (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 (757) 622-1892 PffiLADELPHIA 2604S. 4 St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (30 I) 994-00 IO 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 SANTIJRCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop l 6Y1 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 0 o ·· 5 DECK DEPARTMENT · · · 3::< 0 0 2 5 3 () 14 Region Atlantic coa8t 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 10 5 22 4 0 0 0 41 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 10 0 13 1 0 10 1 12 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 7 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 o· . IO 2 0 9 1 O' 1 4 13 . '42 . 6 67 4 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 2 1 0 3 4 0 1 19 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 24 4 6 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 0 31 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 10 23 I 10 0 0 11 0 9 0 0 0 3 1 14 1 0 3 6 105 8 37 2 11 0 66 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. 3 0 37 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photograph, sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner Manuel DeBarros of North Dartmouth, Mass., was taken in 1950 aboard the Mankato Victory. 'We made two trips to Israel with lumber;' stated DeBarros (pictured third from left, back row) in a note to the LOG accompanying the photo. De Barros, 74, who joined the SIU in 1942 in the port of Providence, A.I., sailed as a bosun. He retired in 1980. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with the LOG readership, it should be sent to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. September 1997 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. Five Seafarers are joining the SIU pension rolls this month. Three sailed in the deep sea division and two shipped on the inland waterways. Of those signing off their ships for the last time, three sailed in the deck department and two were members of the stew· ard department. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of this month's pensioners. LARRYE. LEE, 65, started his career with the SIU in 1980 in the port of Honolulu. A native of Hawaii, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Brother Lee lasl sailed aboard the Sea-LLznd Pacific and has retired to Honolulu. DEEP SEA PEDRO J. PEREZ, 65, started his career with the SIU in 1958 in the port of New York. A native of Puerto Rico, he sailed in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. During his union career. he was active in organizing, strikes and beefs. Brother Perez signed off the Sea-Land Hawaii and makes his home in Las Piedras, P.R. GILBERTO E. BONITTO, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1981 from the port of New Orleans. Born in Honduras. he worked in the steward department. Brother Bonino last sailed aboard the Overseas New Orleans. He makes his home in Harvey, Ill. INLAND ROBERT LEE, 60, first sailed with the Seafarers in 1963 from the port of Port Arthur, Texas. Born in TOMAS PEREZ, 65, started his career with the sru in 1976 in One of the nation's premier collections of World War II merchant marine posters soon will expand. Retired SIU member Rendich Meola who donated the original 25-poster set to the Paul Hall Memorial Library in July 1995, last month bestowed three additional posters to the exhibit. They will be added to the display sometime this month. 1 A5 ha5 boon dono in pa5t yaar5, thi5 Dacamber'5 edition of the Settfarer~ LOG will include holiday graatingB from activa and retired SeafarerG and their familieG to other memberG of the Geafaring 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. Be sure your greeting iG 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.) D The holiday greetings must be received no later than Monday, November 17, 1997. 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 may be given to the boarding patrolman during a vesGel's payoff. The holiday greetings section of the December LOG is a popular feature, so be sure to get your message in on time. counte~or HOLIDAY MESSAGE (Please Print) Sender's Telephone Number: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Message=------------------------------~ Check the block which describes your status with the SIU: D Active Seafarer 0 Family Member of Active Seafarer 0 Retired Seafarer 0 Family Member of Retired Seafarer Other.------------------------------~ September 1997 Puerto Rico. Boatman Perez worked in the deck department, most recently aboard a Crowley Maritime vessel. He makes his home in Toa Alta, P.R. Hall Center Library Adds 3 Posters To WWII Merchant Marine Exhibit Holiday Issue of LOG to Feature Personal Greetings D Alabama, he sailed in the deck department, advancing from deckhand, to mate, to captain. He last sailed aboard the Mary Moran, operated by Moran Towing. Boatman Lee has retired to Vidor, Texas. Including five others given by Meola since the collection made its debut at the facility in Piney Point, Md., the exhibit will feature 33 posters. A spokesperson from the National Archives noted that it may be among the largest displays of its kind, as relatively few of the myriad posters created during World War II focused on the merchant marine. (All but a few of those on display at the Paul Hall Center are specifically about the merchant marine.) "I enjoy the posters being in that environment, where others can see them, instead of having them tucked away someplace," stated Meola, who sailed for three years as a deck engineer during the war. "I love the posters and I have a deep affection for the SIU." One of the newly presented posters features a photo of a lookout and the headline "Watch Your Talk For His Sake." The words "Never mention arrivals, sailings, cargoes or destinations to anybody" appear at the bottom of the poster, printed for British Information Services in New York. Another bears the declaration "Norway-a fighting ally!" This poster was printed in the United States in 1943 for the Royal Norwegian Information Service. The third poster shows illustrations of five vessels and a Danish flag, with the inscription "5000 Danish Seamen Sailing for United Nations on 800,000 Tons of Danish Ships." The exhibit is expected to remain open indefinitely. 500 DANISH SEAMEN S HING ftlR UNITEO NATIONS OM SlltHlllU TONS llf OAllSH SfffPS Three new works (above) have been added to the exhibit of World War II merchant marine posters, which was installed in July 1995 at the Paul Hall Memorial Library and is expected to remain open indefinitely. Seafarers LOG 17 - �- Pil'lal Departures DEEP SEA DAVID W. BARRETT Pensioner David W. Barrett, 79, passed away March 9. Brother Barrett joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1957, before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). The San Francisco resident last sailed on the Golden Bear as a chief cook. Brother Barrett began receiving his pension in September 1977. FLORENTINO BLANCO Pensioner Florentino Blanco, 89, died June 20. He started his career with the MC&S in 1943, before that union merged ~-----~ with Lhe SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Blanco last sailed as a chief steward and retired in December 19~ l. Born in Honduras, he w~s 11 residem of Portl:ind, Ore. ROBERT L. BOSTICK Pensioner Robert L. Bostick, 81, passed away May I~. A native of Georgia, he began sailing with the MC&S in 1952 from the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Bostick resided in Redding, Calif. He began receiving his pension in September 1968. PHILIPPE A. BOUCHER Pensioner Philippe A. Boucher, 74, died March 17. Born in Canada, he joined the MC&S in 1952 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Boucher was a resident of San Diego and retired in November 1974. LUIS CAMPOS l~iiiiii••:--1 Pensioner Luis Campos, 75, passed away July 11 . Brother Campos, a resident of Baltimore, started his career with the Seafarers in 1....-_ _........,._ __, 1956 in the port of New York. Born in Honduras, he worked in the engine department, last sailing as a chief electrician. He started receiving his pension in March 1985. GEORGE GIT SUN CHU Pensioner George Git Sun Chu, 82, died February 21. Born in Honolulu, he joined the MC&S in 1937, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. A resident of Honolulu, Brother Chu began receiving his pension in May 1981. STEPHEN DIVANE Pensioner Stephen Divane, 81 , passed away May 1. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1949 from the port of New York. Born in Ireland, he worked in the engine department as an electrician. During his union career, he was active in organizing drives and beefs. Brother Divane lived in Brooklyn, N.Y. and retired in June 1979. 18 Seafarers LOG RAPHAEL H. EDMOND Pensioner Raphael H. Edmond, 81 , passed away July 8. Born in Texas, he joined the MC&S in 1959 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Edmond last sailed as a chief steward. The Berkeley, Calif. resident began receiving his pension in November 1981. ENRIQUE R. GONZALEZ Pensioner Enrique R. Gonzalez, 71, died July 2. A native of Texas, he started his career with the :;;eafarers in 1950 in the port ....;;._~ of New York. Brother Gonzalez sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. A resident of Houston. he retired in May 1988. From 1944 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Navy. L __ _ _ _ JAMES A. HAMMOND r-=--~iii::-1 Pem:ioner James A. Hammond, 76, passed away July 5. Brother Hammond first sailed with the SIU in 1942 from the port of \ Philadelphia. A native of Oklahoma, he worked in both the steward and deck departments. Brother Hammond, who resided in Paris, Texas, began receiving his pension in October 1985. KATHRYN REINOLDS HARPER Pensioner Kathryn Reino Ids Harper, 71, died July 24. Born in " Oklahoma, she joined the MC&S in 1966 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Sister Harper was a resident of San Diego and retired in November 1986. PAUL L. HERRMANN Pensioner Paul L. Herrmann, 90, passed away July 5. He began his sailing career with the MC&S in 1950 from the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Born in Yugoslavia, Brother Herrmann lived in San Diego. He began receiving his pension in March 1975. RICHARD E. HOKANSON Pensioner Richard E. Hokanson, 79, died May 13. Born in Washington, he joined the MC&S in 1953 in the port of Seattle, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Hokanson last sailed as a chief steward. The Seattle resident retired in December 1969. EDWIN D. JOHNSON Pensioner Edwin D. Johnson, 73, died June 7. Brother Johnson started his career with the Seafarers in 1966 in the port '---"""~~/-·_·--'-~ of San Francisco. Born in Michigan, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Johnson was a resident of Hot Springs, Ark. and retired in December 1987. ELIJAH HOLMES Pensioner Elijah Holmes, 76, passed away March 6. A native of Louisiana, he first sailed with the MC&S in 1945 before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. A resident of Seattle, Brother Holmes began receiving his pension in July 1974. RHYS W. JONES Rhys W. Jones, 55, passed away March 15. Born in Connecticut, he began sailing with the SIU in 1960 from the port of Detroit. Starting out in the Great Lakes division, he later transferred to deep sea vessels. Brother Jones worked in the engine department, last sailing in 1975. He was a resident of Gaithersburg, Md. ANDREW F. KAMEDRA Pensioner Andrew F. Kamedra, 78, died June 13. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of Baltimore. Born in Czechoslovakia, he sailed in the engine department. A resident of Houston, Brother Kamedra began receiving his pension in February 1987. JACK D. KINGSLEY ""'" " ~ Pensioner Jack D. Kingsley, 63, (_ passed away ~ June 18. A '\ ·' . native oflndi-. .. ~ · ana, he began _,.,.,., · r-;-: · ~ ~ sailing with the ·, 1, ~ .;.., / i ~ - : SIU in 1966 : (tJ . ,~ / 1~\ '. from the port of I • [Y "I -J. t San Francisco. Brother Kingsley worked in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md., where he graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1975. From 1951to1961, he served in the U.S . Navy. A resident of Fairfield, Calif., he retired in September 1996. (' ·I 1::;-1 . MICHAEL KINNEY r":t&iiiiili~I Michael Kinney, 76, died May 20. Brother Kinney started his · career with the Seafarers in 1957 from the port of New York. The New York native sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Kinney was a resident of Binghamton, N.Y. L __ _ _ _._....., THOMAS T. KIRBY .-----:--==-----, Pensioner Thomas T. Kirby, 73, passed away July 6. Born in Texas, he joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Houston. Brother Kirby sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundcberg School where he completed the steward recertification course in 1980. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army from 1940 to 1944. Brother Kirby began receiving his pension in October 1988. CHUNG LOUIE Chung Louie, 63, passed away April 21. Born in China, he joined the MC&S in 1972 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Louie attended the MC&S training school in 1978. The San Francisco resident last sailed in 1985 aboard the President l.incoln, operated by American President Lines. HENRYJ.KOPPERSMITH Pensioner Henry J. Koppersmith, 68, died June 27. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1946 from the port of Mobile, ,___ _ _ _ _ _ Ala. The Alabama native sailed in the steward department. Brother Koppersmith, who was a resident of Mobile, retired in October 1986. AULTMAN LUKE Pensioner Aultman Luke, 83, died November 19, 1996. Brother Luke started his career with the MC&S in 1944 in the port of New York, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. The Georgia native last sailed as a chief steward. He lived in New Windsor, N.Y. and began receiving his pension in June 1970. RAYMOND J. MACHAJ Raymond J. Machaj, 41, passed away July 14. A native of California, he graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry ......__ _ _ _ __. level training program in 1974 and joined the Seafarers in the port of Piney Point, Md. His first ship was the Tamara Gui/den. Brother Machaj sailed in the engine department and frequently upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He was a resident of Las Vegas. LLOYD W. PARKER Pensioner Lloyd W. Parker, 73, died March 20. A native of Wisconsin, he started his career with the MC&S in 1954 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. He last sailed as a chief steward. The Centralia, Wash. resident began receiving his pension in September 1973. JOSE D. PINEIRO Pensioner Jose D. Pineiro, 84, died July 1. A resident of Brooklyn, N.Y. and a charter member of the SIU, he joined the union in 1939 in the port of Baltimore. Born in Puerto Rico, he sailed in the engine department. During his union career, he was active in organizing drives and beefs. Brother Pineiro began receiving his pension in July 1977. ERNEST C. PONSON Pensioner Ernest C. Ponson, 77, passed away July 7. Born in Louisiana, he started his career with the , Seafarers in ...........:... 1947 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed in the steward department and attended an educational conference at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1945. Brother Ponson, a resident of Mandeville, La., retired in October 1984. RICHARD L. RODGERS Pensioner Richard L. Rodgers, 59, died July 12. He graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1962 and joined the SIU in the port of New Orleans. His first ship was the Keva Ideal. A native of Louisiana, he sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills. Brother Rodgers was a resident of Houston and began receiving his pension in May 1996. CHARLES F. MANN MASON R. SCOTT Pensioner Charles F. Mann, 64, died July 12. He began sailing with the SIU in 1962 from the port of New York aboard the :.......----= Globe Explorer. Starting out in the steward department, he later transferred to the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Brother Mann was a resident of Jesup, Ga. and began receiving his pension in December 1993. From 1952 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Army. Pensioner Mason R. Scott, 77, passed away July 14. Brother Scott began sailing with the Seafarers in 1948 from the port of Mobile, Ala. Born in the Cayman Islands, he sailed in the deck department and retired in November 1980. He was a resident of Jacksonville, Fla. STEVE TONG Pensioner Steve Tong, 84, died July 19. Born in China, he joined the MC&S in 1947 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. A resident of San Francisco, Brother Tong began receiving his pension in December 1974. CHARLES E. PERDUE Pensioner Charles E. Perdue, 70, passed away June 9. Brother Perdue first sailed with the Seafarers in 1951 aboard the Warrior, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. Born in Texas, he sailed in both the engine and deck departments. From 1946 to 1947, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Perdue, a resident of New Orleans, retired in December 1990. LAWRENCE PARKER Pensioner Lawrence Parker, 76, passed away March 10. Born in Texas, he joined the MC&S, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. The Berkeley, Calif. resident retired in September 1973. THOMAS L. WHITE Pensioner Thomas L. White, 96, passed away May 12. Brother White joined the MC&S in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Born in Oklahoma, he lived in Oakland, Calif. and retired in June 1969. JOHN H. WILLIS John H. Willis, 60, passed away July 15. He . started his career with the Seafarers in 1989 in his native Mobile, Ala. He worked in the steward department, last sailing as a chief cook. From 1954 to 1957, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Willis was a resident of Mobile. September 1997 �Digest·of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts ts print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as pos$fblq. J)n pgpq~lon, because of space limltatlons)iome will be omitted. Ships minutes first '!.ltl~'liewet! by the union's contract department. Those issues reqilifliig atteiitl~n or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then forwarded .· . .lf!fbs Seafarers LOG for publication~ LNG VIRGO (ETC), March 9Chairman Jack Rhodes, Secretary Glenn Williams, Educational Director Gary Frazier, Deck Delegate Bobby Branham, Engine Delegate Randy McKenzie, Steward Delegate Ralph McKee. Secretary discussed new LNG courses offered at Lundeberg School and urged members to get STCW identification certificate. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade to secure good shipboard jobs and keep informed throu~h Seafarers LOG. Deck '1elegate asked chief cook to serve early meal~ for ABs on watch while in port of hpm. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department for information on the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan. Crew thanked galley gang and extended special welcome to Chief Steward Williams who joined vessel in Osaka, Japan. Crew requested new chipping guns. Next port: Bontang, Indonesia. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY (SeaLand Service), May 4-Chairman Mork Stevens, Secretary Richard Riley, Educational Director Roger Wasserman, Engine Delegate Michael Bautist, Steward Delegate George Boop. Chairman advised crewmembers to comply with the "preamble" and "obligation" printed inside union books. He urged ship's delegates to take care of union duties. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade and keep up with SIU news through Seafarers LOG. Treasurer announced $145 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed reported. Bosun asked crewmembers to respect the no smoking policy in crew lounge and keep quiet while others are sleeping. Next port: Oakland, Calif. ar DUCHESS (Ocean Duchess, Inc.), June 13-Chainnan R.E. Allen, Secretary Raymond Jones, Steward Delegate Mariano Norales. Chairman announced payoff in port of Savannah, Ga. He advised members to apply for training record books (TRBs). Educational director urged crewmembers to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $80 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed ar reported. Crew requested new dryer and flexible hose attachment. OSPREY (Osprey-Acomarit), June 8-Chairman Robert Lindsay Jr., Secretary Kevin Marchand, Educational Director Rich Williams, Deck Delegate Michael Williams. Chairman informed crew of payoff in Savannah, Ga. and reported contracts received from SIU headquarters. Educational director stressed importance of safety at sea and upgrading at Paul Hall Center. Deck delegate reported disputed ar, and all three departments reported beefs. Crew listed shipboard repairs and equipment needed. Crew notified Seafarers LOG of rescue of a Russian mariner in the Aegean Sea and noted photos will be sent. MAERSK TENNESSEE (Maersk Lines), June 27-Chairman Ben September 1997 Born, Secretary Dwight Wuerth, Educational Director Cliff Evans, Deck Delegate Juan Rochez, Steward Delegate Brian Powell. Chairman reported new washers and dryers scheduled for delivery. Bosun noted smooth sailing and reminded crewmembers to shampoo carpets before signing off vessel. Secretary commended crew on good voyage and stated "it has been a pleasure working on the new Maersk vessel." Educational director reminded crewmembers to apply for training record books (TRBs). He informed crew all in· formation concerning TRB applications may be foun'1 in the May and June 1997 issues of Seafarers LOG. Treasurer announced $150 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Chairman noted new linens received and reported company is responding to all crewmembers' needs. Members thanked contracts department for sending copies of agreement to ship. Next port: Charleston, S.C. SEA-LAND ATLANTIC (SeaLand Service). June 6--Chairman Bill Stoltz, Secretary Edward Porter. Crew requested information on Seafarers Welfare and Vacation Plan benefits. Bosun requested new chairs for his room. Electrician reported new tiles needed for deck. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY (SeaLand Service), June 29-Chairman N. Sala, Secretary Vainu'u Sili, Educational Director George Gill, Engine Delegate Michael Bautista, Steward Delegate Efren Ancheta. Chairman suggested crew read Seafarers LOG. He noted a patrolman will meet ship in port of Honolulu. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Next port: Oakland, Calif. GALVESTON BAY (Sea-Land Service), July 25-Chairman James E. Davis, Secretary Danny Brown, Educational Director Herman Manzer, Deck Delegate Tom Prather, Engine Delegate Jimmy Sabga, Steward Delegate Lonzel Sykes. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in port of Elizabeth, N.J. He advised crewmembers wage, overtime and vacation pay increases take effect July 1. Secretary urged members to donate to SPAD. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked Bosun Davis for putting video library together. Crewmembers thanked galley gang for job well done. Members observed moment of silence for departed SIU brothers and sisters. Next port: Norfolk, Va. GREEN ISLAND (Waterman Steamship), July 20-Chairman Russell Barrack, Secretary Claude Hollings III, Educational Director Thomas Stead, Deck Delegate Donald Davis, Engine Delegate Chris Suazo, Steward Delegate Luis Lopez. Secretary reported fresh fruit, vegetables and milk will be brought aboard when ship docks in Morehead City, N.C. Educational director discussed importance of donating to SPAD and upgrading at Lundeberg School. Chairman noted mail with LOGs and contracts was opened before he received them. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers extended special vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Crew noted captain is not allowing crewmembers to use shipboard phone and asked union headquarters if this is permissible. Next ports: Morehead City and New Orleans. LIBERTY SPIRIT (Liberty Maritime), July 6-Chairman Terry Cowans, Secretary Paul Stubblefield, Educational Director Torry Kidd. Chainnan reminded crew to clean rooms and collect personal gear before signing off vessel in shipyard. Secretary asked crewmembers to tum in linens and keep noise down in passageways. Educational director urged members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward announced freezer will be repaired in shipyard. Crew thanked members of galley gang. AB Moto Anzulovich expressed appreciation to crew for an enjoyable tour of duty. Crewmembers, in tum, noted he was a pleasure to sail with. Next port: Mobile, Ala. LNG ARIES (ETC), July 6Chairman Rafael Pereira, Secretary Doyle Cornelius, Educational Director Dasril Panko, Deck Delegate Stephen Votta. Engine Delegate Larry Pittman, Steward Delegate Judith Chester. Chairman thanked crewmembers for smooth voyage and a job well done. Educational director reminded crew to attend LNG courses at the Lundeberg School. Treasurer announced $894 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done and noted entire crew enjoyed July 4 pool party. OOCL INSPIRATION (Sea-Land Service), July 13-Chairman Ross Lyle, Secretary Hasan Rahman, Engine Delegate Steve Kues, Steward Delegate Charles Ratcliff. Chainnan announced payoff upon arrival in Charleston, S.C. on July 17. No beefs or disputed OT reported. OVERSEAS MARILYN (Maritime Overseas), July 13-Chairman James Fox, Secretary R. Ascone, Educational Director James Badgett, Engine Delegate Junious Williams, Steward Delegate Joe Clark. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center and applying for STCW identification certificates and training record books (TRBs). Chairman discussed letter from union headquarters concerning the TRB. No beefs or disputed ar reported. Crew extended special vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Sison, Educational Director Edmond Hawkins, Engine Delegate Samuel Addo, Steward Delegate Ronald Dewitt. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND ENDURANCE (Sea-Land Service), July 6Chairman Christian Christensen, Secretary Ray Garcia, Educational Director George Evosevich, Deck Delegate Matthew Knud- SEA-LAND DEVELOPER (SeaLand Service), July 14-Chairman Ernest Duhon, Secretary Frank SEA-LAND LIBERATOR (SeaLand Service), July 20-Chairman Joel Miller, Secretary Ruben Casin Jr., Educational Director Mark Serlis, Engine Delegate John Wong, Steward Delegate Barry Alviso. Chairman announced crew change in port of Hong Kong. No beefs or disputed ar reported. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. Mahi Mahi Galley Draws Praise High praise was accorded the three-man steward department aboard the Mahi Mahi by Chief Mate Jeremy Bert and the entire crew of the Matson vessel. "This department has put out such excellent chow," wrote Bert in a letter accompanying the above photo, "that we thought we were on a passenger ship." From the left are Utility Kassem Ahmed, Chief Steward Sivasa Laupati and Chief Cook Dante Cruz. sen, Engine Delegate Julio Paminiano, Steward Delegate Clodualdo Gomez. Chainnan announced 1997 pay increase now effective and urged members to donate to SPAD. He asked crew to keep living spaces clean and upgrade skills at Piney Point when possible. Members were informed that Mark Hurley, a fonner Marine Cooks & Stewards member, is now a Catholic bishop and will be aboard vessel until port of Hong Kong. Secretary reminded members to keep credentials up-to-date. Educational director advised crew sanitation, safety and training films available and urged everyone to "think safety" at all times. No beefs or disputed ar reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Crewmembers gave special vote of thanks to Utility Larry Lopez for maintaining excellent sanitary conditions of shipboard living areas. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND HAWAII (Sea-Land Service), July 21-Chairman Jim Carter, Secretary Glenn C. Hamman, Educational Director Daran Ragucci, Deck Delegate Brad Brunett, Engine Delegate Jose Perez, Steward Delegate David Valle. Educational director urged members to read contract. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew noted TV antenna needs to be connected. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next ports: Elizabeth, N.J.; San Juan, P.R.; Rio Haina; Houston and New Orleans. SEA-LAND INTEGRITY (Sea- SEA-LAND CRUSADER (SeaLand Service), July 24-Chairman Roberto Diaz, Secretary Udjang Nurdjaja, Deck Delegate Albert Wambach, Educational Director Oswald Bermeo, Steward Delegate Hazel Johnson Jr. Educational director urged members to attend upgrading courses at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed ar reported. ships." New TV, VCR and chairs requested for crew lounge. Next port: Charleston, S.C. Land Service), July 20-Chairman Willie Marsh, Secretary John Platts, Educational Director Clarence Laugford, Engine Delegate Jeffrey Hailstone. Educational director reminded members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed rei}orted. Crew thanked steward department members Chief Cook Platts and SA Charles Autry for superb job. Crew commended galley gang on the meals and salad bar which "were as excellent as food found aboard passenger ar SEA-LAND NAVIGATOR (SeaLand Service), July 13-Chairman Werner Becher, Secretary Lynn McCluskey, Educational Director Daniel Dean, Deck Delegate Robert Natividad, Engine Delegate Mel Ferguson, Steward Delegate Thomas Gingerich. Chairman discussed training record books (I'RBs) and encouraged members to apply for book as soon as possible. He reported payoff upon arrival in port of Tacoma, Wash. Educational director advised members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed ar reported. Crew requested new VCR. Next ports: Tacoma and Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND PERFORMANCE (Sea-Land Service), July 6Chairman Eugene Grantham, Secretary Ed Collins, Educational Director William F. Payne, Deck Delegate Kaare O'Hara, Engine Delegate Brian Wilder, Steward Delegate Donald Huffman. Chairman announced ship scheduled for payoff July 9 upon arrival in pert of Charleston, S.C. He thanked crew for two good voyages aboard vessel and reminded members to donate to SPAD. Secretary thanked crewmembers for helping keep ship's pantry clean. Educational director advised Seafarers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed ar reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next ports: Charleston; Port Everglades, Fla. and Houston. SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land Service), July 20-Chairman Loren Watson, Secretary Joseph Laureta, Educational Director M. Sabin. Chairman asked contracts department to clarify time off for members. Treasurer announced $38 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed ar reported. Bosun asked crewmembers to put needed work on repair list. He urged members to apply for training record books (TRBs). Steward noted he will be tal<lng time off while ship is docked in Guam. Crew extended vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Seafarers LOG 19 �Labar Federation Outlines NAFTA 1s Numerous Flaws Chief Cook Cecilio Saurez ensures that chicken, hot dogs and hamburgers are properly grilled. Fellow crewmembers aboard the cable ship Charles L. Brown recently praised the work of (from left) Chief Cook Cecilio Saurez, Cook-Baker Josue Iglesia, Chief Steward Edward Dunn and the rest of the steward department. Crew Rates Charles Brown Good Feeder Chief Steward Edward Dunn knows it's an old saying, but it is true. "A well-fed crew is a happy crew," the Seafarer remarked after a recent shipboard union meeting on the cable ship Charles L. Brown in the pon of New York. Dunn·s shipmates apparently agree, as they gave the entire steward department a vote of thanks for an outstanding job during voyages this summer. They noted that weekly barbecues while the vessel was in St. Thomas proved particularly tasty. During the meeting, Seafarers discussed the importance of maintaining the Jones Act, monitoring the voting records of their representatives on Capitol Hill, and perfonning their respective jobs in the most efficient. safest manners possible. 1 'Tiiey also praised the union for the smooth transition when the cable ships were sold," noted SIU Patrolman Sean Ryan. The Charles L. Brown and its sister ships-the Global Link, Global Mariner. Global Sentinel and Long Lines-were sold earlier this year by AT&T to Tyco International. They remain under SIU contract, with an agreement that lasts until 2001. The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) has not lived up to its promise of economic development in the United States and Canada but instead has led to the loss of hundreds of thousands of jobs and an increase in Americans' exposure to hazardous foods, illegal drugs and unsafe trucks. That is the response of the AFL-CIO to the Clinton Administration's three-year report on NAFTA that claims the trade agreement has had a positive economic impact on the U.S., Canada and Mexico. The federation of trade unions insists that the report is "incomplete and misleading" because it fails to recognize the major flaws in the agreement. "The basic facts are clear. NAFI'A was to have created jobs in the United States and guaranteed prosperity and stability in Mexico. Instead, NAFTA has contributed to increased inequality in all three North American countries," the AFL-CIO said. Supporters of NAFI'A, an economic treaty among the U.S., Mexico and Canada, claimed it would create jobs by eliminating so-called trade ban'iers. The pact was vehemently opposed by the SIU and other affiliated unions of the AFL-CIO (as well as numerous citizens' groups and many lawmakers), who predicted the pact would cause massive job loss in America and would encourage further exploitation of Mexican workers. Impact on Workers Seafarers enjoy a cookout while SA Rodrica Jiminez (right photo) takes a well-earned rest. / Hospital Ship Mercy Transfers to San Diego The Seafarers-crewed hospital ship USNS Mercy, based at the U.S. Naval Supply Center in Oakland, Calif. for the past 10 years, recently relocated to San Diego. According to the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), the transfer allows the vessel to be close to Balboa Naval Medical Center in San Diego, where most of the ship's medical support personnel are stationed. In the event of a call-up, the Balboa personnel will report aboard the USNS Mercy. Previously, the ship's mobilized medical staff came from the Naval Medical Center in Oakland, a facility closed last year, noted MSC. A former oil tanker converted to a hospital ship in the mid-1980s, the USNS Mercy is part of MSC's Ready Reserve Fleet (RRF). It typically remains in reduced operating status (ROS). When fully activated, it can accommodate about 1,200 medical support personnel. The vessel features 12 operating rooms, various medical and phannaceutical labs, bum-care units, 1,000 patient beds, a large helicopter landing deck and more. MSC pointed out that the ship was stationed in the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm from August 1990 until April 1991. Its medical staff also treated more than 60,000 patients during a four-month humanitarian mission in the Philippines and the South Pacific in 1987. Camaraderie Abounds Aboard RO/RO Camaraderie was evident during a recent voyage aboard the Senator, a roll-on/roll-off ship that traveled from Port Everglades, Fla. to Costa Rica and Panama. Above left (from left), AB Homer McField, Bosun Herbert Charles and AB Mark Kerr pose for a photo after working on the deck. Above right (from left), Chief Cook George Monseur, Chief Steward Pat Caldwell, QMEDs Charles Chancey, Michael McClinton and Tom Curtis and AB Mark Kerr are ready for a shipboard cookout. 20 Seafarers LOG In their arguments in favor of NAFTA, advocates noted the U.S. would gain 14,000 new jobs for every billion dollars in exports. However, the U.S. has lost $30 billion in trade since the implementation of NAFTA. Under the formula promoted by the pact's supporters, this would mean approximately 420,000 U.S. jobs have been lost. Not only have thousands of Americans lost their jobs because of NAFTA, but the great majority of displaced workers have not received the financial assistance and job retraining benefits that were promised in the original agreement. The U.S. Labor Department recently certified that of those workers displaced by the pact, only 5 percent had completed retraining and only 3 percent had received the financial assistance that was pledged by the administration. Additionally, some of the workers who did not apply for government assistance after losing their jobs when plants closed and moved south of the border found new lower-paying posi.tions (often without benefits) in their communities. Mexican workers also have suffered since NAFfA was implemented in 1994. Their wages decreased from an average of $1.58 an hour in 1990 to $1.51 an hour in 1995. The Decline "The real problem with NAFTA is that it represents precisely the wrong development strategy-for the United States, as well as for Mexico and Canada. NAFfA rewards and encourages companies that abandon their U.S. production facilities in order to take advantage of low wages and lax enforcement of labor and environmental standards in Mexico," noted the AFLCIO. NAFTA provides no concrete incentive for U.S. companies to pay decent wages, respect basic workers' rights, or safeguard the environment in Mexico. It protects the rights of investors and patent-holders, while leaving workers and the environment vulnerable and their programs underfunded, the AFL-CIO report added. "By increasing the mobility and flexibility of multinational corporations, NAFrA eroded the bargaining power of North American workers and put downward pressure on wages and working conditions,.. stated the labor federation. As a result, many U.S. employers now threaten to move jobs to Mexico whenever employees ask for reasonable wages and raises. Cornell University recently released a study of 600 companies where worke were trying to organize or were in the ocess of negotiating their first con act. The study found that 62 percent of the companies at some point had threatened to close all or part of their plants rather than negotiate for union benefits. According to the Cornell study, many of the company owners said explicitly they would move to Mexico. In addition, while some statistics perhaps may be manipulated to make a case for or against the pact, there is no questioning that the U.S. trade deficit with Mexico and Canada has quadrupled since NAFTA began. It has increased from $9 billion in 1993 to $39 billion in 1996--<:ontrary to predictions of a sizable and growing trade surplus from NAFTA's proponents. Also, since NAFTA began, Mexico battled an economic depression and Canada has been hit with stagnant wages and slow growth. According to a recent NBC/Wall Street Journal poll, 43 percent of the general public believes NAFTA has had a negative impact on the United States. Only 28 percent of those surveyed believe the effects have been positive. "When we assess the impact of NAFTA, we should not compare it to a world of no trade between the United States, Mexico and Canada, but rather to a world with a different kind of trade agreement-one that protects workers, communities and the environment, as well as business interests. This was the kind of agreement we advocated for in 1993 and that we advocate today," concluded the AFL-CIO report. Seafarers are encouraged to contact their elected representatives in Washington and urge them to oppose the expansion of NAFTA while helping negotiate a new trade agreement that avoids the mistakes of NAFTA. September 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.) The Real Man Behind the Obit In the [July 1997] issue of the Seafarers LOG, I came across a picture of an old friend. It was not a good picture. How many are? The dozen or so lines of biographical information accompanying the picture fell woefully short of explaining this simple, complex, intelligent, fun-loving individual. Most obituaries do. I first met Harold "Mickey,, Spillane jn New York. We were shipmates and watch partners. A mutual friend came with me to the room . Mickey was horiz:ontal on his bunk:. His hand:J were clasped on his chest. He looked too peaceful to disturb, but my companion continued to tug on his sleeve. He soon got the message. He sat straight up, thrust his hand and arm in my direction and said, •Tm Able Seaman Harold W. Spillane; they call me Mickey for obvious reasons." He just as quickly assumed his original position. You had to like that. At a glance, I pictured a full mane of silky (not gray) hair, almost albino-like pink skin, and what could have been clear blue eyes but for the lack of Vizine. It was the beginning of a long and treasured friendship. From the 1950s on, many rank-and-file members, as well as officials, got to know Mickey as a strong union man who never turned down a brother in need. Using two cliches to describe Mick may upset a grammatical balance, but he was one of a kind. After they made him they threw away the mold. I heard so many times, from so many people, what he could have been. Mickey was a piece of a puzzle. He fit perfectly. I'm grateful for having been a part of the overall picture. I had a drink today to celebrate a life-not a death . Rest in peace, good buddy. Anthony Notturno (retired) Villas, N.J. . ... Seafaring Commitment Provides Good Life First of all. I would like to thank the SIU for financially enabling me and my husband to acquire the quality of life we have right now. My husband, Don Irvine, has been with the union for about 15 years-and most likely will be until he retires. Having been a merchant seawoman myself (I worked with American Hawaii Cruises for eight years), I know it is not easy to be on ships for months at a time. However, I strongly feel that it takes a very special person to be able to become a merchant mariner. In my days on the Indy (as the SS Independence was, and still is, affectionately called), I have seen people come and go. Most often I f hear, "No, th"s is not he · job for me, this is too hard." My point is, merchant Don (who just finished a tour aboard the Sea-Land Spirit) and Vicky Irvine are grateful to the SIU for the quality of their lives. , I ~ I # I • I I I I .6 I I ' .I I .I 0 ,._ r u I ...J 'LL. ,. <( ... ....,; ,. 0.. ,. Q) r , Cl CJ) Q) ,. ""C co ,.. t!= ,.. Q) ,. () ,. ·~ ,. Q) ,. en ,.. o?S ,Q) ,.. ..0 , ro ...J , c: , .o ,. c: "" ~ ~ '--:::> September 1997 mariners like my husband and all those who have stuck it out and have held such passion for sailing are very special people. Shipping is not for everybody. It takes a lot of patience, industry and tolerance for other people to survive in this career. So, for those who are "rookies" in the field, shipping is not just a ')ob," it is a commitment. Once that commitment is established, passion flares. And of course, with passion comes love. And people who love are very special indeed. So, kudos to all merchant mariners. You might not realize how important you all are (especially those of you who sacrifice being away from your loved ones) and how much dignity is tied to what you do. Vicky Irvine Sparks~ Nev. Swapping Sea Stories in Mobile The union hall in Mobile, Ala. is a great place to meet fellow Seafarers, apply for vacation benefits, catch up on claims paperwork and chat about life in general. From the left are SA Jerry Watkins, SA Erric Garror, AB Michael Jackson, Recertified Steward Albert Coale and (standing) Retiree Fred Lindsey, catching up on what is happening in their lives. Kno'W' Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommend tio . Members of his 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 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 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, 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 207 46. Seafarers LOG 21 �Lundeberg School Graduating Classes A RER S HARRY ,; . (.~~ ··.--. . ~.i. LUNDEBERG LIFEBOAT CLASS SCHOOL .~ "i~.~. ·~~t· -~=~~!~~===--=-J .;~ . Trainee Lifeboat Class 566--Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 566 are (from left, kneeling) Christopher Swanson, Richard Jefferson, William Maggio 11, Michael Cahl, Jeremiah Goldsberry, (second row) Ben Cusic (instructor), Samuel Taylor Ill, Edward Dowling, Paul Phaneuf. Linnell Coleman Jr. and Jon Ledford. Welding-Upgrading members of the engine department completing the welding course on June 2 are (from left, kneeling) Bryan Iverson, Higold Schultze, Michael Brown, (second row) Milton Greene Jr., DiMarko Shoulders Sr., Charles Hadley and Ralph Gosnell (instructor). Not pictured is Stephen Roberts. Celestial Navigation-The six-week course in celestial navigation was completed July 7 by (from left) Kevin Gatling, Vincent Ippolito, Brad Wheeler (instructor) and Walter Ratcliffe. Radar-Posing with their instructor are Seafarers who graduated from the radar class on July 7. From the left are Brad Wheeler (instructor), Charles Taylor, Chad Macauley, David Collins and Calvin Patterson. Steward Cook and Baker-Completing the steward department course on June 19 are (from left, kneeling) Stephanie Vogel, Robbie Ballard, Mohamed Adam, (second row) Glenn Toledo, William Churney, Denis Burke, Maria Torreon (chef instructor) and Ed White (chef instructor). LNG Recertification-LNG recertification is one of the safety specialty courses conducted at the Lundeberg School. Completing this course on June 20 are (from left, kneeling) John Smith (instructor), William Rios, David Wakeman, Robert Rice, (second row) Charles Kahl, Lovell Panniel, Robert Brown, David Caudill, Marvin Chester and Albert Fretta. Advanced Firefighting-SIU members receiving their advancd firefighting endorsements on July 16 are (from left, kneeling) Chad Macaulay, Richard Grubbs, Charles Taylor, Anthony J. Sabatini, Rick Redmond (instructor), Lenides Bacal, (second row) Afrizal Efly, Carl Davis, James Frank, Susanne Cake, James Cunningham, Bobby Belches, Bryan Iverson, (third row) James Shepard, Joseph Violante and Daniel Vazquez. Basic Electronics-Receiving certification for completion of the basic electronics course on June 19 are (from left, kneeling) Nick Marrone Sr. (assistant instructor), Richard Hannon, Keith Oyvay, Miguel Rivera, (second row) Robert Richer, Russ Levin (instructor), John Yarber, Gary Mitchell, Monte Pryor, George Henderson and Rick Kern. Tanker Assistant DLReceiving their endorsements from the tanker assistant DL course on July 8 are SIU members (from left, kneeling) James Triassi, Gregory Stone, Robbie Bollard, Mohamed Jamal, Abdulrahmen Al-Okaish, Glenn Toledo, Stephanie Vogel, (second row) Jim Shaffer (instructor) Eugenio Cabral Jr., Nancy Heyden, Vicki Holloway, Donald Sneed, Kim Tye, James Inskeep, Roderick Gordon, (third row) Faustino Castillo, Ricky Williams, Brandy Carter, Lee Pullman, William Churney and Matthew Holley. 22 Seafarers LOG September 1997 �LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1997 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Steward Upgrading Courses Course The following is the schedule for classes beginning between October through ·. December 1997 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 the job skiJls of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. , .· Please note that iliis schooufo may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and_.:_in times of conflict-the nation's security. Students. atteqdiug; ?DYJ>f these classes should check in the Saturday before their course's sta1td~fo ..The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the Galley. Operations Date of Completion October4 October 18 October 31 November 14 Safety Specialty Courses dates: ' . ·. . '· Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Firefighting October6 October 27 October 17 November 7 . raJ'.lker.Assistant .DL October 20 November 17 November7 December5 LNG Familiarization November 17 Decembers LNG Recertification November3 November21 October20 Odobu31 start Please .riotei the staff of the Paul Hall Center is working on its 1998 schedule of class- Course es. As sOOQ~ . Q.D)..p!~ted, the S~afarers LOG will publish it Date of Completion Start Date Start Date October 18 Date of Completion ..... English··as ~ Second Language (ESL) November 4 November29 Decembers Lifeboat Preparation Introduction to Computers October31 October20 No;e;1;r:'17·· ·November 28 Self-study . · The Academic Departmenf wilr::be offering a six-week course in English 101 and Mathematics JOI. beginning November 10. Students will be required to attend classes a minimum of 4 days a week for two hours each class. These courses are basic requirements for the Associates Degrees in Nautical Science or Marine Engineering Technology. Novemfler 3 · Novembe~r-1~4~~,~~"~~ • October20 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Address_-'-----------------------Telephone----------Deep Sea Member D Lakes Member Other courses in the academic program will require a minimum offive persons. 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 f1-ont 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 DATE 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? DYes D No Date O n : - - - - - - - - - - - Date Off: If yes, c l a s s # - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? D Yes D No If yes, course(s) taken - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes 0 No Firefighting: 0 Yes Primary language spoken September 1997 D No SIGNATURE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ DATE CPR: 0 Yes 0 No 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, colltact 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. 9191 Seafarers LOG 23 - r �Seafaren Scholarships Applications now are being accepted from Seafare rs and their spouses and dependent children for the 1998 Seafarers scholarship program. See page 1O for eligibility rules and information on how to obtain an application form. Seafarer Helps Honor HometoWD War Heroes Veterans Me01orial Includes Na01es of Mariners Killed in World War II tanker was launched at the American Shipbuilding Co. in Tampa Bay, Fla. and named in his memory (see article below). SIU members currently sail aboard the vessel, operated by Ocean Shipholding, Inc. "Richard G. Matthiesen was a local hero and I was able to find a lot of information on him at our library. There wasn't a photo of Richard on file at the rugh school because he dropped out to join the merchant marine in 1944. He was killed December 5, The Glendale·Momrose-Crescent Presidential Statement in Memory of Richard G.. Matthiesen Valley Memorial lists more than 200 names of area men and women who died during World Wars I and II, the Korean War and Vietnam. On January 4, 1946, President The vitally important role of the U.S. merchant marine in World War II has been overlooked for decades by most Americans, according to Saro Koumashian. That is why the SIU Government Services Division member made sure merchant seamen from Glendale, Calif., his home town, are part of a war veterans memorial that was dedicated on May 30. "It is important to me that Glendale mariners who lost their lives while serving this country are honored with other area veterans," stated the QMED who has sailed aboard Military Sealift Command-Pacific fleet (MSCPAC) vessels since 1972. Koumashian became involved in the effort to construct a war memorial in 1993, when he was asked to represent the U.S. merchant marine on the GlendaleMontrose-Crescent Valley Veterans Memorial Committee. Years in Planning For three-and-a-half years, the committee planned the monument. Through fund raisers and donations, the group raised $186,000 for the construction of four 7-foot high, 4-foot wide marble panels. The panels, located next to the Glendale City Hall, list more than 200 names of area men and women who died during World Wars I and II, the Korean War and Vietnam. In addition, bronze medallions of the U.S. Anny. Navy. Air Force, Marine Corps and merchant marine are embedded in the ground next to the site with the ensign representing each service flying above. The merchant marine plaque was specially designed for the Glendale memorial. According to Koumashian, it is the only one of its kind in the U.S. ''This project was unique because it was a total community effort." Koumashian told a reporter for the Seafare rs LOG. "Glendale businesses. churches and residents all contributed money toward the memorial. and the city council matched our fundraising efforts dollar for dollar. tJ~:rty ::J. :-11~~ / .,. Saro Koumashian identifies the name of Richard G. Matthiesen on the polished marble panels of the Glendale War Memorial. Matthiesen was an AB from Glendale who died aboard a merchant vessel during World War II. "A local architect donated his services to design the memorial, and in December of 1996 we broke ground and began construction. It was built with the hands and tools of community volunteers. I was there from beginning to end, and it was amazing to see the number of people who pitched in," stated the Navy veteran who served during Vietnam. Koumashian and his brother, Ram Koumashian, a wiper who also sails with the SIU Government Services Division, helped dig trenches and lay the foundation for the memorial. They also assisted with brick work. irrigation pipes and landscaping. "We worked anywhere we were needed," noted Saro Koumashian. Extensive Efforts As the committee's maritime representative. Koumashian, a member of the American Merchant Marine Veterans China Coasters Chapter in Wilmington. Calif., was responsible for researching the merchant seamen from Glendale who were killed during World War II so their names could be added to the panels. After months of compiling information from the U.S. Coast Guard, World War II casualty reports, area libraries and local church records, Koumashian discovered the identities of three seamen who had died while serving aboard merchant vessels. One of those mariners. AB Richard G. Matthiesen, went to Glendale High School. Matthiesen was posthumously awarded the Merchant Marine Distinguished Service Medal for his heroic actions aboard the Liberty Ship Marcus Day. Subsequently in 1986, a T-5 states S. TrurTlan . and th~ . . United Maritime · commission · posthumously awarded the Merchant Marine Distinguished Service Medal to Able Seaman Richard G. Matthiesen. The following statement was given by President Truman in the presentation of the special war medal. For heroism beyond the call of duty. During the initial invasion of the Philippine Islands at Tacloban, Leyte, the SS Marcus Daly, on which Matthiesen was serving, carried troops and vital war materiel and, with two other V8S$els, a/forded the principal defenses of the port for several days. During six days and nights of incessant fighting, while troops were being disembarked and her cargo safely dis· charged, the vessel was at limes the only fire power defending the vital Leyte docks. Matthiesen volunteered and served as a member of the forward gun crew which distinguished itself during countless attacks by repulsing the enemy and bringing down many planes. Two months later, on a subsequent arrival in the Philippines, this same vessel was again attacked by enemy bombers. Again Matthiesen served as a volunteer member of the forward gun crew during the engagement in which his ship shot down several Japanese aircraft. One of these bombers, after being hit, crashed and exploded under the forward gun platform where Matthiesen was serving. Despite injuries and severe burns, he escaped from the platform, but realizing that two m8mbers of the Navy gun crew remained behind, he mtumed through the intense heat and rescued them from the flames. The following morning Matthiesen died from the resulting bums and other injuries. His indomitable courage and unselfish impulse to go to the aid of shipmates in peril were In keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Merchant Marine. Date of Action D8C8mber 5, 1944 1944 after two trips to the Pacific," said Koumashian. The other Glendale mariners killed during World War II were Clement Carlin, a second mate who sailed aboard the Jean Nicolet and Edwin Ray Stauffacher Jr., a third mate on the John Clayton. The Jean Nicolet, a Liberty ship. was torpedoed by the Japanese on July 2, 1944 while crossing the Indian Ocean to the Persian Gulf. The John Clayton. also a Liberty ship, was first torpedoed, then blasted by a bomb that set her on fire during the invasion at Mindoro on December 28. 1944. Once Koumashian had information on Matthiesen, Carlin and Stauffacher, he began a search for surviving relatives. He looked through phone books and city records and traveled to San Francisco to look for family members of the seamen. While in San Francisco, Koumashian was aided by SIU Vice President West Coast George McCartney and Port Agent Nick Celona. who "did everything they could to help me in my pursuit of the men's relatives. They were very enthused with my efforts and gave me their full support," he recalled. In Wilmington, Calif., port officials George Tricker and John Cox helped write letters and make phone calls for the Seafarer. "I am very grateful to the union for all of the support they gave to me," said Koumashian. "However, despite my efforts. I regret that I was unable to locate any family members of Edwin Stauffacher or Clement Carlin. I was able to find Richard's sister, Grace Matthiesen. in Huntington Beach. Ca. "I went to visit Grace and her husband, Bud Bucland. who were very honored when I told Joining Kou- them Richard's name was to be included on the Glendale memorial. I asked them to come represent his family at the dedication ceremony." he recalled. Dedication Day ''The service was a very touching experience for everyone. All of the names included on the panels were read, and it was particularly emotional for Richard's sister and her husband when they called out Richard's name," noted Koumashian. "I was very proud to have John Cox attend the ceremony on behalf of the SIU. It really meant a lot to me as well as the Buclands. I was astonished that no other union was present, but God bless the Seafarers!" oumashian added. · olvement and participation of the with the veterans memorial was · ed by or many. In fact, Glendale Larry Zarian wrote a letter to Cox following the May 30 dedication. "I am writing to personally thank the Seafarers International Union for all of its support and assistance with the construction Crescent Valley Memorial. 'The Veteran's Committee greatly appreciates your personal attendance at the dedication ceremony. As you know, the committee recognized the mercha marine as an import organization during w 'me because many of these seamen were heroes. Your attendance representing the merchant marine was very important to the ceremony. Thank you for your support," stated Zarian. "I am very satisfied that the merchant marine was finally recognized for their efforts in World War II. It was a lot of hard work but in the end. it was worth every minute," concluded Koumashian. 1illi~~~~i~ mashian (third from left} at the ~ May 30 dedication ceremony in Glendale, Calif. are (from left) Ratti Koumashian, Grace Matthiesen Bucland and Bud Bucland. The war memorial in Glendale, Calif. includes a merchant marine flag and a unique bronze emblem that was specially designed for the site. � 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 September 1997 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES DURING UPS STRIKE, TEAMSTERS SHINE SPOTLIGHT ON USE OF PART-TIME WORKERS SIUNA: ‘FULL AHEAD’ SEAFARERS WILL CREW NEW RO/RO FIRE DAMAGES SIU-CREWED MANULANI HOUSE MAJORITY ANNOUNCES JONES ACT SUPPORT SIU SEEKS END OF USER FEE CASE NARRAGANSETT PLUCKS FOUR FROM WATERS NEAR SINGAPORE HALL CENTER REVAMPS SEALIFT COURSE FORBES PLEDGES SUPPORT FOR U.S.-FLAG FLEET, LABOR AFL-CIO’S SWEENEY DUBS ORGANIZING AS RESURGENCE KEY MARITIME UNION OFFICIALS EMPHASIZE UNIFIED ACTION FMCS DIRECTOR WELLS ADVOCATES UNION CONTRACTS SMU DELEGATES URGE JONES ACT PRESERVATION ITF’S DICKINSON: ‘WE HAVE TO KEEP FIGHTING’ STEWARDS STRESS SIGNIFICANCE OF UPGRADING SKILLS ITF SECURES BACK PAY, FOOD, SAFETY GERA FOR MARINERS ABOARD RUNAWAY-FLAG VESSEL STEEL, STONE AND SEAFARERS KEEP PRESQUE ISLE HAULING ON THE LAKES ENROLLMENT FORMS TO BE MAILED SOON FOR MONEY PURCHASE PLAN PARTICIPANTS LABOR FEDERATION OUTLINES NAFTA’S NUMEROUS FLAWS CREW RATES CHARLES BROWN GOOD FEEDER HOSPITAL SHIP MERCY TRANSFERS TO SAN DIEGO SEAFARER HELPS HONOR HOMETOWN WAR HEROES 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 09/01/1997 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. 9 1997 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/d3abb254ab3b362428bc77542cf4e9f2.pdf 291bbaede44b8a547db01ae7f82db5b2 PDF Text Text Seafarers' Guide to Training Record Books (TRBs) __ Pages 12-13 Volume 60 Number 9 Paul Hall Center Adds Top-Notch Radar Equipment Curriculums Gain From New Devices SIU to Crew USNS Henson Seafarers will crew the oceanographic survey ship USNS Henson this month, marking the addition of new jobs for the membership. The U.S. Military Sealift Command announced Dyn Marine Services will operate the vessel. Page 3. Five new state-of-the-art Furuno ARPA radars are scheduled to be installed at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney .Point, Md. efore the end of the month. Page 3 AFL-CIO Launches Campaign To Strengthen Social Security 7-Point Prograill Designed to Keep System Strong into Next Century ~--------~~~------------~~~--------------~~ . __ Page3 Lyon and Tigers (and no Bears), Oh My! DOT Report Supports . Strang U.S.-Flag Fleet Penn Maritime Crews Okay New Contract ----------~~~~Page4 New~st Bob Hape Ship, USNS Seay, Christened ~~--------~~~Page6 SHf~r.;tr Carol Lyon did Mt need wizardry to put this Bengal at ease during a recMt visit ashOre in Thailand. Lyon, a longtime SIU member from Wilmington, Calif.. was sailing as an SA aboard the Ja~k Lummus when she went to the Nong Noo~h Village animal pa.rk. . Ecstasy Fire Aftermath: Conf 11·c1.,n Stor-1·es I ~~~~~~~--------~~~~~--~~-----------~-Page5 1 �President's Report Ready to Serve, Again Last month, the United States demonstrated once again why it needs a strong, dependable, U.S.-citizen crewed, U .S.-flag merchant marine. Our nation's armed forces were called to action to retaliate against the horrific bombings of U.S. embassies in Kenya and Tanzania. Hundreds of innocent people were killed and thousands of unsuspecting others were injured. There was no warning for these cowardly acts which took place as many were Michael Sacco settling in to begin work or trying to get to their places of business. Our sympathies go out to all the victims of the bombings. Seafarers have a special understanding and appreciation for the people who work in the embassies around the world. Like many of our deep sea members, embassy workers are far from home in a foreign land representing the United States. Like Seafarers, the jobs performed by the embassy workers are necessary, but often overlooked.. Our members depend on these dedicated people when they have a problem, concem or family emergency overseas. They do our nation proud and the people who worked in Kenya and Tanzania did not deserve the fate that overcame them on August 7. So, it is fitting that in less than two weeks America fired back. Cruise missile attacks were launched against terrorist sites in Afghanistan and Sudan. The nation's armed forces were placed on alert. And joining in this preparation was the U .S .-flag merchant fleet. The generals and admirals who have to place American troops in harm's way, as well as President Clinton, know the loyalty and dedication of the men and women who crew the U.S.-flag merchant ships. Seafarers come from all parts of the country. We represent all races and religions . We are as diverse as the nation. But what we have in common is the pride in our jobs and the dedication to stand for our country when we are called to help. Our armed forces know we are behind them money, marbles and chalk. As Congress returns to cons ider bills that would extend veterans' benefits to World War II-era U.S. mariners and to attack the nation's cabotagc laws~ letts not forget the important jobs performed by the men and women of the U.S. merchant marine during the 1990s. Leading the list was the exce11ent job accomplished during the Persian Gulf War. In 1991, the head of the U.S. Transportation Command described the supply effort performed by merchant ships as "a steel bridge across the ocean." In late 1992 and into 1993, the U .S.-flag merchant fleet supplied American forces in Somalia. A year later, the action was in the Western Hemisphere as merchant mariners crewed ships bound for Haiti to assist U.S. troops there. Then there were the buildups in the Persian Gulf in 1994 and 1997-8. On~e again, Seafarers sprang to action and sailed the vessels to mpp1y the ~oldiers . Finally, UK-crewed merchant ships supplemented American forces working with those from other natioM to bring peace to Bosnia in 1995. U.S. merchant mariners, and especially Seafarers, have continually responded to the nation's ca11 no matter where, no matter when, no questions asked. The nation·s military leaders don't have to wonder if the supplies will be there when American troops go overseas. And, despite the efforts of a few outsiders who can't quite grasp the value of a trained and loyal U.S.-crewed merchant fleet to the nation's security, the Congress and President of the United States know the experience and dedication of these fine men and women cannot be mat~hed in dcllars or deeds. W~ ~emain ready to answer the call. vo1um~ 60, Numner 9 Se11tembt1r 7998 '"'" SIU ""' litt~~ WWWJU~alarl!H.nrg The Seafarers WG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published month- ly by the Seafaren International Union; Atlantic, Gulf. Lakes and Inland Wate~ Di~trict; AFL.CIO; .520l Amh Way; Carop Spring~, :rvm 20746. Tel~pMn~ (301) ~990675. Periodicals postage p~id ~t Southern Maryland 20790-9998 and at additional offi~s . POSlMASTER'. Send address changes to the Seafarers WO, 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communkations Director, Daniel Duncan; Managing Editor, Jordan Bfrcardo; AJ~ocintc Editor/Production. Deborah A. Htne.r: Art. Bill Brower; Administrative SuppQrt, Jeanne Twc>r; Summer Intern, Donnie Stonns. Copyright © 1998 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG DOT Outlines Case far Stranger U.S. Fleet in Report ta Congress In a report to Congress presented earlier this summer, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) reinforced its call for a strong U.S.-flag merchant fleet by outlining its plan to maintain and strengthen the force for the next century. The document, entitled "A Report to Congress on U.S . Maritime Policy," acknowledged the work performed by DOT to promote the U.S -flag fleet as well as the nation's ports, waterways, intramodal infrastructure and shipbuilding capacity. It then presented the department's goals regarding maritime policy for the next century. In the report's forward, DOT noted the United States is the world's largest trading nation with most of these goods being moved by water. It estimated that "by the year 2020, U.S. foreign trade in goods may grow to four times today's value and almost double its current tonnage, and inland waterways traffic will increase by one-third, based upon current projections. "To keep pace with the corning changes, the United States will need a maritime transportation system that is state-of-theart, efficient and accessible to everyone," the report pointed out. "As we head into the 21st century, both our competitive position in the national security arena and the safety of our maritime community will hinge on how well the United States manages its maritime transportation system, including its ports and waterways. Doing it well will not only be desirable, but imperative, LO sustain the U.S. leadership position as the world's economi' and· military power," it added. The department offered a mu1ti-point program to achieve the goal of a strong national maritime policy. • First, DOT ~alkd for continued support of the Maritime Security Program, the I 0-year program designed to help fund militarily useful U.S.-flag vessels. The legi.s lation rc,civcd strong bipartisan support in Congress when it passed in 1996. The report reiterated the value of the U.S-tlag commercial fleet to the nation's security: "The continued existence of a private..: ly owned U.S.-flag merchant marine is vital to our nation's military and economic security. During times of national emergency, there is no completely reliable alternative to our U.S.flag fleet of commercial ships and trained crews. "The economic security of our nation benefits from the participation of the U.S.-flag fleet in the movement of U.S. international trade." • DOT pointed out the need for the U.S. to maintain its shipbuilding capability. The report called for continued support of the nation's shipyards and marine equipment suppliers "to achieve global competitiveness and increase output so that they remain effective partners in supporting national security." • The need to maintain America's cabotage laws was another priority. The report renewed the administration's support for these laws, believing "they will continue to serve the nation's needs well into the 21st century. "As the greatest trading nation in the world, the United States must continue to exercise American control over its interests as a fundamental aspect of its national security." • The Maritime Administration, a DOT agency, will have to continue its effective management of the Ready Reserve Force (RRF). Calling the RRF fleet "a critical component" of the Defense Department sealift operations, the report said these vessels will continue to be needed "to support deployment and sustainment of U.S . military forces." • America's cargo preference laws will continue to play an important role into the next century. In the report, DOT noted that the Maritime Security Program did not include such vessels as bulk carriers and tankers. These U.S.-flag ships, along with their experienced trained and mariners, also will be needed. • DOT will continue its work ro upgrade and imp rove the nation's intramodal transportation system. It also must pursue its development of U.S. ports and waterways to high standards of safety, efficiency and environmental soundness that balance the needs of the industry with other public uses. From harbor dredging to providing more efficient links between the ports and land-based transportation, the report stated this would be a major concern for keeping the U.S maritime industry viable in the next century. • In order to stay competitive, the U.S. -tlag fleet and the industry as a whole must proceed with its efforts to provide a highly skilled workforce. While specifically mentioning the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and those run by state governments as places where future seamen are being educated, the report said American mariners will have to be trained in the latest technology to stay competitive. (This is something the SIU, through the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, has taken pride in doing for decades and will continue to provide for Seafarers.) • The department will have to keep up its campaign to eliminate unfair foreign trade practices. • DOT must continue its work with the industry to conform with U.S. and foreign regulatory and environmental standards. • Realizing that neither the department nor the maritime industry can effectively act on their own to advance new technologies, the report urged the continued cooperation between the government and the businesses that al ready has worked to provide Jong-term benefits. In conclusion, the report pointed out, "Alone, these policies will not meet the challenges that the U.S. maritime industry faces in the 21st century. Therefore, working in partnership with Congress, (the Defense Department] and other stakeholders, we will continually assess those regulations and statutes which impede the growth of the U.S.-flag fleet. "It will also be our high priority to examine how better to utilize U.S. laws and regulations to promote the construction and operation of U .S.-flag commercial vessels." The report was presented to the chairman and ranking minority party member of both the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee and the House National Security Committee. DOT is required, according to the Maritime Security Act of 1996, to submit such a report to Congress every five years. Plans Finalized for Fire Fighting School Construction of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training a~d Education's new fire fighting ~hool appears on target to begin this month. the 'enter reports. Bids for constru,tion were due M this issue of the Seafar:crs LOG went to press. Site plans, drawings and an environmental bond also were being finalized. The Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety Schcol is expected to open in early 1999. It will be built on ~chMl property near the Paul Hall Center's main campus in Piney Point, Md. Seafarers will take basic and advanced fire fighting, water survival. first aid and CPR, damage control and confined-space safety training at the sixbuilding complex. The school is designed ro virtual- ly dupli,ate shipboard environments, including types of fires germane to vessels. Its buildings will house replicas of an engine room, galley, lounge and fo'c's'le. Also included will bo a two-story maze with moveable partitions. classrooms, outdoor training pads, a compressor room, shower facilities and other features. . Representatives of the Paul Hall Center point out that the new facility will allow a constant mix of practical training and classroom instruction. Additionally, Seafarers will have the opportunity to fulfill all of their safety certific'ation requirements by successfully completing courses at the new campus. The facility is named after the late SIU executive vice president who passed away in October 1996. September 1998 �SIU to Crew Survey SHiP ,USNS ~ens~p The SIU gained new jobs with the recent announcement by the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) that Dyn Marine Services will operate the oceanographic survcy ship USNS Henson. Seafarers arc scheduled to crew the twoyear-old vessel near the end of this month, in Pensacola, Fla. "We welcome the addition of new jobs for the membership," said SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. "The Henson reprcsents increased employment opportunitics for the SIU." D.A. Payne, vice president at Dyn Marine, described MSC's awarding of the Henson for aperation by his company as "a very positive indication that the Dyn Marine Services-SIU team is providing an unsurpassed level of customer service in meeting today's Navy requirements." Built in 1996 at Halter Marine Shipyard in Moss Point, Miss., the Henson is 329 feet long, has a beam of 58 feet and displaces 4,200 tons when fully loaded. It is part of the Pathfinder (T-AGS 60) class of multi-purpose survey ships. The Henson collects oceanographic data around the world, for use in updating and creating various nautical charts. It is named after the late Mathew Henson, a key member of Admiral Robert ~~ · • . . 1 t I Peary's 1909 expedition team that discovered the North Pole. Henson also sailed as a merchant mariner in the 1870s. Seafarers will begin crewing the USNS Henson later this month. It is part of the fleet of oceanogaphic survey ships collecting data for MSC to be used in upd~ting and creating nautical graphs. AFL-CIO Launches 7-l'oint Campaign Ta Strengthen Social Security System The AFL-CIO Executive Council approved a seven-point program to secure the nation's Social Security system during its summer meeting last month in Chicago. The council serves as the national labor federation's governing body between its biennial conventions. It is composed of President John Sweeney, Secretary-Treasurer Rich Trumka, Executive Vice President Linda Chavez-Thompson and 51 vice presidents, including SIU President Michael Sacco. In outlining its proposal, the executive council recalled the challenge issued by President Bill Clinton during his State of the Union address in January that 1998 should be used to study social security so legislation could be introduced when the new Congress begins its work in January 1999. Sweeney called on working people to add their voices to the debate being waged on the federal program, which went into effect in 1935. "Today, a vocal minority is fixated on scrapping the Social Security system, a progrnm that has paid benefics on time and in full over six decades," the AFL-CIO president stated. "To this point. Social Security privatizers have gouen a free ride in the media and in the public debate with their high-cou pla.M to replace Social Security's guaranteed, defined benefits with individual retirement account:5. It i:5 time that the full truth be told about the high costs of privatization th"t America's working families will be forced to pay; retirement ages that are jacked up ro 70 and deep cuts in guaranteed rc;:tirc;:rrn;nt and disability benefits, as well as significant reductions in Social Security's it'lflllliM protection _" Sweeney ;\ddt:d, "Thos:e who pu~h privafrzation expect America's workers to trade in Social Security ' prot~crioM for an expensive system of individual accounts that will subject working families: to the very real risk LhaL they will end up with little to ~Mw for their liferimes of hard work. ..Social Security must be changed to meet future challenges. But those changes need to s:trengthen the system, not wreck it," he concluded. The plan put forward by the AFL-CIO calls for; • Steps to be taken soon to strengthen Social Security ~o that all Americans can be assured that the program will be lhere for them. • Social Se~urity to continue to provide retired and di~ablt:d workers, as well as dependents and surviv6r~, with a guaranteed monthly benefit. protected against inflation for life. • Bc;nefits not to be subject to th~ whims of the market and never to substitute private accounts tor the core defiMd benefits the system current!>' provides. • The age at which workers arc eligible for early or full benefits not to be raised. • Snrial Security Lo continue LO replace a larger share of past earnings for low-income workers ~nd t6 provide bigger benefits to workers who earned higher wage~ during their careers. Ri;placemcnt rtttes should not be cut. • Social Security to continue to provide family in:rnrancc protection, with benefits that cover dependent and surviving children and spouses in addition to disabled and retired workers . • Government budget surpluses to be used lo save Social Security first and not to pay for tax cuts. September 1998 The national labor federation will launch a national grassroots campaign to inform working families about the system's funding and how the various proposals being suggested to privatize Social Security would cut into the scheduled benefits provided by the program. Sweeney added the suggestions and concerns of working people should and will play a prominent role in the White House conference scheduled for December to draft legislation dealing with Social Security for the next century. Upgraders at the Paul Hall Center will have the opportunity to utilize this model of Furuno ARPA radar (2110) as well as a small-boat radar. Facts About Social Securiiy:· , . .. , And Retirement School's Radar Training iJ~1~¥~Ws On Course for Upgrade arid figures are being thrown around. To help Seafarers a11d tl)~ir families, the Seafarers LOG offers the foUl:)Wing .:. :.i ~V.~~~,g~~~~~~~~21~s~{·:. Hm~>4n~t· · . · · · ·• · · ·soetat>secunty..·was T · . · . rougtv ~r . . . · tO:f:' Congres5 in ·1935. lts primarY purpose was t0 ~pt9yidtf suppl@mer,ital retirernMt fMo~ ;:tSW8fl.·as a: guar,~n.!~~q:: stipt;?~Q.fo.r.. sur,vivprs and those :wift.l disabifltie~.<:1:'.~~S:~/: contiriye to be the"pro9ram~i rri'1in serlkes.to,ct·ay;::>·.<1::·:.:·· .. · '. · Ai;i.1;:ordlng tq ·stati~tics prbVi4~d · bY tM SMia!. security:· "dminlstration, approximately 44 million American$ r~ceive benQfits from the ~ystQm'. 30 million are·retirect, and tne remaining 14 million are survivors or disablep. ·" A Mal of 17e millJon Arn@ric~n work~rs at~ coverM:· by S6Clal s~eurity. n1ey anct tneir families are elii)lble fof retirement and/or survivor benefits. Disability ~overage :i$ available ta 131 million ofth~s9 :w¢tic:.;trs, ... :· From tt\it r~ of 1t't0$A Wh() :are retired anct recelvmg,. SMl81 seQiirtiy, .m0ra thail.'twQ-:.tt,ltrds rely on the program for:: half ot more of their incomli>. In·fact, ® per~nt <;>f thQ ~ld$r­ ly count on SOCial SQ¢Ulity to.prOVi<t~ QO perc;~t of th~r ir'l¢¢tne. F«;>t ia pereent, it i~ tf\e ONLY means ot inc~m.~~·j; Among African~American and. Hispanic retir~e,s; .45..· pemem oepend on Social SmfurilY for 90 pen;ent 9i:.h)ore. of their hou~ehold income3, For OM out of every .three ~f these families. it is the ONLY source of income. · PensioM ara. paid to only t\VO ot every five retired persons. For those still oh th~ j6b.MW, la~ than O!'\e~f.ialf the natiOn's private workforce is covered by a retirement ptan at work. Among wo.rkers earning less than.$30,009 annually, just two out of eV0ry five are covered.by a pen~ slon. And during the last several. years. the· perceilt{lge of employees in the pnv9.te workforce whc;>!t!t l.'>~l'l~fits il"ltlud~ a traditional emptnyer-paitl pension plan has fan.. en from Qnfii!·h~lf to one-third. For mose 65 ano older who have put money aw~y in of a savil'\gs account, the median saVings income from the~e funds is $1,$72 a y~ar, wnne ma"y people believe the system may go. insol~ · vent in only a few y~a($ 1 tM Soclel Security Administration in its 1098 rapQrt to it~ tn.1$tees st~ted the progr~m c;~m contino@ t6 mMt it~ Obligations Without changes until the year 2032. At that time, th~ administta· tion projects that program benefits would b9 cvt to beiween 70 and 75 pertMt TM AFL-CIO, to Which the SlU bsJangs, is laurn;hinQ a nationwide grassroots campaign to work with congres$ to $trength~m and secure the Social Security system well into the next century. AFL-CIO President John Sweeney has said the voice of working peopl~ need$ to b$ Mard a~ variQv~ propQsals ara Ming suggested prior to a WMe House conference on Social Security ~~t for December. "TM Maio risks against which the prograr,1 was d@sign@d to insure-the IMS ct Income due to retlrementt di$ttppear," Sweeney sald in announcing the national labor f@d@ra· d~~th and disability-hav@ not and will not tlM'~ tAmpaign. New Equipment Means Improved Classes The . Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is completing a major upgrade of its radar equipment for µse in simulator training. Five new state-ofthe-art Furuno ARPA radars are scheduled to be installed at the school in Piney Point, Md. by September 19. This modernization of the center's radar simulator utilizes the five existing Raytheon radars at the facility plus the new Furuno ARPA radars. The Seafarers LOG witt publish a course schedule for ARPA classes as soon as it is available. Classes will be scheduled after U.S. Coast Guard certification is received following instal1ation of the new equipment. The Furunos are outfitted with automatic radar plotting aids (ARPA) and electronic chart display (ECDS). The ECDS will allow the center's Lundeberg School of Seamanship to acquire and display images and conditions of any and all ports worldwide. AdditionaJly, the new system adds real navigation aids including GPS and Loran-C along with features like precipitation clutter, search-and-rescue transponders . (SARTS) and Racons. The center's Raytheon radars will be integrated with the newer items as well as with new software. Additionally, Seafarers upgrading at the school (in applicable courses) will have the chance to utilize a training vessel equipped with the newer radar, . which has the same capabilities as those used in simulation. Bosuns, ABs, inland boatmen with navigational duties and any Seafarers applying for a limited license or third mate's license will be the main users of the improved radar training. (A smaIJ-boat radar is one of the new additions.) ''This is first-class equipment, and the school also made longrange considerations of STCW training requirements when selecting it," noted J.C. Wiegman, assistant director of vocational education at the center, who extensively was involved in analyzing and choosing the new radars. "In the future, for bridge team management, watchstanders wil1 need to understand the operation of all bridge equipment. Obviously, this affects a lot of SIU members, and the new radar upgrade helps ensure we'll be prepared with the training they need." One notable aspect of this advancement is enhanced feedback capability via a theater-style projector. This tool enables instructors to show electronic chart displays for exercise reviews. "For students, it will be like sitting in a theater and critiquing what they did in the exercise," Wiegman explained, adding that the Paul Hall Center is believed to be the only maritime training facility in the U.S. with such capability. Other improvements include: • full graphical imaging of land and targets, • ability to control one's own ship and targets by several methods, • graphical user interfa~e. • Coastline Digitizer system, • displaying all exercise information (such . as vectors, target traiJs, range and bearing to another vessel, etc.), and • simulation of moving storm fronts and controJ of any stonn 's intensity, and much more. Seafarers LOG 3 l �Penn Crews Ratify 5-Year Pact Contract Nets Wage, Pension and Medical Gains SIU boatmen sailing on Penn Maritime tugs and barges strongly approved a new five-year contract that includes numerous gains. The contract features wage increases over the life of the pact, increased pension benefits, plus 100 percent major medical coverage for dependents . Seafarers . Seafarers sailing aboard Penn Maritime tugs and barges, including the Eliza (pictured in the port of New York), were painstaking in their preparations for contract negotiations between the SIU and the company. That groundwork helped them secure what AB Teddy Crockett describes as ua good contract. The guys are very happy with it." Bills tar employed by Penn also gained full payment of transportation and an improved overtime clause. "I love this contract," said AB Teddy Crockett, a 1980 graduate of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education who served on the negotiating committee. "I'm happy with the health care for dependents, the uncapped pension, the wage increases, the transportation coverage. Plus, it's reassuring to have a five-year contract." Joining Crockett on the committee were Mate Thomas Elkowitz, Engineer Carroll Bennett, SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Jack Caffey and Jack Sheehan, the union's safety director in the port of New York. "The committee did a wonderful job in considering all the suggestions that were sent in," observed Caffey. "They really stuck together, and they secured an excellent contract." Other highlights of the pact include additional vacation days for Seafarers who have been employed by Penn for five years or longer; new clauses covering safe working conditions and living quarters; a 44 percent increase in the money allotment for foul weather gear; and the implementation of a labor-management committee clause designed to promote upgrading by Penn crew members at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Both Crockett and Caffey pointed out how Seafarers have grown with the company. Penn Maritime "started with two barges, and now they have 16 tugs and barges," Caffey said. In fact, the company recently purchased two additional integrated tug-barge units that are expected to go into service in the near future. Penn Maritime transports asphalt along the East Coast. Negotiations for the new contract took place over several months . "There were no hard feelings on either side," stated Crockett. "Jack Caffey did an outstanding job, in my opinion, and Michele Nardo (who works at the SIU hall in Brooklyn, N.Y.) was very helpful to all of us." Specialized Training for Maritrans Boatmen Veterans' Extension Gain Support House Drops WWII Provision from Ocean Shipping Reform Act The effort to secure an exten- to the House, where it was held sion of veterans' benefits for up for several months in part World War II-era merchant because of the veterans' extenmariners continues despite hav- sion. A compromise of dropping ing language for such a move the language was reached to help eliminated from the House- get the bill out of the House as passed version of the Ocean long as the separate extension measures making their ways Shipping Reform Act (S. 414). Separate measures to extend through Congress would be the cutoff date from August 15, allowed to be considered. Lott is the sponsor of S. 61, the 1945 to December 31, 1946 for U.S. merchant mariners to obtain Senate's version of lengthening veterans' status in both the House the cutoff date for veterans' and Senate have overwhelming recognition. As of late August, 72 support. The lengthening is of the Senate's 100 members had sought to give mariners the same signed on .as cosponsors of the dates recognized for those who bill. Across the Capitol in the served in the U.S. armed forces. When S. 414 passed the House of Representatives, the Senate in April, Senate Majority companion bill- known as H.R. Leader Trent Lott (R-Miss.) 112-has 328 cosponsors. It was included language in the bill to presented to the House by approve the extension for Represemative Lane Evans (D111.), the ranking 'minority party mariner~ who served bNw~en August 15, 1945 and December member of the House Veterans' 31 . 1946. The legislation moved . Affairs Committee. Among Lhe Express Marine Boatmen Save 2 in Delaware River Ai; the SIU-crewed tug Consort «;!:x:ited thee.Mt end of the· C&D Canal into the Dela.ware River at dusk on Augu~t 19, AB Mtlbourne (Scooter) Smith almost couldn't believe his eyes. Directly ahead of the Express Marine tug and barge, two men fell into the water as their canoe ca.psized-in an area nor exacLly renowned for recreational boating. After watching the boaters become swimmers. Smith quick1>' alerted the other crew members. including Captain Melvin Braddy and AB/Cook Mike Daniels. Within about 15 minutes, the Consort rescued the middle-age boaters, who were uninjured. "A canoe in that aroa is very bad business," ob~crved Braddy, a ~0-year member of Lhe SIU. "The c;urret\t rung very strong and il's d~<;eiving . Plu~ there are ships and. vessels conmmtly ~ailing in and out.n _Jkaddy stimated the homers -wM did not have life jacketswere a half-mile from shore when their canoe flipped . One man had 4 Seafarers LOG a float cushion and "'wasn•t doing coo badly." bUL lhe older of the cwo "was hanging onto the end of the canoe and was tired. With that · current and no life vest, a half. mi le is a long way," Braddy noted. "They were into the edge of the shipping channel, so if they didn' t drown, there·s a great possibility they would have been ruh over." The Consort was hauling a load of cMl freim Balcimore Mari;us 'Hook., Pa. when Smith saw the mishap. "If he hadn't been looking when they turned over, they would have been in tr6Uble," Braddy said . "Our barge was loaded, it sits way down in the water. I set the tug ~idewa.ys , and three guys on deck threw life rings and Lhen pulled lhe [boaters] right up. "Basically, all we had to do was try not to run them over." The capLain added that the res cued pair conveyed their thanks and seemed in good spirits. They were turned over to the U.S . Coast Guard After the rescue. to legislators supporting H.R. 1126 are 13 of the House's 18 standing committee chairmen. No date has been set for either bill's consideration. The SIU supports both measures. Congress will return to Washington after Labor Day and is scheduled to adjourn by mid-October. Merchant mariners did not receive veterans' status until 1988. At that time, secretary of the Air Force-which is the branch of the armed forces overseeing issues dealing with veterans' affairs-declared as eligible those mariners who sailed between December 7, 1941 when Pearl Harbor was attacked and August 15, 1945 when Japan surrendered. Mariners who sailed from August 16, 1945 to December 3 C 1946 have been fighting to gain recognition as World War II veterans, just like those who served in the armed forces. President Harry Truman declared the last day of 1946 as the end of hostilities. In the period after the formal Japanese surrertder and the presi dent's declaration, 23 U.S.-flag merchant ~hips were damaged or destroyed by mines, which resulted in casualties co American mariners. Moreover, during chat same period, merchant ships remained under military control. Civilian mariners legally were bound to obey orders from U.S. Navy and Army personnel. The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. offers specialized courses to accommodate Seafarers' work schedules and the particular needs of individual companies. A recent example is the special firefighting class provided for SIU boatmen employed by Maritrans, Inc. Ten Seafarers completed the training in early July. Pictured above with instructor Stormie Combs are Kenneth Brady, Paul Brown, Jr., Robert Ensminger, William Horner, Jr., Jacobus Maaskant, William Marshall, Rimuylas Ourbonas, William Perry, Mitchell Roberts and Gary Waters. In photos below, the boatmen practice firefighting techniques. House' Passes Shipping ~~form ... ' "" The House early last month passed the Ocean Shipping Reform Act* a bill that allows shippers and international con-· tain~r carriers to enter into confidential service contracts, provides fteX:ibitity for tariff publication rather than eliminating tariff filings, and keeps che Federal Maritime Commissic;m as an independenc agency. The Senate is expected to vote on the bill approved by the House in. the near fumre. possibly as soon iiS this month. Crew members aboard the S~a-Land Integrity (pictured above) on May 17 carried out the wishes of SIU Pensioner Samuel H. Beattie by $Cattering his ashes at sea. Brother Beattie died April 6, at age 67. He sailed with the SIU for almost 40 years, as a member of the engine department. September f 998 �Ecstasy Fire Exposes Problems on Runaway-Flag Cruises Language Skills, Professionalism Questioned by Passengers Left in Dark During Blaze For passengers sailing out of the port of Miami on the afternoon of July 20, the scheduled cruise to Mexico was anything but an "ecstasy." Around 5:30 p.m., the Liberian-flagged Carnival Cruise ship Ecstasy caught fire within sight of the Miami Beach shoreline. Beachcombers, hotel guests and condominium residents looked on while television helicopters circled above, broadcasting to millions of others across the country as flames shot out of the rear of the passenger ship. On board were 2,575 passengers-most of them Americansand 868 crew members from 35 nations. While reports have varied, depending on the sources, many stories from across the country and on national tdcvision recalled passengers not being fully aware of what was happening aboard the 70,000-ton vessel. The Naples (Fla.) Daily News quoted one passenger in its July 24 edition as saying crew members may have been as confused as the guests. '"It became clear at that point that many of the crew were as in the dark as we about the extent of the fire,"' stated Delos Johnson of Coral Springs, Fla., according to the southwest Florida paper. Others had to rely on sources off the ship to get the latest news. On the NBC News show ''Today," which aired July 21, Dr. Kim Jacobson told listeners in a live interview that she discovered what was going on through a cellular telephone call to her brother. who was wat~hing the situation unfold on television. Dr. J~cobson said passengers were; being informed repeatedly the fire "'is minor problem a.nd we have this under control." She then told anchorpcr;,on Katie Courie. '"The crew didn't do anything to appease their [the passengers'] fears. I got a sense of panic from the crew members." From the Waco, Te;ii;i'\~ HeraldTribune came news from the fire chi~( Bellmead, Tex.a~. who witnessed the fire as ht ~ettIM in for his vacation at sea. James Kart to1d the paper that or passengers were being informed of a minor fire, but he could see it was getting worse. '"I kept looking out the window and seeing all the help coming, and I told [others] this was not a minor fire,"' Karl said in a story written by Emily Gibson. Investigation Continues Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the U .S. Coast o'uard still are trying to determine what started the blaze shortly after the Ecstasy shoved off for a four-day cruise to Key West, Fla. and Cozumel, Mexico. Before the vessel had cleared the channel buoys, the Coast Guard and others saw smoke coming from the stern. In fact, residents along Miami Beach called the Coast Guard and news bureaus asking if anything was wrong with a cruise ship leaving the city. Around 5:45 p.m., the Coast Guard station in Miami radioed the captain of the Ecstasy, asking if help was needed. The response was no; however, a fleet of tugboats used to assist vessels in and out of the harbor already was on its way to the stricken ship after seeing local news footage of the situation. The tugs were equipped with fire monitors to attack the blaze with sea water. Within half-an-hour, the Ecstasy acknowledged the need for assistance. The tugs were getting into place to spray the stern as flames could be seen coming from the vessel. The Coast Guard, which had alerted its emergency teams, deployed a fire boat. Another cruise ship departing Miami stood by in case an evacuation of the Ecs1asy was needed. Local fire d~pa.rtmen~ airlifced paramedics to the ship to work with the crew. The fire was under control appro;l(ifi'l~t~ly two hours after it was reponed. News articles differ on the number of people from the 7-year·old vessel requiring medical 1reacment. Around 60 received some type of aid, mosr of rhese being 'rcw mcmbcu. A shipyard repair worker scans the damage to the Liberian-flagged cruise ship Ecstasy. The vessel caught fire July 20 shortly after departing Miami for a four-day voyage. Three stayed overnight in local hospitals. Articles Lost The Ecstasy was towed back to Miami, where it arrived early the next morning. Passengers had the option of staying on board or checking into a local hotel. Those whose cabins were in the aft section could not return to their rooms to claim their belongings or gather a change of clothes. This became a problem for some, according to The Miami Huald_ When Carnival delivered luggage and other items to the hotel two days after the fire, some passengers told the newspaper they were milling money, jewelry. cameras and computers. Additionally, the paper reported on the plight of four Florida residents who elected to spend the night on the ship. When their friend arrived 10 pick them up the nc.1lt morning, he was "told by New Legislation Attacks Jones Act Carnival that a security check proved the ship was empty," according to the story written by Frances Robles and Yves Colon. The four woke up around 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 21 only to find the ship empty and crew members wondering what they were doing on the vessel. Origina11y. Carnival officials claimed the ship would be repaired quickly and returned to service by the end of the month. Those damage estimates were vastly understated. By the time the 855-foot ship arrived at Newport News (Va.) Shipbuilding for repairs, the company was hoping to have the Ecstasy sailing again by mid-September. But repons from the shipyard noted extensive damage to 25 to 30 cabins with nearly 200 others suffering smoke and water damage. Repairs may keep the ship out of ,service even longer. September 1998 vessels to make up to six trips annually in the U.S. coastwise trade. H.R. 1991 has only 15 cosponsors.) Senator Sam Brownback (R-Kan.) presented a measure similar to H.R 4236 to his colleagues on July 30. Like the Smith bill, the Freedom to Tran~port Act (S. 2390) also would allow foreignbuilt vessels to carry farm products between U.S. pons. However, S. 2390 does not call for the reflagged ships to be u.s.-~itiz;en owned. The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Commiuee. which has jurisdiction over the U.S. maritime activities, tentatively has scheduled a hearing on the Jones Act for early September. The latest bill tc he introduced calls for producers M Georgia clay to receive waivers from the Jones Act to move their product aboard foreign-flag. foreigncrewea vessels when no U.S.-tlag barges are available. Offered by Repre~entative Charlie Norwood (R-Ga.) on August 6, the Domestic Ka.olin Competitiveness Act (H.R. 4490) has been sent to the Hou~e National Security Committee for consideration_ SIU members are reminded to contacc the~r elected officials to thank those who ~uppon the Jones Act and inform the others why the nation's freight cabotage law continues to ~ervc as a valuable asset to America's national ttnd -economic security. This was not the first time the Ecstasy has made national news or suffered a fire. An NBC News crew boarded the Ecstasy in 1995. During its stay on the Carnival ship, the crew uncovered an empty life preserver box on deck. The company at that time said each passenger has a life preserver in his or her cabin. (As many passengers found out in July, it was impossible to retrieve those preservers because they could not gain access to their cabins due to the fire.) The news crew also filmed situations in which some members of the ship's crew had a problem speaking English clearly to the reporter posing as a passenger. Keith Wyka, a passenger on the i11-fated July 20 voyage, Continued on page 6 What Cam/val Said.•• What Others Said... "The crew clearly reacted properly." "From the time we noticed it, it was less than two or three minutes when our room had filled up with smoke. No smoke alarms had gone off, no 8t)b DiekinMn, President Bills Offered Despite Support for Cabotage Law Despite the solid support the Jones Act has among the members of Congress, several legislators have introduced measures during the summer (tesigned to weaken the nation's freight cabotage law. More than half the officials serving in the House of Reim:s~mtatives have signed their names to House Coni;:um:nt Resolution 6-5, whi~h calls for no changes in the Jones Act. The measure has strong bipartisan support with 243 cosponsors. The SIU continues to call for no changes in the law_ However, new bills have been presented in both the House and Senate designed to strike the first crippling blow to the Jones Act, which states cargo moved between two domestic ports must be carried aboard U.S.-built, U.S.-flagged and U.S.-crewed vessels. On July 16, Representative Nick Smith (RMich.) offered legislation (H.R. 4236) that would 4Jlow foreign-built ships to reflag under the Stars and Stripes so they am1d carry certain agricultural products (including tivescock) along the Great Lakes and coastwi5e trades. (Last year, Smith introduced a different bill designed to gut the Jones Act That measure, kMWn as the CM~ta1 Shipping Competicion Acl (H.R. 1991). would pennit foreign-flag, foreign-crewed Previous.Problems carnival Cruise Lines TM Miami Herald fire alarms had gone off." Passenger Dale Palmer The State, Columbia, S.C. July 22. 1998 July 21, 1998 "There was welding going on in an area of the laundry room .... That's our theory. We'w asked the Coast Guard to verify it." Sob Dickinson, President Carnival Cruise Lines (Commenting on the cause of the fire.) CNN interactive .July 21, 1Q9B "It wa$ not a severe fire." Bob Dickinson. President Carnival Cruise Lines Tl18 Miami HBraJ<I July 22, 1998 "[The welders] said that while they were there to repair a broken bolt on a piece of machinery used to dry and fold bed sheets, they had not begun welding when the fire started." Ted Loplltkiewicz, Deputy Director Public Affairs Na.ti6nal Transportation Safety BM rd CNN interactive July 21, 1998- 'When we stepped outside on the balcony and we saw a lot of smoke, we knew it was a severe problem. It was kind of downplayed, I think." Passenger Travis Crocker The State, Columbia, S.C. July 22, 1998 Seafarers LOG 5 �Third Bob Hope RO/RO Vessel, USNS Seay, C~ristened United States national security got a boost and the U.S.-flag fleet welcomed a new addition June 20 with the christening of the third of four SIU-crewed Bob Hope class vessels being built at Avondale Industries in New Orleans. The roll-on/roll.:off ship USNS Seay, slated to join the U.S. Military Sealift Command's Afloat Prepositioning Force next year, received a warm welcome from Air Force General Walter Kross, head of the U.S. Transporration Command, which oversees MSC; Navy Vice Admiral James Perk.ins, commander of MSC; and others at the ceremony. Built to support U.S. Army troops by transporting vehicles, supplies and other equipment, the Seay is 950 long, has a beam of l 05 feet and displaces 62.000 tons (fully loaded). Capable of sustaining speeds of up to 24 knots, rhe diesel-powered ship has 380 1000 square feet of cargo space. MSC estimates the Seay, oper- ated by SIU-contracted Maersk Line Limited of Norfolk, Va., can carry up to 1,000 Army helicopters, tanks, trucks and other military vehicles per voyage. General Kross, the main speaker at the christening and a strong ally of the U.S. fleet, stated, "I am deeply humbled both by the immensity and power of this grand new vessel and by rhe character and sacrifice of the magnificent young man, William W. Seay, whose name we shall bestow upon her." The ship, like most others comprising the 19-vessel fleet of new builds and conversions for MSC, is named in memory of a Medal of Honor recipient-in this case, Army Sergeant William Seay, who posthumously received the award for gallantry in action in Vietnam. Of those 19 vessels, SIU members will crew four Watson-class ships constructed at NASSCO in San Diego, four Bob Hope-class ships built at Avondale and five converted RO/ROs. To date, two Lakes' Cargoes Stay Ahead Of Last Year's Strong Pace Cargo volumes moving on the Great Lakes remain ahead of last year's pace despite a recent fire that hampered processing operations of one of the Lakes' largest stone-shipping companies. According to the Lake Carriers' Association, U.S.-flag bulkers-including a number of SIU-contracted ships-through July had hauled 58.2 million net tons of cargo, 'omparcd to 55 million for the same period it\ 1997. Among those commodities are coat, iron ore. cement. salt, sand, grain, limestone ~nd gyp· ' J"i'-l ... ' ~·· ~.,,... . . .\ ) ' lo ·"-rmirr· _,.,.,. -..... >t..1> More new jobs for Seafarers are on the horizon as the USNS Seay is scheduled to join MSC's Afloat Prepositioning Force next year. The SIU-crewed ship will provide support for the U.S. Army. of the Watson ships and three of the Bob Hopes have been completed, while the converted vessels have been under way for some time. Meanwhile, charters have not been awarded for six additional new builds that are expected to round out the group by the year 2001 - three more Watson ships designated for San Diego, and three Bob Hope vessels slated for New Orleans. Vice Admiral Perkins, directing his remarks to William Seay's family, said the vessel Seay "will be a great ship because she will The stone trade dipped slightly in July, the result of a fir~ at Michigan Limedone in R6ger~ City, Mich. However, it i$ on pace to exceed the previous season's total f6r the fifth srraight year. The aw,;;ii;iation aI~o reported thac almost all U.S.-flag vessels opcrntcd by Great Lakes companies were in service as of mid· August. AboArd ti'\~ Ri~!Jllf(J He/BS, Second Cook Tim Lowe happily puts out fresh rolls. In a move intended to assist stevedoring unions, the International Tran~port Workers· Federation (ITF) last month began an initiative to create what it describes as a "target lisf' of ships handled by non-union labor. The ITF, of which the SIU is an affiliate, said in a statement char the carget list "will be restricted to ships handled during disputes relating to anti -union practices or union-busting, and may include ships which have been handled by terminals where ITF affiliates are prevented from organizing workers and/or confronted with other anti -union policies; ships handl~ by terminal operators or labor supply companies employing cheap labor not covered by a collective labor contract signed by an ITF AMve~ The Seafarers-crewed /m;J@ptilnd~t'lf i~ pMtogrepMd re~ently in Buffalo. Below: SIU boatmen on tug~ Kin~m~n by Ort:~t Lakes Towi119, have contributed to the brisk bu~i­ M~~ by pr~viding safe docking op~raMns throughout the region. Deckhand Don Sausman, pie· aboard the Kinsman Independent, is part of the work force moving a record amount of tured cargoe~ ~n tl"\A Gr~ar Lak~s . videotaped some of the chaos on the ship and provided it to NBC's "Dateline," which aired it the next evening. Wyka, who is from Inverness, Fla., told Eric Tiansay of the Naples Daily News, "We were very concerned that 'Dateline' had pointed out these problems to ·Carnival three years ago, and basically nothing had changed since then." Then, in 1996. the vessel sustained an electrical fire on its way back to Miami. No one was injured in that instance 1 but two engines were knocked out of service. coneems tor Safl!ty James Burnett, who served as NTSB chairman from l 982 to 1988, told The Miami Herald he & seafarers LOG affiliate. and competing unfairly with unionized terminals; and any other ship which the ITF secretariat is informed has been handled by non-union labor as a resull of anci-union practices." Based in London and consisting of more than 470 transportrelated unions around the world, the ITF plans to distribute the list to .. all ITF affiliates organizing doclc worker~ . Seafarers' unions will be asked to contact members on board the ships listed to inform chem why their vessel is targeted _" The initiative is the next step in the federation's worldwide campaign against anti-union policies in the port industry, resulting from a decision of the ITF Dockers' Section in Miami last year. During that conference, unions signed what the ITF describes as an "international sol idarity contract" and pledged mutual support. ..Since the srarr of the campaign, the ITF has asked members around the world to take direct action to support an affiliate in several cases; the MUA in Australia and the CMU in Sri Lanka, amongst others," the federation stated. "In other cases the IlF has asked affiliates to ex.press their views to company managers who have tried to replace trade unionists with unorganized workers." The first target list will be presented to unions during the ITF's congress in New Delhi, slated for October 29-November 5. SIU Executive Vice President John Fay is chairman of the ITF's Seafarers' Section. Ecstasy Fire Highlights Problems on Runaways Continued from page 5 oper~ted under heavy fire from a reinforced North Vietnamese army battalion. "He didn't just defend. As enemy fire intensified. so too did his response," noted General Kross. Sergeant Seay killed at least I 0 North Vietnamese soldiers, despite being severely wounded. He fired shots and repeatedly returned grenades back at the enemy after the bombs landed nearby. The sergeant finally perished from a sniper's bullet. ITF Compiling List to Help Stevedores ~um. though not transporting cargo, epitomize the heroic legacy of Sergeant Seay. American merchant mariners will crew this ship and are going to make you proud." He added that the ship will be "ready to respond to any contingency-from going to war to responding to a natural disaster, from defending America's interests around the world to aiding the devastated, the downtrodden, the needy." Sergeant Seay was two months shy of his 20th birthday when, while serving as a driver on a resupply mission, his unit came was concerned that a future voyage may nol be lucky as this one. (The Herald had stated that at least I 0 fires had occurred aboard cruise ships in the lase four years, with several involving vessels sailing from South Florida.) "Sooner or later, one of these fires is going to be at sea, and the passengers will go into the water. When that happens, it will be a test for the survival of the cruise industry," Burnett noted. Perhaps one of the most ironic incidents to occur on the Ecstasy as the fire was being fought was the entertainment provided to take peoples' minds off the situation. According to the Birmingham, Ala. NBC 13 website, a lounge singer was leading the passengers decked out in life preservers in a series of John Denver songs. Heads fell into their hands when the vocalist tried to get the group to sing "Take Me Home." - Personals RICHARD BARKER Please contact your goddaughter, Helena Bartels Duncan, at 400 Klondyke Road, Apt. Bl, Long Beach, MS 39560. LARRY MELVIN Please call Clinnie Owens of Fayetteville at (910) 4380954. KIMBERLEY VAUGHAN & MAULMAUL NYZE Please get in touch with Anna Martin at 1101West3rd Street, Chester, PA 19013. September 1998 �Thirteen Stewards Impart Value at Family & Education Speak to Members During Recertification Ceremony The support of familywhether it be their relatives or rhe surrogate family they have found at the Lundeberg School-means a lot to Seafarers, who are often away from their own homes for months at a time. This was alluded to by graduates of the recent class of 13 recertified stewards as they delivered their remarks during the August membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. Completing the five-week stewMd recertification programthe highest level of education rhe union offers for members of the steward department-were Terry L. Allen, Richard E. Casuga, Elena R. Curley, Edward P. Dunn, James F. Dunne, Luis Escobar, Carol A. Grycko, Ronald Jones, Emmanuel Laureta, Ronald Malozi, Gualberto M. Mirador, Lovie L. Perez (who shipped out just prior to the graduation ceremony), and Louella M. Sproul. Ronald Malozi was a case in point. A graduate of the entry level program in 1983; Malozi said that every time he returns to the school and sees the instructors and staff, he feels like he's meeting with family. The 37-year-old, who ships from the port of Baltimore, also thanked his brother for returning to the school to be with him on his graduation day. His brother, now an engineer, is an SIU hawsepiper and provided proof to the unlicensed apprentices in the audience chat one can work his or her way up the ladder of success within the maritime industry. Malozi, who had attended six previous upgrading courses at the school, found much to be excited about during this program. He particularly enjoyed the new galley labs, which have given him more knowledge through practical and hands-on training, and came away with many new ideas for menu planning and food preparation. In learning how the union is politically involved, he noted that he now realizes more than ever how important it is to contribute to SPAD. 'The school offers everyone the tools to succeed," Malozi said. 'The union goes out of its way to ensure everyone can reach their goals. If one doesn't take advantage of the opportunities, it's their own fault." mankl FamllY A refresner class in CPR was required for ~ompletion of the steward recertification course. AfJovt:, RomdrJ Jones prttetiMS his resuscitation technique on a life-like dummy. Edward P. Dunn of Brooklyn, NY also had family members jt>in him at the graduation ceremonies, hi$ wife and children, whom he thanked for their continued caring. In addition to acknowledging his teachers and instructors for their time and dedication during the five weeks, the 21 -year SW member C;\tcnded his gratitude to Chef Allan Sherwin and Chef Romeo Lupinacci for their "wonderful culinary program." To the unlicensed apprentices, the 40-year-old Dunn said he couldn •t help norice rheir professionalism, dedication and hard Completing the steward recertification program-the highest level of education the union offers for members of the steward department-are (from left, kneeling) Gualberto M. Mirador, Louella M. Sproul, Elena A. Curley, Luis Escobar, Ronald Jones, (second row) James F. Dunne, Richard E. Casuga, Terry L. Allen, Carol A. Grycko, John Smith (in$tructor), Edward P. Dunn, Lovie L. Perez, Emmanuel Laureta and Ronald A. Malozi. work "from the morning flagraising to the end of the day." He told them, "Whatever department you choose as a career, remember you are the future of rhe SIU." He also had words of advice for his fellow stewards. "You have chosen a great field, the culinary arts. Remember, there are no limitations in this profession. Whether you are a steward assistant or a chief steward, we are all important." Luis Escobar, 45, has upgraded at the Lundeberg School eight times, but this time was the most exciting. Not only was the audience filled with many of his relatives, but his two daughters, who live in different parts of the world, were united for the first time (see story. page 24). A member of the SIU since joining in Honolulu in 1987. Escobar currently ships from the port of San Juan, P.R. "I always love coming to upgrade, but this course was the most rewarding of my career," he noted. ''And the fact that I had the opportunity to be enrolled in this program will not stop me from returning to upgrade and keep upto-date with new rules and regulations." Escobar particularly singled out the classes in sanitation and ccmputers as being of imponance to him. Upgrading at the Lundeberg School, according to Escobar. "is the only way to reach our goats." Puslles Upgrading A Seafarer since 1981, when she joined in the port of Honolulu, Carol A. Grycko encouraged fellow shipmates to attend upgrading courses at the Lundeberg School. She, herself, has returned five times. The sanitation course, especially Chef Allan's lectures and videotapes on that subject, was a highlight for Grycko, who now Under the watchful eye of Chef Allan Sherwin (left), Richard Casuga and Elana Curley hone their skills in the school's culinary lab. sails from the port of San Francisco. She also found the social responsibilities class very enlightening. "I believe we all gained insight into improving our public relations, not just aboard ship, but to our entire membership," she stated. Grycko said she thinks of her time at the Lundeberg School as a unique sabbatical. "We have everything here," she said. In addition to the fantastic education. students have "a nice room, pool, gym, sports areas, bar, sailboats, food, a beautiful view, security, a staff that helps us, and we continue to meet fellow members who may become lifelong friends." Ir's such a tranquil place that she has even spent vacation time at the school. Stay Informed Terry L. Allen, 48, said that in today's workforce, one must keep up with the changes in order to stay on top. He has returned to the school four previous times and has seen a lor of improvement over the years. The sanitation class, in par- ticular, will be very helpful to him aboard ship, he noted, and he looks forward to helping others and encouraging his fellow shipmates to practice safe sanitary habits. Allen also enjoyed the firefighting class. It wa~ a good learning experience and Instructor John Smith's presentation made it almost fun, Allen noted with a laugh. Allen began sailing wirh the Marine Cooks & Stewards in 1968 from New York. He now sails from th~ port of Wilmington, Calif. Class currlculum In addition to their work in the galley labs, creating, practicing and preparing new recipes and experimenting with cooking techniques, the recertified stewards spent time in the school's computer center learning how to maximize rheir skills to order food and other staples while aboard ship. They also took refresher courses in CPR, first aid and fire- Continued on page 8 ,. L Gua1Mno Mirador (left), Emmanuel Lauret~ (cente~} and Louella Sproul get practical and hands-on training in the galley lab, knowledge they will take with th~m when they return to their respective ships. September 1998 Graduates of the steward recertification program address officers, fellow memoers, unlicensed apprentices and guests at the August membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. From the left are Terry Allen, Carol Grycko and James Dunne. Seafarers LOG 7 �Seafarers Help Stabilize Grounded Tanker in P.R. SIU members from the Caribbean and Gulf Coast districts recently assisLed in stabilizing a grounded Russian tanker in Guayanilla, P.R. The Seafarers set miks of booms around the tanker and handled other duties aimed first at preventing spillage and then at minimizing the impact of a potential spill. None of the double-hull tanker's oil leaked, and the ship was freed from the reef upon which it had grounded in about 72 hours. "Our guys were called out by the Coast Guard and they did a good job," reported SIU Representative Victor Nunez, based at the SIU hall in Santurce, P.R. "They did a lot of work and they did so under stressful conditions-" The Seafarers who took part in the task, which happened near Ponce, P.R., are employed by Crowley Marine Services. I With the Russian tanker stuck on a reef and loaded with oil, Seafarers AB Roberto Valentin, AB Eric Espada and AB Juan Cavalier pitch in to prevent spillage and free the vessel. Fortunately, no oil leaked from the double-hull tanker, and the grounded Russian ship was Ready to assist on an 'oil-spill prevention job in southern Puerto Rico are SIU members (from left) AB Juan Cavalier, Second Mate James Gibson and AB Eric Espada. removed from the reef in about 72 hours. 13 Stewards Complete Recerlif icalion Program in August Continued from page 7 fighting as well as a session on social responsibilities-knowledge that will serve them well both on and off their ships. Outside the school grounds, the students spent time at the SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md., where they met with representatives of the union's various departments: contracts, communications, government affairs, welfare, training and the vacation and pension fund. These sessions were designed LO enhance their understanding of the union's operations and provide them with the latest information from each department so that they, in turn, may relay it to their fellow r;rew members aboard ship. They also had an opporti.mity to sit with SIU President Mi~hael Sa~~o for his view of the importance of their jobs and of the uate of the maritime industry. Shipboard Benefits Emmanuel Laurela, who has upgraded three previous ti mes at the school, understands the imporcance of knowledge increa~ing updating hi~ his skill~. Th~ 36-y~a.r-~llt ~aid a.II the dasses on sanitation and healthy r;ooking as well as the review of firefighting, CPR and first aid skills are things that will benefit him aboard ship. Laureta joined the union in Honolulu in 1983. He recommended upgrading to his fellow Seafari:rs ~r;ausi: "we; <;:an learn to advance CJur careers <;mly Lhrough funher educaLion ." In ~greemenr with chm sentiment was James F Dut1t\~ 1 wh~ nm only recommends upgrading a.r the school. bur believes it should b~ a. requirement- both as a learning experience and as a refresher. Dunne noted that the sanitation and comp.ucer courses will ens1.1r~ a more ¢ffitient ~nd ~Mer galley operation for all members ltboltrd ship, "Our business is forever changing," he said, "and our skills must keep pa~t with these ~hanges-for the good of the union, the shipping company and the safety of the shipsl crews." 8 and Seafarers LOG Computer classes are part of the recertification program and help develop $kills which ara vary useful abMrd ship. The 60-year-old Dunne joined the union in 1987 in the pore of San Francisr;o. He presently sails from the port of Tacoma. Wash. .. Knowing my fettow shipmates have these skills makes me feel safer and more secure in my job and life aboard ship," Dunn concluded . Better Undentandlng With all that he learned in the five- week course, Richard Casuga believes he will now be able to more fully represent the union while aboard ship. Casuga, 58, hus upgrndcd at Piney Point twice before. This time, however, was notably special. Chef AI1an 1 s cooking methods will help him on board any vessel; but most important, the steward said, was learning the inner functions of the union: contracts. negotiations, and the different plans .' Casuga joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards in 1961 . He continues to ship from the port of San Francisco. Casuga added the sr;hool is one great compound of learning with a staff of highly competent instructors and teachers- and he thanked them all. Praise for Staff As with the other grndu"ting recertified stewards. Ronald Jones had Mthittg hut prai~e for the sr;hool and its instructors. Jones, who sails from the port of Houston. also urged the unlicensed apprentices in the audience to work hMd be~ause this professi~n will be good to them . Louella. Ma.ria Spr~ul ha.s been sailing since 1973 when she also joined the Marine Cooks & StewMd~ itt San Franci~co . She found the sanitation class very helpful and knows that the firefighting refresher class will be of use both at home and aboard ship. Sproul recommended attending upgrading classes at the school ro anyoqe who wishes to make shipping his or her career. "I would urge our members to come and upgrade their skills," she said. Ir not only leads to job security, but "without upgrading, your choices of jobs arc limited. You can't get the jobs of tomor· row without the skills of today." Gualberto Mirador, 57, extended a warm thanks to all the staff "who are so courteous, kind and who helped make our stay here a remarkable one." For Mirador, attending the steward recertification course was an enjoyable opportunity. He noted that he learned a lot- from gourmet cooking techniques, which will enhance his capability in preparing nutritional food for the crew, to helping him realize the importance of food handling and sanitation and most of all, the significance of health and safety, including firefighting. first aid and CPR. Mirador. a Navy veteran who joined the union in 1988 in Norfolk, Va. and continues to sail from that port, highly recommended the upgrading opportunities available at the school. Not only will it help Seafarers to enhance their skills and broaden their perspectives as far as their profession is concerned, he seated, but "you might meet coworkers whom you haven't seen for decades." Return student This was the fifth time back at the school for Elena Curley, a 13· SIU member who sails from the port of Honolulu. year Curley thanked all her instructors, giving a special commendation to John Smith for the way in which he taught the CPR and firefighting portions of the course. She also singled out the sanitation and computer classes as very useful aboard ship and said she would recommend upgrading classes to her fellow Seafarers. "With the training and experience I have had as a member of the SIU, I'm looking forward to many more fruitful years of working as a Seafarer and of doing my job at the very best level of professionalism." "Knowledge is power!" wrote Lovie Perez, 45, in a .statement prior ro shipping out. She found the steward recertification program a very good experience. A member since 1983, when she joined the union in Honolulu, Perez was esper;ially interested in learning about how the union works. Now sailing from the port of Tacoma, Perez, who has returned several times to the school for upgrading, agreed that if a person truly _.wan rs to excel and wants to make a career out of the maritime industry, there is no better means than to continually upgrade their skills. Mirador Helped USNS Sb.ughart Get Olf to Good Start One of the more cha.Jlenging assignments during Recertified Steward Gualberto Mirador's 10 years as an SIU member was wcrldng as part of the pre-ficom crew of the converted prepositioning ship USNS Shughart. For several months before the vessel's delivery in June 1996, Mirador helped ready the ga1ley of the roll-on/roll-off ship, even while providing meals for Navy personnel who were fini5hing the Shughart's refurbishment. The Seafarer's efforts were praised in a letter from the captain that recently came to the Seafarers LOG 's attention. "He had ro review galley and messing designs, and make the appropriate changes in addition to his normal duties," wrote Captain C.V. Spillane. "His position was difficult during a period where he had to provide four-star service at the same time he was storing his department without storekeepers. All this was done in a superior manner .... ..Steward Mirador had to be familiar with the Navy's procurement system and had a great deal to do with the system that will be used in the follow on (other) ships of this class. His service to this ship has been far above average." Gualberto Mirador September 1998 �Advisory Board Gets Results Industry Group Works Toward Better Training Among many other examples of the recent accomplishments of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Trainin2 and Education's deep sea and inland advisory board are the school's and SIU's U.S. Coast Guard-accepted training record book, the revamped entry-level rraining program, and school-pro· duced videotapes that help enable Seafarers and SIU~contracted compank$ ro comply with evolving regulations covering shipboard familiarization and safety. This year, the board conducted its annual meeting at the center in Piney Point, Md. in mid-July. More than I00 people attended, including representatives of the school and the union; SIU-contracted deep sea, Great Lakes and inland companic;s; thi; U.S. Coast Guard and its National Maritime Center; the U.S. Maritime Administration; the U.S. Military Sealift Command; and the National Transportation Safety Board. Already, the group's most recent efforts have generated results, such as the Coast Guard's announcement last month that it has extended the deadline forcertain types of shipboard assessment required by the STCW con· vention. (See related stories, pages 12-13.) Along those lines, the ceremonial groundbreaking on July 16 for the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School reflected the board's input into continually improving the Paul HalJ Center's curriculums. Overall, the main topics at the two-day session were implement- Among the speakers at the two-day session were (clockwise from above left) Captain Michael Rosecrans and Captain William Bennett of the Coast Guard, Vincent Cantwell of the Human Factors Group and Eric Malzkuhn of the Paul Hall Center. ing the developing training requirements for mariners and effectively documenting individual Seafarers' certifications for those statutes. In addition to its main conference, the board met in four subcommittees. Those gatherings discussed forming an industry consortium to establish auditing standards for validating training records and helping ensure com· pliance with STCW, the International Safety Management Code and other regulations. They talked about alternative means of compliance with assessment regulations; reviewed the. upcoming proposa.1 from the U.S. to the IMO for minimum physical standards for mariners worldwide; assessed the ~chool's crafting of an entry-level training program for inland Seafarers; and studied complex tonnage issues impacting the industry. During the full assemblage, participants examined other STCW issues, vocational and academic training available at the center's Lundeberg School of Seamanship, year 2000 concerns, cooperation within the maritime industry and more. (Editor's note: Last month's issue of the Seafarers LOG contains a more detailed report on the meeting.) Clancey, Lowman to Receive 1998 AOTOS Awards in Nov. During re~ent ~hipboard meetings in the Long Beach-Los Angeles harbor, Seafarers greeted the union's n@w We5t Coa~t vice president. Nick Marront:1, who filled the vacancy created when lonQtime SIU VP George McCartney retired thi~ ,1,.1mmer. Marrone and Wilmington, Calif. Port Ag@nt Johr'I Co)l provided SIU memb~r$ vvith th~ latest news concerning the Paul Hall Centers new fire fighting and safety school, the tr"ining r@cord book j6intly issued by the school and the union, and other information from the indus, ,rr; '" ) JI:·, . • ,W · ' • · · ·~ .. .. ' • try. Top photo left Captain Bill Hunter (left) and Ae Hank Scott (right) welcome Marrone aboard the Crowley tug S9~ Rabin.Top photo right'. Marrone gre~t~ eraM maint~naneG e1eetrl- cian5 (from left) GrAg Abalos, Manny Tan and Xuan Phan. Pictured directly be· low, Captain Kerry Demato5 (left photo) and Marshall Novak (right photo) pose for the camera. September 1998 The Admiral of the Ocean Sea (AOTOS) Award, considered by many to be a very prestigious award in the maritime industry, will be presented next month to John P. Clancey, president and chief executive officer George F. Lowman John P. Clancey of Sea-Land Service, Inc.; and George F. Lowman, chairman and chief exec- ocean carrier. With a fleet of 105 container ships and approximateutive offo;er of Farrell Lines, Inc. The two men were selected ly 200,000 containers in U.S. and from more than 200 nominees foreign trade, Sea-Land serves representing maritime manage- 120 ports in 80 countries and terment, labor and government offi- ritories. Under Clancey, Sea-Land has cials. SIU President Michael earned a reputation as a leader in Sacco is a past recipient. "Boch of these men are being the global shipping industry. George Lowman is responsible recognized for their extraordinary efforts to help strengthen the U.S. for a profitable company setfpresence in world markets and described as strongly committed . their commitment to the Ameri- to the U.S. flag and to American can seafarer," said John Bowers, seafarers. Founded in 1925, Farrell chairman of the United Seamen's Lines remains a privately-held Service AITTOS committee, and U.S.-flag steamship company con· president of the International trolled by the Farrell family. Late last year, Farrell accomLongshoremen 's Association, plished its first fleet expansion in AFL-CIO. Clancey sits at the helm of two decades, purchasing three SIU-contracted Sea-Land Ser- containerships and expanding its vice, Inc., the largest U.S.-based carrying capacity by 56 percent. Seafarers LOG 9 �LNG Crews Eye Upgrading Opportunities, Demonstrate SoHd Commitment to Safety Upgrading opportunities at the Paul Hall Center were among the topics discussed dur- ing Don't leave pon without it: AB Thomas Guffey loads life rafts for the LNG Libra. re~ent union meetings aboard the SIU-contracted LNG ships in Japan. The center's Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship offers two classes-LNG recertification and LNG familiarizationspecifically designed for Seafarers who want to sail aboard the liquefied natural gas carriers, in addition to many other courses available to all SIU members. Another popular subject on the LNG ships is vessel safety. SIU Representative George Tricker, who met recently with Seafarers aboard the ships at their overseas ports, reported that "it's very evident in spending time with the members that they understand that while safety is important aboard any ship, it's especially crucial on the LNGs, since those vessels carry such volatile cargo." Indeed, the LNG Taurus recently reached the milestone of 900 consecutive days without a lost-time injury, an achievement that reflects how seriously all of the LNG crews take their responsibility for safely operating the Energy Transportation Corporation vessels. T hose vessels transport liquefied natural gas between ports in Steward department members such as Chief Cook Franz Winiker, pictured aboard the LNG Libra, strive to maintain the fleet's reputation as good feeders. Welcoming SIU Representative George Tricker aboard the LNG Aquarius is SA David Wakeman. Indonesia and Japan. Each ship in the eight-vessel fleet features five massive, spherical cargo ranks that rise 40 feet above the Collaborating on lunch for their LNG Taurus shipmates are Ct'lief COOK Brian deck. Bach tank wcight1ii 800 tons, is 120 feet in diameter and eight inches thick. Altogether, the tanks on each ship hold 125,000 cubic meters of liquid natural gas, at 265 degrees below zero (Fahrenheit). M<;Eleney and Steward/Baker Arlene Ringler. SA Carlos Boiser helps keep the LNG Taurus ' galley spotless. AB Rich Lewis operates a boom control on the LNG Capricorn. LEFT: Focusing on the task at hand is SA Larry Nicholson aboard the LNG Leo. RIGHT: Computer technology on today's ships is second nature to many crew members, including Steward/Baker Glenn Williams aboard the LNG Aquarius. Bringing stores aboard the LNG Libra are AB Louis Sorito and QMEDs William Carlin and Gregory Shepard. 10 Seafarers LOG Bo.sun John TMmpMn, sailing aboard the LNG Aquarius, checks the lifeboat battery charger. OMED Dasril Panko cleans oil residue to help prevent slipping on the LNG Aquarius. Proper sanitation in the galley is demMstra.ted by SA Ronnie Fore on the LNG Capricorn. September 1998 �SIU Boatmen Paolo Digirolamo (left) and Paul Jernstrom (right) welcome Los Angeles Mayor Richard Riordan aboard the launch headed for Pier 400. Keeping in touch with the office as he pulls away from the pier is Master Chris Pellicano. SIU Boatmen Dig Into Port Expansion Scows, Water Taxis Work in Major Southern Calif. Project Seafarers sailing aboard scows and water taxis oper- ated by American Workboats are continuing their work in the massive port expansion program in Los Angeles and Long Beach, Calif. Last month, SIU members transported Los Angeles Mayor Richard Riordan and other local representatives to what will be Pier 400, marking the first time that elected officials have set foot on the eventual 600-acre site. Overall, SIU crews have assisted in the half-billiondollar port expansion for nearly three years, and they are expected to continue that work until the project's completion, estimated around the year 2000. They operate the only union-contracted water taxis in the area, which they utilize to transport both stores and passengers (usually other workers heading to various industrial equipment on site). Seafarers also crew American Workboat "dump scows." used to tow dredged material to landfill areas. Pier 400, billed by city officials as "the largest capital improvement undertaking of any U.S. seaport, and the port's most ambitious development project in its 91-year history,u is being built on material dredged from the bottom of the ocean. That dredging, to as deep as 81 feet in some areas, reportedly will enable the Los AngelesLong Beach harbor to accommodate the world's largest vessels. The expansion project's scope means lots of water traffic in the Los Angeles-Long Beach harbor, which in turn means extra caution by boat operators such as Seafarer Ron Mason. The container terminal "responds to the needs of an anticipated doubling of cargo that is expected to move through the port in the next 25 years," the city said in a recent statement. Pier 300, the first half of the project, was completed in mid-1997. It provides safe navigation for ships sailing to an APL Limited container terminal and a nearby coal export facility. Dredged materials from this phase provided the first 265 acres of Pier 400. Wilmington. Calif. Port Agent John Cox (right) tells L.A. Mayor Riordan about the role Seafarers have played in the port expansion prl)gram. wnn offices in Terminal Island, Calif., SIU-contracted American Workboats is the only union water taxi service in Southern California. The company also provides tug services locally an~ off~hore. ABOVE: The first half of the port expansion, known as Pier 300, was completed last year. LEFT: Local public officials and guests ~rrive at , Pier 400, where construction is expected to continue at least through i999. September 1998 Seafarers LOG 11 �• Seafarers' Guide to Train 1ng Does the Coast Guard Recognize Our TRB? The U.S. Coast Guard last year gave its acceptance to the TRB. In fact, the book itself bears the words "United States Coast Guard Accepted." Further, the agency was very helpful and cooperative in providing feedback during the TRB's development, which assisted in more efficient completion. How the TRB Benefits Seafarers New and impending international maritime Why SIU Members N~ed a TRB As of August 1 (last month), Seafarers cannot register to ship unless they possess either a training record book or have applied for one. The application printed here may be cut out and used as an official application. They also are available at all SIU halls. How Much Does a TRB Cost? Original TRBs are issued at NO CHARGE to members, although Seafarers applying for the booklets must send two color, passport-size photos with their application. There is a $25 charge for replacement books. regulations profoundly impact the training and certification requirements of merchant mariners. They also mean that mariners are responsible for providing, upon request of port-state control inspectors or other authorized officials, documentation supporting their qualifications. The TRB essentially was created so that SIU members will have to carry only three main documents with them aboard ship (the TRB, a z-card and, for applicable ratings, an STCW certificate), instead of dozens. Tabla A-Vl/1 - 1 COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING, PROFICIENCY SURVIVE AT SEA IN THE EVENT OF SHIP TYnS OF EMEAGENCY SITUATIONS WMICM MAY OCCUR .SUCH AS COLLISION .FIRE. AllANDONMENT rF_:_OU:..:..:N.::..::Of:..:..:Rl.:..:..:NG:___ _ _-t-__,~~~T,,.;;;:---i'rr;'.';jr.#'----; TYPES OF LIFE-SAVING APPLIANCES NOKMALL Y CARRIED ON SHIPS How the TRB Benefits the Industry Just as the TRB makes it easier on Seafarers to keep track of, and prove, their training, it also helps port-state control personnel (inspectors) by providing a degree of uniformity in identification. What's in the TRB? The book contains an identification page, instructions and guidelines for the mariner, general guidelines for designated instructors and assessors, and four sections. Whose Idea Wa~ Thi:;. Anywav? The idea for th~ TRB was genera.ted by the Paul Hall Center'~ deep sea and towboat advisory board. The s~hool and the SIU last year began jointly producing the TRB and issuing it to Seafarers_ TR9 SECTION SECTION ONE; Training Record Pa9g'" ABOVE LEFT AND DIRECTLY ABOVE; Recertified Bosun Dan Marcus and Scott Ciatto, an evaluator at the U.S. Coast Guard regional examination center in Baltimore, revit:tw the latest entries in the Seafarer's TAB. MEMBERS AFFl:CTl:D ALL M~MFJ~RS aM Steward {D~~k, Engin~ Departm.,nt~) BEGT/()N TWO: Competency Tables for; Chapter V • Tankers (Oil, Chemical and Gas) and Passenger Ships Chapter VI - 9aslc SA SECTION THREE! competency tables for certification as Third Matc;;i and Third En9inc;;ic;;ir SECTION FOUR~ Compet~ncy tat>ies t~r certifi· cation 1i4~ AB~, FOWTs al"ld QMED~ (ph..Js all tl"l~ ramainin9 comp~w-.ty ta.bl~s tor th~ STCW Conventi6t-i) ALL. MEMBcRS {Deck, Engine aM Steward Departments) This reproduction of a TAB page reflects the book's basic workings. For the Chapter VI requirements, for instance, it simply is a cASe of an SIU member demonstrating a particular competency and then having an assessor verify such performance. PURPOSE OF ENTRIES The Paul Hall Center has entered all training on record into these pages. Any future training received (shipboard, Paul Hall Center or other schools) will be put into the TAB by the instructor. Members receiving training (lectures, drills, exercises) must request either a certificate, letter or attendance roster in order to document this training at the Paul Hall Center. The Training Record Pages provide documented evidence of STCW Convention and ISM CMe compliance, continuou~ revalidation of STCW Chapter VI training, receiving training for Coast Guard· approved programs and increasing professionalism. This section contains the 1995 amended STCW tables of minimum standards of competence for Chapter V~ Special training requirements for personnel on certain types of ships and Chapter VI; Familiarization and Basic Safety Training_ When members are observed correctly demonstrating any of the proficiencies (Sl<ills) listed in the first column (knowledge, understanding, proficiency), the designated instructor/examiner will sign off into the TAB. When all proficiencies are signed off, members will have documented evidence of having met these training requirements_ Note: Chapter VI training must be revalidated every five (5) years. Now through DAcember 31, 1998, any licensed officer can make these entries without having to meet certe.in ~ther requirements. DIECK AND ENGINE DEPARTMENTS ONLY This se<;tion contains the 1995 amended STCW tables of minimum standards or competence for:those rnembers seeking licenses for Third Mate, Master/Mate of 500/1600 gross tons - Ocean and Near Coastal Waters or Third Assistant Engineer. When Deck and Engine Department ratings are observed correctly demonstrating any of the proficiencies (skills) listed in the first column (knowledge, understanding, proficiency), the designated instructor/examiner will sign off into the TAB. Nott1; The Paul Hall Center has suomitted for U.S. Coast Guard approval, several programs for meeting the new 1995 amended STCW Convention requirements. Until such approvals are granted, no entries are to be made into this section of the TAB. Members will be notified as to the approval date_ DIECK AND ENGINE Thi5 5.,,tion contains the 1995 amended STCW tables of minimum standards of competence for AbleBodied Seamen and FOWTs/QMEDs. When Deck and Engine Department entry-level personnel are observed correctly demonstrating any of the proficiendes (skills) listed in the first column (knowledge, understanding, proficiency}, the designated imitruc;tor/examiner' will sign off into the TAB. Note; The Paul Hall Center has submitted for U.S. Coast Guard approval, EJeveral programs for meeting the new i 995 amended STGW Convention requirements. Until such approvals are granted, no entries are to be made into this s~tion of the TAR Members will be notified as to the approval date. {The r@maining tables in this section are not applicable to our members.) DEPARTMENTS ONLY - 12 Seafarers LOG September 1998 �ecord Books (TRBs) Are TRBs and STCW Certificates the Same Thing? No, STCW certificates are separate from TRBs. STCW certificates basically are supplements to z-cards. They were created to facilitate effective port- state control inspections worldwide. SIU members with appropriate ratings should carry an STCW certificate in addition to their i;-card and TRB. (See story, this page.) Should I Have the Whole TRB completed? For now, Seafarers use only the first two sections of the TRB. What if Someone Gives Me a Bad Write-Up in My TRB? The TAB mainly was created to benefit Seafarers, but it also can help officers by making it easier to confirm the qual- Nothing negative will be written in the TRB. ifications of crew members. Here. SIU It 'e dee'gned ae a eimple, effident way of members (clockwise, from front left) Bosun's Mate Thor Young, AB Thomas recording members' training and their demon- stration of job skills. Moore, AB Dennis Danforth and First other than the Paul Hall Center is included in your TRB, provide written documentation of such training. Bring it to your union hall and a copy will be forwarded along with your TRB to Piney Point. Once the book is updated by the admissions office, it will be returned to you. Or you also may directly mail the TRB and documentation of outside training (via certified mail, please) to the admissions office. This Section Is Okay, But I Have More Questions For more information, contact the Paul Hall Center's admissions office at (30 I) 994-0010, extension 5202. Officer Brian O'Hanlon inspect a TAB aboard the Antares. I Can't Remember Which Courses I'ye Taken at Pjney Pojnt. How Will They Be Entered In My TRB? 'Relaxed Assessment' Deadline Extended to End of This Year The admissions office at the Paul Hall Center has entered all training since the school's inception into a secure electronic database. At the time you apply for a TRB, your book will list all the courses you successfully completed at the school. The U.S. Coast Guard recently announced that the deadline for "relaxed assessmenr of the requirements of STCW Chapter VI: Basic Safety Training has been extended through the end of 1998. The original deadline was August 1, 1998. This extension means SIU members may continue availing th.e mselves of what almost certainly is a more convenient method of meeting some of the Chapter VI requirements. Namely, they may demonstrate certain proficiencies listed in the chapter and then have an officer or other qualified assessor ver· ify their performance. Such verification is valid for five years. The only other way to meet the Chapter VI requirements is by successfully completing Coast Guard approved courses. How Will My TRB Database Be Updated? SIU members are reminded to bring their TRBs with them when registering at their union hall. This will allow port officials to pho· Chapter VI-the tables for which are found on pages 47-52 of the documentation of training and assessment for personal sur- tocopy new entries, thereby enabling the Paul Hall Center to update its electronic database. Thi8 procedure also will all()W for pr()ducing a TRB-requir~s vival techniques, fire fighting and fire prevention, elementary first aid and personal safety/social responsibilities. duplicate TRB with cur ent information, showd one becowe lost oI" destI"oyed. TAB$ M~ iS$U~d through the Paul Ha.II Center's admissions office, where a ,ec;ure electronic database lists all training and verifiable demonstrations of competencies ach9v9d by S9a- What About Do<0umentinq Outside Trajning7 To make certain that Coast Guard-approved training completed aboard ship or at a facility farers. ------------------------------------, Training Record Book Application MA-..----------~~----------------------------------------~ LHI Fir!! Middla ht of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ SSN_~~~~~~~~~~- m~ Phon~ Number -----------~-----------..........- - - - - - - dress _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ __ 5trMI City State ight (inches) _ __ Weight _ __ 2io Code Hair Color _ __ e you a graduate of the SH LSS entry level program? D Yes D No ve you ever attended any SHLSS Upgrading Courses? D Yes D No ok Numb~r - - - - Hom~ Port -------------(whoro you want book oonl to) Eye Color _ __ Department ong with your completed application, please send the following information; 1. Copy of USMMO (Z-card) front and back 'L Two (2) pa§sport si.z:@ photos 3. Copy of your STCW certificate {if appli~able) 4. Copy of your SHLSS ~chool card (if applicable) Q, Proof of any training received other than at SHLSS {certificates, cards, DD·214, etc.} . (if ~~pli¢?bl$) gnature; _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ nd e.pplioCttion to: SHLSS ·ADMISSIONS Attn; TRB P.O. Box 75 Pin~y Point, MD 20'574 _ _ . or give completed application to port agent If the abave application is not filled out completely and the requested information sent, the 9 appli<;ation will b~ <;onsid~r~d invalid and1'oid. Thi$ blank form may be copied. 198 ------------------------------------~ September 1998 STCW Certificates Both the original 1978 STCW convention and the 1995 amendments to that treaty call for merchant mariners to possess supplemental shipboard identification known as an STCW certificate. Issued through the U.S." Coast Guard's regional exam centers (RECs), the certificate is designed to provide a measure of uniformity for port state control inspections. Currently, in accordance with the 1978 convention, the following unlioensed mariners. must have an STCW certificate; ABs, pumpmen, tankermen assistants, and any other ratings holding lifeboat tickets who sail in international waters. The deadlines for securing the 1978 certificate ranged from October 1 , 1996 to February 1 , 1997, depend- ing on one's rating. The 1995 amendments to the convention fully take effect in 2002, meaning the original 1978 convention will be null and void from that date forward. Thus, the amendments require an updated STCW identification known as a i 995 STCW certificate. The following personnel must possess a 1 995 STCW certificate by the deadline of February 1, 2002: all watchstanding personnel (including engine department members}, all tanker personnel ·who are assigned cargo duties (such as ABs and pumpmen, for instance), and all lifeboatmen on passenger vessels. As with the i 978 certificate, the 1995 version may be acquired through coast Guard RECs. To get a 1995 certificate, Seafarers must present evidence of meeting the requirements of STCW Chapter VI: Basic Safety Training. These requirements are for documentation of training and assessment for personal survival techniques, fire fighting and fire prevention, elementary first aid and personal safety/social responsibilities. In addition, as of August 1 (last month), all new people entering the maritime industry must immediately meet the Chapter VI requirements. . To get a 1995 certificate, members with seatime prior to August 1 will show documentation of having taken approved courses for the four elements of Chapter VI in the previous five years and/or produce the tables from their training record books which have been signed off. Note: Both the Paul Hall Center and the Coast Guard strongly recommend that ii a mariner's z-card expires before February 1, 2002, then he or she wait until that expiration is fairly close and renew the document at the same time one applies for a 1998 STCW certificate. Each of these identifications expires in five years. By renewing the z-card at the same time one applies for an STCW cenificate, the documents will have identical expiration dates. Seafarers LOG 13 �College Costs Are Skyrocketing COLLEGE COSTS COMPLETE THIS COUPON AN(J MAIL TO: Scholarship Program SetJ.ttirers Welfare Plan 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 r------------~ P It appears that the cost of a higher education is continually skyrocketing, seemingly toward the moon and beyond. But this fact should not deter Seafarers and their spouses and dependent children from attaining their educational goals. The Seafarers International Union, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters District understood the importance of education back in 1952, when it became the first maritime union in America- and one of the first trade unions in general-to establish a scholarship program to help qualified members and their dependents finance rheir colkge and vocational educations. Today, the Seafarers Welfare Plan (which sponsors the program) has awarded 262 scholarships and is now taking applications for the 1999 program, which will award seven monetary grants to three SIU members and four dependents. All Seafarers and their spouses and children who plan to attend colkgc in the fall of '99 arc cncourngcd to complete a scholarship application . The deadline for submis· sion of all required paperwork is April 15, 1999. One of the three scholarships reserved for SIU members is in the amount of $15.000 and is intended to help cover the cosl 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 s'hool or com- --------------~---------------, tease send me the 1999 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains ~ligibility information, procedures for apply- in' and a copy of the apphc;\tion form. Street Address - -- -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - City, State. Zip Code ' - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- Telephone Number --------~-----~-----------------D Self This application is for; Ll Dependent .~ Mail thi.r CDmple.tedform w Scholan,-hiv Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Aurh Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 9/98 ~-------------~------------~----~------------~ 14 Seafarers LOG munity college. Four scholarships are awarded in the amount of $15,000 to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. The $15,000 college scholarships will be paid at the rate of $3,750 per year over a four-year period. The $6,000 awards are paid at the rate of $3,000 per year. The first step in finding out more about the scholarship program and application process is to send for the Seafarers Scholarship Program booklet. The booklet contains all the necessary information a prospective student will need to complete the application. To receive a copy of this guide, fill out the coupon at the bottom of this page and return it to the address listed on the form. Once the s'holarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility information . If they find that they qualify, chey should then start collecting all the paperwork which must be submitted along with the full application by the April 15 deadline. These items include rranscripts and certificates of graduation. Since schools are often quite slow in handling transcript requests, the sooner the request is 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. Since the scholarship awards are made primarily on the basis of high school grades and the scores of either College Entrance Examination Boards (SAT) or American College Tests (ACT), arrangements should be made to take these exams no later than February 1999 to ensure that the results reach the scholarship se1ection committee in time to be evaluated . A photograph of the applicant and a certified copy of his. or her birth certificate are two other items that must be included in the · total application package. All completed applications MUST be mailed a.nd postmarked ON or BEFORE APRIL 15, 1999. Remember to fill out the coupon on this page and return it to the Seafarers Welfare Plan-or ask for a Seafarers Scholarship Program booklet at any SIU hall. Don't let the cost of a college education scare you away. Let the Seafarers Welfare Plan scholarship program help you attain a better education and a more secure future . September 1998 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea JULY 16 -AUGUST 15, 1998 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C October & November 1998 ,,,x Mem-e.rsllip Meetings ·•;flijp,~S•ai~fl)pkes,vl,nland Waters DECK DEPARTMENT , 1,q.;;1::::0::~'~?\:J·~. 'J ' ' ' "" 5 Mo bi It 8 7 3 21 15 15 9 6 0 3 21 5 12 5 7 9 7 8 tt 21 22 38 16 10 2 6 ' 16 58 28 42 ''' "l&·.· ' · 21 45' .. 56 21 2 14 4 5 11 0 0 102 40 0 82 1 424 233 13 15 2 11 I 13 8 16 7 26 12 2 10 3 7 3 9 8 6 8 ... Th.ur.sday~. N?".'ember 12* •dumgt c~£1ktci b}t Vettfhh.~ Da}•hoiM1.1y 9 " 5" ENGINE DEPARTMENT ·9.< 12 Norfolk Mobile 9 7 0 3 4 8 4 2 2 14 6 5 6 2 8 2 3 6 .o 5 · Ta~mma ................... Friday: October 23, November 20 Wilmington .............Monday, October 19. November 16 Each pol'fts ..un11 stam at 10:30 a..m. 97 161 73 52 Personal STEWARD DEPARTMENT JOHN MATHIAS DELMORE Mobile New Orleans 3 · JuGk~nv:·al~ . . '..:: ·:2i · 3 5 11 ·.7 :3' l 0 17 1 l 2 0 I 0 12 9 4 0 6 4 Pl.ierto Rico Honolulu : H'u~~16ti:" :··::"' :·f:::'.: ': . . ··9 · · st. L~niis, "·:'. ·· 2 . Piney. Point · s f .:o 'l 9' l 0 0 0 0 1() 0 0 l 0 0 149 58 15 108 32 ·New York 6 12 0 1 2 16 3 0 2 .,Phjl~dclp,~,ia 22 3 2 0 14 12 1 ·0 .· 4 9 4 5 5 4 5 0 s 1 2 6 6 Total~ :" :B~.irimore. :. Norfolk Mobile New Orleans 1a,~ki~·uv~.t~I! · 0 JO j1 }~A~ Pr,11n-t~sco· · Ta.~nmn 2 10 ' 12 9 2 0 0 2 2 1 6 ...... 0 0 7·.·. 3 1 j 5 0 0 1 0 62 265 86 19 2 0 11 46 42 0 Q o. 0 0 0 ] .6 3 4 3 24 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port : ·w~~~1~.~:to~":: 2 ll 3 g 3 8 6 2 Algonac 14 9 ..... ·3··"·''·'·":·.,,.. ::··,·o· l 0 '2 ", 0 0 ..: :. t t 1 ·~· '',,ll·:: ',,','" . ' ' 5""', 16 3 j 64 Puerto Rico 1 Honolulu 6 1 32 o 1 ~ 2 0 26: I 47 562 ':}fou~ron.·· ·, '.:"·":: :.·-.s~... LO.uis . . ;: Piilc.Y Point · Algonac To tab 0 7 1 0 0 j 0 0 4 7 16 14 j 21 19 31 20. 6 ' 16 5 7 0 lO 22 7 0 17 29 6 0 0 7 4 4 22 6 66 0 8 5 2 0 45 19 1 92 12 1 'f2 ... '' "7 2 18 12 2 0 0 ll 0 0 0 0 16 18 Q 24 0 0 I 184 ·149 28 107 111 0 0 2 0 93 20 I 2 295 I 274 501 256 419 314 187 192 997 775 423 2 Totnb All Di:pnrtmi:nb *','Total Registered" means tM number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. """"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. September 1998 Anyone with information on John Mathias Delmore - from New London, Conn., who died at the age of 69 in 1971 and sailed as a first engineer - please contact his niece, Carole Sivin, at Hopkinson House, #301, 604-36 Washington Square South, Philad~lphia, PA 19106. Notice UPGRADING SEAFARERS All FOWT, AB and QMED applicants must submit a US Coast Guard fee of $135 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable co LMSS. Education Is the Key ·~ While attending the unlicensed apprentice program at the Lundeberg School, two· members of Class 576Robert Rocanelli and Christopher Burick-recently earned their GED diplomas. With them are two of their instructe>rS'. Peggy Densford (left) and Dr. Joan Miles. Seafarers LOG 15 �1 "'iYtifeat~rers ... Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes International Union ·~.· ~;~ory JULY 16-AUGUST 15, 1998 CL - John.Fay Executive Vice President *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP David Heindel Secretary-'freasurer 1:'.,,1;:c;.,,;;ii:jf':::::,1,•1 • :· • ·vfoe~t~{~:~~fi:.??r:\\).i'.'/,i:> Company/Lakes · 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 5 Totals All Depts 71 43 0 47 18 0 25 25 *"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. Al.GONAC .520 Sh. Clair Riv~r Dr, · Algonac, Mt 48001 -.' .. · 0 {~I0) .?9,4"4Q88 AN'CflORAGE , · 721 Sesame St., .#\C Anchorage, AK 99503 {907) 5(1 l-498t Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters · llALTIMORE ll 16'£; Balttowti: S\. JULY 16 - AUGUST 15, 1998 Baltimore, MD 21202 ·: . :. (4tQ).n77.4900 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Duluth, MN 55.8().2 (218)722-4ll0 " DECK DEPARTMENT ."''.::Q: ... ., . Q·:::'· 8 2 HONOLULU . :o·'..\f:Y 3 · 60<5 Kalibi St. Hottololu, HI 96819 . . (808) 845-5Z22 2 37 0 5 6 25 Region Atlantk Coast Gulf Coast ·Lakes .Inland Waters...J 7. : ·...... West Coast O I}, < I I',!• ''- I 11 1_1', I·'' '"·'' ·''· 1 . .tl_',ot .I 0 0 1 .1. 1 "' .1 •'.' Tot.His Re2ion ·'~'-'-~" .II·"-·",-,._,,.·"·"\·,..•• -.. '"""'~' . Q.>)i 5 18 13 3 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 6 1 2> 0 "(} 0 8 39 4 51 0 2 I 3 0 .. ·o.. 0 , 0 18 0 11 .. 0 2 0 0 2 2 0 0 1 0 0 4 0 0 5 3 17 80 31 3 66 5 27 "'"Total Registered .. means rhe number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. 110 k"Regisrered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. Totals All Depts 42 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST .. ~~HJ_.AUF,LPHI~ ·2004 S. d· St. . PW,lndelp~ia, PA 1~14$ (11$) ·~~6~~g1~ ~ - 7, .,:1-<.... ,, ) ;1" ;• f t /;/'' This photograph was s9nt to th~ s~atar~rs LOG by Pensioner Peter Lup of 6urbank, Calif. In a note to the LOG accompanying the picture, Lup writes: "Here is a photo taken during voyage #185 on the President Wilson of a group of us stewards and other ships' crews. I was new to shipping at the time and this wu my first.ever passenger vessel. Needless to say, I was a bit over.vhelmed by the fancy dining rooms and 'hotel perfection' of ~ervice, bountifully given by smiling and courteous MC&S personnel." (Lup is at left, just to the right of the gentleman with glasses.) In the center of the photo (sMted) is Scheliam (Smitty) Hadad, renowned chief stew· ard, now deceased. He was "famous" on the PrEJsidont Wil~cn as head waiter, according to Lup, and wore a different costume each night, depending on the port of call. Others in the picture include Jimmy Moy, Danny Ballantine, Charles Simpson. Marie Corsiglia, Frank Distefano and Vinqent Siguenza. Lup.65. joined the MC&S in the port of San Francisc~ in 1968, before it merged with the SIU. His last ship was the President Adams. He upgraded several times at the Lundeberg School and retired in 1994 at the age of 62. He also served four years in the Air Fores in Korea. · 16 Seafarers LOG September 1998 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. F our recertified stewards are among the 17 Seafarers announcing their retirements this month. Representing a combined 147 years of a.cliv\; union member~hip, Recertified Stewards Rafael B. Evans, J.D. Hopkins, William Roble5 and Rudolf M. Spingat are graduates of the highest level of training available to members in the steward department at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of the retiring Seafarers. DEEP SEA ANDREAS ''. ALEXAKIS : 66, started hi; career with the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of New ·* York. Born in Athens, Greece, he worked in the engine department, last sailing in 1995 aboard the Ogden Leader. Brother Alexakis has retired to his native Athens. Starting out in the ~teward department, he later transferred co the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. The Alabama native made his last tour of duty in January aboard the Sea-Land Liberator. From 1957 to 1959, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Brooks makes his home in Moreno Valley, Calif. PATRICK L. DURNIN, 71, joined the Marine Cooks & Steward~ (MC&S) in 1968 in the port of Wilmington, Calif., before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Born in Oregon, he makes his home in Gig Harbor, Wash. , RAFAELR. · .j EVANS, 58, started his career with the ,, Seafarers in 1961 in the , .~ port of New .'\ j York. A native ACYLEE BROOKS, 63, first sailed with the SIU in 1952. of Fajardo, P.R., he sailed in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the steward recertification program in 1990. Brother Evans last sailed in 1997 aboard che Charleston, a vessel operated by Westchester Marine. He has retired to Fajardo. J. D. HOPKINS, 72, began his career with the MC&S in 1958 from the port of Portland, Ore., before chat union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. The Oklahoma native upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School and graduated from the steward recertification program there in 1994. Brother Hopkins makes his home in Portland. ·i VICTORJ. KUBU, 63, began sailing with the Sill in 1967 from the port of Detroit. Brother Kubu started out in the Great Lakes division and later transferred to deep sea vessels. Born in Philadelphia, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded m~y Pe reprod1,.1,ed.) Be tjLJrc: to inolucfo ;your Ml11o .15 w~ll .H tM 11tJme Of the per&on to whom you ;;11re ~e:ndin9 the greeting_. (Y"ur IMlfle 15 118CB55l.ilrj' since the notice& :;ire li11t-~'1 ~lph;<1b~l,i!!lly Py the !>cndcr'!l lll!:it Ml11o.) D Ll l'Je received no later ih~n Mon~~y. Novcmp~r 16, 1998. Send your oHtr'iM f,o -r;h~ bt11JflJ/"t1rS LOG, 5201 Auth WrAy. c~mp €>prin~~. MD 20746. You Tl1~ 111'.lli~JJY ~reet111ias mu5t copit:~ directly~ 'the LOG at. (301) .alM 111.ay FAX 102-4407. form~ mtly be fill¢d "ut. 111 t111y u11io11 1-!all and turned in to th~ offi,i;<1I ;11t the: c:ounter-or m~y be given U1 the b61irdiH1 ~.at.rol111a11 dur11113 ll Vll55lll'5 payoff. The holif1:;iy f)reeti11g$ ~ection of the December LOG i5 a favori~ foaturc for m"ny. :]O ~o ::iuro tog~ your Additionl!lly, mc:~t>llgo i member of the SIU in 1965 in the port of ! NewYork.A = = '-"--=' native of the Philippines, he sailed as a member of the engine department. His last voyage was aboard the SeaLand Explorer. He makes his home in San Francisco. ! in on timo. HOLIDAY MESSAGE (!"lease Frin~) Sende~&Tu~phoneNumb~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- M~~~~g~ : ~-=-=--===-------------------~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ROBLES, 62, graduated from the Lunde berg School's entry level training program in 1970 and joined the SIU in his native New York. He sailed in the steward department and frequently upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the steward recertification program in 1986. Brother Robles last sailed in 1997 aboard the Sea-Land Quality. From 1953 to 19561 he served in the U.S. Army. He has retired to Hollywood. Fla. !:;i~~~~lRUBEN SALAZAR, 66, started his career with the Seafarers in 1952, sailing aboard the South€rn ~====""'-_::.c:_:=' Counties . A native Texan, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded to a licensed officer at the Lundberg School. During his career, he also sailed on inland vessels_ He lasr sailed with the SIU in August 1986 aboard the Aurora. Brother Salazar makes his home in Elkhart. Texas. RUDOLFM. SPINGAT, 69. graduated from the MC&S training school in 1963 and joined the MC&S in the pore of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Spingat upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg s~hool and graduated from the steward recertification program there in 1986. His first ship was the President Cleveland, an American President Lines vessel. He last sailed on the Chief Gadao. operated by Matson Navigation Co. Born in Germany, he has retired to Chile. EDWARDH. Check the PIQd; which D Active Be~farer D R~'tiMd S~Mar~r ~~~cribei; your Ll Cl ~utu~ with the ~IU~ Fllmily M~mb~r of Aot.iv~ Ge.:afarer family Member of R~tired Seafarer 0thBr: ~~~~~~~~~~..;.._----------------~~~~~~~~~~~ September 1998 Steamship Corp. Born in Rocky Creek, Miss., he sailed in the deck department. His last tour of duty was in November 1973 aboard an Isthmian Line vessel. Brother Yates has retired co Houston, Texas. GUMPOY WONG, 70, graduated from the MC&S training school in 1958 and joined the MC&S in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Born in China, Brother Wong makes his home in San Francisco. INLAND WILLIAM A5 h.s15 becm done in p~tiit ye~n,;, thi~ December'!i<> editio11 of the Se.af.arer5 LOG will include the ever-popul.ar holid~y 9rccting!!i from active: and rntin~d S~Mt1rers trnd their fsmilieG t-0 other member0 of the 0e;;;ifarinia communit>' .111d their famllle5. fQ cne;urc thl!lt your holiday mc:99tl~" i~ pu1:11ished. plea5e follow the inHru,iion0 below: ~ PRINT 01" TYPE ( iH 2 5 WOl"dti 01" lllss) t.118 mB55B~8 in the 9pli1Gt: provi'1~'1. Ph'1tQgrjlphe; ,ale;o 8r~ w~l~Ol116. D Eie ~ure your grcdlng l!i in the: holiday !ipirit. D JULIOR. PAMINI:i ANO, 71, .1 became a "olMaJ Issue of lOO to feature rersonal Oreetin~s D DQ Mt ~¢Hd 111"M tl·u111 thMe e11tries I'-''" pm•son. (ihi& form to quartermaster at the Lundeberg School. Brother Kubu last sailed in 1979 aboard the Frank Denton, a Bay Shipping Co. vessel. From 1953 to 1955, he served in the U.S. Anny. Brother Kubu calls Phoenix., Ariz. home. YATES, 70, joined the Seafarers in 1945 in the port of Mobile, Ala. His first ship "'-"=~====-=-..;.., was the Edwin W Moore, operated by Waterman BENITO E. I1 CALDERON, 58, began sailing with the SIU in 1977. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, he i_:__:_=====.:...._:::...1 worked in the deck department, sailing primarily aboard Crowley Towing and Transportation vessels. Boatman Calderon calls Carolina, P.R. home . UBIE L. HAMMACK, 62, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1965 from the port of Mobile, Ala. Boatman Hammack worked primarily for Dravo Basic Materials, based in Theodore; Ala. From 1955 to 1957, the Alabama native served in the U.S. Army. He makes his home in Range, Ala. CARL HAR· RIS JR., 72, joined the Seafarers in 1957 in the port of Baltimore. Born and u~~~_ _!___J raised in Erwin, Tenn., he worked in the engine depanment. last sailing in January 1982 aboard a Sonat of Maryland vessel. Boatman Harris continues to reside in Erwin. WILLIAM D. MIDGET, 63, started his career with the SIU in 1975 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The North Carolina nacive worked as an engineer, last sailing in 1985 aboard a vessel operated by Association of Maryland Pilots. Boatman Midget makes his home in Rodanthe, N.C. PATRICKW. O'NEAL, 55, began sailing with the SIU in 1965 from the port of Seattle. A native of Baton Rouge, La., he sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg · School, where he graduated from the Towboat Operator Scholarship Program in 1978. Boatman O'Neal last sailed in 1996 aboard a G & H Towing Co. vessel. He calls Texas City, Tex.as home. Seafarers LOG 17 - �Final Departures DEEP SEA JOSEPH W. GERALDI Pcn~ioner Joseph W. Geraldi. 87. passed away February 12. Brother Geraldi joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in I 942, before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). His last ship before retiring in December 1969 was th~ Prc,.frlv11I Roouv~/1 , opcnucd by American President Lines. Brother Geraldi was a resident of Santa Rosa, Calif. HERMAN LEWIS Pensioner Herman Lewis, 73, died April 28. Born in Texas, he joined rhe MC&S in 1973 in the port of Seattle, before rhm union merged with rhe SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Lewi~ upgraded to chief ~Heward ar the Lundeberg School in Piney Pe>irn, Md. He was a veceran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army from 1941to1945. Brother Lewis was a resident of Seattle and retired in October 1989. CARLO C. LOPICCOLO Pensioner Carlo C. Lopiccolo. 80, passed away December 2 I, 1997. A native of California, he started his career with the MC&S in 1964 in the port of San Franci1co, before that union merged with th~ SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Lopiccolo upgraded his s,kills at the MC&S tra.ining school. The World War II veteran served in the U.S. A.rmy from 1942 to 1945. He was a resident of Sama Clara, Calif. and tiegan receiving his pension in 1984. EVAGE MALONE Pensioner Evage MalQnc;, 84, died May 24. Born in Get".lrgln, ne joined the MC&S in 1966 in the port of San firnncisco, before chm union merged with the SIU's ACLl WD. Brother Matone Jase sailed l\Marc1 the Pre_~idenr Tyler. an American President Lines vessel. I le lived in Oakland, Calif. and retired in November 1981. · JAMES R. McCOY ......-------,Pensioner James R. McCoy. 83. passed away May~. He began sailing wirh the MC&S in 1945, before that union -"'--'--- - - - ' merged with the SIU's AOLIWD. Born in Te~M, Brother McCoy wM fl resident of Van Nuys, Calif. He began receiving his pension in Jnnunry 1980. WILBERT "DILLY" McWILLIAMS P1.msioner Wil~rt "Billy" McWilliams, 73, passed away June I . Bri;>ther Mc Williams joined the MC&S in 1946 in Che port of San f"rnncisco. before chat union mt=rgcd wich che SIU's AOLIWD. The North Carolina nntiYe upgraded his skills at 1he Lundeberg School, last sailing as a chief steward. During the 1950s, he served in the U.S. Navy. A resident o( S~n Francisco, he retired in I 990. 18 Seafarers LOG WILLIAM R. MILLER Pensioner William R. Miller, 67, died April 19. He first sailed with the Seafarers in I 956 from the port of Philadelphia, aboard .___ _..;;...;:;_....:;;;..;:;....:;;..~ the Alcoa Runner. Born in Pennsylvania, he sailed in chc deck depanment and upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. Brother Miller made his home in Elizabeth. N.J. and began receiving his pension in August 1995. ALBERT MITCHELL iiiiiiii~I Pensioner Albert Mitchell, 81 . passed away June 5. A native of Louisiana, he sraned his career with the SIU in 1947 in the port of New OrleaM. Brother Mitchell worked in the steward department, last sailing aboard the Sea-Land Economy. He was a resident of New Orleans and retired in February 1989. ROBERT M. MOORE Pensioner Robert M. Moore, 75, died April 30. Born in Canada, he began his sailing career in 1944 and joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Moore worked in ihe engine department, last sailing in 1985 aboard the Borinquen. operntcd at that time by Puerto Rico Marine Management, Inc. A resident of Baltimore, he began receiving his pension in November 1987. CARLOS M. MORERA Pensioner Carlos M. Morera, 78, passed away May 6. Br(lther Morera firsc 5ailcd with the SIU in 1967 . .... from the port of ti.. New Orleans. His first ship was Che Szeel Navigator, an Isthmian Lines vessel. Born in Cuhll. he sailed as a member tJf tne srewa.ro depanmem and retired in Ocmber 1984. He was a resident of Miami, Flu. SALVADOR P. NAVA r----i1m11111"1im!'"111S"--., Pensioner Salvador P. Nava, 94, died March 22. He joined the MC&S in 1958. before that union merged wilh the SIU'& AOLIWD . Born in the Philippines and a resident of Sea.rrte, Brorher Nava began receiving his pension in December 1970. PAUL W. PHANEUF Paul W. Phaneuf, 25, passed away March 14. A native of Massachusetts, he graduated from the entry level training .___ __ _ ___.program at the P~ul Hall Center for Maritime ' Training and Education at the Lundcberg Schcol in January 1998. a member of the deck department. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Army from 1940 to 1943. A resident of Jalisco, Mexico, he retired in He was a member of Class No. 566. His first ship was the Francis Hammer, operated by Ocean Shipholding. Brother Phaneuf was a resident of Somerset, Mass. GABRIEL REYES Pensioner Gabriel Reyes, 89, died October 19, 1997. Brother Reyes joined the MC&S in t 952, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. A resident of Quebradillas, P.R., he began re.;eiving his pension in July 1973. NORMAN T. RIEDE Pensioner Norman T. Riede, 74, passed away May 15. He first sailed with the MC&S in 1942, before that union merged with the SIU 's AGLIWD. The South Dakota native worked his way up to chief steward and sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by Matson and Oceanic Sceamship Companies. During World War II, he served aboard troop transport ships. Brother Riede was a resident of Auburn, Calif. He retired in September 1971. PfilLIP ROSHKE ..---....,..-,,.....,..,,.---...., Pensioner Philip Roshke, 80, died May 21. Brother Roshke started his career with the Seafarers in 1954 in his native New York. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. During his career, he was active in union organizing drives. Pensioner Roshke was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1943. Brother Roshlce was a residem of Coconut Creek, Aa. and began receiving his pension in Dl!cember t 9&2. IGNATIUS T. SALERNO Pensioner Ignatius T. Salemo, 83, passed away June 4 . He joined the SIU in 1956 in his nAtive New .,. York. and sailed '"""""...:;.,;;_--"""'----''-"'"---' as a member of the engine department The World War II veteran served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1946. A resident of Bronx, N.Y., he retired in October 1980. January 1975 . EUGENE D. THOMPSON Eugene D. Thompson, 67, died June 13. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1988 from his native New York as a member of the engine depanment and upgraded fre· quently at the Lundeberg School. He was a resident of Monmath, NJ. MANUEL P. VELEZ Pensioner Manuel P. Velez, 82, passed away April 14. A native of Puerto Rico, he joined the MC&S before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. He was a resident of Mayaguez, P.R. and retired in October 1968. Pensioner Angel Seda, 75, died May 1. He was a charter member of the Seafarers, hav· ing joinect che union in 1939 in the port of Baltimore. Born in Puerto Rico, he sailed in the steward depArtmenc and upgraded to chief sreward ar the Lundeberg School. Bracher Seda last sailed aboard the Galloway. operated by Sea-Land Service. The Brooklyn, N.Y. resident began receiving his pension in February 1980. CHARLES D. STENNETT Pensioner Charles D. Scenneu. 76. passed away May 22. Born in North Bend, Wash., he started his career with the SIU in 19.52 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Stennett sailed as CHESTER A. "SONNY" GOFF Chester A. "Sonny" Goff, 44, died July 7. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1977 in the port of Norfolk, Va., aboard the Virginia, operated by Virginia Pilot Association. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. During his career, he also sailed aboard deep sea vessels. Boatman Goff was a resident of Virginia Beach, Va. LAWRENCE E. MARTIN Pensioner Lawrence E. Martin, 69, passed away May 24. Born in Georgia, he joined the SIU in t 959 in the port of New Orleans. Boatman Martin sailed as a tugboat captain. From 1948 to 1953, he served in the U.S. Army. The resident of St. Rose, La. began receiving his pension in July 1980. RAYMOND J. PITRE Pensioner James L. Ward, 84, died April 19. Born in Maryland, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1942 in the port of New York. Brother Ward sailed as a member of the engine depa.rtment. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Navy from 1938 to 1942. Brother Ward lived in Oakland, Calif. and began receiving his pension in October 1975. Pensioner Raymond J. Pitre, 68, began sailing with the ers in 1958 from the port of New Orleans. A native of Louisiana, he sailed as a captain. From 1947 to 1949. he served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Boatman Pitre was a resident of Marrero, La. and retired in December 1994. WILBERT WILLIAMS GREAT LAKES Pensioner Wilbert Williams, 69, ~·. passed away April 1. A native of New Jersey. he joined the MC&S in 1965 in the port of San Francisco. before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Williams upgraded at the Lundeberg School and completed the steward recertification course there in 1981 . From 1950 to 1952, he served in the U.S. Army. A resident of Reno, NeY., he retired in December 1990. ROBERT C_ MeDONALD Pensioner Robert C. McDonald, 87, passed away May 29. Brother McDonald joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of Delroit. The Michigan native sailed in the deck department. A resident of Powell, Ohio, he began receiving his pension in July 1977. JAMES L. WARD JAMES D. WILSON ANGEL SEDA INLAND Pensioner James D. Wilson, 69, died February 26. Born in California, he started his career with the MC&S in 1954 in the port of Los Angeles, before that union merged with the SIU's AOLIWD. He lived in Rohnert Park. Calif. and began receiving his pension in September 1970. VINCENT T. YATES Pensioner Vincent T. Yates, 83, passed away May 27. Brother Yates began sailing with the Seafnrers in 1942 from the port of Tampa. Fla. During his career, kc sailed in both the deck and engine departments. He was born in Honduras and was a. resident of Tampa. Brother Yates retired in AU8\1St 1980. PAUL M. ROBINSON Pensioner Paul M. Robinson, 74, died April 10. Born in Kentucky, he started his career with the SIU in 1972 in the port of Duluth, Minn. The engine department member last sailed in 1985 aboard the Kinsman Independent. From 1946 to 1949, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Robinson was a resident of Georgetown. Ky. and retired i.n January 1989. RAILROAD MARINE RICHARD M. DONOVAN Pensioner Richard M. Donovan, 90, passed away June 10. He joined the Seafarers in 1963 in his native New York, but initially began his sailing Continued on page 21 September 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 /imitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. 1hoss 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. LAWRENCE H. GIANELLA (Oc;ean Shipholding), May 24Chairman Jeffrey P. Libby, Secrerary James E. Lewis, Deck Delegate Reynaldo Gonzales, Engine Delegace Ernest Lacunza Jr., Steward Delegate Jorge DemardH. Chairman reminded crew to apply for Training Record Books (TRBs) and STCW endorsements. Educational director suggested crew take advantage of classes at Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Steward department members informed that recer- tification for chief cooks is important. Crew reviewed recent LOG and discussed main issues. Crew reminded of importance of cleanliness and hygiene to prevent airborne illness ubonrd ship. GALVESTON BAY (Sea-Land Service), June 14--Chairman Miguel Rivera, Secretary Andrew Hagan, Educational Director Tom Gruber, Crew discussed Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 as well as most recent report from headquarters. Educational director suggested crew members check back of z-cards for expiration date and that they view training videos on board ship. Treasurer announced $20 in movie fund. Deck delegate reported disputed OT; no beefs or disputed OT reponed in steward or engine departments_ Request made for new microwave oven. vote or thanks given to steward and engine d~partments for hard work. GREEN ISLANO (Waterman Steamship), June 14-Chairman Eugene Kyzn, Secretary JQhn R@iil, Educalional Dir@dor Jim Laratta, Skward Delegate Robert Alltrt. Secretary asked for fresh stores to be loaded in Morchc~d City, N.C. He Abo thAnked rn;w for good trip and for keeping ship clean. Some disputed OT in deck department reported; none in engine or sceward deparrmems. su,_ge~tion made to chan~¢ required days for vacntion check from 120 to 75. Crew discussed starting fund to buy new refrigerators for i;rew roo11w. Request also made for new refrigerator in crew mess hall. Several other items brought up, including possibility that slop ~hest be opened weekly durinE entire trip and that hourly launch service be provided. Steward department thanked for job well done. OOGL INSPIRATION (Sea-Land service). June 7--Cnatrman Russell F. Barra~k Jr., Secretary EkQw 0Qffoh, Cn; w nQkd new ~h1it~ f6t' m~~~ rt6t yet received_ Cha.trma.n a.nd ~~~rNa.ty th:tttlced crew for good nip. Educauonal dim;mr reminded crew to upgrade skills at Piney Point. Crew asked i;ontrai;ts department to look imo crew members being able to access ni;ation benefits after working 120 days. OSPREY (Osprey-Acomarit). June 28-Chairman Robert Lindsay. Secretary Felipe Orhmda, Edurntional Director Michael McClone. Steward September 1998 Delegate Jose Guzman. Thanks given to steward department for good food and job well done. Thanks also given co deck and engine department members for greac cooperacion and in helping keep ship clean. No beefs or disp~tcd reported. President's report from LOG read, as was notice about Anthrax vaccine. Crew requested more videotapes for library in addition to weight lifting equipment. Next port; Piraeus, Greece. or SEA-LAND ATLANTIC (SeaLand Service), June 21-Chairman W. E. Stoltz, Secretary Edward Porter1 Steward Delegate Robert Seim. Chairman informed crew thut ship would be coming out of drydock in Hamburg, Germany. He also commended crew members who stayed aboard vessel in shipyard for job well done. Memorandum received and read from VP Contracts Augie Tellez reminding crew of deadline for TRBs. Suggestion made to disseminate more information on purchase plan, including yearly statement. Crew reminded of no smoking policy. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great job. Requests made for new chairs for crew lounge and messhall as well as additional mattresses. SEA-LAND CRUSADER (SeaLand Service), June I I-Chairman Robert Grubbs, Secretary Brenda Kamiya, Steward Delegate L. Rub. Educational director urged crew to take as many courses at Paul Hall Center as possible. He also stressed importance of donating lo SPAD. Cr@w informed of payoff in Eliz;;\bcth, N.J. upon ~rriv~l. Crew abQ reminded to save alqrn.inum can~ for recyding projei;t to g<;nm&t<; ship's funds. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Inquiry made as to shoregang relief aboard Crusader. Vote of thanks given to steward depanmenc and rest of crew for jobs well done. SEA-LANO EXPEIJITION (SeaLand Service), June 15---Chairman NQrb~rliJ Prats, Secretary Edgar Vazquez 1 Educational Director James Roberts. Chairman reported everything running smoothly. Captain bought new TV for crew JounEe- Educational director advised crew to upgrade at Piney Point whenever po:s:sible. No beefa or di:sputed OT reported. Crew members i;ommended for jobs well done. S~A-LAND HAWAII (Sea-Land Service), June 22--Chairman Jam~~ L. Cartn, Secretary Dan Brown_ Chairman informed crew of TRB requirements_ Secretary advisell crew Chae various forms (medical. vacation. TRB. ere.) are available in his office. Educational director reminded crew to vote in upcoming elections. No beefs or disputed OT reporred. Crew informed of payoff in Elizabeth. N.J. One minuce of silence observed for departed brothers and sisters_ SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Service), June 15- Chairman John . B rtalin . Se retary J. . mith Edu at1onal Director Randall Firestine. Chairman urged crew to donate to SPAD. He also reminded them of importance of attending upgrading classes at Lundeberg School as well as necessity of obtaining TRBs. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. SEA-LAND PATRIOT (Sea-Land Service), June 28--Chairman Shawn Evans, Secretary Ruben Casio Jr., Deck Delegate Walter 0. Weaver, Engine Delegate FaiHI Abhait. Chainnan informed crew of extension of time on new run. He also reminded them to obtain TRBs by August I. Educational director urged Seafarers to hone skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed ITT reported. Discussion held on rules for receiving basic pension benefits. Vote of thanks given to steward department. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif.; Manzanilla, Panama; Freeport, Bahamas; and Miami. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), July 26-Chairman Joseph Moore, Secretary Joseph C. Birke, Deck Delegate Everette Sanders, Engine Delegate William Parker, Steward Delegate Obencio Espinoza. Chairman reminded members to get TRBs as soon as possible. He announced payoff on arrival in New Orleans and thanked all departments for jobs well done. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading at Lundeberg School. Some disputed OT reported in engine department. No beefs or disputed OT reported in deck or steward departments. Barbecue held on July 4_ Crew requested repair of VCR for crew's lounge as well as a rewinder for VCR tapes. LIBERTY WAVE (Liberty Maritime), July 26-Chairman Roger J. Reinke, Secretary Freddy L. Washington Sr., Educational Director Charles Sandino. Deck Delegate John Nichols, Steward Delegate Henry Greene. Chairman welcomed unlicensed ~pprentices from Piney Point and asked all hands to help them with their task books. Educational director informed i;rcw members about new government services course offered at Lundeberg School. He also reminded them to check z-cards for expiralion dace and co renew, if necemuy. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Hot plate needed for bridge. Next port: Haifa, Israel. LTC CALVIN P. TITUS (Maersk Line) 1 July 23-Chairman George Jordanides, Secretary Grant Armstead, Educational Director Donald Hastings, Deck Delegate Walter Ratcliffe, Engine Delegace Mohamed Ahmed, Steward Delegate Earl Castain. Thanks extended co crew for keeping messhall and lounge areas in good shape. Educational director advised crew members co upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center and increase earning potential. He also stressed irnportance of contributing to SPAD_ Treasurer announced $40 in ship·s movie fund_ No beefs or dispuced OT reporred. Chairman noted great steward department aboard and that ship is a good feeder. Crew asked contracts deparrmem to look imo having prescription medicines cover dependents as well as members_ Next pon: Saipan. MAERSK CALIFORNIA (Maersk Line), July 12-Chairman James T. Martin, Secretary braham Martinez, Educational Dir tor Kevin T. cCagh. o beef or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into bringing all Maersk vessels under standard agreement. Crew requested new TV and VCR. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Miami; and the Panama Canal. SEA-LAND CHALLENGER (Sea-Land Service), July 19Chairman Roy Williams, Secretary James E. Harper, Educational Director L. Holbert, Deck Delegate Monte R. Grimes, Steward Delegate Wagner Pellerin. Chairman discussed pension plan and reminded crew mem- suggested crew take opportunity to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department given vote of thanks for fine job. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif.; Honolulu; and Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND ENTERPRISE (SeaLand Service), July 15-Chairman Robert R. Winder, Secretary Franchesca Rose, Educational Director Ray Chapman, Engine Delegate Mike Wells, Steward Delegate Mohamed Omar. Chairman noted new mattresses received July 14. He urged crew members to apply for TRBs. Those getting off at next port reminded to Feeding the Osprey Crew At a recent union meeting aboard the Osprey in the port of Wilmington, N.C., the steward department was given a vote of thanks for the great job they do. From the left are Steward Justo Lacayo, Chief Cook Jose Guzman, SA Chris Corpuz. From Wilmington, the vessel was then heading to Piraeus, Greece. bers to submit applications for TRBs by August I. Secretary and educational director urged crew to make the most of upgrading opportunities offered in Piney Point in order to keep pace with changing industry. No beefs or disputed OT reponed. Suggestions made for crew to read LOG to stay abreast of current events in maritime industry and to donate to movie fund. Next port; Long Beach, Calif. · SEA·LAND DEFENDER (SeaLand Service), July 12-Chairman Benedid Born, Secretary Raymond S. Gai:cia, Educational Director DeMarko Shoulders, Dei;k Delegate Larry Thompson. Engine Delegate Shawn Clark, Steward Delegate Kenneth Lee. Chairman announced ship inspecCion in Long Beach, Calif_ Members need to read pamphlets and know their duties. Secretary read notice from company regarding designated smoking areas. He also reminded crew to apply for TRBs as soon as possible_ Educational director talked to crew members about educational opportunities available at Lundeberg School. He also advised them to check expiration date of z-cards and apply for STCW certificate. No beefs or disputed OT reported_ Suggestion sent to VP Contracts Augie Tellez regarding emergency trips and vacation money. Crew requested new mattresses. pillows and blankets. Thanks for job well done given to steward department. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY (SeaLand Service), July 14---Chairman N. Sala. Secretary Michael Baker. Educational Director Roger Wasserman, Deck Delegate Klaus Tammler. Engine Delegate Victor Bermudez. Steward Delegate Camilo Camarena_Chairman stressed imporrance of obtaining all necessary documents needed for shipping, including TRBs. He also told them to renew z-cards, if necessary. Educational director leave rooms clean for next person. Secretary stated benefits of attending upgrading classes at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew's lounge in need of new microwave oven. Ship's electrician tried to fix old one but said it was nor possible. Special vote of thanks given to steward department for wonderful job throughout trip. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND EXPRESS (SeaLand Service), July 8-Chairman Robert. Pagan, Secretary Michael F. Meany, Educational Director Herman Manzer, Deck Delegate Scott Grider, Steward Delegate B. Habib. Chairman thanked galley gang for great job and reminded those leaving ship to return keys. Educational director stressed need to attend upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. Crew reminded about TRB deadline. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request put in for bigger hoses on washing machine. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND HAWAII (Sea-Land Service), July 14-Chairman James L. Carter, Secretary Dan Brown, Educational Director Rex Bolin, Deck Delegate Mike Brown, Engine Delegate Carlos Santana, Steward Delegate Jorge Salazar. Communications received from VP Contracts Augie Tellez regarding previous suggestions made during ship's meetings. Steward advised members that all union forms available in his office. He suggested that union forms and applications be formatted to disc for better distribution of information. Educational director reminded crew of benefits of upgrading at Lundeberg School. Some beefs and disputed OT reponed in deck depanment; none reponed in engine or steward departments_ Vote of thanks given to steward department. Crew observed minute of silence in memory of depaned brothers and sisters. Next port: Elizabeth, N .J. Seafarers LOG. 19 �Refurbished Poster Collection Displayed at Paul Hall Library The World War II merchant marine poster collection at the Paul Hall Memorial Library in Piney Point, Md. has undergone a facelift. Containing 36 vintage posters, the collection has been refurbished and reframed. The restoration consisted of delicate, virtually imperceptible extension and placing the posters on linen backittg to preserve their outstanding condition. The wooden frames were selected co give uniformity co the collection, which has the visual effect of dr~wing the eye to the posters themselves rather than the frames. Rendich Meola, a former Seafarer who sailed as a deck engineer during the war and who passed away earlier this year at age 82, donated the original collection of 25 posters to the library in July 1995. He gradually added the other 11 pieces during the next three years, including three he secured just before he died. This is believed to be the largest collection of its kind. It is housed at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, which is open to the public on the first Sunday of each month, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Maritime Briefs These World War II-era posters form part of a larger collection displayed at the Paul Hall Memorial Library in Piney Point, Md. Clyde Hart is Sworn In As Maritime Administrator U.S. Secretary of Transportation Rodney Slater on August 6 swore in Clyde J. Han, Jr. as administrator of the Maritime Administration. Hart's nomination had been confirmed by the Senate on July 31. "Clyde brings to the Maritime Administration a wealth of experience in both maritime issues and the broader transportation field. I look forward to working with him to continue to strengthen America's marine transportation system which plays a vital role in our economy and national security," Slater stated. Hart had served as the senior Democratic counsel for the Senate Subcommittee on Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine since 1994. Previously. he worked in different capacities at the Interstate Commerce Commission. Remember to Check Z-Card; Renew Document,·if Necessary Thousnnds Demonstrnta According to a law that took effect in 1995, the U.S. Coast Guard requires all merchant mariners to renew their merchant mariner's documents (z-cards) in order to continue sailing. All mariners MUST possess a renewed z-card in order to sail aboard U.S.-flag vessels by the end of 1999. That means . that as of January 1. 2000. all active z-cards must have been issued no earlier than January 1, 1995. You may renew your z-card beginning one year before its expi· ration date. No merchant mariner is allowed to.ship with an expired document· (Mariners may renew their z-cards up to one year after the e.wiration date. However, mariners Fur Avundalu Wurku.-& lose their Crew of Runaway-Flag Ship Gets Back Pay Thanks to ITF Crew members aboard the runaway-flag ship MIV Oak earlier this summer received $20,000 in back wages, thanks to help from the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF). Don Thornton. one of the SIU's ITF inspectors, assisted the crew of the Greek- own~d, Bahamian-flag vessel in Buffalo. He overcame repeated stonewalling by the captain and the vessel owner. Diana Shipping_ The SIU is one of the more than 470 transpon-related unions around the world that comprise the London-based ITF. SIU E;r,;ecutive Vice President John Fay is chairman of the ITF's Seafarer~ Section. Sr;vr;rnl thou~~nd tr~de uniOfiists, including AFL-CIO President John Sween.ey, and other backen turned out for a rally in late July in support of employees at Avondale Industries shipyard in New Orleans. The · w~r~en v~ted f~r uni~n repre~entation in June 1993, bm since then have faced perpetual stalling tactics by Avondale. It has become the Iarge~t Nationat Labor Relations Board case in history. and che shipyard already has been cited for numcrou5 labor-law violations. Avondale also 'has been ordered m pay more than $3 million in ba~k wages and rehire 28 fired workers. Sweeney described Avondale as the "poster child" for why the nation needs stronger labor laws: that protect worlcers. The right M workers to organize is being violated "all across the country," he said. endorsement~ if they renew beyond that one-year extension.) The expiration date is five years to the day after the card was issued. Z-cards list the expiration date in Renewal Date: Dat~ 1998 1988 1999 1994 1989 1983 1978 1984 1979 1973 1968 1974"" 1969 1963 1964 1958 1953 1959 Of 1Huane6: 1993 1948 1943 1938 1954 two different locations: (1) near the mariner's photo on the front and (2) near the mariner's fingerprint on the back. For those z-cards · ex iration date, the date of issuance is oca e back of the document beside the tn print. If you have any questions concerning your z-card, contact your port agent or patrolman. 2000 1995 2001 1996 2002 1997 All z-cards have to be renewed every five years to remain active! 1949 1944 1939 Fishing Constraints Overshadow Fleet Blessing SIU fishermen particip~ted recently in the 29th annual blessing of the fleet in New Bedford, Mass., one of numerous events comprising the city's yearly Summerfest celebration. As is cus· tomary, tM flMt blessing paid tribute to those fishermen who passed away during the last year and asked for protection, good luck and safe and bountiful seas for the year ahead. Awards were given for the best-decorated boats, with the SIU-crewed Lutador (above left) taking ~econd place. The Neves (right) was another Seafarers-contracted boat that took part. But the blessing was overshadowed by concerns about what many consider unduly strict regulations governing the industry. 'We're here to bless the fleet at the same time the federal government is trying to condemn it," said Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.), who attended the ceremony. "We're going to insist that the federal government does not im~ose death sentences on the scallopers or any other part of this industry." A local newspaper quoted the director of the Center for Marine Science and Technology at the Univ$rSity of Muuehu~ett~-Dartmouth as saying current stock estimates sustain Frank's argument. Dr. Brian Rotnscnild described the regulations as "very onerous" and "a serious economic burden on the fleet,• a~ording to the article in the New Bedford Standard-Times. za Seataren LO& September f 998 �Hers 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 wel~omes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) SIU's Connection To Space Flights The untimely death of Alan Shepard recently brought back memories of life aboard the Knot ship~, which were pickei-boarn manned by sailors from our union under contract to Suwanee Steamship Company. They were on station at Ascension Island, Recife, Brazil and Capetown, South Africa, among other ports of call, as well ·as downnmgc from Cape Canaveral, Fla ___ _ My fellow Seafarer, Burt Hanback, and I had occasion to meet and greet Lt. Shepard when movies were shown in the "unassigned space" aboard our vessel, the Sword Knot, in the evenings at sea, after a day's work was done. This was during the period when space exploration was in its first stages and, as it turned out, Alan Shepard became the first man in that element. Clarence L. Comdns Butler, Pa. . .. Rotl.-ed Seafarer Keeps Congressmen Informed For what it's worth, I sent an email to the Maine congressional delegation regarding the fire aboard the cruise ship Ecstasy , a runaway sailing out of Miami in the cruise trade to the Caribbean. career in 1929 as a tugboat declchand with the Erie Railroad Co. 1 which later changed ics name 10 che Erle Lackawanna llaitroad Co_Bracher Donovan was a residem of Cranford, N.J. He be~rtn receiving hfo pension in <ktober 1965. I contact the senators and my congressman every time I have something I think they should know related to U.S. maritime trade issues, and hope that I am able in some small way to keep them on their toes. Every time I read or hear about another fire or grounding of these runaways, it really gets my blood boiling. and I let them all know about it... I know Congressman John Baldacci is on our team. I sailed out of Boston in the '60s and early '70s as a member of Ed Reilly's Navy, and was proud to be a Seafarer, and haven't changed my attitude yet about the greatest union in the world. I send my greetings also to John Fay. He was the port agent in Boston when I caught the ST Orion Planet in August of 1961, and I'll never forget what a fine gentleman and considerate brother John was to the Boston gang. I'm 64 now and hardly fit for duty anymore, but wish I could be back sailing again with all my old pals from the SIU. Fred F. Carroll Belfast, Maine [The following is a C{)py of a letter sem by 1he master of the HM/ Astrachem to Luis Escobar folfowing Escobar's recem graduation/ram che recertified steward program at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. (see page 7).] Officers, Crew Praise Escobar's Performance On behalf of my e an ~ crew of the HM I Astrachem, we would like to congratulate you on your graduation from the steward Pensioner Samuel E. Ratz, 79, passed away June 6. A native of New Jmey, he began sailing with the Sea· farer~ in 1960 from the pon: of ==--=--.::...._-=:_...:= New York_He worked primarily for the Pennsylvania Railroad as a bridge motorman. A WWII veteran, he r;erved in me U.S. Anny from 1942 m 1945. He was a resident of Deltona, Fla. and began rooeiving his pension in 1969. Recertified Steward Looks Back Twenty years ago, Chief Steward Edward P Dunn caught this 1a-toot, 1,400-povnd tigar sharK off the coast of Panama. The ship was the Erna Eli2~b~th, a Hudson Waterways tanker. He told th~ Seafarers LOG that he needed the assistance of the deck department to help haul the denizen of the deep on board. Last month. Dunn suooeededin another big achievement-he 9rMuatM from tM r~eanifiM st2wards program at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. (see page 7). September 1998 re ertification program at th Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. You exemplify the dedicated professional that the Seafarers International Union is striving to produce through its excellent courses and curriculum at Piney Point You are a man who truly loves his job, and you spare no effort in giving your best to the crew of the HM/ Astrachem. Every meal is an adventure in fine dining. The local restaurants at the ports we visit receive no business from our crew because the best meals can be found in "Escobar's Kitchen." When the men come off deck or out of the enginerooin, they know they ~an look forward to a great meat and a friendly smile from you. . You perform every aspect of your job in a dedicated, professional manner, from your record keeping, to ordering your provisions, to the superb level of clean- line that OU mruntain throughout your pace . We, the officers and crew of the HM/ Astrachem, would like you to know we appreciate all the things you do on a daily ba 1 to make our lives more pleasant in our "home away from home." Michael R. Tierney Master, HM/ Astrachem 1991 fire. The Hamlet, N.C. plant's fire exit doors were illegally locked and blocked, leaving the workers no escape. The t 1-year-old plant had never once been inspected by federal or state safety and health inspectors before the fire. Patrick E.Gorman. former president of the Amalgamated Meat Cutters and Butcher Workmen of North America, died at age 88 in 1980. He said . " ... without oroanization. education. and unity, nothino else matters for labor. And since labor is the leaven of democracy, without labor, vigorous. alert. united, and intellioent the nation and democracy perish: 2 The Bubers, Beautician:;, and Allied Industries 1Union merged with the UFCW in ~O . OOO·member 1980. Reuther. president of the 1untilWaller UnitM Auto workers from 1946 his death in 1970, was born in 1907. President of the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) prior to its merger with the AFL, Reuther was a strong supporter of union political action . He said, "There's a direct relationship between the breadbox and the ballot box. and what the union fights tor and wins at the bargaining table can be taken away in the legislative halls." .4) Twenty-live workers at the I. nonunion Imperial Foods poultry processing plant were Killed in a ~12 Union Label Week. Buying U"' American-made products helps our economy by providing JoM. Buying union helps even more by providing good jobs with fair wages, benefits, and working conditions. Get the word out this week: Look for the Union Label. Addams was born in 1860. Aco-winner of the Nobel Prize in 61931Jane , she worked for peace, social welfare, and women's rights. Her socaneo setUement houses served many workers, including immigrant families who labored in Chicago's packinghouses. She also was one of the founders of the Women'sTrade Union League (WTUL). The WTUL was formed to educate women about the advantaoes of union member.:hip, to support women'sdemands for better working conditions, and to raise awareness about the exploitation of the rising number of women workers. Labor Day. The first Monday in September was established as a legal holiday on June 28, 1894 when President Grover Cleveland sioned an act proclaiming it into · law. 7 ln1981 ,400,000unionmembers marched in labor's first Solidarity Day demonstration in Washington, D.C. to protest Reagan Administration policies. 19 Upton Sinclair was born in 1878 in Baltimore, Md.Sinclair was the author of the 1906 novel The Jungle. an indictment of packinghouse employers' exploitation of workers. The shocking conditions revealed in the book brought about corrective actions including legisla· lion for stricter inspection laws. 20 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 employtr~ . Mtmhtrg ghould get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe chere have been violations of their ~hippi_ng Qr seniority rights as contained in che contra~ts between the union and the employers, they should notify I.he Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez., Chainnan 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 a.nd lives aboard a ship or boat Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for ovenime (OT) on Lhe 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. IL also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harrnful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the Sepcember 1960 meetings in all constitutional port!:. 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 our this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid 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 co 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. to 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. The~e right~ are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no rnember 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 objeccs 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 ~ontributions 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 righcs have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The,address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Au th Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Seafarers LOG 21 �Lundeberg School Graduating Classes L HARRY .;?~~· LIFEBO~j BCLASS SCHOO.L _~, {5< . Trainee Lifeboat Class 578-Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 578 are (from left, kneeling) Kevin McArd~ll. Peggy WilsM , Jason Wyant. Charles Branch, Anderson Saco, (second row) Jeromy Vaughan, Joey Jordan, Korron Richardson, Bobby Brown Jr., Kenneth Bing and Ben Cusic (instructor). Radar-Earning their radar endorsements on July 24 are (from left, kneeling) Charles .Gordon, Lester Vickers, Ben Cusic (instructor), (second row) Juan Rochez, Frank Claridge, Allan McCoy and Richard Grubbs. Upgraders Lifeboat-Upgrading graduates of the July 24 lifeboat class are (from left, kneeling) Denyse Sineath. Abdulrahman Monaser, (second row) Louis Valencia, Maximo Lacayo and Michael Smith (instructor) . Upgraders Lifeboat-Completing the upgraders lifeboat class on July 24 are (from left, kneeling) Ali M. Mohamed, Santos Antonio, James P. Canada, James Marchiano, Tom Gilliland (instructor}, {second row} Timothy Kotsis, Walter Sainvil, Guy Butler, Brian Morris. Dwight King, James Davi$, (third row) James Duggan. Ronald E. Allen, David Rankin. Richard Hicks and Anthony Pacely Jr. Pumproom Maintenance-Engine department members receiving their pumproom maintenance endorsements on August 7 are (from left) Jim Shaffer (instructor), Pompey B. Alegado, Willie Franks, Steve Rollins, Donald Lumpkins, Osiris Diety. John G. Knott, Leonides Baca I, Jose Vazquez and Thomas Keseru. Basic Firefighting-SIU members graduating from the basic firefighting class on July 17 are (from left, kn~~ling) Kamal Ismail. Patrick Briggs, Bruee Zeigler, Lem Lewis, Clarence Tyler, (~~cl'.lnd rl'lw) Kenneth Mclamb, Fred CintoriM, Jim C. Liu , James Wil~on, Carlito V. Epi~il'.leo , (third row) Stormie Combs (instructor), Michael Oavidson, Farid Zaharan, George B. Loek~tt and Hugh McAllister. Academic-Steve W. Bigelow (above, right) is presented with acertificate of achievement for completing the full curriculum in English 101 (composition and rhetoric) from his instructor, Peggy Densford. Below, he is awarded another certificate, this one in college mathematics, from Instructor Rick Prucha. Academic-In photo at right, Robert Richer receives hi3 certificates for completion of th@ Mathematie5 101 and English 101 courses from English Instructor Peggy Densford. In photo directly ~bov~. Steward Department member Vicki Holloway displays Mr achievements in computer basics, WorldP@rf@ct 5.1 tutorial and Math 099 (Developmental Math II). 22 Seafarers LOG September 1998 �. .. 'l.U.NDEBERG $CHOOL Safety Specialty Courses .· "199/J' UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE ·. ·:·,·.·:· ....:;:: ·:·:·:::·::;·;·:::::::'...:·· ....::.:.::(::;:::/':','\'.:':'.:'.'.'.''."' The following is the schedule for classes beginning in September though the Tanker Familiarization/ end of the year at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, located Assistant (DL) at the P'ul ~an Center for Maritime Training and Edu~~tion in Pi~ey Point, !'1~· ;/Al( "'. :·him:s are·geared to improve the job skill~ . .P.f::S~~~ers . 3:~g,:to '.P.fP.~ot~::.:~lj~: .·: · American.. maritime industry. · ··· ·. . . . · LNG Familiarization (includes 2 weeks offirefighting) ..... Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the mem: .:.:.~ti!·~~bip~:;:,flj~ mariti111e H1~~stcy and-"-in times of conflict-the nation's security. . . : : : .:. :fSruderits attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday bef()rt .:.'.: tfie~.~.J~Qurse J s start d"Je. The.courses listed here ii:J.tig:·:·:~~:·:thc. st~ .date$:;·:·:·:·:·: . . . . :. ·· will begin promptly on the mom- Start Date Date of Completion September 14 October 12 November 9 October 3 October 31 November 28 October 12 October 30 September 7 September 21 October S September 12 September 26 October lQ .November z.:. . . . . Nn\l.~l.Jlber Novetrtber 16·:... . . . ··s~at~rs who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the .":.:.:'[~~hd~b~t~. $cho~l may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. · . .. · ~dvanced Firefighting 7 November30 · November 21 . Decembers October 12 October 19 November2 October.24 October 31 November 14 September 25 October 22 · November 20 .l.)ecember 18 September 19 October 17 September 7 October S Date of C()mpletion UPGRADING APPLICATION Wi1h 1his application, COPIES of the following must be sent : One hundred and twenty days sea time for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior co 1he dace your c:la.u starts, USM MD (i·card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, a.nd qualifying sea.time Jor the course if it is (l JO) Name _ _ _ _ __ _ __ __ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ __ _ _ _ __ Addre~s----------------------------- Coast Guard cesced. All FOWF. AB and QMED applicam~· mus1 submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $135 wirh rheir application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE Telephone----------Deep Sea Member D Lakes Member BEGIN END DATE DATE Date of Birth ----~------,- CJ Inland Waters Member CJ If tli1? following information is tMt Ji.lll!d out completely, your application will nor be prousud. S~Hti' security# Book# - - - - - - - - - - Seniority _ _ _ _ _ _ __ __ __ _ Department --------~ U.S. Citizen'. Yes D No D Home Port Endorsemem(s) or License(s) now held ___________ __ __ LAST VESSEL: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ __ _ Rating: _ _ __ Date On; _ _ _ _ __ _ __ __ _ Are you a graduate.of the SHLSS trainee program? LJ Yes D No If yes, c1ass # - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - -- - - - Have you anended any SHLSS upgrading courses? Cl Yes Cl No If yes, coursc(s) taken _ _ _ __ _ _ __ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ __ [)Q yo'" 0 Yes hold the U.S. Coa.st Guard Lifeboatman 0 NQ Firefighting; Primary language spoken September 1998 D Yes D Endeir~~m~nt? No CPR: D Yes D No - Date Off: SIG~ATURB - -- -- -- -- - - -- - 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, contacl 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. 9198 The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School uf Seamanship at the Paul HaJI Center for Maritime Training and E.ducation is a private. non-profit. equal opportunity instirution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified. of illly rate. 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 �Seafarers Scholarships Applications now are being accepted from Seafarers and their spouses and dependent children for the 1999 Seafarers scholarship program. See page 14 for additional information. Graduation Day Tunu Into Fa.mily Day at Piney Point Families play a very impor- tant role in the Jives of met each other. Paulette Catalina Escobar was born in Columbia and still lives there while Paula Andrea Escobar was born in the U.S. and lives in Buffalo, N. Y. They had spoken to each other on the phone, written to one another over the yearst but circumstances had kept them from actually seeing Seafarers. Many of the benefits gained by members in recent contract negotiating sessions are designed to help those left behind when Seafarers recum to their vessels. Loved ones share in the joy of a family member coming Paula Andrea Escobar (left) meets her sister, home after months at sea and and meeting until August 3 when Luis Paulene Catalina Escobar, for the first time. celebrate when their special made arrangements for the two to be in Piney Point. Seafarer successfully completes an upgrading course at In an emotional statement to the the Paul Hall Center's membership. Luis told his fellow Lundeberg School of SeamanSeafarers how proud he was to be part ship. of the union, how he considered every This was especially evident SIU member to be an extension of his last month when three graduown family. Then he introduced his ating recertified stewards had family to the members. and that is family members attending the when the sisters realized they were monthly Seafarers meeting at together in the same place at the same Piney Point to cheer their hustime for the first time. band. father. brother. uncle or The two ran to each other in the cousin on. auditorium as the membership applauded. Luis came Hawscpiper Donald Matozi applauded as his brother, from the stage and joined them in a group hug. The trio Ronald Malozi , received his cenificate signifying his then made their way to the stage where Luis, tears runcompletion of the ·highest curriculum for galley gang ning down his cheeks, reintroduced them to the audimembers. Both brothers began their careers in the ence. Lundeberg School's trainee program. Donald has worked After the meeting, Luis explained he worked with varhis way up to hold an engineer's license. ious members of his family to bring the sisters together. Showing support for their father and husband was the 1 Paulette stayed with Luis father who brought her to family of Edward Dunn. They traveled from New York Piney Pointt while Paula was with the rest of the family. to share in his spe,ial day. No one told the sisters what was going to happen. Hovrever the largest gathering of family members in "I planned it this way because I wanted to share my the auditorium belonged co Luis Escobar. who sails joy with everyone," Luis stated. "This is what family is from the port of Santurce, P.R. 1 The I I-year SIU member brought his relatives togeth· all about and my union is part of my family.' Family members photographed and videotaped the er for a very special reason that he wanted to share with gpecial occasion. Paula and Paulette spent a couple days his SIU brothers and sisters. with each other before returning to their homes. Escobar has two teenage daughters who had never 1 New Recertified Steward Luis Escobar introduces his daughters to the membership. Paula Andrea (left) from New York and Paulette Catalina from Columbia had never met each other prior to last month's union meeting in Piney Point. Showing affection to their father are Seafarer Luis Escobar (right) and his brother. Escobar family member~ took 6f pMt6grApM to ~t¢1'~~ commemorate tne meeting of Lui5 EMobe.r's daughters a~ w4:'11 a~ his grad· ue.tion from the steward recertificatiM pr~grem. Steward � 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 September 1998 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES DOT OUTLINES CASE FOR STRONGER U.S. FLEET IN REPORT TO CONGRESS PLANS FINALIZED FOR FIRE FIGHTING SCHOOL SIU TO CREW SURVEY SHIP USNS HENSON AFL-CIO LAUNCHES 7-POINT CAMPAIGN TO STRENGTHEN SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM SCHOOL’S RADAR TRAINING ON COURSE FOR UPGRADE PENN CREWS RATIFY 5-YEAR PACT BILLS FOR VETERANS’ EXTENSION GAIN SUPPORT EXPRESS MARINE BOATMEN SAVE 2 IN DELAWARE RIVER ECSTASY FIRE EXPOSES PROBLEMS ON RUNAWAY-FLAG CRUISES NEW LEGISLATION ATTACKS JONES ACT THIRD BOB HOPE RO/RO VESSEL, USNS SEAY, CHRISTENED LAKES’ CARGOES STAY AHEAD OF LAST YEAR’S STRONG PACE ITF COMPILING LIST TO HELP STEVEDORES THIRTEEN STEWARDS IMPART VALUE OF FAMILY AND EDUCATION SPEAK TO MEMBERS DURING RECERTIFICATION CEREMONY SEAFARERS HELP STABILIZE GROUNDED TANKER IN P.R. MIRADOR HELPED USNS SHUGHART GET OFF TO GOOD START ADVISORY BOARD GET RESULTS LNG CREWS EYE UPGRADING OPPORTUNITIES, DEMONSTRATE SOLID COMMITMENT TO SAFETY SIU BOATMEN DIG INTO PORT EXPANSION REFURBISHED POSTER COLLECTION DISPLAYED AT PAUL HALL LIBRARY GRADUATION DAY TURNS INTO FAMILY DAY 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 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 09/01/1998 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. 9 1998 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/2d8fb02819d093572006512e66c42849.pdf 3e2da54f1673e96fd12ce66f2fbeb17e PDF Text Text September 1999 . SIU Will Crew Nieuw Amsterdam When Ship Transfers To U.S. Flag In 2000 The Nieuw Amsterdam will become part of the American Hawaii Cruises fleet next year, joining the SS Independence, which just celebrated its 1oooth voyage (see story, page 24). Page 3. More Jobs Acquired By Alaska Tanker Co. 5 ARCO Ships, Plus 2 Others Increase Fleet to 16 Newest MSC Roll-on/Roll-off Christened In San Diego Seafarers Due to Climb Gangway In November _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Page3 Global Link Gets the Job Done After completing a three-month cable-laying job overseas, the SIU-crewed Global Link recently returned to its berth in Baltimore. A recent visit to the ship found AB Geronimo Gonzales (pictured here) and the other crew members readying the ship for its next assignment. Pages 12-13. ...___ ___________ �President's Report Talks Continue Last June, representatives from our union began talks with officials from the NMU on the possibility of their union merging with ours. At that time, I promised to keep you informed on the progress of those meetings. The negotiations are proceeding very well. In the few months since the initial gathering took place in the conference room at our headquarters, the group has met several times. They have formed subcommittees which are looking Michael Sacco into topics that affect members from both unions such as seniority, job security and training and upgrading. More meetings are scheduled this month. As I have reported, the example we are following is the one set when the Marine Cooks & Stewards merged with the SIU in 1978. Like the NMU, the MC&S was an autonomous affiliate of the Sill. The MC&S elected its own officials, operated under its own constitution and negotiated its own contracts. Then the time came when its officials felt it would be in the best interest of the union and its members to become part of the Sill. A document of merger was drafted between the MC&S and the Sill. That statement was presented to the members of both unions, who studied it, then voted to accept it. Regarding the NMU, our two unions have several mutual interests which have allowed us to work with each other. Already, Seafarers and NMU members are studying and upgrading side-by-side at the Paul Hall Center. This effort has worked out much better than anyone could have imagined. It has been a wonderful opportunity for the members to realize how much they truly have in common. In last month's Seafarers LOG, we announced the new contract with the Alaska Tanker Co. This marks the first time Seafarers and NMU members will be sailing aboard vessels operated by the same company. Each step that has been taken since the NMU affiliated with the Seafarers has met with success. We already have moved further in the relationship between our two unions than at any other time in our history. That is why I am confident that future reports to you will reflect even more positive news. Lane Kirkland Last month, we learned of the passing of a truly great man, tremendous labor leader and friend to me and all of us in the SIU -retired AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland. Brother Kirkland held the highest position in the national labor federation from 1979 to 1995. While I was fortunate to have served with him as a vice president of the AFL-CIO during his last four years in office, I worked with him for many years on a variety of issues, organizing efforts and picket lines before that. Lane was a true believer in the working people of this country and of the world. He got his start as a deck officer in the U.S. merchant marine when World War II began. He understood the needs and concerns of mariners and pushed for programs to help the U.S.-flag fleet. Lane will forever be remembered by the public for reunifying the labor movement in the United States while providing support for the fledgling Solidarity movement in Poland that eventually led to the fall of the Soviet Iron Curtain. However, I will always remember Lane as being there throughout his career without question or pause for his fellow mariners. I will miss my shipmate very much. Volume 61, Number 9 September 1999 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org ~'' 2 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, 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Daniel Duncan; Managing Editor, Jordan Biscardo; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Copyright © 1999 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. Seafarers LOG Retired AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland Dies at 77 ·Former Merchant Mariner Headed National Labor Federation for 16 Years Lane Kirkland, president of the AFL-CIO from 1979 to 1995 and a former merchant mariner who sailed during World War II, passed away August 14. He was 77. Kirkland died at his home in Washington, D.C. after battling lung cancer. "He literally was a worldwide labor leader, and he was a loyal friend to the Seafarers and the U.S. merchant marine," stated SIU President Michael Sacco. "Clearly, we're talking about an exceptional person who dedicated himself to improving the lives of workers throughout the world. "From reuniting the American labor movement to fighting against suppression of trade unionism abroad, Lane Kirkland leaves a remarkable legacy. He truly will be missed." President Clinton described Kirkland as "one of the towering figures in the American labor movement. For nearly five decades, he was a guiding force for workplace fairness, dignity and innovation, and a catalyst for international democracy. "With skill, determination and unparalleled intellect, he reunited the major unions and reaffirmed labor's place at the table of American democracy," President Clinton continued. "With his unflagging support of free trade unionism internationally, especially in Poland, he helped hasten the fall of the Iron Curtain while showing America that it is possible to stand up to communism abroad while standing up for working men and women here at home." AFL-CIO President John Sweeney said, "Working people around the world are better off today because of Lane Kirkland's strong advocacy on their behalf. And the world is more free because of his courage and leadership." A report by the Associated Press noted that Kirkland had struggled against cancer as far back as the 1970s. He had several AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland (left) welcomes SIU President Michael Sacco to the national labor federation's executive council during the 1991 AFL-CIO convention. cancer-related surgeries since then, although his wife, Irena, told a reporter that the former federation president "didn't suffer at the end. His body just gave out." A native of Camden, S.C., Kirkland enrolled at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy as a teenager and subsequently sailed as a member of the Masters, Mates & Pilots. He shipped out for the first time in June 1940 and graduated from the academy under its hastened wartime procedures in 1942. He served as a deck officer throughout World War II, sailing in the North Atlantic, along North Africa and in the Pacific. During a 1993 speech at the academy, Kirkland recalled an interview where he was asked if he was afraid of any decision he made during his tenure with the AFL-CIO. "Afraid? I'll tell you what afraid is. Afraid is a four-hour night watch on the bridge of a freighter in the middle of a blacked-out convoy loaded with high explosives and high octane gasoline, in a full gale in midwinter in the North Atlantic, surrounded by wolfpacks. "Afraid is knowing that in an another eight hours you are going to have to do it all over again and for many days and nights yet. That's what afraid is, and I haven't been afraid of anything since." When he came ashore in 1946, Kirkland attended night school at Georgetown University while working at the U.S. Navy's Hydrographic Office. He received his degree in 1948, the same year AFL President William Green spoke on campus and recruited Kirkland for the labor federation's staff. Assigned to the research department, he was given various assignments which helped him catch the attention of then SecreRetired AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland tary-Treasurer George passed away last month. The former deck Meany. Six years after officer led the national labor federation for 16 years. A strong supporter of the U.S. Meany became president merchant marine, Brother Kirkland leaves a of the merged American legacy of improving workers' lives in the Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial U.S. and around the world. Organizations (AFL-CIO) in 1955, Kirkland became Meany's executive assistant. In 1969, Kirkland became secretary-treasurer of the federation. He was elected president in 1979 and served eight consecutive twoyear terms. His first challenge as president was to bring under the AFL-CIO banner those unions operating independently. Returning to the house of labor during his tenure were the United Auto Workers, the Teamsters, the United Mine Workers, the International Longshore and Warehouse Union, the Locomotive Engineers and the Chemical Workers. Kirkland headed the federation during the turbulent Reagan years when companies followed the president's lead during the PATCO air traffic controllers walkout to "permanently replace" striking workers. He worked with that administration to find a way to provide amnesty for the union members "because the president doesn't need to go on the field and shoot the wounded," as he told a Reagan aide. While watching out for America's working families, Kirkland also had a keen interest in the plight of workers worldwide. Polish Solidarity leader Lech Walesa stated his movement survived martial law in 1981 because of the moral strength of the Pope and the material and political aid of the AFL-CIO. Starting with the 1980 Gdansk shipyard strike, American unions smuggled some $6 million worth of aid- mainly printing equipment- into Poland. He also worked hard to end the oppression in South Africa and was one of the first people Nelson Mandela visited during his tour of the United States upon his release from jail. Kirkland in 1993 received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, considered the nation's greatest civilian honor. In recent years, Kirkland often worked with labor activists at the George Meany Center for Labor Studies, located in the Washington suburb of Silver Spring, Md. His survivors include his wife, five children, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was buried in Arlington National Cemetery. September 1999 �New Jobs Ahead for Seafarers Alaska Tanker Co. Increases Fleet by 7 most efficient AHC to Reflo,g Cruise best-trained, crews." Ship for Island Trade The Nieuw Amsterdam The SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) fleet is growing as the company will operate an additional seven tankers beginning in October, including five crude oil carriers presently operated by ARCO. That increases the ATC fleet to 16 vessels, not including three "Millennium Class" tankers being built in New Orleans. The new builds have tentative delivery dates ranging from February 2000 to the first quarter of 2001. All of the ATC ships are covered by the SIU's Standard Tanker Agreement. Besides the ARCO vessels, the newly contracted fleet includes tankers formerly operated by Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG), Keystone, Intrepid and MTL. SIU-contracted American Classic Voyages, parent company of Delta Queen Steamboat and American Hawaii Cruises (AHC), last month announced its purchase of Holland America Line's Nieuw Amsterdam for $114.5 million. If all goes as planned, the vessel will be transferred to AHC around this time next year. The ship will be reflagged under the Stars and Stripes and will be crewed by SIU members. It is slated to sail the Hawaiian Islands, like the SIU-crewed SS Independence (also operated by AHC). "Obviously, this means a very large number of new jobs for the membership," stated SIU President Michael Sacco. "I'm confident that the SIU will continue to provide American Hawaii with the world's Continued on page 5 The Nieuw Amsterdam will be crewed by SIU members in the fall of 2000, pending completion of the vessel's purchase by American Classic Voyages. Details of the purchase are expected to be finalized later this year. New Report Emphasizes Importance of Jones Act A new report released during a Capitol Hill briefing reaffirms the strong connection between the U.S.-flag domestic fleet and the nation's security. Entitled "The United States Jones Act Fleet and National Security: America's Fourth Arm of Defense," the 41-page statement shows how the U.S.-flag domestic fleet provides trained mariners, keeps America's shipyards operating and maintains a vital component of the nation's infrastructure upon which the military can draw in times of cri- sis or emergencies. The document was issued in late July by the Maritime Cabotage Task Force, a coalition of maritime labor, shipping companies and other related concerns. The SIU is a member of the task force. The report examined the arguments made by opponents of the Jones Act-the 1920 law that states freight moved from one domestic port to another must be carried aboard a U.S.-flag, US.built and U.S.-crewed vesselwith facts and figures compiled by the U.S. government and other sources. It also reprinted public statements of support delivered by elected and military officials since the Persian Gulf War. One of the facts provided by the document was that nearly half the crew members sailing aboard two Ready Reserve Force vessels called to duty in 1995 during the Balkan crisis had worked immediately before on Jones Act ships. It further pointed out that 87 percent of the U.S.-flag shipboard employment opportunities are SIU Jobs Secured on 6 LNG Vessels PRONAV Applies for Reflagging Despite an application by PRONAV Ship Management to reflag the eight LNG vessels currently crewed by Seafarers, the SIU will remain aboard at least six of the ships, regardless of whether the application is approved. PRONAV began submitting the series of reflagging applications to the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) in mid-August. The company wants to transfer the eight LNG ships to the flag of the Marshall Islands. In communications sent last month to Seafarers aboard the LNG ships, the union noted that-if MarAd approves the reflagging-then the economic provisions (including benefits) of the SIU's Standard Tanker Agreement will apply to six of the vessels-the LNG Capricorn, LNG Gemini, LNG Leo, LNG Taurus, LNG Virgo and LNG Libra. Other parts of the existing contract covering the LNG ships are modified only in references to the possible reflagging. Additionally, agreements have been signed to ensure that the SIU contract will remain in place even if the LNGs eventually are operated by a different company. If the reflagging takes place, then crew members who are not re-employed on the other two vessels-the LNG Aries and LNG Aquarius-will receive a severance payment. PRONAV said it expects the switch to start in mid-October, pending application approval. In the detailed memorandum sent by SIU headquarters officials to Seafarers aboard the LNG ships, the union pointed out that the reflagging originally was scheduled to begin last year. The SIU had negotiated a conditional but probable agreement whereby six of the ships initially would remain under the U.S. flag, with a phase-out schedule that ended in September 1999 2003. At that time, the SIU crews would receive a severance package. However, due to unforeseen circumstances involving contract negotiations between a U.S. officers union and PRONAV, the SIU reconsidered its initial position that had precluded the possibility of employment on the reflagged ships. As noted in the memo, the once-likely conditional agreement became jeopardized, making it possible that all eight ships would be reflagged relatively quickly- and leaving the SIU crews without any opportunity for continued employment on those vessels. Nevertheless, "We continue to strongly believe that the LNG ships should remain under the U.S. flag," states the memo. "The decision to accept continued employment on the reflagged vessels (should MarAd approve the applications) was not an easy one. "Yet, when weighed against the alternatives, the final decision was based on the ultimate benefit to our members and their families. The application of the Standard Tanker Agreement wages and benefits will, for the first time, [apply] American labor standards on foreign-flag ships. The Agreement is no less than that which is accepted by U.S.-flag SIUcontracted tanker companies. It maintains our benefits and will provide jobs and job security for five more years while preserving our severance agreement." Importantly, the union pointed out that SIU's crewing of the LNG ships will help provide a continued manpower pool of trained American mariners for U.S. national defense purposes. Further, the LNG vessels sail between foreign ports (in Japan and Indonesia), and are not regarded as militarily useful ships to the U.S. Last month, the SIU also sent a union official to meet with the LNG crews concerning the possible reflagging and related questions. aboard Jones Act vessels. In its review of future shipbuilding needs, the report projected the U.S.-flag domestic fleet could account for as much as 70 percent of the new construction in American yards. This includes barges as well as self-propelled vessels. On the financial side, with the work beginning on the two new passenger ships at Ingalls Shipbuilding in Mississippi, the report noted more money will be spent on commercial shipbuilding than non-combatant U.S. Navy construction for the first time in many years. To emphasize the support for the Jones Act, the document quoted two chairmen of the Joint Chiefs of Staff who served at different times in the decade. Army General Colin Powell stated in 1992, "The merchant marine and our maritime industry will be vital to our national security for many years to come." Five years later, Army General John Shalikashvili added, "And today, after two centuries our merchant marine is every bit as important, and every bit as vital, to the commerce and to the defense of our nation as it ever has been." To make sure the point was not lost, a statement made earlier this requires a crew of approximately 400 and can accommodate 1,214 passengers. It is part of American Classic Voyages' "Project America," an endeavor that includes the first new U.S.-flag, U.S.-built deep sea cruise ships since the 1950s. Those two vessels, scheduled for delivery beginning in 2003, are being constructed at union-contracted Ingalls Shipbuilding. "The Nieuw Amsterdam is an exciting addition to our program," said Roderick McLeod, president and CEO of Project America. "This cruise ship will offer consumers a new U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed cruising option, building the market for our two new U.S.-flag, 1,900-passenger cruise ships that will enter service in 2003 and 2004." Built in France and Continued on page 5 Increasing Importance• '29% iif iiNiw (1>Jtt;iiHeI'l'llips •Si)%.of(1l!l:lll«!Tbl roll·vnirnH-of! \hip~ • 8!%(lf:<!lta11J.., ;·, Slides drive home the importance of the Jones Act during a recent Capitol Hill briefing on the freight cabotage law. year by Air Force General Charles T. "Tony" Robertson, the head of the U.S. Transportation Command, was included: "You need to know that my bottom line is the Jones Act is a proven performer that supports both our nation's military security and its economic soundness. I can't put it any simpler than that." (The Transportation Command, known as TRANSCOM, oversees the movement of American troops and their supplies worfdwide.) The text of a resolution in support of the Jones Act and signed by more than 240 members of the House of Representatives also was presented. Besides going to Congress, the Maritime Cabotage Task Force provided copies of the report to the media. SIU Will Crew New RO/RO SIU members are scheduled to climb the gangway to new jobs aboard the USNS Red Cloud in November. The newly constructed, roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) ship was christened last month at NASSCO shipyard in San Diego. The Watson-class vessel is part of a 19-ship fleet (including 14 new builds and five conversions) designed to strengthen U.S. sealift capacity. Maersk Line Limited of Norfolk, Va. will operate the USNS Red Cloud. Thousands of people attended the August 7 christening, which highlighted San Diego's "fleet week" and the shipyard 1s annual family day. They watched as the 950-foot vessel was named in memory of U.S. Army Corporal Mitchell Red Cloud Jr., a posthumous recipient of the U.S. Army Medal of Honor for his heroic actions in Korea in 1950. Like the other ships in its class, the USNS Red Cloud features 390,000 square feet of cargo space. It is assigned to the U.S. Military Sealift Command for prepositioning and other support of American armed forces wherever needed. Seafarers LOii 3 �'Modern-Day Slave Ship' Runaway-Flag Vessel Caught Smuggling 132 Chinese Aliens into United States Officials from the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) discovered 132 illegal Chinese immigrantsmany of them teenagerswedged into sealed compartments in the bow of the runaway-flag freighter Prince Nicolas last month in Savannah, Ga. INS agents continued their investigation as this issue of the Seafarers LOG went to press, but seven people from the ship (four crew members, three immigrants) already have been charged in the case. The immigrants reportedly either paid or were going to pay thousands of dollars apiece for boarding the ship. An INS official told the Associated Press that the Cyprusflagged, Chinese-owned Prince Nicolas is part of a "very sophisticated (smuggling) ring. I have never in my 23 years with INS seen anything this large or sophisticated." According to press reports, the ship's captain on June 6 was ordered by Dalian Jinxing Shipping Co. to pick up "spare parts" in the South China Sea. Instead, three men and the 13 2 male immigrants (including anywhere from 19 to 51 teenagers) came aboard the vessel, which was transporting a cargo of crude iron. In late July, a crew member deserted the ship in Sweden and informed authorities that the vessel was bound for America. But, as the ship reached the Georgia coast on August 11, several searches by the U.S. Coast Guard failed to reveal the immigrants. One report described them as living and hiding in a 50-foot-by50-foot hole in the bow, bolted from inside and welded shut on top. That area was divided into compartments 2 feet wide, 3 feet long and 6 feet high, with holes in the floor to be used as toilets. (The only way in or out was through two tiny, oval-shaped openings that were sealed before investigators first boarded the vessel.) When INS agents went to the ship the next day, a crew member directed them to the hiding place. One of the officials told the Savannah Morning News that the Prince Nicolas was "a modernday slave ship," while another told the AP, "It reminded me of something that would look like slave quarters." Investigators learned that the three men who eventually brought aboard the immigrants had threatened the captain at knife-point. The armed trio reportedly vowed to kill not only the captain, but also his family, the entire crew and their families if the captain forbade the immigrants from boarding the vessel. Court documents describe the ship's atmosphere as wrought with intimidation and tension. They also "suggest a much wider conspiracy, stretching across the globe," according to an article in the August 20 edition of the Savannah newspaper. At press time, the crew (26 Chinese, one Lithuanian and one Filipino) were being kept in regional detention centers, while the immigrants were in an Atlanta AP Photo/Savannah Morning News, Bob Morris A group of illegal aliens from China line up to be removed from the cargo ship Prince Nicolas in Savannah, Ga. A total of 132 young Chinese men were found on board the Cyprus-registered ship. jail. For now, they are being interviewed by U.S. officials. Among those not facing charges, possible next steps include asylum or deportation. Support for Nursing Home Workers Seafarers, including Recertified Steward Judith Chester, march with Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 400 members in front of the St. Mary's (Md.) County Courthouse in a show of solidarity for Lexington Park nursing home workers who are seeking a new contract. Dependent health care coverage became a heated issue when the head of the private facility supposedly told a worker if she wanted such coverage she should file for welfare. So the UFCW organized the rally with two workers entering the courthouse's welfare office to acquire applications. Contract talks continue. 4 Seafarers LOS Latest Case Not Isolated The case of the Prince Nicolas may shock some people, but it is regrettably common. China-based criminals for many years have orchestrated the illegal immigration of their fellow citizens to the United States. Among many other notable cases this decade are those of the Golden Venture running aground in New York in 1993, with 300 Chinese aboard; th~ seizing of five separate vessels the following year carrying more than 400 Chinese to various destinations in the U.S.; and last year's interception of a fishing vessel off the West Coast transporting more than 150 suspected illegal immigrants from China. As periodically noted in past issues of the Seafarers LOG, this criminal cycle finds desperate individuals who pay as much as $50,000 apiece to reach America. Those who arrive typically enter long-term, slave-like agreements to repay their debt to the smugglers, often working at clothing factories or Chinese restaurants in large cities. Heart Attack Claims Beau James A longtime fixture in the Gulf, Theodore "Beau" James, passed away July 24. He was 81 when he succumbed to a heart attack. Brother James began his career with the SIU in 1947. The Algiers, La. native joined the union in the port of New Orleans. He sailed in the steward department. James was very active in union organizing drives throughout his career. He helped set up galley operations at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School in its early days and attended a 1991 crews conference in Piney Point, Md. Although he filed his retirement papers in 1983, James remained involved with the union, especially in Houston. He would cook for special functions, help behind the counter, run errands for fellow Seafarers and oversee operations in the hall's sign shop. In the latter capacity, his efforts became legendary. He would gather the materials, round up the volunteers and show them what needed to be done to produce thousands of political yard signs. Theodore "Beau" James New Orleans Port Agent Steve Judd remembered James as someone who always extended a helping hand to others. "One day when he was in our hall, I asked him where he was going," Judd stated. "He said he was going to Houston to cut a buddy's lawn because he couldn't do it himself. That was ·a five-hour trip one way. It took two hours to cut the lawn, and then he turned right around and drove back that same day. That was the kind of person Beau James was." Editors note: Recertified Steward Daniel Payne pays a special tribute to Brother James on page 8. September 1999 �AfarAd Details Successes Of MSP, Jones Act, RRF Report to Congress Cites Security Benefits The U.S. Maritime Administration's yearly report to Congress states that the Maritime Security Program (MSP) "is working as intended to help America retain an active U.S.flag merchant fleet comprising modern, efficient and militarily useful commercial dry cargo vessels that can support national security requirements and maintain a competitive U.S.-flag presence in international commerce. The MSP also helps retain a labor base of skilled and loyal American seafarers 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." The report, issued earlier this summer, also reaffirms the Clinton administration's support of the Jones Act, and commends America's Ready Reserve Force (RRF), which includes a number of SIU-crewed ships, for "excep- tional service and outstanding performance" during the past year. Additionally, the report provides data on the U.S.-flag fleet, which last year ranked 11th worldwide on a deadweight tonnage basis and 17th in total number of ships. MSP Benefits Another benefit of the MSP, as noted in the report, is the reflagging of numerous ships under the Stars and Stripes. "Since MSP implementation in 1996, a total of 12 modern commercial liner vessels, all less than I 0 years old, have been reflagged to U.S. registry for participation in MSP," states the account. "Additionally, three other containerships less than 5 years of age were reflagged to the U.S. under MSPrelated legislation. The addition of these 15 ships will greatly benefit the goal of modernizing the SIU-Crewed Fleet Grows· Alaska Tankers Continued from page 3 The union also reported that, depending on the particular ship involved, the manning scales for ATC's fleet either will remain unchanged or will increase. "Some are being modified to match the SIU's manning," noted SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. "For instance, on the former OSG tankers the manning is being increased by one AB in order to return to a two AB watchstanding configuration." As reported in last month's issue of the Seafarers LOG, ATC AHC Voyages Continued from page 3 launched in 1983, the Nieuw Amsterdam is 704 feet long. It features nine passenger decks, five lounges, two restaurants, a fully equipped spa and fitness center, two outdoor pools, a 230seat theater and much more. marks the first time SIU and NMU members will sail aboard vessels operated by the same company. (The NMU is an affiliate of the Seafarers International Union of North America.) Also, contract provisions include the creation of a trained manpower pool, similar to the one used on the SIU-crewed fleet of LNG vessels. The ARCO tankers range in size from 70,000 to 262,000 deadweight tons. They load crude oil at Alaska's Valdez Marine Terminal and then deliver it to ports in Washington state and California. Under provisions of the 1997 U.S.-Flag Cruise Ship Pilot Project, AHC was extended the opportunity to bring a reflagged passenger ship into the Hawaiian trade on an interim basis. The Nieuw Amsterdam will be refitted to meet American standards before it joins the SS Independence in the AHC fleet. Carnival s Updated Tally: 108 Sex Crimes in 5 Years 1 Alaska Sues Royal Caribbean for Pollution On the heels of separate but startling disclosures in July involving two Miami-based runaway-flag cruise lines, new reports last month revealed additional problems for Carnival Cruise and Royal Caribbean, respectively. Carnival stated that its initial accounts of 62 sexual assaults aboard its ships from 1993-98 were far fewer than the actual total of 108. The company said it updated the data after investigating the additional charges. Carnival first acknowledged the attacks after a former employee filed a lawsuit claiming she was raped and assaulted by an officer aboard the ship Imagination last year. A lawyer for the woman questioned why some of the other alleged attacks were not brought to the public's attention sooner. Meanwhile, Royal Caribbean, fresh off agreeing 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, is being sued by Alaska. The state filed a civil suit concerning admitted hazardous waste vio~ lations that may result in another multi-million dollar fine. Alaska reportedly pursued this case because Royal Caribbean 's previous guilty pleas prevented the state from filing its own criminal suit. September 1999 U.S. merchant fleet and enhance its competitiveness and sealift readiness into the 21st century." MarAd, which is responsible for assuring that merchant shipping is available in times of war or national emergency, described the MSP as "leveraging relatively modest federal support dollars to retain access to a robust U.S. commercial maritime capitalization base valued at more than $8.5 billion." Along those lines, the Department of Transportation agency cited effective cooperation between government and the industry. "By partnering with the U.S.-flag commercial maritime industry, the U.S. government leverages assured access to a global intermodal network that includes not just vessels but also logistics, management services, infrastructure, terminals and equipment, communications and cargo-tracking networks, as well as a cadre of well-trained, professional U.S. seafarers and shoreside employees." Jones Act Support Describing why the administration supports the Jones Act (which requires that cargoes moving between U.S. ports be transported on U.S.-crewed, U.S.-flag, domestically built and owned vessels), the report states that the law "promotes reliable domestic shipping service and ensures the existence of a domestic maritime industry completely subject to U.S. control in time of national emergency. "The Jones Act generates environmentally sound transportation and thousands of jobs for American citizens touching every region of the nation. In addition, more than 80 million passengers and 1 billion tons of cargo worth about $222 billion were transported in Fiscal Year 1998 under the Jones Act trade, which is 14 percent of the domestic inter-city cargo in America for just 2 percent of the entire domestic freight bill." RRF Excels The report credits the RRF for excelling during a no-notice test last September that involved 36 ships. "This represented the largest RRF series of test activation exercises ever conducted by DOD .... All 36 vessels were successfully made ready for sea within their required times." Meanwhile, MarAd also documented that the U.S.-flag, privately owned, deep-draft merchant fleet (including some Great Lakes vessels) totaled 351 vessels in September 1998. Panama ranked first both in number of ships (4,456) and deadweight tonnage (144,120). Worldwide, the report lists 27,730 oceangoing merchant ships of 1,000 or more gross tons. Anti-Worker Forces Again Attempt To Limit Labor's Political Activities Less than one year after similar efforts were defeated in more than 30 states, Congress may consider a measure to limit the voice of working people in the electoral process. The House of Representatives is scheduled to consider a campaign finance reform bill called the Bipartisan Campaign Finance Reform Act of 1999 (HR 417) when it returns to Washington after Labor Day. The legislation contains an anti-worker amendment added last month just as Congress left Capitol Hill for its August recess. The amendment, offered by Rep. William Goodling (R-Pa.), would require a union to obtain written permission from every represented worker before that union could spend dues money on political activities. It also would require employers to post notices in workplaces spelling out the new law. Finally, unions would be required to file additional reports on their finances. "We fought this battle last year throughout the nation and won in each case," SIU President Michael Sacco stated. "It was wrong then and it is wrong now to consider any legis- lation that tells working people their issues can't be heard on Capitol Hill." During last year's fight, spearheaded by California's Proposition 226, independent research groups discovered anti-worker forces outspent labor by an 11 to 1 margin during the 1996 and 1998 election cycles. The AFL-CIO pointed out the Goodling Amendment is aimed only at unions. It takes no action against any other group or organization. The labor federation noted no union dues money is given to candidates or used in campaigns for federal office because that is already banned by the Federal Election Campaign Act. All union political action committee money (like the Seafarers' SPAD) is donated voluntarily by union members entirely separate from their dues. The labor federation calculates the cost to unions and their members to implement the amendment, if it is passed, at $90 million. A bill similar to the amendment was defeated in the House last year by an 80-vote margin. Coast Guard Publishes Final Rule on User Fees The U.S. Coast Guard last month issued 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 takes effect October 4--is published in the Federal Register dated August 5, 1999. "This final rule will affect all mariners required to hold a license or certificate of registry in accordance with 46 CFR part I 0 or a merchant mariner's document in accordance with 46 CFR part 12," reads the notice. "The Coast Guard revises the user fees . . . based on the most recent recalculation of program costs." Part of the updated fee schedule is printed below. More information is available from the Coast Guard at (202) 267-0785. The complete rule also is available via the internet. And you need ... If you apply for ... Evaluation Then the fee is: Examination Then the fee is: Issuance Then the fee is: Merchant Mariner's Document: Original without endorsement ................. $110 n/a $45 Original with endorsement ........... . ........ 110 140 45 Endorsement for qualified rating ............... 95 140 45 Upgrade or Raise in Grade ................... 95 140 45 Renewal without endorsement for qualified rating ... 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 Seafarers LOG 5 �, --- - ---- - - - - - t Fire Fighten President Al Whitehead Learnea His Union Lessons with the SIU Al Whitehead learned a major lesson about trade unionism shortly after World War II when he heard about a job on a Texaco tanker. At that time, he was between ships and looking to sail while the U.S.-flag merchant fleet that supplied American and Allied troops was being dismantled. "I was told after the hall closed to report to this tanker because it needed a crew. I didn't know what was going on, but it was a job, so I headed for it." What Whitehead found when he got to the pier was a huge brother from the SIU telling him he did not want to go any further. A picket line was in front of the gangway because the vessel's crew was on strike. He quickly assessed the situation and decided to go home. "I learned my lesson that day never to cross a picket line," Whitehead recalled more than 40 years later. "To this day, I still have not and will not cross one." That was an important lesson and statement because Whitehead serves as the general president of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). The path from sailing with the SIU and the Sailors' Union of the Pacific to leading an international union of more than 230,000 professional fire fighters has taken many interesting twists and turns. Yet, he still recalls his four years at sea with great fondness, including how he got his start. Whitehead altered his birth 1--- -;~ L - certificate so head could get involved in the World War II effort. "I was 15 years old and my older brother had gone to war. I was worried the war was going to be over before I was old enough," he told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "I wanted to join the merchant marine, but I was too young. So I changed my birth certificate." He lived in California and heard the Seafarers and SUP in San Francisco could get him a merchant mariner's document and on a ship, so he headed to the hall. After a two-week training session-including dish washing and lifeboat instruction-in a San Francisco college, he got his papers and sailed as a messman. Whitehead's first ship sailed out of Wilmington, Calif. up the coast to Alaska and the Aleutian Islands. "I had no idea what I was even doing, but I recall getting very seasick." When that trip was completed, he decided he would be better off in the engine department. He sailed as a wiper several times, which carried him into the years after the war. He was aboard a tanker that sailed through the Panama Canal to Venezuela, then to New York. When the vessel-part of the War Emergency fleet-arrived in Bayonne, N.J., the crew was dismissed but not given money to return to California. "We rode a bus to Kansas, r ra-'----· As president of the International Association of Fire Fighters, Al Whitehead lets those who visit his office know of his days at sea thanks to his photo display of the ships upon which he sailed. then hitchhiked aboard a B-25 from March Air Base to Riverside," Whitehead noted. Upon his return, a friend convinced him to sail in the deck department. "I froze on deck. The elements were too cruel, standing on the bow. I went back to being a wiper." Before signing off for the last time, because jobs were becoming too scarce, he upgraded to fireman/watertender and oiler. Another incident Whitehead remembered during his years at sea was the way his enthusiasm for his job got him into trouble. In order to get his probationary union book, he was asked to help an organizing drive for the crews of Standard Oil tankers. "I caught a job and got fired almost immediately because I kept talking up the union. I didn't know to stay quiet and work behind the scenes." Whitehead explored other job opportunities (apprentice carpenter, utility lineman, railroad brakeman-"All union jobs," he pointed out) before becoming a fire fighter in Los Angeles County in 1954. He joined the union, became active in his local and eventually served as the president of IAFF Local 1014 for 12 years before being elected general secretarytreasurer of the international union in 1982. As a fire fighter, he rose to the rank of captain on the Los Angeles County force. Whitehead was elected IAFF general president in 1988 and has been reelected ever since. He also is a vice president of the AFL-CIO, serving with SIU President Michael Sacco. Through his years with the IAFF, he never forgot his roots in the SIU. A few years ago, he was talking with an IAFF member in San Francisco who mentioned he had sailed in the 1950s. It turned out he had sailed on the same tanker as Whitehead, only a few years apart. The fire fighter showed Whitehead a photo of the ship, which started a one-year quest to gain pictures of the seven vessels upon which Whitehead had sailed. He had all of his discharges, so he knew their names. Fallowing numerous letters, calls and visits around the country, he acquired the photographs. They are framed together and adorn a prime location in his office. (The names of the vessels are the Edwin B. DeGolia, Chemawa, D. G. Scofield, Agriworld, Cayuse, USNT Miss ion San Gabriel and W.S. Miller.) "I loved the union and I loved sailing," Whitehead stated. "I have some very nice memories from those days." A young Al Whitehead stands on the deck of the Chemawa during his sailing days after World War II. Steelworkers End Strike Steelworkers returned to work at Newport News (Va.) Shipbuilding early last month after approving a 58-month contract. The agreement marked the end of a 16-1/2 week strike at the shipyard, where some 9,200 members of the United Steelworkers of America (USWA) are employed in production and maintenance. Both the union and the shipyard acknowledged that each side compromised to finalize the contract. The pact calls for a pay raise averaging $3.10 an hour over its duration and also improves pension benefits. "It's time to put down the picket signs, pick up the tools and go back with our heads held high," stated Arnold Outlaw, president of USWA Local 8888, which represents the shipyard workers. L.OCAL 8888 (//llI1C6 Sl"EEL M;tl..K€~-:, Ceremony Marks Start of Dredging Social Security Admin. Issues Yearly Statements To 125 Million Workers The SIU and the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department were two of several maritime interests who worked hard for years with local, state and federal officials to allow the dredging of the Port of New York/New Jersey. Digging began in July when the union-built dredge New York was christened. Attending the ceremony in Manhattan are (from left) SIU Vice Pres. Atlantic Coast Jack Caffey; MTD Vice Pres. Jack Stewart; and Allen Francis, recording secretary for Operating Engineers Local 25 Marine Division. 6 Seafarers LOG Starting next month, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is scheduled to begin what it describes as "the largest customized mailing ever undertaken by a federal agency" when it sends an annual statement to 125 million workers. The four-page statement "is designed to help workers with financial planning by providing estimates of their retirement, disability and survivors' benefits," according to the agency. "The statement also will provide workers an easy way to determine whether their earnings are accu- rately posted on their Social Security records. This is an important feature because Social Security benefits are based on an individual's career wage record." The annual statement results from legislative efforts spearheaded by Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan (D-N.Y.). By law, the SSA will send yearly reports to workers ages 25 and older who are not receiving Social Security benefits. Mailings will be staggered so that individuals receive their statements approximately three months before their birth month. September 1999 �Family, Friends Help Recertified Stewards Excel In Chosen Field "There are few places in the world-like the SIU-where you can truly say that no matter what your race, religion, sex or educational background, you can go as far as you can take yourself. The only thing stopping you is you." Those were the remarks of Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez as he introduced the 11 graduating members of the recertified steward class: Duane Bergeson, Russell Beyschau, Rafael Cardenas, Judith Chester, Ruti de Mont, Shawn Fujiwara, Thomas Kreis, Perry McCall, Louis Nicoud III, Daniel Payne and Amanda Suncin. Outside Support But the life of a Seafarer is not for everybody. It takes the strong support of friends, family and the Seafarers International Union to help each individual who passes through the doors of the Paul Hall Center to become better at their chosen profession. At the August membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., the unity of family and friends was evident as the 11 graduates were called individually to the podium to receive their graduation certificates for completion of the fiveweek steward recertification course, the highest level of education the union offers for members of the steward department. First to the podium was Rafael Cardenas. The 37-year-old, who sails from Puerto Rico, recounted his story of being forced to drop out of college following an automobile accident in which both legs were broken and then being turned down for military service. His uncle, a recertified bosun, suggested he look into the trainee program at the Paul Hall Center, and in January 1984, Cardenas started. He hasn't looked back since. Thanks to the SIU, Cardenas said, he has traveled the world, earned a good salary and reached the pinnacle of his career. This was the fifth time Cardenas has returned to the school to upgrade his skills. He enjoyed meeting brothers and sisters from different ports and sharing their different cooking techniques. He found the food demonstrations to be especially interesting and believes his new knowledge will help him do a better job aboard ship. Cardenas advised the unlicensed apprentices to study hard and never be afraid to ask questions. Course Change Judith Chester, 46, began working aboard American Hawaii Cruises passenger vessels in 1985-a job she believed really fit her lifestyle. She had made a five-year plan, however, and that involved moving on, perhaps in the business field in which she had obtained her college degree. But her "guardian angels" had a different plan for her, and 14 years later, Chester is still with the SIU, now sailing from the port of San Francisco. She has sailed as a chief cook all over the world, visiting exotic countries like Egypt, Singapore, Japan, Germany, Wales and Dubai-just to name a few-and believes she has finally found her niche in life, a creative job that she loves. "I am so thankful," she told the group assembled for the meeting, Recertified Steward Russell Beyschau says the facilities at the Paul Hall Center have been great for him and his wife, Kelli, and their daughter, Kristianna (2 years, 3 months old). September 1999 Following the membership meeting and the presentation of graduation certificates, the recertified stewards join union officials on the stage for a group photo. From the left are Plans Administrator Lou Delma, Daniel Payne and his son, Sammy, Perry McCall, Louis Nicoud Ill, Ruti de Mont, Assistant Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Thomas Kreis, Russell Beyschau, Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, Judith Chester, Duane Bergeson, Shawn Fujiwara, Rafael Cardenas, Amanda Suncin and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. "that I found a career which fits me like a shoe." Chester told the trainees that they should ask themselves: Am I ready for a life of adventure? Am I ready to travel the world? To meet people from all walks of life? Am I willing to try my hardest to do the best job I can? Am I willing to try to get along with the people I work with and to work together as a team? Am I ready to experience the freedom that shipping provides me?" She told them that if they could answer yes to those questions, then they are in the right place. Chester has returned to the school four times to expand her knowledge, and each time she has found it a rewarding experience. She was particularly impressed with the new fire fighting and safety school and feels confident that she can be an active part of a fire fighting team should an emergency occur aboard ship. Sailing from the port of Tacoma, Shawn Fujiwara joined the union in 1988, also sailing aboard the SS Independence in Hawaii. He planned to do this for a couple years-and nearly 12 years later has now reached the highest rating available to members in the steward department. Fujiwara, whose mother flew from Hawaii to be with him on this special day, first upgraded in 1990. It was then, the 35-year-old claimed, that he decided to stay. "In that time," he notes, "I have been around the world and visited 16 countries and have seen things most people only dream about." enced his life, including all the stewards under whom he has sailed and for believing in him when he started to doubt himself. Fujiwara says stewards have one of the hardest jobs on the ship and are often the forgotten ones, but it is up to them to make sure each meal is hot, hearty and that the crew leaves with their bellies full. "Remember," he jokingly stated, "you are only as good as your last doughnut." To the unlicensed apprentices, Fujiwara imparted the secret to his success: "I never gave up, I always cared, and I never forgot where I came from or where I was going." He commended those trainees who were studying for their GEDs and noted they are all embarking on the adventure of their lifetime. He reminded them that they will leave the school with not only a job but also with a skill. "The school is here for us, it is up to us to use it." Thomas Kreis, 57, joined the SIU in 1970 in the port of Mobile and now ships out of New Orleans. For nearly 30 years, Kreis said, being a Seafarer has been a good way of life. In returning to the school for the third time, he found the fire fighting and CPR classes to be of particular benefit and noted an even closer sense of unity among Seafarers than in years past. "I'm proud to be here," he stated, adding he would recommend upgrading to fellow Seafarers. "It will be a lot of hard work, but nothing comes easy." To everyone in the audience Continued on page 8 Thanks Others In addition to the SIU officials and school instructors, Fujiwara thanked the people who influ- Ruti de Mont (left) and Judith Chester complete the refresher class in fire fighting at the new Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School. Seafarers LOB 7 �While learning more about how the union works for its members in the_ legislative proc~ss, the recertified stewards toured Capitol Hill. They were addressed by Rep. Ed Pastor (DAriz.) (right photo) and also posed with the elected delegate from American Samoa, Eni F. H. Faleomavaega. 11 Recertified Stewards Speak of 'Past, Present, Future' Continued from page 7 and to the trainees, in particular, Kreis said, "Remember: whether it's your first ship or your last ship, respect is what makes us strong." Daniel Payne, 52, thanked the union for allowing him to bring his family with him when upgrading. "I'm away from my family enough as it is, and it's been a real blessing to be able to study and have my family here," said the Seafarer who sails from the port of Houston. He also thanked the trainees for their hard work and told them to keep it up and they would do fine. Next Generation Amanda Suncin, 46, joined the SIU in San Francisco in 1977 and now sails from Tacoma, Wash. "I feel very honored and privileged to be here today," she said, "and for the opportunity to join the maritime industry in 1977 because I wanted to follow in my father's footsteps. I am very proud of my father because I feel that all of the sacrifices he made and the picket lines he walked helped create better working conditions of which we're reaping the benefits today." [Suncin's father, Fernando, was a member of the Marine Fireman's union.} Suncin continued the theme of unity when she said, "My father and our fathers before us are the past; we as upgraders are the present; and the trainees are the future of our union. As a unit and with teamwork, we can continue the legacy that our fathers fought so hard for." Suncin thanked the SIU officials for their work in keeping the union strong and said she enjoyed visiting the Capitol and seeing how SPAD contributions help every SIU member. She thanked her family for their support, especially her 9-year-old daughter who does not always understand that her mother must leave for long periods of time. Suncin said she learned a lot in the recertification course and found the fire fighting, first aid and STCW classes particularly Passing Dawn Memories ••• and Recipes Stewards play a very important part in shipboard life. But some may be more memorable than others. For Recertified Steward Daniel Payne, one such man was Pensioner Theodore "Beau" James, who died July 24 at the age of 81. Payne says that it was a great privilege to have known Jam es, and he only hopes he will be as much of a help to other Seafarers and the labor movement as James was. The new recertified steward offers one of the late steward's recipes to help keep his memory alive. Beau James' World's Fair Dinner Rolls (makes 4 rolls) 1 quart milk 3 Tablespoon sugar 2 teaspoon salt % cup butter 3 quarts bread flour 3 eggs 2 Tablespoon yeast 2 Tablespoon baking powder Daniel Payne thanked the union for allowing him to bring his wife, Aurora, and son, Sammy (7), with him to the school while he was upgrading. B Seafarers LOS Scald milk and then cool. Dissolve yeast in lukewarm milk, add sugar, 1'Y2 quarts flour and the butter. Rise in a warm place until light. Add baking powder and salt to balance of flour mix and then add to wet mix. Knead well. Place in a greased bowl, rise until doubled. Knead again. Shape rolls. Let rise until doubled in size. Bake at 400 degrees F. for 20 minutes. rewarding. Her advice to those entering the profession is to never be afraid to ask questions, and said she hoped she would get to meet them aboard ship sometime soon. This is the third time Duane Bergeson, 39, has returned to the Paul Hall Center for upgrading, and he says it gets better each time. He learned how important STCW is to the union and how it could help protect the U.S. merchant fleet from foreign encroachment. Bergeson, who sails from the port of Tacoma, summed up his experiences by paraphrasing the of actor Arnold worlds Schwarzenegger: "I'll be back." Returns to Center Russell Beyschau, who was a trainee in class 397 in 1984, has returned to the school six times to upgrade. His home port is Piney Point. The 33-year-old Beyschau said the facilities at the Paul Hall Center have been great for both him and his family. "I have enjoyed each time here at the school and look forward to the next." The recertified steward said he would recommend upgrading to his fellow Seafarers because of what it has given him-a chance to see the world and visit places other people can only dream of and make a great living at the same time. He reminded the apprentices that the SIU is a "great organization" and the upgrading facilities are a benefit of which they should take advantage. "Dreams do come true," said Perry McCall, 38. When he started as a trainee at the school in 1982, he told himself he wanted to go to the top, he wanted to be the best he could be in the culinary arts field. And every chance he got, he returned to upgrade. McCall sails from San Francisco. "I once sat where you are now," he said to the unlicensed apprentices. "If you're eager and ready to learn," then you also will advance. Another of the recertified stewards who began their SIU career sailing aboard the Independence in Hawaii is Ruti Chef Instructor Ed White (standing in rear) works with the new class of recertified stewards. de Mont. After flying out to Kauai for her first job as a GU, she almost missed the ship-but that was 14 years ago! The one thing she regrets, she noted, was that it took her eight years before she came to the school to upgrade for the first time. Mostly, she said, she lacked self-confidence. "Once I finally got here, I overcame my fears very quickly," she said, and urged the trainees not to make the same mistake. "As soon as you have the seatime you need," she stressed, "make the effort to come back here and upgrade." Confidence The 40-year-old de Mont has returned numerous times-totaling more than a year of training and instruction-and says it has helped her grow as a person and become confident in her profession. In her closing remarks, de Mont, who continues to sail from Honolulu, left three simple words for all upgraders and unlicensed apprentices to take with them on their next ship: "Can I help?" Much of the self-confidence gained by the students completing the steward recertification course is based on their work in the galley labs where they created, practiced and prepared new recipes, experimented with different cooking techniques and learned nutrition and the sanitary practices so necessary aboard ship. They also toured Capitol Hill and the union headquarters in Camp Springs, where they met with representatives of the union's various departments. These meetings were designed to enhance their understanding of the union's operations and provide them with the latest information from each department so that they, in tum, can relay it to their fellow crew members aboard their next ship. Last up to the podium to receive his certificate was Louis Nicoud III, 43, who joined the SIU as a trainee in 1982 and worked his way up the ladder from SA to recertified steward. Nicoud, who sails from the port of Wilmington, Calif., thanked the SIU and its officials for all the "sacrifices they have made" to ensure the success of its members into the new millennium. "I have no doubt," he stated, "that the 21st century will be as strong and shipping as good, if not better, than today." September 1999 �Prime Topics at Piiiey Point: Safety, STCW The impact of the 1995 amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) for mariners is evident in the many courses available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. STCW has influenced everything from the school's entry program to its most advanced safety courses, which have been updated to meet the latest requirements. It also led to the center securing new accreditation from the American Council on Education, along with various approvals from the U.S. Coast Guard. Pictured on this page are students who recently took courses at the school. The photos were supplied by instructor Russ Levin. Though officially retired, Romeo Lupinacci (standing) still lends his invaluable experience to instructors and upgraders. Here the master executive chef, for years a fixture at the school, makes sure that Seafarers are satisfied with lunch. To Sealarers Who Joined In 1938 or 1939 Bill Eglinton, director of vocational education at the school and a frequent participant in international STCW meetings, discusses the convention's ramifications for steward department Seafarers. Lakes Seafarers Work Through Cargo Slump Officials from the American Council on Education examine Paul Hall Center courses to determine which ones warrant college credit recommendations. Pictured from left to right are Beth Wroblewski of American Service Technology, Dr. Clay Warren, Celeste Sichenze, Capt. Lee Kincaid and Charles Munsch. The Seafarers LOG would like to hear from you as soon as possible concerning an upcoming article that involves the union's history. Please contact the LOG office at (301) 8990675, or write to us at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 and let us know how we may contact you. We appreciate your assistance and hope to hear from you soon. Bosun Sets Record Straight Seafarers on the Great Lakes are maintaining full schedules, but the steel crisis continues to impact cargo movement there. Through July, Lakes vessels had moved about 5 million fewer tons of cargo compared with the same period last year. Some of the decrease is due to short-term factors (including ship repairs and low water levels), but more stems from the continued dumping of foreign steel into the United States. The dumping (illegally selling steel at less than production cost) has caused a reduction of domestic steel production. This particularly has impacted the iron ore and stone trades. Trade unions and industry groups are working to combat the unfair trading practices. Recertified Bosun Jerry Borucki politely informed the Seafarers LOG that we made a mistake in the May issue (photo caption, page 20). ''That was not the SeaLand Trader, it was the tanker Boston," the bosun wrote. "We don't load the Sea-Land Trader in Valdez." The longtime Seafarer gave us a second chance with these photos. Above: Borucki (right) poses with Third Mate Mahoney while the Sea-Land Trader (we really mean it this time) discharges cargo in Hong Kong. At left (from left): ABs Norm Taylor and Allan Campbell are pictured with Bosun Borucki on the stern. SEAFARERS: Above: Pictured aboard the cement carrier Townsend in Detroit are (from left) Conveyorman Fred Hart, AB Vladislav Pitsinko and AB John Vegh. Left: Applying muscle to the task at hand is Bosun Phillip Piper, aided by Conveyorman Fred Hart aboard the Townsend. September 1999 YOUR DONATION PROVIDES JOB SECURITY INTO THE NEXT MILLENNIUM. SUPPORT SPAD Seafarers LOG 9 �John Haller (top photo) and Mike Kirby are reefer mechanics at Petty's Island, a Crowley facility in Pennsauken, N.J. across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, where SIU members load and unload barges and ships and maintain containers, among other jobs. Activity Abounds In Port Of Philadelphia In photo at left, Captain Roger Taylor and Senior Deckhand Ed Zolynski dock the River/ink (above) at Penns Landing in Philadelphia. Operated by McGovern Marine, the River/ink is an SIU-crewed passenger ferry that runs between Camden, N.J. and Philadelphia. Mate Mike Daniels (left) and Cook Gary Mason work aboard Express Marina's tug Consort. !. Philadelphia is a busy port for Seafarers who sail in the union's inland and deep sea divisions, and the SIU presence in and around the city's waterfront areas is very much in evidence. SIU members can be found crewing and performing maintenance work on the oceangoing ships, tankers, tugs and barges that sail into the port as well as the local passenger ferry linking the city with Camden, N.J. Among the SIU-contracted inland companies operating in the area are Crowley, Moran, Maritrans (which also operates deep sea tankers), McAllister and Express Marine. In addition, Crowley, Sea-Land and NPR, Inc. operate port facilities to assist in the upkeep of their equipment. Above left: On the deck of the Maritrans tanker Integrity are (from left) AB Rodney Roberson, SIU Representative Joe Mieluchowski and AB Joe Arnold. In photo above, AB Edgard Martinez stands gangway watch while the ship was at the Marcus Hook dock. Following a payoff aboard the Intrepid tanker Courier, (from left) Chief Cook Michael Kozak, Bosun G. Israel Bonefont and OMU Michael Haller relax in the ship's lounge. AB Pat Lavin does some chipping on the Carolina, which was temporarily laid up in Philadelphia. The Maritrans 300 (left) is one of many barges operated by the company. At right, the Mayaguez, an NPR, Inc. vessel , is unloaded at the Packer Ave. terminal in Philadelphia. 10 Seafarers LOB September 1999 �S-L Con111mer Crew Agrees: Everyone Loves a Cookout All the hard work is worth the effort when you know one of Chief Cook William "Bill" Pitt's cookouts is not far behind. According to DEU John Cooper (who sent the Seafarers LOG the photos on this page), the Sea-Land Consumer crewed in Norfolk, Va., loaded cargo in Jacksonville, Fla. and headed to San Juan, P.R. to unload. NPR, Inc. 's Humacao also was in port at the time, and the crew members from both vessels were able to get off their respective ships and enjoy some of the sights of the port city. En route to New York, where the Sea-Land Consumer paid off, everyone pitched in to do their part in making the ship's barbecue a success. Ready to go ashore in Puerto Rico are DEU John Cooper, OMU Robert Brown and ABs Bennie Spencer and Larry Bradley. Everyone helps at cookout time. Above, AB Larry Bradley cleans the deck while (below) Assistant Cook Rachel Cutler-Washington surveys the area to see what still needs to be done. Electrician Howard Hendra Jr. spruces up his fo'c's'le before going ashore in Puerto Rico. The Sea-Land Consumer pays off upon arrival in New York. SIU Patrolman Jack Sheehan (seated) updates Bosun Frank Adams, AB Steve Ledermann and OMU Mohsin A. Yafai on the latest union news. Left: Capt. Peter Balley joins his crew on the ship's stern for some good food. Officers and crew alike share in the delicious grilled food. Right: Chief Engineer Thomas Dutton (left) heads for the grill, manned by Chief Cook Bill Pitt. Three of the consumers waiting for the cookout to begin are (from left) AB Juan Ayala, OMU Valentin M. Martinez and OMU Silvio J. Iglesias. September 1999 I i Seafarers LOG 11 �LINK NEW YORK NY j 3-Mon Vessel Ret SIU members aboard the Global Link recently helped execute a project called "Columbus 3" that involved laying cable between Florida and Africa. The job took about 90 days. 'J Global he SIU-crewed cable returned to its berth in three-month assignme However, the completion between Florida and Africa crew members' work. A shi found Seafarers vigorously e and upkeep of the vessel. Additionally, a number of Global Link recently comple ing the International Safety "We're on stand-by, sow nance, training for cable proj body's skills," noted Recerti Isenstadt. "We also host a lo from schoolchildren to teleco T Left: AB Steve Roquemore Right: OMU Knolly Wiltshire Below: SA Jose Garcia Bulnes (left) and SA Mosleh Mosleh Chief Cook Tom Scheider (left) and Cook/Baker Ray Toro AB Lyle Davis 12 Seafarers LOS Aboard the Global Link, cable is stored in dee through machinery that helps guide it to the ocean in the area pictured directly above. September 1999 �~i11k Crew rns to Port of Baltimore hip Global Link recently Baltimore following a t overseas. f that cable-laying job id not signal an end to the board visit in mid-August gaged in maintenance ed a two-day class coveranagement Code (ISM). 're doing general maintects and updating every1ed Bosun Brian of tour groups, everyone unications companies." Before the three-month assignment, the Global Link (operated by Tyco International) had been stationed in the Caribbean for approximately 18 months. While there, the ship moved a depot from St. Thomas to St. Croix. "During off hours, we took advantage of being at the islands," said Isenstadt. "Some of the crew learned how to scuba dive." Chief Electrician Peter Littman pointed out that, no matter where the ship is docked, preventive maintenance is crucial. He observed that the Global Links computerized inventory helps in that regard. "There are a lot of things that can go wrong, so we really stay on top of it," he observed. "It's a good environment on this ship, with good people," Littman added. Above: OMU Bill Young Left: Electrician Frank Coburn Right: AB Geronimo Gonzales Right: Splicer/Joiner Lovell Smith compartments (right), then fed floor. Part of the work takes place September 1999 Seafarers LOS 13 �Washington Post Profiles New Fire Fighting School The Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School continues to draw attention for its unique purpose. Last month, The Washington Post featured the facility in its August 22 section dedicated to the happenings in southern Maryland. The article, carried on three pages, included several color photographs of Seafarers from apprentice class 592 learning how to attack fires in an engine room, on a petroleum barge and from a helicopter. Each of these procedures is taught to all students taking fire fighting at the new school. The article informed its readers about the other aspects of the school: damage control, searchand-rescue, first aid and safety, water survival and much more. Local News Readers of The Washington Post from southern Maryland learned about the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, thanks to a three-page article with color photographs in the paper's August 22 edition. Personal Greetings for Holiday Issue of the LOG 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 fam il ies. To ensure that your holiday message is published, please follow the instructions below: D PRINT or lYPE (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 D Do not send more than three entries per person. (This form may be reproduced. ) Be sure to include your name as well as the name of the person to whom you are send ing the greeting. (Your name is necessary since the notices are listed alphabetical ly 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 un ion ha ll and turned in to the officia l 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. HOLIDAY MESSAGE (Please Print) To: From: -~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Sender's Telephone Number: BACK TO SCHOOL DAYS Scholarship to Help 7Members, Dependents With the arrival of the 1999 school year, three SIU members and four dependents of Seafarers are among those heading through the portals of higher education. These seven students are realizing their dreams of a higher education with financial assistance from the Seafarers Welfare Plan Scholarship Program ... and so can you! All Seafarers and their spouses and children who plan to attend college next year-autumn of 2000-are encouraged to complete a scholarship application. The deadline for submission of all required paperwork is April 15, 2000. One of the three scholarships reserved for SIU members is in the amount of $15,000 and is intended to 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 vocational school or community college. Four scholarships are awarded in the amount of $15,000 to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. The first step in finding out more about the scholarship program, eligibility requirements and the application process is to send for the Seafarers Scholarship Program booklet. The booklet contains all the necessary information a prospective student will need to complete the application. To receive a copy of this guide, fill out the coupon below and return it to the address listed on the form. Upcoming issue of the Seafarers LOG will have more articles about the scholarship program, but you can get a head start by sending away for your scholarship program booklet now. r--------------------------------------------------, P Message: Apprentices Keolamanloaohawaiiloa Mowat and Shannon Bonefont describe their training experiences to reporter Jessie Mangaliman (far right). Instructor Anthony Hammett listens. lease send me the 2000 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 Check the block which describes your status with the SIU: D Active Seafarer D Family Member of Active Seafarer D ·Retired Seafarer D Family Member of Retired Seafarer This application is for: D Self Other:_~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~9199 D Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 9199 --------------------------------------------------~ 14 Seafarers LOS September 1999 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea JULY 16 - TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups AU Groups Class A Class B Class C Class A Class B Class C New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville 26 San Francisco 21 17 30 11 13 Piney Point Algonac Totals 3 5 18 9 25 35 27 3 1 0 244 8 5 5 2 2 10 6 13 16 10 8 7 4 7 10 9 8 4 8 207 104 65 35 4 26 5 8 10 3 7 4 2 114 0 0 74 26 0 0 7 1 2 6 5 8 4 11 2 11 6 10 2 7 6 3 2 5 4 4 3 3 4 22 9 1 17 1 0 0 32 l 2 0 112 0 0 0 10 2 2 0 I 1 1 3 3 3 8 6 11 21 13 16 1 8 10 0 3 0 2 11 8 9 22 12 4 3 0 128 0 78 2 3 0 0 6 Totals All Departments 2 5 6 lO I 8 13 5 1 10 36 9 9 17 15 27 56 32 32 49 22 12 44 5 1 71 4 2 371 18 0 8 19 8 16 18 11 16 9 3 8 18 3 4 2 161 8 1 0 22 13 2 3 2 8 6 3 4 8 2 10 8 5 12 11 15 5 8 11 8 14 8 9 21 8 7 6 4 14 3 6 4 5 0 4 0 72 Piney Point .............Monday: October 4, November 8 Algonac .................. Friday: October 8, November 12 6 0 6 6 8 3 3 2 5 4 5 0 2 0 IO 10 2 1 9 7 4 12 4 10 3 2 2 3 I 0 6 3 3 4 l 3 3 2 4 2 10 5 3 8 2 3 2 0 0 0 l 2 0 26 52 26 16 12 19 9 6 7 12 Baltimore ................Thursday: October 7 Friday: November 12* (*change created by Veterans Day holiday) Duluth ..................... Wednesday: October 13, November 17 Honolulu ................. Friday: October 15, November 19 Houston .................. Monday: October 11, November 15 Jacksonville ............ Thursday: October 7 Friday, November 12* (*change created by Veterans Day holiday) Jersey City ..............Wednesday: October 20, November 24 II Mobile ....................Wednesday: October 13, November 17 10 New Bedford ..........Tuesday: October 19, November 23 2 90 6 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: October 12, November 16 New York ................Tuesday: October 5, November 9 Norfolk ...................Thursday: October 7 Friday, November 12* (*change created by Veterans Day holiday) Philadelphia ............Wednesday: October 6, November 10 4 1 3 11 1 5 5 5 6 2 26 2 9 0 1 2 4 0 3 0 0 0 188 108 44 5 0 23 9 0 3 0 5 2 2 1 5 9 6 7 12 31 37 26 39 2 20 20 6 7 San Francisco .........Thursday: October 14, November 18 San Juan .................. Thursday: October 7 Friday, November 12* (*change created by Veterans Day holiday) St. Louis .................Friday: October 15, November 19 Tacoma ................... Friday: October 22, November 26 Wilmington ...............Monday, October 18, November 22 5 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Correction STEWARD DEPARTMENT 9 I 6 3 6 13 20 23 19 25 2 12 14 0 5 5 2 6 0 46 5 4 4 3 4 1 3 0 155 I 3 0 0 0 0 9 2 l 0 0 21 0 0 113 Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals AU Groups Class A Class B Class C ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. 'Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals 14 2 10 ·4 16 11 3 10 8 3 4 )l 3 2 2 8 8 23 15 18 3 6 Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 4 21 IO 2 2 5 5 2 5 6 Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals **REGISTERED ON BEACH *TOTAL REGISTERED Port Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis AUGUST 15, 1999 Octobel' & November 1999 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters 6 0 10 0 0 9 4 1 0 0 7 0 9 7 9 10 0 3 3 0 0 2 0 6 0 5 l 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 42 15 58 237 0 0 0 0 0 0 14 1 0 0 4 7 6 7 4 2 2 4 0 3 7 6 2 8 I 78 1 8 2 1 2 0 30 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 7 2 27 2 3 17 0 14 5 14 5 0 2 2 12 0 I 0 0 3 4 7 0 6 2 4 4 4 10 0 3 8 1 69 2 3 4 2 7 7 8 11 16 8 12 2 31 28 2 9 5 1 63 l 0 4 4 5 0 9 13 4 11 5 5 5 6 8 8 6 0 7 4 0 0 l 1 1 16 1 16 0 0 0 0 10 1 46 167 155 28 118 0 113 573 405 282 460 336 219 9 l 1 5 11 11 12 26 30 19 15 2 10 2 l 1 0 82 239 248 181 878 586 412 0 8 0 0 0 0 14 5 10 0 0 0 0 3 1 36 Ode to the Chef by C.J. Sandy 14 16 1 9 I 13 LOG-A-RHYTHMS 44 3 22 6 17 6 2 94 11 2 13 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. September 1999 47 1 3 In the photo above, which appeared in the May issue of the Seafarers LOG, one of the names was incorrect. The caption should have identified (from left) AB Donnie W. Collins II, retired SIU Port Agent Joe Perez and AB Charlie Touzet. "Thats not my job," was never heard "What would you like, " always the word Pasta pesto, exotic stir-fry Sushi, Chinese dishes and Thai Had King Harry s Court e'er ate What graced the humble seaman s plate Above and beyond Valdez Peaks Forever! Cucumbers and leeks. This poem was written by AB C.J. Sandy as a tribute to the great job performed by Chief Cook Blair Humes aboard the ATC Ohio. Seafarers LOG 15 �t '! ~. ! Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Sllafarets lntemallonal Union IJlret:lary JULY 16 - Michael Sacco President CL - AUGUST 15, 1999 L- Company/Lakes Lakes NP - Non Priority John Fay Executive Vice President TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP David Heindel Secretary-Tr~urer Augustin Tellez **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Vice President Contracts Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone Vice President West Coast . Kermett Mangram Vice President Government Services .. HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 4800 I (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 72 l Sesame St., # l C Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 22 12 0 10 7 0 4 4 0 16 19 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 (334) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 391 t Lapalco Blvd. Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Th:ird St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PIDLADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St. Philadelphia, PA 19 I 48 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O . .Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301 ) 994-00 l 0 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave. ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16Y:i Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 7 52-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave. Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafal'el'S LOS 6 3 0 1 1 0 0 3 0 3 8 15 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters JULY 16 - BALTIMORE HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 0 10 42 27 0 42 0 52 0 Totals All Depts *"Tota] 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. 1216 E. Baltimore St Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 DECK DEPARTMENT 16 9 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 9 6 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 4 1 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 11 13 *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 0 0 44 0 47 0 0 0 3 0 6 9 0 0 0 0 0 26 0 2 0 1 7 0 0 0 2 0 5 25 0 30 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 AUGUST 15, 1999 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 24 0 7 3 31 1 3 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 0 15 5 0 0 2 0 2 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 3 7 0 0 1 0 1 11 0 20 0 0 0 3 20 5 26 0 0 12 0 9 0 I 11 0 0 2 2 14 0 0 0 1 4 4 0 0 13 l 18 0 31 0 0 1 71 5 6 62 1 11 84 0 Totals AU 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. 15 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 18 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner Malcolm M. Cross of Torrance, Calif. The photo was taken December 31 , 1947New Year's Eve-aboard the Alcoa Pointer. Cross states that the ship was in Halifax, Nova Scotia during the Christmas holiday. He is pictured in the front row at left and hopes ''the rest of the gang is still around." Standing in the back, from left, are AB Elmer Whidden, Bosun Nat Newsom, OS "Chick" Evans and AB Carl Jarve. Kneeling in the front row are AB Malcolm Cross, OS Earl Parnell, AB Ed Evans, AB Ed Hayston and OS Bob Guthrie. Cross, now 83, joined the SIU in 1944 in the port of New York. September 1999 �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. ixteen Seafarers are announcing their retirements this month. Among this group are two recertified stewards and one recertified bosun. Representing 114 combined years of active union membership, Recertified Stewards Emanuel M. Douroudous and Jesse B. Natividad and Recertified Bosun Benedict Veiner are graduates of the highest level of training available to members in the steward and deck departments, respectively, at the SJU's training school in Piney Point, Md. S Including the three recertified graduates, 12 of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division, three navigated the inland waterways and one plied the Great Lakes. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of this month's pensioners. DEEP SEA EMANUEL M.DOUROUDOUS, 61, joined the Seafarers in 1970 in the port of New York, first sailing aboard the Seatrain Delaware. Born in Greece, the steward department member upgraded his skills at the SIU's training school in Piney Point, Md. and graduated from the steward recertification program there in 1987. Brother Douroudous last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Voyager. He makes his home in Seattle. JUANITO FIEL, 63, graduated from the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) training school in 1965 and joined that union in the port of San Franci co. His first ship was the President Cleveland, an American President Lines vessel. Born in the Philippines, the steward department member last sailed aboard the Matson Navigation Co.'s Mokihana. Brother Fiel has retired to Tracy, Calif. by Delta Steamship Co. The Alabama native worked in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the union's school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Moore last sailed aboard the Robert E. Lee, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. He calls Mobile home. EDUARDO GONZALES, 68, began his career with the Seafarers in 1978 in the port of New Orleans. A native of Honduras, he ailed in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the union's educational facilities in Piney Point, Md. Brother Gonzales last shipped aboard a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. He calls Chalmette, La. home. JESSE B. NATIVIDAD, 80, joined the MC&S in 1967 in the port of San Francisco. Born in the Philippines, he shipped in the steward department and upgraded his skilJs at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School, where he ALEJANDRO MARTINEZ, 66, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1964 and joined the SIU in the port of Baltimore. During his career, he worked in all three departments. He last sailed in 1992 in the deck department aboard the Golden Monarch, operated by Westchester Marine. From 1952 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Army. A native of Puerto Rico, he has retired to Ponce. RONALD REGAN MOORE,55, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1962 and joined the Seafarers in the port of Mobile, Ala. His first ship was the Del Valle, operated Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG 1947 NEW YORK - The presence of hundreds of white-capped Seafarers prevented strikebreakers from forcing their way through picket lines established by the CIO . ~u . tr Shipyard Workers around _ftfi~ two Brooklyn plants of • .f· the Bethlehem Steel Company. The lines were set up by Locals 12 and 1 3 more than 12 weeks ago, but early this week the company stated that it would "throw its gates open" to any employees who wanted to return, a move that the union immediately branded as "strike-breaking." The regional representative of the Shipyard Workers called upon the Seafarers for help and, with the same speed that the SIU has shown in the past, aid was dispatched to the 29th Street and 56th Street, Brooklyn, plants of the company. All the SIU members who went to join the picket lines did so on a volunteer basis. 1962 September 1999 JOSEPH ORTIZ JR., 65, joined the Seafarers in 1982 in the graduated from the steward recer- port of Hono- tification program in 1980. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1948. Brother Natividad last sailed aboard Bay Ship Management's Sandy Bay. He makes his home in MilJbrae, Calif. lulu. His first ship was the Oceanic Independence, operated by American Hawaii Cruises. A native of Hawaii, he worked in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the union's school in Piney Point, Md. From 1951 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Coast Guard. Brother Ortiz last sailed in 1994 aboard the Sea-Land Consumer and has retired to Haleiwa, Hawaii. RUDOLPH WILLIAM NURMI JR., 62, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1967 from the port of New Orleans, aboard the Yellowstone. A native of Louisiana, he worked in the engine department and upgraded frequently at the union's school in Piney Point. During the period from 1954 to 1967, he served in the U.S. Navy and then in the Air Force. Brother Nurmi last sailed in 1994 aboard the USNS Wilkes, operated by Bay Ship Management. He has retired to Baytown, Texas. JOSE ISADOR ORTEGA, 68, started his career with the SIU in 1956 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Steel Vendor, operated by their own making. What do you do with old, secondhand computers? Unlike a man, whose working life is about 45 years, computers, which can cost over $600,000 each, are old and ready for a pension in perhaps five years. Since most computers are leased instead of sold outright, they find their way home again like old hound dogs .... The problem of aged computers will grow as more and more new models hit the market. Perhaps eventually they can solve the problem by simply hooking all the old machines together and letting them figure it out for themselves. rr.===================================:=il (Editor's note: This editorial excerpt indicates that history, at least in part, repeats itself.) Computer manufacturers, who claim to solve all sorts of problems for others through automation, are now facing a big problem and, poetically, it's one of Isthmian Lines, Inc. Brother Ortega sailed in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He last sailed as a chief cook aboard the Overseas Ohio. Born in Colorado, he makes his home in Jalisco, Mexico. 1979 (From Paul Half's president's report) For us there is no bluffing in politics. We have to have a full house every time to bring home a winner. In this game, brothers, SPAD is our chips. And like in any poker game, you can't go in with a small bankroll. If you do, you're as good as dead .... There is no question that the membership's support of SPAD has already increased our ability to function politically. Our overall goal is to have every SIU member participate in the SPAD check-off program .... For those who have not signed the check-off authorization, it's time to start giving serious consideration to doing so. JOAQUIN PASSAPE RA, 58, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1962 and joined the SIU in the port of New York. His first ship was the Monarch of the Seas, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. Born in Puerto Rico, he worked in the deck department and last sailed aboard the USNS Perseverance, operated by Interocean Ugland Management Corp. Brother Passapera calls Humacao, P.R. home. ANTONIO PRIZMIK, 63, started his career with the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of New Orleans, first sailing aboard the Del Norte. He began working in the deck department and later transferred to the steward department. Brother Prizmik last sailed aboard the Sgt. Matej Kocak. Born in Brazil, he makes his home in Orlando, Fla. BENEDICT VEINER, 75, first sailed with the SIU in 1944. The New Jersey native worked in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the bosun recertification course in 1984. Brother Veiner last sailed aboard the Nedlloyd Holland, a Sea-Land Service, Inc. vessel. He has retired to Palatka, Fla. INLAND BYRON DALE DAVIDSON, 56, first sailed with the Seafarers in 1968. Born in Colorado, he worked in the deck department as a captain. From 1960 to 1964, he served in the U.S. Army. Boatman Davidson last shipped aboard a Crowley Towing and Transportation Co. vessel and has retired to Cypress, Texas. WILLIAMF. HUNTER, 68, began his career with the SIU in 1971. A native of Massachusetts, he sailed as a captain. Prior to his retirement, he shipped aboard a Crowley Marine Services vessel. Brother Hunter makes his home in Diberville, Miss. BOBBY BLAIR LEWIS, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1956 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Born in North Carolina, he sailed as a captain. Prior to his retirement, he worked aboard the Escort, an Express Marine Co. vessel. Boatman Lewis calJs Lowland, N.C. home. GREAT LAKES MUSSLffi BEN KASSIM, 65, joined the SIU in 1966 in the port of Detroit. A native of Arabia, he worked in all three departments during his career. He last sailed in 1980 aboard the Richard J. Reiss, operated by Erie Sand Steamship Co. Brother Kassim makes his home in Detroit. Liberty Ship Seeks Volunteer Crew The Liberty ship John W Brown, based in Baltimore, seeks volunteers to crew the vessel for segments of a trip throughout the Great Lakes planned for next year. The voyage tentatively is scheduled to begin in May 2000 and end in August. Volunteer mariners with current z-cards are needed to fulfill Coast Guard regulations for crew complement. The non-profit group operating the vessel also is producing an 18month calendar featuring historic photos of various Liberty ships. All proceeds will go toward funding the Lakes voyage. For more information about the trip, or to order the calendar, contact Project Liberty at (410) 661-1550 or (410) 558-0646. Seafarers LOS 17 = �,-- -- --- - - - · -- ------- -~-- !I I I I I t final Departures I f t I ~ f I' t I r DEEP SEA GEORGE D. ARRLEDGE Pensioner George Donald Arrledge, 70, passed away July 13. Brother Arrledge first sailed with the SIU in 1951. A native of Ohio, he worked in the deck department. Prior to retiring in October 1994, he sailed aboard the USNS Altair, operated by Bay Shipping. From 1951to1955, he served in the U.S. Air Force. Brother Arrledge was a resident of Vrrginia Beach, Va. YUNG JEONG CHU Pensioner Yung Jeong Chu, 80, died February 28. Born in China, he joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in the port of San Francisco. He sailed as a member of the steward department and began receiving his pension in October 1973. Brother Chu made his home in San Francisco. CARMINE G. FANTACONE Pensioner Carmine George Fantacone, 80, passed away June 21. A native of New York, he joined the MC&S in 1959 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Fantacone sailed in the steward department and retired in March 1978. He was a resident of Yountville, Calif. DANIEL E. FICCA Daniel Eugene Ficca, 42, died June 8. Brother Ficca graduated from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School's entry ., If, ~ level training \ ·· program in 1974 and joined the SIU in Piney Point, Md. His first ship was the Los Angeles, a Sea-Land Service vessel. Sailing as a member of the engine department, he frequently upgraded his s.Ialls at the school. Virginia Beach, Va. was home to Brother Ficca. AURELIO A. FLORES Pensioner Aurelio A. Flores, 83, passed away June 30. Born in Mexico, he first sailed with the SIU in 1951 aboard the City of Alma, operated hy Waterman Steamship Corp. Brother Flores worked in the steward department, last sailing aboard the Connecticut. He was a veteran of World War Il, having served in the U.S. Anny from 1942 to 1948. A resident of Pasadena, Texas, Brother Flores started receiving his pension in July 1982. DAVID FLORES Pensioner David Flores, 75, died June 27. A native of Hawaii, he joined the MC&S in 1945, first sailing aboard the Stephen J. Field. The steward department member last shipped in 1989 as a chief cook aboard the President Harrison, operated by American President Lines. Brother Flores was a resident of Bremerton, Wash. and retired in January 1990. 18 Seafarers LD6 GLADSTONE W. FORD Pensioner Gladstone W. Ford, 89, passed away April 27. A charter member of the Seafarers, he joined the union in the ~__.__..__,____.""""""........., port of Boston in November 1938. During his career, he sailed in the steward department and was active in union organizing drives. Brother Ford made his home in Roo evelt, N.Y. and began receiving his pension in August 1974. Piney Point, Md. The Cape Bon, operated by Interocean Management, was his first ship. Brother Greenlee sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the school. He wa a resident of Baltimore. ROBERT "ROMA" L. HARDY Pensioner Robert "Roma" Lee Hardy, 76, pas ed away June 7. Born in Texas, he joined the MC&S in 1945, first sailing aboard the Kodiak Victory. Prior to his retirement in March 1971, he worked in the steward department on the President Wilson, an American President Lines vessel. Brother Hardy made his home in San Francisco. ERIC H. FREDERICKSON Pensioner Eric Howard Frederickson, 59, died June 25. Brother Frederickson first sailed with the SIU in 1970 from his native New York. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Prior to his retirement in March 1996, he worked aboard the Sea-Land Enterprise. Brother Frederickson was a resident of Las Vegas, Nev. RICHARD V. GEILING Pensioner Richard Victor Geiling, 75, passed away June 17. Born in Illinois, he joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of New York. He sailed as a member of the steward department and upgraded his skills at the union's school in Piney Point, Md., graduating from the steward recertification program there in 1987. During his career, he was active in union organizing drives. A resident of Shoreline, Wash., he retired in September 1991. GEORGE T. GILL III George Tompkins Gill Ill, 29, died June 14. He graduated from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in 1993, Class 507, and joined the SIU in Piney Point, Md. His first hip was the LNG Aquarius. Brother Gill sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the school. He was a resident of Richmond, Va. ISAAC B. GIVENS Pensioner Isaac Bates Givens, 80, passed away April 13. Brother Givens began hi career with the MC&S from the port of Wilmington, Calif. Born in Louisiana, he worked in the steward department. A resident of Wilmington, be began receiving his pension in February 1977. SCOTTY GREENLEE Scotty Greenlee, 28, died March 27. A native of South Carolina, he graduated from the Seafarer Harry Lundeberg School' entry level training program in 1991 and started his career with the SIU in KIM DOY LEONG Pensioner Kim Doy Leong, 72, died April l. He joined the MC&S in 1957 in the port of San Francisco. Born in China, he sailed in the steward department as a chief cook. A resident of San Francisco, he started receiving his pension in April 1979. CHARLESR.LOVELAND Pensioner Charles Raymond Loveland, 70, passed away July 14. After a 20-year career in the U.S. Navy, he began sailing with the SIU in 1968 from the port of San Francisco aboard the Southwestern Victory. Born in Montana, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skill at the Paul Hall Center. Prior to his retirement in June 1995, he worked aboard the Northern Lights, operated by Interocean Management. Brother Loveland was a resident of Kent, Wash. BOBIE E. McMICHAEL Pensioner Bobie Eugene McMichael, 70, died June 29. A native of Mississippi, he started sailing with the SIU in 1953 in the port ..............~........_.....L.-........... of New Orleans, first working aboard the Del Norte, a Delta Steamship Co. vessel. During his career, he sailed in the engine department and was active in union organizing drives. From 1946 to 1948, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother McMichael was a resident of Sparks, Nev. and started receiving his pension in September 1993. GILBERT M. MILLSAP Gilbert Marion Millsap, 67, passed away June 15. Brother Millsap began his career with the Seafarers in 1990 in the port Iii of Houston. His first hip was the USNS H.H. Hess, a Marship Operator vessel. Brother Millsap sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the union' chool in Piney Point, Md. From 1949 to 1953, he served in the U.S. Army. Born in South Carolina, he made hi home in Tacoma, Wash. LEROY M. NICHOLAS Pensioner Leroy Maurice Nicholas, 82, died July 7. A charter member of the SIU, he joined the union in January 1939 in the port of Mobile, Ala. The Alabama native worked in the steward department, last sailing as a chief steward. During his career, he was active in union organizing drives. Prior to his retirement in November 1979, he worked aboard the Sea-Land Economy. Brother Nicholas was a resident of New Orleans and a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1942 to 1946. JAMES A. PARKER Pensioner James Adam Parker, 77, pa sed away March 21. He joined the MC&S in the port of Seattle. Born in Arkansas, he sailed as a member of the steward department and began receiving his pension in August 1971. Brother Parker made his home in Seattle. NELSON O. ROJAS Pensioner Nelson Orlando Rojas, 63, died June 28. Born in Chile, he graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1962 and joined the Seafarers in the port of New Orleans. His first ship was the Henry. Brother Rojas began working in the steward department and later transferred to the deck department. During his career, he attended an educational conference in Piney Point, Md. Before retiring in April 1991, he sailed aboard the Stonewall Jackson, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. Brother Rojas was a resident of Metairie, La. ROBERT L. SCOTT Robert Lee Scott, 55, passed away June 9. A native and resident of Mobile, Ala., he graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1964 and joined the Seafarers in the port of New York. His first ship was the Cathy. Brother Scott sailed in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the steward recertification program in 1989. His last ship was the Julius Hammer. RICHARD T. SMITH Richard Theodore Smith, 60, died June 25. Brother Smith graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1963 and joined the SIU in the port of New York. His first ship was the Steel Executive, operated by Isthmian Line , Inc. The Penn ylvania native ailed in the deck department. He wa a re ident of Oakland, Calif. STEVE A. SOOFI Pen ioner Steve A. Soofi, 67, pa sed away June 22. He began his career with the Seafarers in 1976 in the port of Seattle. Born in Yemen, he ailed in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the union's school in Piney Point, Md. His first l~~--~~I ship was the Newark Bay, operated by Sea-Land Service, Inc. and his last ship was the President Jefferson, an ..___ _ _ _ American President Lines vessel. A resident of Detroit, Brother Soofi began receiving his pen ion in October 1996. _...,.~b:J DANIEL A. STEWART Pensioner Daniel Amos Stewart, 62, died May 5. A native of Florida, he first sailed with the SIU in 1966 aboard the Volusia, operated by Suwannee Steamship Co. Prior to his retirement in February 1998, the deck department member worked aboard the Sea-Land Quality. From 1954 to 1961, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Stewart made his home in Houston. ANTHONY TOSADO Pensioner Anthony Tosado, 73, passed away June 17. He joined the Seafarers in 1944 in his o . uring his career, he was active in um organizing drives. Brother Tosado worked in the deck department, last sailing aboard the Sea-Land Developer. A resident of Miami Beach, Fla., he started receiving his pension in November 1986. CHUNG GENE WON Pensioner Chung Gene Won, 78, died June 5. Born in Chimi, he started his career with the MC&S in 1961 in the port of San Francisco. The steward department member's first ship was Matson Navigation Co.'s Lurline. Brother Won retired in March 1984 and was a resident of San Franci co. INLAND ROBERT BLAKE Pensioner Robert Blake, 78, passed away July 13. Boatman Blake started his sailing career in 1949 and joined the Seafarers in 1962 in the port of Philadelphia. Born in Connecticut, he sailed in the engine department, last working aboard a Taylor and Anderson Co. vessel. A resident of Essington, Pa., he began receiving his pension in June 1989. NATHAN RAY BRANCH Nathan Ray Branch, 51, died May 24. A native of Florida, he began his career with the SIU in 1967 from the port of Houston. Boatman Branch sailed as a captain and upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. He made his home in Tenaha, Texa . Continued on page 22 September 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 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. 1st LT. JACK LUMMUS (American Overseas Marine), April 10-Chairman Chris Kalinowki, Secretary Donna J. Scott, Educational Director John Yarber, Deck Delegate Ali Alifaqih, Engine Delegate Mike Coombes. Discussion held on money purchase pension plan, necessity of obtaining STCW endorsements and having TRBs signed by appropriate person aboard ship. Educational director noted importance of upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., especially to obtain proper certification required for registering and shipping. New ship's fund set up at meeting. Deck delegate requested clarification on seawatches and steward delegate reminded everyone to clean rooms before getting off ship. He also noted handbooks regarding union's plans available in deck department office. Chairman said Seafarers LOG has information for members in all departments, including latest upgrading information. Since ship seldom ports where there is a union hall or representative, everyone should read LOG. ext ports: Guam and Saipan. HMICAPELOOKOUTSHOALS (IUM), April 28-Chairman Michael Eaton, Secretary Alan W. Bartley, Educational Director Larry M. Phillips, Deck Delegate Brad Seibel, Steward Delegate William Chorney. Chairman reminded crew members to check zcards for expiration date and also obtain STCW endorsements. Secretary and educational director stressed need to upgrade at Piney Point and help keep union strong by contributing to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for steward assistant to do rooms and sanitary so chief steward can concentrate on cooking. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND EXPLORER (SeaLand Service), April 25-Chairman Raymond Yager, Secretary Gary Meiser, Educational Director Raymona P. Gayton, Deck Delegate James C. Henry, Steward Delegate Amin A. Mohamed. Chairman announced ship en route from Yokohama, Japan to Long Beach, Calif. for payoff. He also mentioned those who knew William B. Hom (Tom-Tom) were saddened by his death in February. Educational director advised members to further their education at Paul Hall Center and to donate to SPAD. Treasurer announced $1,100 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. In discussion of President's Report in LOG, AB Henry spoke for everyone when he expressed pleasure at having new jobs on U.S.-built ships. Washing machine fixed; floor tile in chief electrician's room needs repair. AB Mark A. Stevens gave special thanks to deck department for all they do; also to Chief Cook Danny Guerrero and GSU Mohamed for their extra work. Next ports: Long Beach and Oakland, Calif. GLOBAL LINK (Tyco), May 27Chairman Jose S. Gomez, Secretary Lanette Lopez, September 1999 Educational Director Franklin Coburn, Deck Delegate Melvin L. Singletary, Steward Delegate Eric Van Benthuysen. Chairman noted crew members busy preparing ship for Coast Guard inspection. Last week, ship went through random drug test procedures. All went well and crew members have done fine job with assigned duties. Educational director made everyone aware of upcoming classes at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer announced $2,200 in ship's fund. No beefs, disputed OT or safety hazards reported. HM/ ASTRACHEM (IUM), May 30-Chairman Stanley Daranda, Secretary Luis Escobar, Educational Director Nelson Lazo, Deck Delegate Jose Canales, Engine Delegate Keeper Brown, Steward Delegate Fausto D. Aranda. Chairman announced ship to pay off in Savannah, Ga, then head to Guayama, P.R. Secretary urged crew members to take advantage of free education available at Piney Point and thanked deck department members for job well done. Educational director suggested attending courses at Piney Point to upgrade skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made to fix air conditioning and washing machine. Vote of thanks given to steward department for excellent meals. HM/ DYNACHEM (IUM}-May 31-Chairman Robert J. Coleman, Secretary Ronald Tarantino, Educational Director Eron G. Hall Jr., Deck Delegate Billy D. Watson, Steward Delegate James Harris. Chairman announced payoff June 1. All four unlicensed apprentices will get off in Florida; four new ones expected aboard. Chairman reminded members of opening of Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting School in Piney Point. Educational director advised crew to check expiration dates on all documents needed to ship out. Treasurer noted all contributions for satellite system, weight room and movie fund greatly appreciated and should be given to captain. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested from headquarters on butterworthing. Discussion held about NMU members sharing school and jobs aboard ship. With news of new passenger ships on horizon, crew felt NMU would be welcomed workforce. New VCR requested for crew lounge. Steward department given vote of thanks for good job-too good a job, in fact, since members are complaining of gaining weight. Next port: Port Everglades, Fla. HUMACAO (NPR, Inc.), May 27-Chairman David Murray, Secretary Raymond L. Jones, Educational Director Angel S. Hernandez. Chairman requested clarification of new drug testing policy and questioned who is to sign off on TRBs. Secretary stated payoff in San Juan May 28. Educational director urged all hands to get necessary training for STCW endorsement, such as fire fighting. Treasurer announced $10 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made and forwarded to contracts department to have welfare plan pay for dependents' prescriptions. Another request made was to have company provide transportation from ship to gate for safety reasons. Steward department given vote of thanks. LNG LIBRA (PRONAV), May 23-Chairman Bert Gillis, Secretary John Gibbons, Educational Director Jeff Yarmola, Deck Delegate Jesse Natividad, Engine Delegate Marcos Hill, Steward Delegate John Bukowsky. Chairman led discussion on possible reflagging of LNG vessels. Secretary added that until further word is received, crew members should continue doing their usual professional jobs. Chairman suggested when going ashore in Indonesia, everyone should keep safety in mind and travel in pairs. He also reminded crew when on the beach, they should attend SIU monthly meetings. Educational director stressed benefits of upgrading at Piney Point and advised members to check z-cards and renew, if necessary. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendaion made for crew to support SPAD and read LOG to stay abreast of current events in maritime industry. MARINE COLUMBIA (Intrepid Ship Management), May 29Chairman Anthony J. Sabatini, Secretary Anthony St. Clair, Educational Director Ronald Gordon, Deck Delegate Leo P. Bognoson, Engine Delegate Detricke Kelly, Steward Delegate John F. Huyett. Chairman led discussion about Alaska Tanker Corp. taking over from Intrepid and of STCW endorsements needed by 2002. He also warned crew members using pilot's ladder to be careful when going ashore in Hawaii due to heavy swells. Educational director urged crew to upgrade skills at Piney Point. Suggestion made to use $1,350 in ship's fund for new sound system and larger TV. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good job. Next port: Hawaii. ROBERT E. LEE (Waterman Steamship), May 30-Chairman Eugene Grantham, Secretary Miguel Pabon, Educational Director Thomas P. Arthur, Deck Delegate Albert W. Austin Jr., Engine Delegate Abraham Carbajal, Steward Delegate Ralph Thomas. No beefs or disputed OT reported. All three departments were thanked for good job. Vessel will pay off June 6 at Governor Nichols Pier in New Orleans, La. ROVER (Intrepid Ship Management), May 23-Chairman Inocencio Desaville, Secretary Juan B. Gonzalez, Educational Director Clyde Smith, Steward Delegate Leoncio Castro. Bosun reported chief mate very happy with job done by deck department. He also reported everyone thankful to SIU for getting this ship running again and providing more jobs for members. Educational director encouraged crew to keep upgrading, especially those members who want to continue sailing aboard tankers. He also mentioned importance of keeping all shipboard areas in sanitary condition. Request made by deck delegate for chief mate to issue respirators for those painting in pump room. Another request made for union to issue insurance identity cards to eliminate present confusion when visiting doctor or hospital. Vote of thanks given to SIU President Mike Sacco for his continuing fight for jobs and for future of merchant marine industry. Thanks also given to steward department for clean galley and job well done. SEA-LAND PATRIOT (Sea-Land Service), May 22-Chairman Robert F. Garcia, Secretary Robert Miller, Educational Director Bozidar Balic, Deck Delegate Mathew J. Bevak, Engine Delegate C. H. Kennedy, Steward purchase of stores, Singapore, perhaps. Next port: New Orleans. MAERSK CONSTELLATION (Maersk Line), June 27-Chairman Frank Hedge, Secretary Khamis Mageed, Educational Director Larry Cochrane. Chairman read President's Report from LOG. He asked everyone to report safety hazards to bosun and thanked crew for Astrachem Crew on Caribbean Run The HM/ Astrachem held a payoff recently in the port of Guayama, P.R. It may be the last payoff for the IUM vessel in the Caribbean region if, as has been mentioned, the ship's run is changed. Included in the photograph are Bosun Stanley Daranda, ABs Jaime Rodriguez, Ismael Roman, Michael Edwards, Joel Gonzalez and Noel Otero, Chief Pumpman Alvin J. Markowitz, 2nd Pumpman Demetrus Simmons, Oilers Nestor V. Martinez, Ronald Miller and Keeper Brown, Wiper Jesse A. Osborne, Chief Steward Luis Escobar, Chief Cook Fausto D. Aranda and UMM Jose De los Santos. Delegate Ernest Polk. Chairman led discussion on President's Report in May LOG. Crew members thanked union for getting new jobs and requested clarification on wage scale for working aboard government vessels. Educational director posted updated schedule of classes available at Paul Hall Center and encouraged everyone to stay on top of new rules and regulations needed to ship. No beefs or disputed OT. Next ports: Panama; Elizabeth, .J.; and Long Beach, Calif. /TB NEW YORK (Sheridan Transportation), June 13Chairman Stephen Argay, Secretary Theodore E·. Quammie, Educational Director John K. Bimpong, Deck Delegate Terry N. Arbwah, Engine Delegate Rafael Pagan, Steward Delegate E. Amasha. Chairman noted first foreign voyage was excellent and plenty of work completed in all departments. He also addressed need for information from headquarters about vacation pay. Educational director encouraged members to take advantage of educational facilities at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun to pick up tire tubes for overhaul of crew bike. Vote of thanks given to steward department. Next port: Corpus Christi, Texas. LIBERTY SPIRIT (Liberty Maritime), June 6-Chairman Michael D. Hill, Secretary Paula Kaleikini, Educational Director Thomas Keseru, Deck Delegate Ron Owens, Engine Delegate Mario P. Ruiz, Steward Delegate Stephanie Smith. Chairman thanked crew for good trip. He also thartked unlicensed apprentices for job well done and encouraged them to keep training. He reminded everyone to see captain for TRB signoff and vacation papers. Educational director urged crew to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. Some disputed OT reported by deck delegate; none reported in engine or steward departments. New VCR and rewinder requested for crew lounge as well as a few comfortable chairs. Additional medical supplies needed aboard ship, realized after some crew members became ill after leaving Pakistan. Also suggested using alternate country for good job during Coast Guard inspection in Hawaii. All hands were well prepared. Secretary announced 3 percent raise for those aboard Maersk Constellation as of June 8. He also mentioned need for replacement of ice machine and freezer for crew mess hall. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Piney Point and of obtaining TRBs in order to register. STCW endorsements also needed by 2002. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun thanked crew , especially steward department, for memorable trip. Next port: Concord, Calif. MAJ. STEPHEN W. PLESS (Waterman Steamship), June 6--Chairman Robert E. Hagood, Secretary Douglas A. Hundshamer, Deck Delegate Bill Kratsas, Engine Delegate Robert Woods, Steward Delegate Andelair F. Betties. Chairman stated crew change scheduled to take place in Ibiza, Spain June 10. Oncoming crew will board vessel on l 000 launch and offgoing crew will catch noon launch, stay at Royal Plaza Hotel and fly out June 11. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman encouraged all to read monthly LOG, with special attention to President's Report. Vote of thanks given to steward department for excellent cookout and delicious meals during entire voyage. 2nd LT. JOHN P. BOBO (Amsea), June 21-Chairman William Bratton, Secretary Rich Gray, Educational Director Charles Betz, Deck Delegat:e Phil Breslin, Engine Delegate Michael Stearman, Steward Delegate Doray Saberon. Chairman spoke of procedures to update TRB and renew z-cards. Also discussed was information on money purchase pension plan and how to contribute. Secretary announced $935 in ship's fund, possibly to be used for satellite system aboard vessel. Educational director talked about importance of going to Piney Point to upgrade and how courses taught there will be of use to membership in future. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew advised to read Seafarers LOG for important maritime issues. Next ports: Malaga, Spain, Naples, Italy; and Rota, Spain. Seafarers LOG 19 __... �,-- -~-- 1 I Paul Hall Center Graduating Classes SEAFARERS HARRY LUNDEBERG SCHOOL :V."' t < ·&f'" ;"'··...,,~ ...."- - LIFEBOAT CLASS =-~ !; g 1~--== Unlicensed Apprentice Safety Class 591- Graduating from the safety class are unlicensed apprentices from class 591. They are (from left} Romel Holland, Jeremy Sutton, Brandon Mines, Miles Ireland Jr., Brandon Scalzo, Bobby Ellis Jr., Adam Williams and Blaine Harkins. Galley Familiarization - Members of unlicensed apprentice class 590 recently completed a class to familiarize them with the workings of a galley. They are (from left, first row) Travis Jarvis, Kristopher Anderson, Rashad King, Brett Parkins, Kevin Johnson, David Green, (second row) Mitch Gustafson Jr., Robert Parker, Raheem Owens, Shannon Twigg (instructor), Jess Chalker and Angel Melendez. Advanced Fire Fighting - Pictured above are members of the first advanced fire fighting class to have completed their course work on July 2 at the new Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School. From the left are Stormie Combs (instructor), Mark Watson, Richard Blakey, Darren Bates, Sacarias Suaso, Jose Montero, Marvin St. Georges and William Daly. STCW Basic Safety and Water Survival - Upgrading Seafarers who successfully completed the water survival class necessary for their STCW endorsements are (from left) Joseph Canlas, Dean Mcfarlane, Jose Liwag, Arnido Sindac, Moses Adegunwa, Alba Ayala, Sacharias Suaso, Hassan Mohamed, Roy Martinez, Peter Poree Jr. and Casey Taylor (instructor). The same students are seen below in the pool at the new Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School. Their instructors, Mitch Oakley and Beth Wroblewski, are in the water. Deck Engine Utility Phase 3 of the unlicensed apprentice program finds students visiting the U.S. Capitol. Included in this group are Adel Alameri , Ray Avie Jr., Antonio Cooks , Victor Harvey, Edric Hernandez, Randy Ledesma , Jason Pratt, Bert Reynolds, Kenneth Salgado, Rachel Sanner and Dennis Wilson . 20 Seafarers LOG September 1999 �Pa uI H·aII Center Graduatin9 CIasses Lifeboat Safety Tankerman (PIC) Barge Course - Maritrans boatmen completing the tankerman (PIC) barge course in Philadelphia from June 4 through June 7 are (from left, first row) Matt Frankowski, Ken Ferguson, Joseph Hilton, Michael Tobin, (second row) Keith Beaulieu, Wallace Pooler, David Wilson, Don Higginbotham, (third row) John Mullett, Robert Greggs and Arturo Sangin. Earning their lifeboat endorsements are Alfonso Salazar, Neston Ramirez, Harold Lewis, Willard Bell, Duane Reeder, David Loison, Ali Al-Kassemi and Daniel Englund. Galley Operations - Finishing one of the required two-week modules in the galley operations curriculum are (from left) Willy Crear, Chef Ed White (instructor), Stephanie Hendrick, Michael Watts, Saleh Ahmed, Wayne Howard, Mohamed Mosa and Raymond Brown Jr. Another group working toward completion of their lifeboat endorsements include Earnest Green (coxswain), Avis Hawkins, Ruben Siclot, William Adams, Bobby Ellis Jr., Christopher Corpuz, Blaine Harkins and Curtis Isaac. From the left are Edward Tully, Dan Assidi, Cleotilde Mejia, Chef Bob Baumgarten (instructor), Guy Prescott and Jonn Noel. September1999 From front to back and left to right are Brandon Scallon, Romel Holland, Sean Cripps, Myles Ireland Jr., Brandon Mines, Joseph Ellsworth, Lolita Thomas and Jeremy Sutton as coxswain. Seafarers LOG 21 �Letters to the Editor (Editors note: the Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the wr;ter s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) Know Your Rights steered (styr =steer). Through the years, it was adopted in England and became " starboard." Second, "port" comes from the same source; that is, port is the side without any obstruction (rudder) and therefore was used to tie up against a dock. In the Norse word "barboard," the "bar" means without anything. Last, "boatswain" also comes from Norse. "Swain" is the Saxon version of "svenn" which was a servant to the king in his court. This was adapted to "boatsvenn" or servant of the ship. Kent Amberson USNS Bowditch For the Record I enjoyed your article about nautical terms and their origins [June 1999 LOG]; however, I have a few comments. First, "starboard" comes from the Norse word "styrbord" or the side from where the ship was 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 . Seatarers International Union PPO Providers Billing/Payment/Correspondence: Physical Address: Virginia Mason 91-0565539 P.O. Box 91046 Seattle, WA 98111-9146 Virginia Mason Med. Ctr. 925 Seneca St. Seattle, WA 98101 Methodist 23-2829095 2301 South Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 Methodist Hospital (same address as at left) St. Mary's 94-3296802 P.O. Box 60000, File #72572 San Francisco, CA 94160-2572 St. Mary's Hospital 450 Stanyan St San Francisco, CA 94117 Straub 99-0331208 888 S. King St. Honolulu, HI 96813 Straub Hospital (same address as at left) St. Joseph's 74-1117346 P.O. Box 840963 Dallas, TX 75284-0963 St. Joseph's Hospital 1919 LaBranch Houston, TX 77002 Torrance 95-1644042 P.O. Box 13717 Torrance, CA 90503 Torrance Mem. Med. Ctr. 3330 Lomita Blvd. Torrance, CA 90505 St. Vincent's 59-0624449 P.O. Box 45167 Jacksonville, FL 32232 St. Vincent's Med. Ctr. 1800 Barrs St. Jacksonville, FL 32203 St. Luke's 22-2517154 P.O. Box 3000 New Bedford, MA 02741-1300 St. Luke's Hospital 101 Page St. New Bedford, MA 02741 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: Are You ReceivinLf Your Important 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. •? In order to ensure that each permanent address, and this is active SIU member and pensioner receives a copy of the Seafarers LOG every month-as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and health insurance checks and bulletins or notices-a correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently or feel that you are not getting your union mail, please use the form on this page to update your home address. Your home address is your 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 fill out the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union Address Correction Dept. 520 l Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 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 r---------------------------------------------------, HOME ADDRESS FORM 9199 (Please Print) 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 Final Departures Continued from page 18 ARTHUR DAVID HANN Pensioner Arthur David Hann, 63 , passed away May 20. He joined the Seafarers in 1979 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. The Massachusetts native worked in the engine department as a chief engineer, last sailing aboard a Crowley Towing and Transportation Co. vessel. A resident of Olar, S.C., Boatman Hann began receiving his pension in March 1999. From 1952 to 1960, he served in both the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Navy. 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 · . A member should support SPA and further his or her economic, p · · l and social interests, and American 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 informa1tion, the member should · ately notify SIU P · nt Michael Sacco a uarters by certified mai , return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Transport Co. ves el. He was a resident of Philadelphia. JOHN THOMAS SOULE John Thomas Soule, 42, died March 9. Born in Tennessee, he graduated from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School's entry level training program, Class 297, in 1980 and started his SIU career in Piney Point, Md. Boatman Soule sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the school. He last sailed in 1993 aboard a vessel operated by Maritrans Operating Partners L.P. He was a resident of Anderson, S.C. ROY ALTON SQUIRES ROBERT F. McKNIGHT Name: Phone No.: __j..___ __L__ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Address: _ _ __ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _~ Social Security No.: ____ I ____ I _ _ __ D Active SIU Book No.: D Pensioner D Other This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain in the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally. L---------------------------------------------------~ 22 Seafarers LOG ....-----,.,------., Pensioner Robert Francis McKnight, 81 , died July 5. A native of Pennsylvania, he began his career with the SIU in 1967 in Y.t~~~~!l......ILB the port of Philadelphia. His fir t ship was the Commander, operated by Marine Carrier . The deck department member tarted sailing in the deep sea division and later transferred to inland vessels. Prior to retiring in October 1982, Boatman McKnight worked aboard an Interstate Oil Pensioner Roy Alton Squires, 80, passed away June 30. Boatman Squires joined the Seafarers in 1954 in the port of Norfolk, Va. During his career, he upgraded his skills in the deck department from tankerman to captain. A veteran of World War II, he served in the U.S. Army from 1940 to 1946. Prior to his retirement in March 1981, he sailed aboard a Mariner Towing Co. vessel. Boatman Squires made his home in Clarendon, N.C. September 1999 �SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER 1999 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule for classes from September through the end of the year at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Tanker Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL) September 27 November 1 October 15 November 19 Basic Firefighting September 27 October 18 November 22 October 1 October 22 November 26 Advanced Firefighting September 13 November 8 September 24 November19 Government Vessels September 6 September 27 November 1 November 8 November 29 September 24 October 15 November 19 November 26 December 17 Lifeboatman/Water Survival September 6 October 4 November 1 November 29 September 17 October 15 November 12 December 10 STCW Basic Safety (refresher) September 20 September 27 October 25 November 1 November 8 November 22 November 29 December 13 September 24 October 1 October 29 . November 5 November 12 November 26 December 3 December 17 Welding October 4 Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman September 20 October 29 Radar Observer/Unlimited October 4 October 15 Radar Recertification (one day) October 15 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids October 18 October 23 (ARPA) Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Fireman/Watertender & Oiler October 11 November 19 Marine Electrical Maintenance I September 20 October 29 QMED September 13 December 3 Power Plant Maintenance September 27 November 5 Refrij!eraaon Systems Maintenance November 8 December 17 Steward Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Galley Operations/ Advanced Galley Operations (Every week) September 6, 13, 20, 27 October 4, 11, 18, 25 November 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 December 6, 13, 20, 27 Certified Chief Cook/ Chief Steward (Every other week) September 6, 20 October 4, 18 November 1, 15, 29 December 13, 27 October 22 Academic Department Courses General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, one week prior to the AB, QMED, FOWT, Third Mate, Tanker Assistant and Water Survival courses. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. UPGRADING IS A KEY TO YOUR FUTURE. REVIEW THE COURSE SCHEDULE AND MAKE ARRANGEMENTS TO TAKE A CLASS SOON. THE STAFF AT THE PAUL HALL CENTER IS CONTINUALLY UPDATING THE COURSE CONTENTS TO KEEP ABREAST OF CHANGES IN THE MARITIME INDUSTRY. ck- --~--------------------------------------- With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (I 20) days seatimefor the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, US MMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seati11Je for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All FOWT. AB and QMED applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $135 with their aaplication. The pavment should be made with a money order only. pavable to LMSS. UPGRADING APPLICATION COURSE END DATE BEGIN DATE Telephone _ __ _ __ _ _ _ __ Deep Sea Member Date of Birth - - - - -- - - - Lakes Member D Inland Waters Member 0 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? D Yes D No If yes, c l a s s # - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? D Yes D No If yes, course(s) taken - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes D No Primary language spoken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ September 1999 SIGNATURE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ DATE NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only ifyou present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Admissions Office, PO. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D No Date Off: 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 in its programs or activities. 9199 Seafarers LOG 23 �Volume 61 Number 9 Thinking About College? The Seafarers Welfare Plan is offering seven scholarships in 2000 to three Seafarers and four dependents of SIU members. See page 14 for additional infonnation. Training Expanded for New Crui1e Sbip1 U.S. Coast Guard-Certified Courses Taught in Port of Honolulu Instructor Ben Cusic emphasizes a point (left photo) during the water survival/lifeboat class at the Honolulu hall in June and (at right) works with Assistant Cook Emo Aulelava to crank the davit on the SS Independence. While Seafarers continue to perform their jobs aboard the SS Independence, construction soon will start on the next generation of U.S.-flag cruise ships to sail around the Hawaiian islands. The first of two 840-foot, 1,900-passenger vessels is expected to begin service for American Hawaii Cruises in 2003. The 5,000 jobs that eventually will be created upon completion of the two vessels will not only supply top-notch crew members for the new cruise ships, they also will serve as a large base of seafarers for times of national emergency. In looking ahead to meet the needs of the new passenger cruise ships, the Seafarers International Union in partnership with the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education and American Hawaii Cruises is creating training opportunities for SIU members in the port of Honolulu. The first step involved remodeling classrooms at the SIU hall in Honolulu to meet U.S. Coast Guard standards for certified training. David Hammet and Mickey Hayden, technicians from the Paul Hall Center, performed the work earlier this year and also built a self-contained maze in a shipping container that will be used for basic fire fighting and STCW training. Ben Cusic, an instructor at the Paul Hall Center, taught the fust course-Water Survival/Lifeboat-at the new facilities. SIU members attended the class from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. June 14 through June 19. On Saturday, June 20, the students assembled on board the SS Independence for practical instruction and final testing using the vessel's davits, lifeboats, pool and rafts. American Hawaii Cruises' Vice President for Training Bill Anonsen coordinated use of the facilities and equipment aboard the SIU-crewed ship. Upon successful completion of the course, students were presented with certificates from the Paul Hall Center and their TRBs received the appropriate citation stating that they had completed this U.S. Coast Guard-certified course. The luxury pool aboard the SS Independence was the site for practical instruction in water safety and survival techniques. Below, upgraders study in the newly remodeled classroom at the Honolulu hall. ·on of Independence Celebrating the past 20 years of U.S.-flag cruise shipping as well as the future of the industry are, from left, SIU West Coast VP Nick Marrone, Sen. Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii), Unlicensed Apprentice Randy Ledesma and Rep. Patsy Mink (D-Hawaii). Marking almost 20 years of cruise service in the Hawaiian Islands, the SIUcrewed SS Independence celebrated its l ,Oooth voyage last month. "Voyage 1,000 is an opportunity to note the promising potential of cruising for Hawaii," said T.E. Carman, Executive Vice President of American Hawaii Cruises. Twenty years ago, there was no U.S. deep sea passenger ship. However, a joint effort involving the SIU, Cove Ship Management, Hawaii's congressional delegation and others brought the Independence back under the American flag. "Again, the SIU is involved in a joint venture," stated SIU West Coast Vice President Nick Marrone. "Now, American Hawaii Cruises-and its parent company, American Classic Voyages-is building two new cruise ships .... When the American workers are finished building those vessels, American mariners-including Seafarers-will proudly climb the gangway to begin a new era of sailing in the next millennium," Marrone said. � 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 September 1999 Description An account of the resource MARCH RETIRED AFL-CIO PRESIDENT LANE KIRKLAND DIES AT 77 FORMER MERCHANT MARINER HEADED NATIONAL LABOR FEDERATION FOR 16 YEARS NEW JOBS AHEAD FOR SEAFARERS NEW REPORT EMPHASIZES IMPORTANCE OF JONES ACT SIU JOBS SECURED ON LNG VESSELS SIU WILL CREW NEW RO/RO RUNAWAY-FLAG VESSEL CAUGHT SMUGGLING 132 CHINESE ALIENS INTO UNITED STATES CATAWBA CREDITED IN RESCUE HEART ATTACK CLAIMS BEAU JAMES MARAD DETAILS SUCCESSES OF MSP, JONES ACT, RRF ANTI-WORKER FORCES AGAIN ATTEMPT TO LIMIT LABOR’S POLITICAL ACTIVITIES SIU-CREWED FLEET GROWS COAST GUARD PUBLISHES FINAL RULE ON USER FEES CARNIVAL’S UPDATED TALLY: 108 SEX CRIMES IN 5 YEARS FIRE FIGHTERS PRESIDENT AL WHITEHEAD LEARNED HIS UNION LESSONS WITH THE SIU STEELWORKERS END STRIKE SOCIAL SECURITY ADMIN. ISSUES YEARLY STATEMENTS TO 125 MILLION WORKERS FAMILY, FRIENDS HELP RECERTIFIED STEWARDS EXCEL IN CHOSEN FIELD LAKE SEAFARERS WORK THROUGH CARGO SLUMP ACTIVITY ABOUNDS IN PORT OF PHILADELPHIA S-L CONSUMER CREW AGREES: EVERYONE LOVES A COOKOUT GLOBAL LINK CREW COMPLETES 3 MONTH CABLE-LAYING JOB WASHINGTON POST PROFILES NEW FIRE FIGHTING SCHOOL TRAINING EXPANDED FOR NEW CRUISE SHIPS 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 09/01/1999 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. 9 1999 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/e2c1e0a6056d2969aee7818c447ca33a.PDF 2ea542724aa311253ec24ecb4827beab PDF Text Text -.irj'zy''.- .V J! -•? I A Trip OH A Rnnaway-Flag Ship > #1 Story 0?i Page 2 ''il 7 ' SEAFARERS LOG • OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATLANTIC AND GULF DISTRICT • AFL • Labor Day—1955 Most American workiiigmen and women will have a day off this coming week, and most will he paid for the day. The day is Lahor Day. As a trade union, the SIU feels that it has con­ tributed something toward making this an impor­ tant American holiday. After listening to a long string of Labor Day speakers one begins to think that all the benefits and conditions enjoyed by American workingmen and women were here when the Pilgrims landed or were given over by employee-loving bosses. Seafarers are familiar with the route seamen traveled from the "field days," the blue linen, the no overtime and two-pot ships and the shipping crimps J The memory is too close at hand to be for­ gotten in a maze of holiday oratory. Other work­ ers, tod^ have tlieir hitter memories: Unions Ended Abuses Texifile workers remember the eight and ten year ol^ children who were forced to work 14 hours a'^day at the looms. Auto workers "remember the company police forces who spied on every move, and the hody-sapping speed of the assembly lines. Miners remember the unsafe pits and inade­ quate ventilation that gave us a new word—silico­ sis. Garment workers remember the bundles they lugged home from the shops to sew on until far into the night at piece rates. All. of these abuses and thousands more are now 'under control, but not as a result of Labor Day bombast. Trade unions led the way to end every­ one of these abuses. SIU CHARGES WHITEWASH IN CG REPORT SHIP LOSS i -Story On Page 3 V", , • '"I- •.Slid ••Soy -i i'B S -••'N: K| • si. • •'-t- • '• y' - .'fl . \. SJi.' • ::3 ' r"^ ' ST -| Made Country Great In paying tribute to Labor Day we should, of course, take note of the tremendous revolution that has taken place in this country over the past twenty years. Credit can in part go to that inde­ finable knack for mass production, mass distribu­ tion and mass consumption that is our couiitry. More credit, however, must go to the people them­ selves who not only made this phenomenon pos­ sible hut went further by forming unions to win for themselves the money to buy these products, the time off to enjoy them and the security of their position to play and buy for the future. Seafarers on Lahor Day can take stock of their gains with pride. They are no longer "neither among the living nor the dead," as the courts at one time described seamen, In job security, high wages, paid vacations, medical care for themselves and their families, pensions and working condi­ tions Seafarers stand in the front ranks of those who have done the most to make Labor Day a true holida'y .iii^ honoi^.^^^b^^^ worklngmeii. , ST -I •SI Fufi House ® house" for Seafarer Ed Singletary, FWT, of New •Orleans, but when four of his daughters had tonsillectomies per­ formed in a "four of a kind" operation on the same day, the new SIU family hospitalsurgical plan proved a big help. Here (l-r), following the medical event, are: Mrs. Singletary, Carol, 12; Felicine, 9; Donna, 7, and Ruth 3, who had the operations, plus Marie,^ 10; Zada, 15 months, and. Singletary. �r^V' SEAFAHEttS Paee Tws Bnu LOa S;195S A Trip On A Runaway-Flag Ship A ship on which the 3rd mate lacked a ticket, on which an AB sailed as steward,^' where the crew dwindled as low as 24 men and no articles were ever signed, where overtime was 40 cents an hour, when paid, and peanut butter sandwiches were the staple, where fire and boat^ One of the more than 100 American-flag merchant drills were non-existent— ships the US Government allowed to transfer to a run­ such a ship sounds more away-flag nation in order to escape American standards .like a nightmare than the real thing. But that is just what the situation was aboard the Cam­ bridge, which until a few months ago was an American flag vessel, the Dorothy Stevenson. She is but one of the more than 100 Ameri­ can vessels to go under a "run­ away" flag,-thanks to the liberality of the Maritime Administration. The Cambridge now need not worry about any standards im­ posed by unions, the Coast Guard or any other agency. -For when He's Watchlns His Welfare was the SS Dorothy Stevenson. She is now the SS Cam­ bridge, and in a few short months under the Liberian flag has become a floating pesthole for her crew and a menace to all in her path. The International Transportworkers Federation is currently undertaking a drive to raise the standards-on these ships to tho^e of the mari­ time nations. Here's a sample of what the crews of these ships must now put up with. . . . her American owners transferred her foreign, they dumped over­ board, along with the American flag, all the regulations on ship- Union Men Found Best In Resisting Red Brainwashers board safety, feeding, manning scales, inspections, maintenance and loading that are imposed i>n US ships by union contract or Gov­ ernment legislation. Moreover thousands of jobs were lost by American seamen. Under the Liberian flag which she now flies, there are no standards, only those imposed by the ship's captain and her owners. Adding to the gravy for the American runaway shipowner is the fact that the present Immigra­ tion laws impose rigid restrictions on the time that alien seamen can spend in the United States. Fly In Crews The American owner of the Cambridge, like the American own­ ers of so many other runaways, makes it a practice to fly in com­ pletely alien crews. If these men act up and demand conditions they are subject to immediate deporta­ tion when their 29 days ashore ex­ pire. The story of conditions aboard the Cambridge comes to the SEAI'ARERS LOG first hand from the Norwegian second mate and the American radio operator. The lat­ ter, a resident of Brooklyn, -was (Continued on page 8) WASHINGTON—The longstanding fight against commu­ nism waged by the US trade union movement, spearheaded in maritime by the SIU, received a little-noticed offhand salute last month in the midst of the-^ hubbub over publication of a abling workers who had seen the new "code of conduct" for party in action to expose it in a American fighting men. true light. The testimonial was in recogni­ It thus corroborated the everA proud father, Seafarer Ronald Wolf .shows off his brighttion of the ability of former factory present view of Seafarers and SIU eyed youngster, Larry, on a visit to SIU headquarters in New workers who were prisoners of the officials that they could not fight Commies in Korea to withstand the communism on the waterfront York. Wolf came in to pick up some literature about the party line and all the inducements by letting it run its minor course new family benefits available under the SIU Welfare Plan. offered to woo them away from without understanding just what the US. the commissars were selling.' According to the report of the Accordingly, since the founding Secretary of Defense's Advisory of the SIU as an anti-Communist Committee On Prisoners of War, union in 1938, Seafarers have "the Bed indoetrinators tried hard always been urged to take note of Aiming for the standardization of steward department working rules on all ships con­ to win the support of factory and read communist printed prop­ workers. But as one of them put aganda; likewise the SIU was ex­ tracted to the Union, in line with the overwhelming acceptance by Seafarers of the new it, 'We'd heard all that guff before. posing the communists' aims long streamlined feeding program, the SIU Steward Department Committee at headquarters is Back home. We knew their line.'" before anti-communism became a currently meeting informally The report added, "in contrast, popular cause. ner, it is an asset both to the with galley personnel and ment men. At the same time it Seafarer prisoners who had heard of com­ and the ship operator. The experience gained has would assure all Seafarers pllnty munism only as a name, who never proved invaluable down through others prior to the opening of of good food attractively prepared The committee meeting, to heard of Karl Marx, who were not the years in defeating numerous formal meeting announced for and served. which all Seafarers, particularly exposed to Communist attempts to campaigns fomented and - led by September 12. steward department men, are More Side Dishes organize in the factories and the communists on the waterfront. In this way, the new system has urged to submit suggestions, if The gathering later this month mills, were easier pickings for the introduced such ideas as the use they cannot attend in person, will will sift the varying sets of work­ Chinese and Red propaganda of more sidedishes with meals, and be guided by progress reports on artists." ing rules on tankers, freighters, carving meats to order and has the new feeding program as well Knowledge Is Defense passenger ships and miscellaneous done away with the practice of as the recommendations that come The comparison pinpointed the vessels in an attempt to formulate serving items not actually request­ to headquarters from time to time value of knowledge of the commie a master set of rules which can be ed by the Seafarer. Crewmem- dealing with galley and messroom line "as a defense weapon" enapplied to every ship in the SIU- bers still have plenty of food, how­ problems. It is hoped that its find­ contracted fleet. The result will ever, as the ordering of "seconds" ings will pave the way to a uni­ and extra helpings is encouraged. form method of operation in all then be a guidebook for all per­ The individual preparation mean­ SIU steward departments to con­ Sept. 2, 1955 sonnel in the department. Vol. XVtl, No. 18 while insures freshness of all items tinue the present high level of and cuts down waste. In this man­ feeding on all SIU ships. PAUL HALL, Secretary Treasurer Trial A Success SIU Stewards To Meet Sept, 12 SEAFARERS LOG HERDERT BRAND, Editor; RAY DENISON. Managing Editor; BERNARD SEAMAN, Art Editor; HERMAN ARTHUR, IRWIN SPIVACK Staff Writers; BILL MOOJBY, Gulf Area Representative. jAy;-. •• It'?- '• '^ T >iv/j'--, IC&?• cs^' Launch New SUP Hall In Portland Instituted under the supervision PORTLAND, Ore. — The Sailors Union of the Pacific of Assistant Secretary-Treasurer will dedicate the latest in a Edward X. Mooney, a new program string of new union facilities when embracing all phases of food prep­ it formally opens its new hall here aration and meal service has been on Labor Day, this coming Mon­ in effect fdi- some time on.ships in day, September 5. the Bull Line and Alcoa fleets, and A combined Labor Day observ­ more recently, on Waterman ships ance and building dedication cere­ also. mony is expected to be attended Union representatives have gone by many notables in the maritime aboard ships of these fleets to help and labor fields. SIU SecretaryIntroduce the new system, which Treasurer Paul Hall will be on band to represent the Atlantic and is based on the doncept of indi­ vidual, "to order" preparation and Gulf District. ' The SUP hall is' a two-story service, at mealtime, with a view to maldng meals more attractive Published btweeKly M the headquarters structure, which will house the ot the Seafarers international Union, At­ shipping hall," offices and member­ and also to eliminate waste. lantic A Guif District. AFL, «75 Fourth Although ' SIU shlpe nave al­ Avenue. Brooklyn 32. NY. Tel. HYacinth ship facilities on the main deck and 9-6600. Entered as second class matter living jjuarters for union oldtimers ways been known as good feeders, at the Post Office in Brooklyn. NY. under the Act of Aug. 24. 1912. and disabled members on the sec­ it'was felt that a new approach to ond floor. Twelve individual apart- galley operations could even eniiapcqdjthi3.,repuitation while simpU-, L' t, .b,.-,; j.''.. i-' i ^n\en^s;'cgj^pletel^, h^rnjshe^^ _ " been proVidei ' ' " ' ''' > d'n #i|}ft.itb.O^'itasks.'.i^'jit§w'ard.depart- sjlymnu miij n iii-.-.o-jri ri rififn'r ' niijifiS Burly Page Editorial Cartoon Page Editorial Page Final Dispatch Page Inquiring Seafarer Page Labor Roundup Page Letters Page Meet The Seafarer Page Personals Page Recent Arrivals ....Page Seafarer In Action Page - Shipping Figures Page Your Dollar's Worth Page 13 11 11 1.5 9 11 14 11 15 15 9 4 6 6. 9 W POUT O'CALL - r";'ii'"tilHii rr'i'i �SEAPAKEKS LOG . September 2, 1S5B Pve Three 2 Years Of SlU Library: 170,000 Books To Ships Entering its third year of operation, the SIU ships' library program has already distributed over 170,000 hooks to sea­ farers aboard SlU-contracted ships, US marine hospitals and SIU halls in a two-year span,-^ and will deliver an estimated 75,000 more in the coming 12 months. SIU Sea Chest repre­ sentatives In all ports were due tp begin the ninth quarterly distribu­ tion of 50-book packages to all con­ tracted sh^s yesterday,, In the same manner, 400 different titles have already been placed aboard every SIU ship since August, 1953. The ships' library program, spon. sored by the SEAFARERS LOG, was initiated to fiil a long-standing need for up-to-date reading matter for Seafarers, Prior to that, sea­ men had to depend upon peri­ odic handouts by charitable groups and what they bought themselves. Large Assortment Since reading is one of the few diversions Jivaiiable to merchant • seamen at sea, the LOG stepped in and arranged with Pocketbooks, Inc., one of the country's largest packagers of paper-backed reading materials, to provide an assort­ ment of 50 different books for each contracted vessel every three , months. Ships due to be out at sea for longer periods of time were given two or three 50-volume pack­ ages depending on the expected length of^the voyage. The popular program, which Sea­ farers overwhelmingly endorsed in a speciar LOG poll last year, was eventually extended to provide proper reading matter for patients at the various US Public Health Service hospitals all over the country. Distribution of the quarterly packages has been handled through llie coastwise facilities of the SIU Sea Chest, which maintains repre­ sentatives at all US major ports where SIU ships call. Gov't Sets Hearing On Bernstein WASHINGTON — Stale­ mated for many years, Arnold Bernstein Lines will soon be­ gin once again the job of clearing Government hurdles for getting its long-proposed low-cost US-flag transatlantic passenger ship serv­ ice into actual operation. Hearings on its bid for US oper­ ating subsidies have been ordered by the Federal Maritime Board at a time and place still to be deter­ mined, Application for the Federal aid was made early this Spring, Bernstein originally received ap­ proval for a one-class, moderatecost service in mid-1950. But the Korean War broke out Photo taken early this year at hearing held by Coast Guard into disasterous sinking of LST a few days later, and the two Southern-Districts. Israel Seeger (left) of SIU General Counsel Seymour'W. Miller's office Government-owned transports he questions CG inspector Allee |2nd left) as members of panel listen. planned to convert for the run were sidetracked for Navy use. Convert Mariner The objective this time calls for conversion of one or more of the new Mariner-type freighters, which would carry 900 passengers each in a uniform tourist service within the reach of most pocketbooks. His plans, accordingly, are not likely to be welcomed with open arms by the one major US-flag transatlantic passenger operator servicing the North Atlantic route, and will face similar opposition from foreignflag lines as well, Bernstein right now has no ships operating on any trade route. His bid for a Government subsidy is The SIU this week charged the United States Coast Guard with a brazen based on plans to offer a minimum Seafarers who wish to check of 20 transatlantic trips a year, "whitewash" of its own marine inspection system and the operators of the ill-fated their baggage at SIU headquar­ pending possible construction of ters in Brooklyn are advised to up to three other vessels "within LST Southern Districts. at the New Orleans hearing, said time of arrival at Bucksport when note the change in the location the next five or six years." These The Southern Districts the Southern Districts "could, have such notice was expected." All of of the baggage room, which is would then be able to meet present now in the Sea Chest building requirements of the Maritime Ad­ disappeared in the Atlantic been slightly overloaded" when these findings were vetoed by the departed from Port Sulphur, commandant in his review of the on 4th Avenue and 18th Street, ministration for 52 passenger sail­ last December with a crew she La., on December 2, 1954, bound case. two blocks from the shipping ings annually in the service be­ The Coast Guard thus appeared hall. By bringing their baggage tween US Atlantic Coast ports and of 23, including twelve Sea­ for Bucksport, Me., with a cargo farers and two SUP men. The of sulphur, and was "very near her unwilling or fearful of fixing re­ directly there, instead of to, the Northern Europe. sponsibility for the disaster which hall on 20th Street, they'll save The ships would run-direct to only hint of its fate discovered maximum draft." themselves the extra trek up 4th the continent and would offer cafe­ so far came on January 2, It also noted that the inspectors paralleled the sinking of the Dis­ Avenue later. The baggage room teria-style eating accommodations when a tanker sighted one of who went over the vessel in dry- tricts' sister ship, the Southern on 18th Street is open all day at an estimated average round trip the missing vessel's liferings dock in New Orleans just prior to Isles, in 1951, from which only six for the convenience of Sea­ cost of $360, or roughly $25 a day floating off the Florida keys. the fatal voyage "u^ed poor judg­ crewmembefs escaped. farers, All LST's Banned for seven-day crossings each way. Announcement of the Coast ment in not going further in A key to the situation was the Guard findings concerning the loss making a more thorough examina­ of the ship came in a report by tion and tests of the bottom shell apparent intention of the Coast the official hearing board which plating and tank tops" of the ship. Guard to continue its ban on un­ The three Coast Guard officers limited operating certificates for investigated the disaster in Jan­ uary and the review of same by who comprised the hearing board converted LSTs. Eight other con­ the commandant. Vice Admiral A, also found that the company verted LSTs have been idled since "should have given a mpre timely January. Two others, one of them C. Richmonr;, Adm. Richmond indicated that notice to the Coast Guard when the an SlU-manned ship, the Bethno action will be taken against vessel did not report its estimated Continued on Page 15 VI^ASHINGTON—^The Coast Guard, which usually throws either the operator of the ship, the the "book" at merchant seamen even for minor infractions of Southern Trading Co., or the ma­ regulations, has just thrown that same "book" out the window rine Inspectors who certified the vessel fit for what became her as it applies to Pacific MicroFor Month of August, 1955 nesian Lines, Inc. ment and the number of passen­ final voyage. Overruled Board • Announced that neither Coast Guard inspectors nor owners were A waiver of all navigation gers allowed" to be carried on His review of the hearing record to blame for loss of LST Southern Districts with all hands. Hearing and vessel inspection laws and freight vessels" and other regula­ carefully minimized even the slight testimony indicated a "deal" had been made on safety standards, regulations has been in operation tions. since July 1, 1955, on the ships of It applies both to ships now in criticism by the board of both the • Waived navigation and inspection laws for a steamship company this company, which operates ves­ operation and others that may be company and the inspectors, "The operating for the US Government in the Pacific, Threw out all laws sels for the US Department of In­ acquired for travel in the Trqst case or causes for the disappear­ affecting licensed and unlicensed personnel, quarters, life-saving terior in the Trust Territory waters Territory of the Pacific^ Islands, as ance of the Southern Districts are equipment, etc. of the Pacific, well as between the Trust Terri­ incapable of exact ascertainment," tory and all US ports. Including he stated. He did concede, however, • Published a four-page condensed list of new regulations govern­ No Protection The blanket waiver, good until territories and possessions, and that "whatever the cause or causes, ing the issuance, holding and revocation of seamen's papers and of­ it is probable the structural condi­ ficers' licenses. June 30, 1956, applies to "naviga­ foreign ports. Disclosure of the waiver first tions of the vessel contributed • Took steps to tell companies how to better prepare their ship's tion and vessel inspection laws re­ lating to licensed and unlicensed came in the Federal Register thereto," logs—^to list "everything" that happens aboard^a veiled hint to re­ The board. In summing up more cord all disputes with the crew so the Coast Guard^nan intervene. personnel, passenger quarters, dated August 24, It had already than 1,000 pages of testimony taken ^crew—qjuatlers,. Jife*savltig-..equlp- been in.operation-two mcHiths. Hq. Baggage Room Moved : . -ii ..J -"''•'I SIU Raps Report As CC 'Whitewash' In Ship Disaster •7 •i'l CG Waives Rules For Paeitic L/ne, Boxscore On US Coast Guard 1 " CHS; "•.'M �mummmmm , Paere Four ' ' .^ • SEAFAR'^RS LO G » -Ef;.: • -'^ SeptemUr i, iiJsii - Gets Lowdown On Shipping SHIPPING ROUND-UP AND FORECAST K"'' "• "'• • -/-• ,•• "->-•'iiVrJ--',A' - ..' . • ';' AUGUST 10 THROUGH AUGUST 23 Registered Port Boston . .... New York ... Philadelphia . Baltimore ... Norfolk Savannah .... Miami Tampa Mobile ....... New Orleans . Lake Charles Houston Wilmington .. San Francisco Seattle Eng. A Peck A Deck B 13 87 29 59 7 4 8 6 29 40 9 14 11 28 24 4 32 6 29 11 5 6 0 4 14 8 10 1 13 23 4 77 , 21 47 15 7 0 7 25 42 8 12 2 13 12 Duck A Dock B Eng. A 368 166 292 Eng. B 3 47 7 32 10 5 1 3 9 13 10 6 2 18 23 Stew. A • 189 Stew. B 0 63 13 26 12 3 4 5 29 43 4 8 2 15 10 7 8 22 Slew. A Stew. B 237 2 19 5 19 9 1 8 3 6 12 7 Total A 7 227 63 132 34 14 12 18 83 125 21 34 15 56 46 a 136 Total A 897 Total B Total Reg. 9 .26 325 98 ^8 . 81 80 . 212 30 64 25 11 15 27 6 24 102 19 39 164 25 46 . 58 24 25 10 39 95 68 114 Total B Total Reg. 491 1388 Shipped Port Boston New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Savannah Miami TainpaMobile New Orleans Lake Charles Houston Wilmington San Francisco Seattle Deck A ...., Deck B 1 4 17 0 25 1 1 15 0 3 1 2 9 0 0 0 1 12 Deck B Deck C 0 20 3 12 11 3 4 2 13 15 3 90 22 43 6 5 .... ' 21 4 Deck A Total De.-ik C •• 6 114 70 Eng. A 0 77 19 35 9 6 1 3 18 36 9 16 0 7 6 Eng. A 242 ^Shipping for the Atlantic and Gulf District Jevelled off during the past two weeks, fol­ lowing the 20-month high- established in the previous period. The number of men shipped to jobs, a total of 1,277, still represented a healthy figure, however. Total registration was 1,388. Of special note in the shipping develop­ ments was the fact that class A jobs climbed four percent to a fraction over 60 percent of the total, while class B shipping experienced . an identical percentage loss, and dropped to 26 percent. The fact that class C shipping remained pegged at the same mark it has held for sev­ eral weeks indicated a lack of available class B manpower in all A&G ports except Seattle, fe. The following is the forecast, port by port: BOSTON: Exceptionally quiet right now . . . NEW YORK: Still has plenty of jobs; continues short on engine, deck ratings . . . PHILADELPHIA: Continues fairly good; expected to stay that way ... BALTIMORE: Slowed down; next two weeks should look good.-Texmar. Liberty Bell crewing up; several payoffs also due . . . NOR­ FOLK: Holds good; should stay good. SAVANNAH: Fair; registration light; not many men on beach . . . MIAMI: Fair, back to normal. SS Florida going into drydock at Jack­ sonville . . . TAMPA: Nothing do­ ing . . . .MOBILE: Holding its own; Council Grove to crew up. Ex­ pects more ships diverted to poit . . . NEW ORLEANS: Good; should be even better in this period. LAKE CHARLES: Holding firm; needs wipers, but is loaded on pumpmen . . . HOUSTON: Up again, but still not normal . . . . . . WILMINGTON: Very quiet. Ships going elsewhere on coast. . . SAN FRANCISCO: slowed down somewhat; nothing special ex­ pected . . . SEATTLE: Terrific; shipped more ' than registereiT. Boom likely to continue. Eng. B 0 30 6 16 5 6 0 1 8 14 11 6 1 9 23 Eng. B 136 Eng.- Stew. C A Stew. Stew. Total B C A Total B 0 14 0 9 11 1 0 0 1 4 4 2 1 2 4 62 9 25 4 4 4 4 20 38 4 10 2 12 13 2 15 5 . 7 3 4 6 0 4 7 3 8 1 7 9 2 65 14 35 19 13 10 3 25 36 17 .20 3 20 49 Stew. A Slew. B* 4 Eng. C 53 215 81 12 0 12 229 50 1 2 103 12 19 0 16 0 11 0 12 2 61 11 113 26 1 0 47 0 6 0 29' 10 38 stew. Total c A 51 772 Total Total Ship. C (L 51 "2 > 12 38 1 3 1 5 24 5 2 1 3 26 14 345 66 150 76 30 24 16 91 173 48 69 10 52 113 Total B Total Total Ship. C 331 174 1277 where class B shipping ran well ahead of class A. All ports except Boston shipped men in class C, which has no seniority in the SIU. Class C shipping accounted for 14 percent of the total shipping. Generally, the port by port picture showed improvement in three ports, declines in eight and the rest remaining the same. Miami, with a "freak" boom during the last period, and Wilmington and San Francisco, both "of which have held fairly steady until now, showed substantial declines. The levelling off in shipping, however, did not diminish the continued demand for man­ power in most ports, especially in engine de­ partment ratings and, to a lesser degree, ABs. New York shipped 80 men in one hectic day and then ran slow again for several days at a time. Vacationing from school, one of the four 1954 wirtners of a $6,000 SlU scholarship. Jack Game, 19 {2nd from left); is treated to an explanation of SlU rotary shipping by Baltimore dispatcher Eli Hanover (right). Young Game and his father, Eddie S.-Game (left), paid a visit to the hall, while Jack is on vacation from studies at the University of Nortli Carolina. BaHimore Beef-Clear, Hail Smooth Payoffs BALTIMORE—Seafarers who recognize the importance of iving up to the Union's agreements with its coikracted op­ erators are making it easier here for the operators to live up to their half of the bar-+gain. All business is proceeding smoothly these days. Port Agent Earl Sheppard reported, as the docket has been wiped clean of all beefs, large or small. The result is to make a smooth relationship between all hands, Seafarers, Un­ ion officials and company repre­ sentatives. The successful disposal of one major item that caused friction has cleared the way to a clean slate on beefs, following the Un­ ion's quick action in getting harsh "two for one" loggings of Seafai*ers by Ore Line skippers lifted by the Coast Guard. Late Reporting The sore point fof^a time was the question of crewmembers re­ porting to the ships less than an hour before sailing, contrary to the agreement, and the masters reacted .'nviftly to take advantage of the situation. Now, however, the loggings have gone by t)ie board and Seafarers, in turn, are going by the book themselves. This hap­ py result followed a thorough dis­ cussion of the problem at the last branch membership , m e e 11 n g, where Sheppard called on all SIU men to go by the contract and not give the company the smallest chance to throw its beefs back at the Union at the next time around the bargaining table. Meawhile, shipping ror the port slowed down a bit, but the see­ saw is due to go the other way once again in the coming two weeks. Sheppard said he counted on the expected crewing of the Texmar (Calmar) and the Liberty Bell (Tramp Cargo), as well as the regular callers in the harbor, to bulge the figures once again. ^lU Award Winner Eyes Legal Field One of two studious young ladies who will be entering college for the first time this month under SIU jiuspices, brother Michael, 12, by six years. Susan Folts, of Tulsa, Okla., finds her scholastic future for Her dad has been an SIU member since 1947 and sails in the deck the next four years well taken department regularly. The family has lived In Tulsa for many years care of via the $6,000 SIU anyway." She hastened to point out that since coming fi'om Arkansas where scholarship award. she had been accepted at Stanford she was born. The daughter of Seafarer Myron University in California also, but Her father first got news of her E. Folts, who's now aboard the "just wasn't interested going there goo4 fortune while out at sea, and Fairland somewhere in the Orient, now." is haturally proud of his young Seeks Legal Career daughter's accomplishments. Grad­ slie also has another scholarship, An aspiring student of secretarial a much smaller one, to her credit administration. Miss Folts is look­ uated from Tulsa Central High this past May, Susan wound up in' a.*! well. ing forward to a career years the upper ten percent of her class Thi.s one provides $200 a year hence as a legal secretary or in by maintaining a grade of "ex­ annually for four year.sl study at some similar position. "It's a cellent" in more than half her lucrative field, and that's always courses. important to con­ School Musician This Is the final article in a sider when you An active participant in student series dealing with the five invest several government, she also devoted a lot years in prepar­ 1955 winners of the $6,000 of her energies to the school or­ ing for some­ SIU scholarship awards. chestra and after hours as an officer thing," she stated. of her church Sunday School. At .Winding up school she also participated in the University of Tulsa. "The her summer girls' sports like field hockey and earning some Union award makes it look pretty did some teaching on her own in spending money tiny, of course, and has no strings ballroom dancing. as an elevator Foils attached to it," she commented. operator at the Her varied school and after-class '•But even though I can go any­ American Airlines Terminal in activities are expected to aid con­ where, I'm going to be a stay-at- Tulsa, Susan is one> of two children siderably in her future training: for home for right now and go to Tulsa in the Folts family, aiid. ranks her |-tli« full-time business world. Marriage is, of course, in pros­ pect, but she also wants to make her way in the business world at the same time, so there's "nothing definite on that just yet," she added cryptically. "I would like to thank all the people who made this award pos­ sibly for the others and myself. I know it would be a lot more difficult to look ahead if it weren't for the fact that my father is an SIU member." Make Checks To 'SIU-A&O' Seafarers mailing in checks or money orders to the Union to cover dues payments are urged to be sure to inake all of them payable to the SIU-A&G District. Some Seafarers have sent in cheeks and money orders in the names of individual headquar­ ters officials. This makes for a problem in bookkeeping which can bk. avoided' if checks* arc madfrjoutjo. th&TJalfliudu'.ectiy. - I �Seiiteiiiber X, 1958 SEAFARERS Pare Fire Seafarers Speed Card Filing For Family Hosp-SurgicaJ Care US Cabinet Member Seeks Strikebreakers f^-.5/if'-'x-or. sin«, /ash. Teen 9 iuid 5* LOG Over 60 percent of all Seafarers have filed enrollment cards for SIU Hospital and Sur­ gical coverage of their dependents in the last 90 days, the SHI Welfare Plan disclosed this week. The 60 percent figure is con­ sidered relatively high be­ cause most Seafarers have [ISS, shcj LcelK 3XPERIENCED mechanics, bodymen, blet polish men. ^Only top-quality men . Tf wanted. Union membership not -nec­ . fpr essary. Strike now in process. Per­ nCE I manent employment. General Motors Ive.. training in Chevrolet • and Cadillac available. A real opportunity for ambitious men who want to advance Top earnings assured. Guarantee with percentage. DOUGLAS McKAY CHEVORLET^O. 510 N Commercial St. to: Salem. Oregon.. been away at sea during the peri­ od, ' which has been marked by good shipping throughout the Dis­ trict. The new benefit is free to ali qualified Searfarers' families. However, the extreme interest in the new benefits by the large family membership of the SIU has assured that most men had an opportunity to file an "enroll­ ment card have already done so. In order to file for the dependents' benefits, a Seafarer must have an enrollment card listing the names, ages and status of his dependents on file with the Welfare Plan. Cards are available at all SIU halls and can be obtained from any SIU patrolman meeting a ship. A supply sufficient for every crew was also furnished to every ship shortly before the benefits went into effect on June 1, 1955. Op another welfare matter, an interim report on the number of Searfarers who have re-filed bene­ ficiary cards for the $3,500 SIU death benefit following disclosure that 3,300 men ^ had submitted faulty ones indicated that several thousand Seafarers had respond­ ed, many of them "just to play it safe." A special four-page supplement published in the SEAFARERS LOG issue of June 10, 1955, listed the 3,300 names, along with sug­ gestions on the proper methods for filling out the card. Seafarers whose names were on the list and who have not yet filed a new beneficiary card are urged to do so without delay. Failure to have a card on file can cause com­ plicated delay on claims for the death benefit. The International Association of Machinists, AFL, is on strike against the Douglas McKay Chevrolet-Caelillac agency in Salem, Oregon. The company placed this ad for strikebreakers.' Owner of the property is Douglas McKay, US Secretary of Interior and cabinet member. The firm wants the employees to give up security, senior­ ity and holiday rights. New Moscow 'Line' Aped In CP Waterfront Pitcb The epdleSs barrage of Commie propaganda mailed to US seamen was augmented last month by the first-time appear­ ance of . the. CP Waterfront Section's "Fortlight" in formal dress. Seafarers who have grovm group to recognize the Soviet de­ accustomed to the Commie sign and fight it on every front. who continue receiv­ line peddled by this anonymous ingSeafarers "Portlight" or similar CP party handout now report getting copies boldly imprinted with the literature are urged to read it and digest it. In that way, they can label "Issued by the Waterfront avoid being fooled by. the smoke­ Section C. P. U.S.A." screen of phony propaganda. This is the first time the famil­ iar mimeographed handbill has thus identified itself openly, be­ cause the new CP line stemming from the Soviet false-front" dis­ play at the "Summit" meeting in Geneva in July calls for "alwayssmiling" commissars who kiss babies instead of beating slave laborers. The brief and inglorious history of the old ILA's phony Tlie new line, evidenced in the beguiling performance of the seamen's union appears definitely to have come to end, fol­ Soviet agricultural delegation lowing the departure two weeks ago of Keith Alsop, its wherever it visited in the US re­ erstwhile secretary-treasurer. cently, is carried through in the Alsop headed south and hasn't cept for a few hangers-on with no latest "Portlight." place else to go. Taking the neighborly approach been heard from since. In turn, offices of the "United The false-front "union" lasted to all issues, it speaks of a possible International Seamen's Union, less than a year,, devoting most of "summit" meeting of US maritime leaders to iron out ppst indiffer­ Local 1824," remain deserted ex- its time to preying on unorganized foreign seamen. ences. But nowhere in its brief for Alsop, ex-SIU Galveston agent, maritime unity does it scatter was defeated in the last SIU elec­ praise, except on the racket-ridden tion and chose to throw in with old IL.A. and on Harry Bridges' the ILA and other elements West Coast Longshore Union, which conspired to "get" SIU Sec­ AFL President George Meany retary-Treasurer Paul Hall because who has stood almost alone in his of the SIU support given to the condemnation of the new Soviet new AFL longshoremen's union approach charged the Government chartered In 1953, following the with a serious error. "We are giv­ expulsion of the old ILA for ing respectibiiity to people who racket-domination. are not respectable," the AFL The conspiracy reached a climax leader declared. in the unsuccessful attempt to as­ At the same time, he recounted sassinate Hall last Christmas eve, the long history of opposition to in which ex-Tampa agent Ray Communism in the trade union White, his brother Steely White movement, which was the first and others were implicated and eventually indicted. In the course of the police in­ vestigation into the murder at­ tempt, New York attorney Ben Seafarers overseas who want Sterling reportedly admitted hand­ to get in touch with headquar­ ling over $20,000 in ILA funds pro­ ters in a hurry can do so by vided for the opposition group led cabling the Union at its cable by Alsop and White. address, SEAFARERS NEW Eventually, when the UISU was Attorney Benjamin B. Sterling YORK. casting about for a head man, Al­ leaves New York police station Use of this address will as­ sop moved into the new post of after being questioned con­ sure speedy transmission on secretary-treasurer, which he oc­ cerning attempted murder of all messages and faster serv­ cupied until his recent departure. SIU Secretary-Treasurer Paul ice fotnthe men' involveiL > He was reported last seen in Texag. 1^1'.last winter. I "n'l •ini-i" M -in -ific Seafarer Robert McKnew (left), a patient at the Baltimore marine hospital, receives check for $125 in retroactive benefrts from SIU Welfare Services rep. Tony Kastina. Be­ cause he was in and out of the hospital since January and was unable to meet 90-day seatime requirement, he was only eligible for partial benefits until Union went to bat for him. ILA's Crimp Sea 'Union' Gathering Dust In NY Visiting SIU headquarters in New York with his wife and daughter, Carole, 4, Seafarer Sidney Bernstein shows the family how simple it is to file for SIU benefis under the Union set-up. Bernstein is MM on the Elizabeth. MJnion Has Cable Address . ^ if •* J > - -Yv. The boys, Glenn David, 3 (left), and Patrick, 2, are pretty well occupied with Ccundy efficiently provided by headquar­ ters employees,,as Seafarer and Mrs. Billy Burke visit the hall,, to inquire about .^lU dependents' welfare benefits,. , i -Y YYY �Paire Si* SEAFARERS LOG September 2, 195& 'Blackball' Issue Flares In NMU Water Beef Nets $28Q0 In Seattle Mounting resentment within the National Maritime Union over the acceptance by the CIO union's national leadershipof company-imposed "blackballs" against union seamen has jllared up once again on the-*-— NMU-manned flagship SS sands of men who have had their appeals denied or were told not to United States. The issue came out into the open appeal. The burden of getting a black­ during a joint meeting of the ship' 1,000-man crew on July 13 amid ball lifted falls on the rank-anda report on a crewmember who had filer. He must bring his beef to left the ship and then found he the union's port committee or the was "blackballed" when he tried blackball will stand and keep him from obtaining a job with that to return later. "Nothing has been done for him company. This is regardless of the . . , There is no reason for the rotary, first-come-fir.st served ship union to recognize the blackball ping system said to be in operation system no matter how it is consid by the CIO organization in all ered—the blackball aids the com­ fleets. No Union Help pany only," the steward delegate An indication of the long stand­ stated. ing of the blackball system within Thousands Blackballed A hint of the extent of the the NMU is the existence of a spe­ "blackball" system in which several cial "blackball" beef counter at its New York headquai-ters. Here major NMU companies engage apparently with the full approval the member who wishes to -fight of NMU officials—comes from lists the blackball presents himself to in the NMU Pilot over the past the official in charge and hopes for nine months. Twelve of the last the best. However, as discussion aboard nineteen issues of the Pilot devote space to announcements of "black­ the SS United States has pointed ball" clearances in 439 instances out, there seems to be as little against men ,who worked for US rhyme or reason for lifting the Lines and four other companies. blackballs as for imposing them in The total for the US Lines alone the first place. Fines are within during the period was 312, with reason, US crewmembers assert, the remainder split among Ameri­ but blacklisting is contrary to can Export, Moore-McCormack, basic unionism and is unjust to all seamen. Grace and United Fruit Lines. The tremendous number of men There is no way of estimating how many others are pending, as blackballed with US Lines alone the Pilot pointedly notes that "any was revealed by the ship chairman person who has submitted his name on the US, who reported: "I Photo ialcen from NMU Pilot shows longtime acceptance by to the Port Committee in reference pointed out to Captain Mills that that union of company blackball system—even to the point to clearance to ship can call at the if they lifted their blackballs this of providing a counter in the union hall. Men here are apply­ Port Committee office . . . Monday ship would never sail short and ing to have the company blackballs against them lifted. tlu-ough Friday, 10 to 11 AM." could be supplied with personnel Moreover there are probably thou- in 15 minutes. USL has followed NMU crewmen have reported that sometimes men are black­ the policy of blackballing a man balled solely for quitting a ship. not only when he is fired, but also when the man himself resigns." cally rejected NMU President Joe played down In the Pilot account, 'Curtain' Lifts a Bit Curran's much-ballyhooed "Em­ which mentioned the crew's neai'Meanwhile, the NMU administra­ ployment Security Plan" as a dis­ unanimous action only as an after­ tion-imposed "iron curtain" on^the guised forced vacation scheme. thought. Regular membership meet­ activities aboard the United States Publication of the minutes in the In an effort to further draw at­ ings in SIU headquarters and parted slightly in the last issue of Pilot apparently resulted from an tention away from the pact rejec­ at all branches are held every the Pilot to permit belated publi­ earlier disclosure of their existence tion, the remainder of the page on second Wednesday night at cation of a watei-ed-down set of in the SEAFARERS LOG, which which the story was carried was 7 PM. The schedule for the next few meetings is as follows: ship's minutes from mid-July. This finally needled NMU officials in plastered with stories from lesser was the meeting at which NMU publishing .them. The contract re­ ships praising Uio employment Sept. 7, Sept. 21, Oct. 5. crewmembers on the ship emphati- jection, however, was carefully plan. Meeting Night Kvery 2 Wcekfs A mrORTH SEAFARERS GUIDE TO BETTER BUYING Overstock Of 1955 Model Cars h'V September is generally not the best month for shopping, since it's the start of the season and manufacturers and dealers initially get full markup for goods which later in the fall will be marked down. But it's a good month to shop for two items: 1955 cars, and canned produce, both being cleared to make way for the new models and the new pack. There is a" big overstock of 1955 cars, and dealers are under pressure to unload before new models start arriving in October and November. Automotive News estimated dealer inventories of new cars at 836,000 on Aug. 1, com­ pared to the previous record Inventory of 607,000 In May 1954, In some large cities dealers are selling 1955 cars at close to their cost, and depending for their profit on the sale of accessories and on the kickback on financing cars. Car Prices Out Of Line The overstock is the inevitable result of high produc­ tion without a corresponding price reduction by the fac­ tories. There are definite indications that cars are over­ priced, and this is the real reason sales have not kept up with high production, since there is still a vast, hungry market for cars. For one thing, list prices of cars have gone up more since prewar than the average of all products in the cost of living index. For another, car manufacturers show how far prices can really be cut when they bid for fleet sales. The New York City Purchasing Department this year was able to get bids of $1040 from Chewy, and $1090 from Ford, for business coupes with standard trans­ missions. A private buyer would pay about $1600 for the same cars. Manufacturers also have hidden profit in their phanti^m frelg-ht chdrgd': They'char|;e theidealer and the buyerjifor the full cost of shipping 'ah ai^ejinbled car from the factory, when they actually ship the cars dismantled at lower expense, and put them together at regional as­ sembling plants. The present glut of 1955 models produces some lower prices for buyers, with the middleman-dealer really in the middle this year. This department's auto advisor, the technical man for a leading auto club, considers the '55 models the best yet, with Chevrolet and Pontiac especially improved over their previous models in power, handling and roadability. This year's Chewy not only has improved acceleration, but now has a ball-joint suspension like the one Ford introduced in 1954. This kind of suspension makes the car easier to handle around corners, provides an improved ride with truer steering and less "wander," and is considered by engineers to have a longer life with less realignment required than on the traditional kingpinspindle suspension. * Chewy, Pontiac Similar Actually the Chewy has basically the same engine a's' the Pontiac. Chief differences'are in-the bore and stroke (giving Pontiac a little more power), and the cooling and oil systems. The 1955 Chevrolet has regained from Ford its position of most-bought car, even if not by much. Plymouth, too, has made sales gains with its bigger and more 'powerful 1955 models (that is, bigger and more powerful than Its own previous models), and its easy-toservice design, with engine, ignition and brake compon­ ents comparatively easily accessible. The 1955 Ford was not much changed from the '54 model, but it still has good roadability with its ball-joint suspension and its usual fast acceleration. The 1955 Studebaker also is longer and more powerful than previous Studebakers. More overall', leqgth of course is showy, but. niPit.,n«!cesi^.Sj^adyantfge. ip',ti^ffic SEATTLE — Crewmembers aboard the SS Shinnecock Bay who suffered through 14 days without hot water are shower­ ing, shaving and sharing $2,800 in penalty money won them through the SIU contract. The penalty comes to $100 per man in' sub­ sistence-pay, Agent Jeff Gillette reports. The only other beef of impor­ tance that was handled aboard in­ coming ships was the failure by Calmar Line to keep sufficient milk aboard while on the -West Coast. Prospects for the coming period are considered very igood wiih several payoffs due in the port. Accounting for the excellent ship­ ping of the past two weeks wei-e the presence of such ships as the Kyska (Waterman); Barbara Fritchie, (Liberty Nav.); Heywood Broun, Coeur d'Alene Victory, and Battle Rock (Victory Carriers), and Shinnecock Bay (Veritas). Florida Goes Into Drydock MIAMI — With the busy summer season at an end and the winter season still ahead. Seafarers off the SS Florida are themselves about to enjoy a short vacation. The Miami-to-Havana passenger ship is slated to enter drydock in Jacksonville on Sep­ tember 5 for inspection and minor repairs. Otherwise, this resort city is playing host to an occasional coast­ wise freight ship. Agent Eddie Parr reports that the activity in the port and elsewhere In the A&G District left the branch without sufficient members for a quorum. Written for log ^ leading expert on biying lealinS®^ Margolius, and parking. The 1955 Chevrolet Is shorter than the com­ petitive makes but actually has about the same wheelbase, and its compactness is a help in n^any driving situa­ tions. In selecting a car, look for what you need. If you don't need high power, don't buy it. The 1955 sixes are im­ proved in power too, and even if they don't have the swooping acceleration of eights, they have enough for most purposes and definitely are more economical to op­ erate. Some of the optional equipment which adds power, such as four-barrel carburetors, also adds to repair bills.Specials On Canned Goods September Is also a good month to look for special prices on canned goods at the supermarkets, as packers prepare to bring in this year's pack. You need have no concern about buying canned goods packed last year and now offered at reduced prices. These have been kept in temperature-regulated storage. Simply avoid buying any cans that show bulges or signs of rust. Save even more by buying Grades B and C, which have the same vitamin and other food value as the costlier Grade A, and by buying the less-popular packs, like the short-cut string beans, mixed or ungraded sizes of peas, and irregular-sized peaches and other canned fruits. All these are good com­ parative values. Pork is becoming more abundant and its price tags ar« dropping. The choice, tender cuts of beef have gone up, so switch to the more abundant "Good" grade, which is even richer in vitamin and protein value than the marbled cuts, but not as tender. That means your best beef buys this fall will be in hamburger, stew meat and pot roast rather than steaks and roasts for broiling. Eggs are, gojng HP too, This is,.the..season t^ .switch to pullet and^medliuitrsize,eggs,, which', nowi pffer f»bi^*'cgF' i for your money than large ones. �September 2, 1958 boarding patrolman. Vote of thanks given to crew for the good job they are doing aboard ship. OIL ORO (MIftlftlppI)/ JUM If— Chairman, L. Johnttom Sacratary, J. R. Touart. Sugseatlon made that cota ba atowed away when not In use. Laundry should be kept clean and steward aereed to provide trash can. Discussion concerning ship's stores, in which steward stated that vessel loaded stores for 75 days. MAE (Bull), July 7—Chairman, E. Smith; Secretary, S. Bej-ger. Every­ thing in order except for failure of posting sailing board time. There is a total of 828 in the ship's fund. Re­ pair list will be checked by chief en­ gineer. New antenna put up and it Works fine. Loud speaker attached to fantail. New communications read and approved. Discussion held on the Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee. Crew in favor of new welfare plan. Motion made by Brother Shea to back Paul Haii's stand against freezing wages and his action against trans­ ferring ships to foreign flag. HILTON (Bull), Juna 11—Chlrman, C'Reurke; Secretary, L. Savior. All crewmembers were asked to keep the washing machine clean. A suggestion was made to put an electric timer on the washing machine. The first as­ sistant engineer seems to be riding a couple . of men. Treasurer reported $12 in the ship's fund. July 3—Chairman, B. Abrams; Sec­ retary, J. Smith. Launch service and penalty cargo kept on record to be referred to patrolman. The ship's sec­ retary reporter kept the crew advised of ail ship's news and happenings throughout the trip. OCEAN NIMET (Ocean Transporta­ tion), July 7—Chairman, C. Simmons; Secretary, C. Voik. Twenty-five cots will be ordered from New York. Mo­ tion made and carried to establish a ship's fund and each erewmember will donate SI.. Engine .department sanitary gear requested. A clock for the washing machine will be taken out of the ship's fund. YORKMAR (Calmar), no date—Chair­ man, J. Watt; Secretary, R. Morgan. The ship's delegate reported that the company agent claimed he received no orders for stores from the ship. Captain promised he would get need­ MASSMAR (Calmar), July 3—Chair­ man, Novak; Secretary, J. Elchenberg. Motion made by Joe Simmons to have all outcomes of beefs that are listed in ship's minutes posted in LOG. In this way the men that- leave the ship will know outcome of said beef. Washing .machine on boat deck drains in the galley. Steward department given a vote of thanks. '' ALCOA CORSAIR (Alcoa), June S— Chairman, T. Costeilo; Secretary, J. Roberts. Ship's treasurer reported that there is $294 on hand in the ship's fund. New ship's delegate was elected. ed stores. One man missed ship in San Francisco. A ne.w galley range is needed or repairs should be made, ARCHERS HOPE (Cities Service), June 26—Chairman, A. Fringe; Sec­ retary, C. Gallant. A special meeting was held for discussion and action on infringement of bargaining rights and wage freeze. There will be no payoif this trip and all permits will have to take out probationary books on arriv­ al in Lake Charles. Motion made by James Hart to telegraph headquarters of action taken on Bonner Bill per­ taining to wage freeze. It was sug­ gested that men using washing ma­ chine turn same off when finished. STEEL KING (Isthmian), July 7— Chairman, Herayo; Secretary, Her­ nandez. All the latest bulletins and reports were read to the crew and they accepted same 100 percent. Tiie crew supports the International policy all the way. ' ARCHERS HOPE (Cities Service), July f—Chairman, O. Gallant; Secre­ tary, P. Hammel. Ship's delegate talked to the captain regarding fresh vegetables to be brought aboard. Cap­ tain will provide same when in sea­ son. Brother Rice was elected to the secretary-reporter post. There Is a balance of $3 in the ship's fund. ORION STAR (Oil Carriers), July S —Chairman, W. Teffner; Secretary, J. Asavlanls. Larger fans are needed for foc'sles. Repair lists will be turned into delegates. Steward will ask for better soap powder and heavier cots. A vote of thanks was given to the steward department for fine food dur­ ing this trip. Brother Vinelus made a motion that the ship's delegate re­ port to the patrolman only, and not have half the crew running to him with beefs. Carried unanimously. July 7—Chairman, H. Knowles; Sec­ retary, W. Stark. Communications and reports read to the crew in their en­ tirety, and accepted by all hands. EDITH (Bull), July 4—Chairman, C. Starlinga Secretary, N. Maftie. The report on the SlU convention and agents' conference was read over to the crew three times and posted. The 8 to 12 foc'sle is constantly over­ heated and one brother asked the ship's delegate if he could see the' captain about having a new porthole cut in that foc'sle. Question of re­ placement -screen for engine gang settled. STEEL AG! (Isthmian), June Chairman, J. Clark; Secretary, C, Tobias. The steward department dele­ gate asked that when.the department delegates tell a man to put in for cer­ tain overtime, there should be no ar­ gument on this man's part but to com­ ply with the request and keep record of same. All agreed to keep the door to the lower passageway closed at night to instire sleeping comfort. Treasurer repeated 821.17 id' the ship's fund. Deck department had a meeting several days ago about a man who was hitting the bottle, too hard and wanted to get him straight­ ened out before he caused the crew some trouble. MORNING LIGHT (Waterman), June IS—Chairman, J. Mann; Secretary, J. LInhart. A suggestion was made to change ship's library on returning to stateside. Request made to have keys made for all foc'sles. Motion made and carried that the captain give the crew a written sti^ement of their earnings. One man missed ship in Mobile. CHIWAWA (Cities Service), July 7 —Chairman, J. Christy; Secretary, T, Clough. There is $16 in the ship's fund. The ship was just crewed up after being in.the siiipyard for twen­ ty-one days. Ship's offices were elected before crewmembers boarded the bus for trip to JacksonvUie. DE SOTO (Waterman), July 7— Chairman, J. Chemesino; Secretary, B. Varn, Jr. Ship's treasurer reported $34.38 in the ship's fund. All bulle­ tins from headquarters were read and posted. IBERVILLB (Pan Atlantic), July S— Chairman, Clyde Kreiss; Secretary, J. Ftt9 Sereii SBAFARERSLOG ALCOA RANGER (Alcoa), May 2S— Chairman, F. Graeff; Secretary, G. Bozec. Motion made and carried that ti>e Alcoa Ranger be paid off every other trip. Amendment to the above motion carried, that if the payoff is every other trip that the crew be al­ lowed to draw to the fullest extent on their overtime. ALCOA PURITAN (Alcoa), July IS —Chairman, C. Parker; Secretary, H. Kilmon, Repair lists completed and handed in for this trip. Wili see pa­ trolman about getting better launch service in Guayanillo, Puerto Rico, and about getting shelves installed over ail the crews bunks. Some dis­ puted overtime. Motion made and carried to accept and concur with headquarters com­ munications. Suggested that grew get something different for night lunch. See patrolman and inquire 'why ship has a perpetual port list. Crew to stop putting trash in linen bin. ANN MARIE (Bull), Juno 21—Chair­ man, N. Flowers; Secretary, L. Cald- eron. Boston agent was contacted regarding stores shortage. Drinking fountain to be kept more sanitary. Welfare enrollment cards were mailed out. Ship's fund—$3.66. A committee of three men were elected to buy new radio. It was requested that crew get new library-and DDT bombs. Vote of thanks to steward department. July 10—Chairman, A. Melanon; Secretary, L. Calderon. Fans to be kept clean. Everything going smooth. ARIZPA (Pan Atlantic), July 10— Chairman, R. Newell; Secretary, B. Hay. Repair lists to be turned in. No beefs. Discussion and suggestions on getting better Slop Chest. Better grade of meats will be requested. Bosun quite ill and captain will see whether he can have him flown home from Gibraltar. Vote of thank to steward department. BEAUREGARD (Pan Atlantic), July 3—Chairman, A. Kessen; Secretary, J. Reed. No major beefs. Repair lists to be turned in. Ship's treasury $19.86. Motion made and carried to accept and concur with headquarters commuications. Lockers to be checked and'replaced. Crew praised new ship's minutes form. Vote of thanks to cap­ tain. STEEL SCIENTIST (Isthmian), June 25—Chairman, J. Newman; Secretary, J. Hollen. A suggestion made that all hands donate $1 toward ship's fund. The slop chest should be checked due to the shortage of necessary items. The welfare department was notified about Brother Roa being taken off ship at Calcutta. There is a balance of 820 in the ship's fund. OCEAN DINNY (Maritime Overteas), June 26—Chairman, G. Rlnso; Secretary, C. Murray. Two fans to a room are needed. Galley should be painted. Repair lists for all depart­ ments will be turned In to the ship's delegate. Koval. A vote of thanks was given to the steward department. Garbage ALCOA PIONEER (Alcoa), July 3— should not be dumped near gangwa.y. 'Chairman, M. Baxter; Secretary, Balance of $S1 in the ship's fund. A James Purtell. One man left ship in new ship's delegate was elected, Venezuela due to a back injury." Dis­ cussion on having new bed springs ATLANTIC WATER (Metro), July 7 placed on bunks that do not have —Chairman, J. Zurlsf Secretary, J. them. Discussion on keeping laundry Monast. The crew's mess should be clean. Crewmembers were asl(,ed to cleaned after using for recreation pur­ be more quiet in the passageways pose.; 'BeePiim eoSee refeered-T* the (While, ttiem'ar'e'I sleeping,. Li. .i : • First Tanker-Dry Cargo Ship On Trials; Mobile Eyes Boom MOBILE—Seafarers are watching with interest the trial runs of the new Ideal X, the first of Pan-Atlantic's combination tanker-dry cargo vessels. If the run is successful, as expected, the company is expected to eventually get about one' dozen of these ships op--^ 1 erating between the East Coast and the lower Gulf areafi. Accordingly, a heads-up crew of Seafarers on the ship now is pav­ ing the way for possibly hundreds more jobs with this company, which, until the late Thirties, was the largest shipping operation of its kind in the world. Although the forecast has noth­ ing to do with it, shipping which tapered off a ]ittle during the past two weeks is expected to boom all over again for the coming period. Relief Men Shipped Cal Tanner, SIU port agent here, reported, however, that the num­ ber of men shipped doesn't always necessarily reflect the true state of shipping affairs in the port. He explained that in addition to the regular deep-sea shipping total of 91 men shipped, there was , also about 100 men shipped to various relief jobs in and around the har­ bor. In fact, even with this situa­ tion in existence "it v/as no easy task to get the men we did ship." Several class C non-seniority men were shipped because of the unanticipated shortage of man­ power in some ratings. Returning from a 4'/2-month trip to the Far East, Seafarer L. Oltimer Dies C. Sawyer.Jr., of Belhaven, NO, found daughter, Doris Denise, Tanner also took the occasion to born May 13, 1955, home to greet her new dad. Sawyer re­ convey the sympathy of branch cently collected the $200 SIU maternity benefit plus a $25 officials and his many former ship­ bond for Doris from the Union. mates to the family of deceased Seafarer John Ziegler, who passed away recently. Brother Ziegler had He is survived by his mother, wife shipped out of the Gulf area for and three children. Burial was in many years, particularly as an AB. Mobile cemetery. On another note of local interest, the SIU agent described a junket taken by Seafarers after the last regular membership meeting to watch the first pro football game ever played in the Gulf area. Tlie contest, between Detroit and the Washington Redskins, saw Detroit come out on top, 17-14. BOSTON — Flood waters are still high around this area and continue to menace homes and industry, SIU port agent James Sheehan reports. LAKE CHARLES—SeafarAs of late last week more than ers with black gang endorse­ 4,000 homes and business estab­ ments and a yen for some lishments in Boston were still good fishing are invited to come flooded and indications were that to this port, starting immediately. if the water does not recede rapidly more honjes ami business Port Agent Leroy Clarke reports areas will have to be eva9uated as growing shortage of engine walls and foundations weaken. department men to handle the The downtown area where the amount of shipping the port is SIU hall is located is free of water getting these days. Firemenbut hundreds of Seafarers who live watertenders, oilers and wipers in the suburbs and out-state are can make their way out of here in repairing damage suffered along a short time, he added. with millions of other northeastThe only job for which there is erners who. were hit by the waters a lot of talent available is that of of Hurricane Diane. pumpman. On the other hand the Apart from the hurricane, ship­ branch registration list carries ping has slackened off a great deal only one rated machinist, and he and there is little to assure an im­ may be gone also as this is being mediate pick-up. read. There also never seems to On the port of Boston itself, be enough wipers on hand to indications are strong that a state handle the demand. port authority will soon come into being to run Boston's shipping. Val Chem Back On Run Ten Cities Service tankers con­ tributed their efforts to the good shipping here, along with the Val Chem, which is out of the shipyard and back on its regular run into Seafarers filing vacation Orange, Texas, once, again every money claims should make I* days. The Trinity (Carras); in sure that they use their correct Port Neches, T^xas, and the Del Social Security number. Use Oro (Mississippi) here also had a of the wrong number means a hand in keeping shipping up at its clerical headache for the Vaca­ SHORE WEAR ( SEA GEAR present good level. . tion Plan office and slows up SEA GEARS SHORE WEAR Aside from a few men receiving the handling of payments. out-patient treatment, there are no Also, a Seafarer who uses Seafarers'in the hospitals at the the incorrect Social Security present time, Clarke added. The number is crediting his tax de­ labor scene is also quiet, with all ductions to some , other _US unions reporting their, memhcfrs wdrk^f, .-A working and happy. ' rv -i'. Doris Beat Dad Home Lake Chas. Lure: Fish And Ships Flood Peril Still Grips Boston Area — for SIU 1 MEMBERS! 'I-1 gVEglW/MS'l&L' NBBOINS&ieEAlK ANDSHORfWEAR- FHCWATCcTPiBftlSH TOASOUVIESIERAaATSFEGIAU ^QCSr PRICES your Get That SS Number Right SEA CHEST I I �SEAFARERS Pace Elcht LOG September t. 1955 A Trip On A Rnnnway-Flag Ship (Continued from page 2) the only American citizen aboard aside from the captain. The second mate joined the ship in New Orleans last Octo­ ber, while she was loading: g:rain for Germany. He signed on at 80 pounds ($208) a month. Sub­ sequently the second mate was "promoted" to radio operator at 90 pounds ($234). His overtime was 50 cents an hour, a differ­ ence of 10 cents over the un­ licensed crew. He soon found out^that he was the only one on board who knew anything about navigation. The 3rd mate had no tU;ket, and he sus­ pected that the chief mate and captain had very little e.xperience members reported that the cap­ tain freely shuffled ratings around, without regard to the men's experience. The original steward on the ship apparently had been a pretty decent one. He got disgusted witfc condition's aboard and the supplies he had to work with, since the' captain would do all the purchasing him­ self. When he left the ship, one of the ABs was "promoted" to steward. Subsequently, the ship's utilityman was "promoted" to steward on the basis, apparently, of his potwashing ability. Couldn't Quit The American radio operator re­ ports that he was hired by the i company in New York and flown to Halifax to join the ship there. She was anchored in midstream, he said, so that he had to take a launch out to get aboard. As soon as he got on the ship he had mis­ givings and wanted to leave im­ mediately, but since he was out in midstream he had no way of get­ ting back ashore and no funds to get back to New York. When he examined the I'adio shack, he found that the equipment uas in particularly bad order, with at least 50 repairs needed. Other departments on the ship, he re­ ported, were in similar shape. either, because they were continu­ ally calling him while he was off watch to ask him what to do. No Crew Rules Incidentally the i-est of the deck department consisted of a bosun and six to eight ABs depending on the number of men aboard at a given time. The engine department operated part of the time with three engineers, twm oilers, two firemen and a wiper while the gal­ ley gang varied from three to six men. Whenever any department was shorthanded, the other men had to do extra work without extra pay. The scuttlebutt was that the cap­ Among defects in the operation tain, chief mate and chief engineer divvied up the pay of men who left that he recounted were the follow­ ing: the ship. • On one leg of the voyage the This variation in manning scales is perfectly legitimate under Liber- lifeboats were left uncovered. ian law. All the,law says is as fol­ • The ship had no ho.spital and lows: "A vessel documented under no medicine chest. the flag of the Republic of Liberia • Fire and boat dx'ills were never shall not be navigated iinle.s.s she held so that crewmembers had no has in her service and on board rehearsals on what to do in an such complement of officers and emergency. crew as are necessary for hei safe • The radio direction finder was navigation ..." improperly calibrated. This condi­ In other words, if the operator tion was never corrected. thinks he can get by with ten men, • The compass repeater was not he can sail the ship accordingly working correctly. and there is nobody who can stop • The ship did not carry a slophim. chest. In addition to the practice of • All working gear was kept undermanning, the two crew- locked up at all times and seldom ilb: L-r,- During period US Government was allowing Americaa ships to transfer to the runaway flag nations all maritime unions took protest action. Here pickets stand before the Liberty ship USO, one of 100 ships which were transferred. The easy ship transfer policy of the Maritime Administration encouraged transfers in wholesale lots. Later, the new administrator said the practice had actually worked a hardship on the government, which by then could not find ships at the freight rates it was willing to pay. issued to the crew. The result was that one AB severely injured his eye while chipping without goggles in the Mexican port of Mazatlan. It took 24 hours, inci­ dentally, before the captain sent the man ashore for medical treat­ ment. These practices, while bad enough, were worsened by the basic shipboard wages and condi­ tions. The ABs on the ship were getting $98.80 a month base wages and 40 cents an hour over­ time. Actually, overtime pay­ ments were virtually non-exist­ weekends. If the men were not called out off-watch they did not collect. The lack of overtime was such that the 3rd engineer protested vigorously to the chief. He was fired for his pains and turned over to the Greek consul in a German city, who saw to it that he was shipped back to Greece. The ex­ ample of the 3rd engineer was enough to keep crew grumbling down to the minimum. If any man spoke up he was threatened with the same treatment. Never Overtime The .56-hour week, they added, applied both in port and at sea and no crewmember was entitled to days off while the ship was in a port. Since no articles were ever signed, the crew had no Idea where the ship was going or how long they were expected to stay on board. With all conditions on the ship ent. That was because'no over­ neatly fouled-up, food was no ex­ time was paid for any work done ception. To begin with, a two-pot while on watch, weekdays or system was the rule. The captain, chief mate and chief engineer were in one class and the rest of the officers and crew got the slops. The three top officers ate in their own rooms where they had burners installed for keeping the food warm. The utilitymanturned-steward spent his days and nights sneaking special dishes up to the officers at all hours.' For the re.mainder. It was a different story. At one stage of the voyage in Panama five men became ill with various stomach disorders after being served in­ fested food. The food was in such 9 ?:•..», The policy American shipowners show toward their crews once they are free of US laws and American trade u/)jons is shown by this picture. German crewmembers protesting low wages have been put ofA#h^;S^'^^^ in Miami and turned over to. US' Immigration and Miami police for ^ I,- bad shape that the crew messman refused to serve it. Most crewmem­ bers played it safe by living off bread, jam, peanut butter and any canned goods they could lay their hands on. The poorness of the food was the result of faulty refrigera­ tion'combined with inferior stores. Frying Pan Into Fire When the ship got back to New York, they reported; the crew got a special tfeat—afresh inilk one day of' the nine. By this tinie-the radio operator and I thoroughly disgusted and got off the ship. Many of the other crew­ members did likewise, but because they had only a few days left of their 29-day shore leave, they were forced to take another Liberian ship, where no doubi tliey encoun­ tered the same kind of conditions. This then,"" is the way an Ameri­ can shipping operator runs hia business when he is given the op­ portunity. The fact that the Gov­ ernment, through the Maritime Ad­ ministration, has permitted and en­ couraged such practices speaks vol­ umes for where the real interesta of the responsible officials lie. pyats VRAWi^ W mCL£5 WeTcomedW your w �September 2, 1955 SEAFARERS LOG Page Nine Crewing Of Lay-Ups Hypos New York •% NEW YORK—^The crewing of one ship fresh out of idle status and the prospect of several more vessels coming out of lay-up forecast continued good shipping out of New York, which Question: There is « bill in Congress to establish medals for seamen who perform acts of braveiry at sea. Do you favor medals has heen booming all summer long. Several operators have in-"^^ for seamen? dicated they will be bringing Walter Schlecht, AB: A medal Salvador Rodriguez, MM: I'm in ships out of lay-up in the near doesn't prove anything as far as favor of medals to give official future, according to Assistant Sec­ heroism is con­ recognition to the retary-Treasurer Claude Simmons, cerned^ I was a bravery of mer­ Navy lieutenant chant seamen. New York port agent. "Thus the in World War II The medals future shipping picture here re­ and have about would not only mains bright," he stated. ten medals, but honor the sea­ A full SIU crew was provided what good are men, but, in our for the Government-owned Duke they? Heroism case, would bring Victory, which is being operated and bi'avery are credit to the SIU by Bull Line. This ship is the latest what they mean and the crews dis­ recruit in a string of bbneyard to the man in­ patched through break-outs reported in recent volved and no medal can ade­ the Union hiring hall. I'm all for weeks, and more are apparently on quately reflect the man's deed. them. the way. tit All Hands Busy it it John Hqnt, AB: I don't go for Simmons also noted that the James Scaly, MM: I believe it is a good idea to honor a brave sea­ medals, scrolls and all other trap­ business of the port is keeping all pings as such be­ hands busy. "But we are happy to man or a brave cause a lot, of be able to report that our troubles creW. If a man WM them are handed are few, beefs are at a minimum, shows exception­ out for publicity and the ships' crews and company al courage and purposes only. A officials are cooperating with us to saves a shipmate seaman, however, maintain a smooth operation." " In an emergency Who has shown The main trouble faced by head­ he deserves rec­ bravery by his quarters branch officials has been ognition in some Reaching out for one of those 25-cent "hero" sandwiches action beyond the that "we almost needed boats our­ way. A medal featured on the menu of the SIU headquarters cafeteria, this call of duty rates selves in order to make the ships will show that his Seafarer is all set to munch the popular food item. Prices on Honor and recog­ coming in, since we have had so fellow seamen much water around here from hur­ other items are low also, including five-cent cup of coffee. and the public believe him to be nition by his fellow men. ricanes and floods. After a long an outstanding man. t t t dry spell, rain has become a little filling a total of 80 jobs that they'll it i. i. remember for a long while. Kuno Schopfer, Elect.: Ah award strange to us here." Harry Wright, Wiper: Establish­ to seamen would give a man pride In addition to the ships expected ^ All in all, the port handled 23 ing awards is fine with me, but I in his deed and to be coming out of the boncyard payoffs, seven sign-ons and 11 inin the near future, he added, transits during the last two weeks. believe that give others pride there are also a number of ships many men feel in being part of due in from the Far East and else­ that their deed the maritime in­ where, along with the steady call­ ,was what was ex­ dustry. Also this ers in the port. "Accordingly, no pected of them would be a way one should have too much trouble and not some­ to make shoregetting a run of his choice." thing for which siders better ac­ they should be quainted with Although the number of jobs WASHINGTON — Estimates now shipped dipped slightly from the dragged up and our work. Hun­ indicate that two modified Liberty previous period's record high, hung with a dreds of seamen ships augmented with experiment­ medal. The who have deserved such honors are there was no lack of activity. The al power plants under the Mari­ dispatchers had one hectic day thanks of those involved is enough. unknown and unrewarded. time' Administration's much-ballyhooed Liberty ship conversion pro­ War-built Libertys and T-2 gram may finally put to sea by tankers are bringing tbe high­ next May. Contracts covering txvo pi-oposed est prices in tbe used ship conversions have just been award­ mai'ket since the boom days of the Senent also did a good job of run­ The traditional generosity of thanks for their efficient work. ed to tlie Newport News Shipbuild­ Sehockney joined the SIU In ning the feeding department, the Korean War. The present strong ing and Drydock Company and the Seafarers to shipmates who run cargo market has zoomed the prices into trouble was demonstrated by New York on June 15, 1943. He crew reported. and has even brought back into Baltimore yard of the Bethlehem the crew of the Elizabeth recent­ is 33 years of age. James joined Steel Co. Seafarer C. W. "Red" Cobb got trade ships that were awaiting ly. While aboard the ship Seafarer In the same port in 1948, and The ships involved are the John some lavish praise recently from break-up for scrap. Ed GUzszynsky got a radiogram hails fi'om Mobile. Sergeant, which the Newport News In the past four months the price the gang on the passenger wagon that his wife i, it it yard will fit with a 6.600 slip openDel Sud. A ship- of Jjibertys has risen nearly 15 per­ cycle gas turbine propulsion unit, was about to uncent with two Libertys sold recent­ The August 3 membership meet­ board meeting d e r g o surgery. and the William Patterson, wliich ing in all jjorts were under the went unanimously ly in London for $885,000 and will have a 6,000 shp free piston Crewm embers $865,000. More unusual was the guidance of a on record to thank promptly chipped generator gas turbine unit installed nhmber of rank him "for the many purchase of two freighters—one by Bethlehem. $72 and the in 35-years-old and the other 34and file Seafarers, times and ways years-old-v-for use as cargo car­ ship's officers Lengthen Bow including C. Boghe has pi'oven riers. The ships had been earsweetenedx the In addition, the contracts cover uckl and C. Mar­ himself one of mai'ked for scrap. kitty so that varied modifications of each ship, tin in Philadel­ our finest seafar­ Guzszynsky could Coal Cargoes including the lengthening of the phia; Wm. Haring union men." catch a plane and Accounting tor the price boost bow sections to allow for the in­ Nelson rell in Norfolk; Cobb should of Libertys is the large amount of be home for the Cobb creased speeds being built into Phil Reyes in Mo­ have a good idea high rate cargo available, particu­ both vessels. The estimated com­ emergency. H. Shuman bile; of unionism by now because he Ship's and steward department and J. Bragg in has been an, SIU man for over larly coal for the United Kingdom, pletion of both jobs in nine months Canfrell delegate on the Elizabeth is Allen Savannah; 14 years, joining in New Orleans the Continent and the Far East. will be followed by extensive yard Friend. Joseph Wagner is the deck Many of the tankei-s are being tests and sea trials. S. W. Caiitrell in Lake Chaides; back in May 22, 1941. He sails delegate while R. Vellinga repre­ taken from lay-up and converted The Liberty conversion program and in the West Coast ports, H. M. in the steward department and sents the engine department. Thomas, H. Pederson, M. W. Cross, cpmes from Tennessee originally. into ore carriers, a new, booming has been authorized by the MA as trade. a possible means of updating the it $1 3» • K. Foster and J. Sampson. All of it it it The asking price is now reported \ast Government-owned stockpile these brothers held various elect­ Repair work on the Steel Flyer Appreciative for the attention has been handled promptly and ed meeting posts in these ports and he shows to liis duties, crewmem­ to be $950,000 for an American- of war-built vessels in line with built Liberty under foreign flag current shipping needs. Nearly in tip-top shape, the crew reports, acquitted themselves well. bers- of the Iberville (Waterman) and $500,000 for the same type 2,000 of these ships are in various thanks to the services of Harry E. i" J" ft have formally thanked Seafarer ship under the American flag. reserve fleets on all coasts. Sehockney. black ^ang delegate, It's certainly convenient to know William A. Padgett, ship's delegate, The boost in price is seen as be­ Two other experimental power and Frank S. James, chief elec­ that the ship's slopchest will oe for his cooperation in getting a ing particularly unusual inasmuch plants are being readied for other trician. Crew-members gave these open any time of day when you're new refrigerator for the crew's two Seafarers a warm vote of in need of cigarettes, shaving pantry. The siege of heat this sum­ as these vessels are all middle- Libertys assigned to the conversion aged and are well into the years program so that the best possible cream or any other item. Or put­ mer wore the old one out com­ when repair costs mount heavily. plant can be determined. ting it the other way around, it pletely, the same as it did everyone can be an awful nuisance if you else. • have to wait a day or two for The crew of the Marymar re­ the man in charge tb get around acted pretty much along the same Seafarers are urged to make a careful double-check when they to it. * lines to another veteran Seafarer, fill out their enrollment cards for the new family hospital-surgi­ Crewmembers of the Steel James H. Nelson. Nelson, who cal benefits provided by the SIU Welfare Plan, because many of Worker had the good fortune to joined the SIU way back in Janu­ the cards filed so far lack the signature of the Seafarer inenjoy the convenience described ary, 1939, was engine delegate on ,volved to make everything official. The absence of a proper sig­ above because chief steward the Marymar and was commended nature at the time of a claim can complicate or delay approval Fernando Senent was "opien for for doing a really fine job. This at the .worst possible moment" .tvhen aid of some kind is actually^ business" any " tiliie < " member ' of ioafaring veteran holds all ratings » 'i needed/ ^ the cretv Was in a shopping mobd.,, in the black gang. "Hero" Meets His Master r/m MAMovesTo Rejuvenate Heavy Cargo 2 Libertys Market Hps Ship Prices Sigo finrolliiicnt . • • ,1:^-. : ;f j.. I-**;;,'' uI Cards -*• '•I �IPar* Ten SEAFAJtERjS-lOG -—!N UNCLAIMED WAGES William Unclaimed wages in excess of $5 each are being held by the Mississippi Shipping vaitnte.^ Arnold Company for the following former crewmembers of company-owned and government-foe.^YiuSi"'*""*vance?'chwtes°i. owned ships. When applying for the money, furnish Z-number, Social Security num-foutoT'^"*1*"jr v2S®Ep^sTiydi ber, rating, name of vessel and period of employment. Write to company at I300|„~n±o"' ' Hibernia Building, New Orleans, La. This money covers period up to December 31, |par";ia'n®"DW- veu^la. BO^U"? port, James P. Venezia, S. A. 1954. Company-owned ships: Vllianeuva, B. Spellman, Joseph Davis, Wm. T. Delcazal, A. D. Dellano, Michel P. DeUechalel, James Desormeaux, J. T. Deuter, Charles W. Dewberry, John Dieken, Glen L. Diehl, Wm. J. Difabrizo, Alfonso Dizard, Leonard G, Dolcemasscolo, J, Dong, Chong Ah Dorrian, Henry Dos Santos, Alvaro Douglas, Eugene Drake, John Drigger, Coder Dunstan, Albert Dusek, E. J., Jr. Dutko, Joseph Dutton, Robert L. Dys, Gyshertus H. Edwardson, J. W. Edwins, I. B. A. Elpper, Albert P. Eller, Ted L. Emerson, Edgar L, England, Fred R. Enochs, Jack . Etheredge, Wm. M. Everson, Mattias A. Fain, Earl H., Sr. Faircloth, James L, Pant, Jos. C. Farrell, Ed. J. J- SPeU, Howard Fibueroa, K., ... Manuel ™ . Fitzgerald, E.R., Jr. Fii^es, Jesus Foster, Paul S. Francis, ^seph P. Frasier, Elmer L. „ i. 7-_ Llprincott, James Lockler, Jesse J. Lohse, Peter Long, Franklin Lopez, Albert H. Lowery, C. J. Luke, Edgar SS Lutz, Joseph Lutz, Marvin D. McAleer, Harold McCaffry, R. W. McCarthy, Jack McCleUan, Earl L. McGown, Frank Mclnness, Lawrence McKlnstry, Albert McNabb, Sewell T, McNlel, Wilton M. Madden, J. L. Mahaffey, L. J. Maher, Lee T. Malone, Thomas Manning, Sam H. Manuel, Harold Marie, Francis A. Markham, C. L. Marques. Jose Marques, Jose A. Martin, Alexander Martineau, J. A. Massey, Thomas B. Matherne, D. T Mathews, Robert C, Mato, Daniel Mattel, Anthony Mayes, H. S., Jr. Mayo, Oble L. Mazuk, Chester Medina, Julius J, Medina, Miguel L, Medrano, F. Megussoglo, M. Mclnik, Daniel Mench, Albert J. Michalek, Rudolf MIchallk, B. J. Middleton, H. N. Mldgett, Arnold L. Spencer, Theo. A, Villarreal, Alex Danaher, James A. Fedd, James E. Birdhill, Jack Holland, R. MacGregor, Wm. Pontiff, Jerry F. Sperry, Frances VUlafreal, Richard Black, Robert F. Davenport, J. R, S. Feese, Lani L. Holland, Robert MafTeo, John Popovich, Michael Splvey, G. Viloria, Ramos Davenport, J. W. F. Felix, Hector E. Blackford, Ralph Holmes, Herman J. ..Irtiij,;, MafFie, Earle jcinc Porta, Earl J. V. W. n Vincius, Samuel Davis, Earl J. Femia, Juan C. Blackman. Joyce Honley, John J. Magurek, Andrew P, Poykko, Leonard N. sF,t T Visser, Dirk Davis, Harold A. Ferguson. Wm. B. Hopkins, Wm. P. Blaine, Al. L. Maley, Richard J._ Pratts, WaUace Stank? Joseph F. Vito, Felix, Jr. Davis, J. H. Ferree, Earl . Horton, John IL Biamco, David Maloney, George J. Preczykolm, Frank Stapleton, J. C. Von Holden, C. Davis, James W, Ferrel, Henry A. Houston, D. R. Blanchette, Robert Maloney. Michel Premer, Robert Starke, Curt Wagner, Charles Davis, Ross Fief, E. • Howard,'Cecil B. Bliss. Herbert C. Maioncy, John Pendergast, L. A. Steffens, L. A. Wagner, Wayne F. Davis, Roy E. Fields, Edward H. Howard, R. B. Blob, John Mangold, Stephen A. Price, Rich I. Wahl, Charles Abadie, Joseph A Figueroa, Jacinto Howe, Robert T. Bloon, Louis B. Manning, Elliott E. Principe, Henry J, Waite, Franklin Abadie, Sidney Bogrand, Roy R. Fisher, Eizdore Haber, Keith R. "Mao, Koo Shlh Prothero, Robert J. Stewart. Samuel Waite, J. Huffman, Dale Boles, Bernard J. Adams, James H, ' Flanagan, E. E. Marcentel, Burgess Proven, Chas. Walden, Dewey H. Stewart, Samuel Bond, Benjamin Adams, James J. Fletcher, Kenneth Hughart, Chester Marcombe, Huey Przylomskl, W. Waldschleger, Jack Stokes, Alvln Adams, John £. Flockhart, David Hughes, Fred Martin, Julio Bonds, Minor C, Pugh, J. P. Stone, Lotus Walker, Dolphus Addison. Walter Fiynn, Raymond Humphrey, I. G. Book, Frederick Markham, S.vdney L. Pullen, Joseph R. Storm, S. Walker, Willie F. Aker, Sam L. Boroski, George Forbes, John H. Huszar, Gladar Marte, Domingo Puskavick, Geo. Straham, Jack B. Wallace, Albert Akridge, L. Fosgate, Harold A. Immed, Geo. F. Boss, Richard D. _ Martin, Jules A. Radciiffe, Joseph Strate, Chas. R. Wallace, Harold B. Boudreaux, Charles Alberto, Mario France, H. A., Jr. Irby, Sidney Martinez, Loui Ramlszewski, J. R. Strawn, Francis Wallace, Ronald Martinez, Noe G. Boudreaux, E. J. Jr, Alderman, T. J. Francis, Marion Ireland, A. Martinez," Richard G. gamsey, David A. Stroud, Dixon Wallis, James Boyett, Russel N. Aleimaranb, Joe Frasier, Elmer L. Jackson, Thaddus Ramsberger, R. Walls, Klrt Alevizo, James G. Suaez, Aurelio Braden, Chas. Frick, Henry James, Joseph Martinson, John Ramsey, K. R, Bradley, Dewey D. Alleman, Camille Suares, Louis Walters, Francis Fulton, George^. Jasinski, Joseph Massicot, Jules A, Ranew, Irvin Brannigan, V. L. Allen, Geo. A. Sullivan, R. M. Ward, James E. Funken, Nicholas Jefferson, James A. Matehctt, Ed. H. Brashier, Elton W. AUeva, William Furian, Andrew W. Jefferson, N. A. Sumpter, James Ward, John Mateo, Francisco M. Raulerson, Eugene Rawlings, J. Allison, Blair Brazil, Irvin Fruneis, Edward Surritt,'Herschel E. Waters, James A. Jimeney, Victor Mathernc, Ivy E. Reed, Clinton E. Breaux, Earl G, Alonzia. S. Furnish, Edmond £. Johnson, Arthur Watson, Roy SutUff, Harvey Matte, E. P. Reed, Max Brennan, Timothy Alston, Robert Galarza, Jose Johnson, Charles Watts, Dal Swails, Jack I. Matulich.Sidney A. Rector, G. P. H. Amaeher, Robert Briant, Louis P. Gallagher, Joseph J. Johnson, Charles R. Mauldin, H. V. Watts, Leo Sweet, HarolcT W. Reed, Charles Brightwell, Wm. Amador, Roaui Gallant, Paul C. Johnson, Charles W. Mauterstack, G. S. Weaver, Joe SwindoU, R. H. Register, J. W. Anagnoston, Alex Briguera, Gregorlo Gardner, Alfred Johnson, Ed. C. May, William Wedemojh, Harold Swing, Philip Reid, Raymond E, Anderogg. Fred Britt, Fred Gardner, James E. Johnson, Harry L. Melody, Thomas M. Welch, Elvert Tait, Wiley W. Reyes, A. Brosig, August A. Andersen, Sigurd Garratt, Ralph Johnson, Johnnie J. Meo, John F. Welch, Richard L. Tannehill, Boyd Anderson, L. D. Brown, G. Reynolds, Jack H. Gaskin, Lee R., Jr. Johnson, Lloyd Merl, Peter Tannler, Alfred Welch, William T. Brown, George Anderson, W. J. Rhoads, Edwin B, Tarlton, Harold Gatto. Michael T. Johnson, Thomas .Mercer, Wm. Wells, Charles E, E''"*- Charles C. Brown, Harold W, Ard, Dwight Geilatly, John Rice, Arthur F. Jones, Allen Merritt, Richard West, Hugh M. Tavares, Jack Brown, James R. Arena, Louis L. Genter, Francis J. Rich, David C. Jones, Conrad R. Miian, R. S. Gallardo, Jose Wetzel, Lloyd Taylor, Frank Brown, Richard L, Arrebola, Sergio Gentile, Sal Jones, W. J. Richardson, G. D. Milburn, Harold R. Taylor, Stanley S. Wetzell, Louis W. Ga^cir-A^'o O MaWoS Z Browning, Baliard Arroyo, Amedeo R. Gentry, Willie F. Jones, Wm. H. Riechelson, Morris Thaxter, Raymond Aliller, Edward Whattey, Earl R. MiUadis, Theo. A. Garnelis, S. E. Bruce, WUliam T. Ar.senault, Joseph Giallanza, Charles Kaleel, Geo. Rider, John W.. Miller, Ra.vmond Thibodeaux, K. A, Wheat, Herschel Mims, Robert E. Geanuses, Peter Byrant, James A. Askew, Mm. D. Gierczic, George Kalian, Chas. Riehm, George J. Miller, Russell H. Thomas, Harvey L, Whidden, Cecil E. Ming, Wing King George, John H, Buckley, Thomas J. Atkins, Edward L. Gilbert, George H. Kavitt, Wm. Rigb.v, Walter S. MiHer. J. J. White, Joseph Thomas, James D. Mitchell, Wm. W. Gibson, Den. Buckner, Henry Auers, Arveds E. Gilbert, H. L. Keenan, Wm. S. Mills, CoopSr D. Rigler, Wm, F. White, Leland F. Thomas, Wilson Mlzelle, AUred Gill, Homer W. Bucuyan, Fred Avard, Edward Gilmore, Alex D. Keith, Paul J. Ming, Ving King Rios, Juan Wiatrowski, T. L. Thomassen, J. Moore, Harold Glazder, Edward T. "aroiu Bulger, Arthur Babcock, J. G. Girouard, Maurics Kelly, John T. Minkler, Hurles.s, W. Rivard, Marcel Wicak, Edward Thompson, Albert Bunn, James E. Babitt, Ronald Gleeson, John R. n Gitmul, Leon Kelly, Lang M. Minyard, Edward K. Rivels, H. R, Wiest, Lester Thompson, A. F. Glover, Fay F. °* Burley, Willard Bachot. Frank N. Glenn, Edward T. Kelso, Charles F. Misco, Matte Rivet, Louis J. Thompson, Charles Wiilik, Makall Godwin, Charles E. Burris, George Baggett, Milton Goff, Fred Kennedy, John Mitchell, Robert Rizzuto, Vln. J. Wilkinson Earl D. GoSz7les,"cXend BursCy, H. Bahr. David A. Golembiewski, L. Kerfoot, Fred E. Molina, Francisco Roach, Albert P. Moubray,. Robert ThomplSn,* Hermon Williams, Harold u; conzMes," Gilbert Baker, Harrison B. Gomez, Dennis G. Burton, Edward C. Keys, John P. Monardo. Sylvester Roache, Joe Thompson, James Wi 1 ams. Jack E, Gray, Herman E. Mstowski. Wlktor Burton, Raymond Baker, Newton Gonzales, Jesus King, John A. Mones, Jules H. Roberts, George Thompson, Roy C. Williams, John A. Murphy. Edward J. Busby, Benj. F, Green, Herbei-t O. Baldridge, Larrance Gonzales, Juan Monfoya, Calixto King, Morfis R. Robertson, J. T. • Thompson, Wm. E. Williams, John A. Murphy. Hugh Grennen, Leo H. Bush, Leonard Baldwin, James A. Gonazlez, Louis G. King, Thomas A, Montanari, Frank Robertson, Leroy Thorn, Victor D, Williams, Leonard MurrelL Samuel S. Gregory, Ervin J. Busciglio, G. T. Balliet, H. T. Googans, Wm. L, Kinn, Joe Moore, Bemie L. Robichaux, J. N. Williams, O. R. Thornhlll, Dan Musko, Walter P. Griffin, L. „ O. Bush, Leonard H, Banister, Robert Gordon. Hyram Kinser, A. H. Moore, James L. Robinson, A. Thornton, H. C. Nam. Tsu. Hau Williams, Roger L, Griffis, Loyd" J. Bush, Marion L. Bankston, A. F. Gorman, James Morales, Carlos Kofonis, Markos Robinson, Deward Nee. Wong Thornton, William Williamson, L. W. Grim, Harold A. Butler, John Bankston, C., Jr. Gormon, Daniel J, Kohler, Warren W. Morgan,W.J. Robinson, D. G. Wilson, E. A. Throne, Alfred Needham. James Guerrero, R. G. Butler, Owen Barbler, P. Goriup, Erminio Komienski, Joseph Morley. Robert N. Roble, Irlnla C. Thurman, Aubrey Wilson, Nevelin Newton. Theron K. Byrning, Harvey L. Barbieri, Livio U. Guild, Maurice G, Granderson, E. Kosche, Earl Morreale, Peter J. Rocha. Alberto Tlngley, Benj. W. Windham, H. E, Nichols. Wm. T. Guthrie, B. R. W. Cabrera, Reginal Barfield, John Grant, F. W. Koski, Wm. Morris, Frank RocheU, WlUiara Windom, Eddie Nicola. N. Tomllnson, K. L. Gypin, Arthur L. Cacas, Herman H. Barnes, Edward T. Grant, Roy H. Kraus, James D. Morris, John W. Rodgers, R. M. Winfree, Oscar Tonazal, Ruardo Nlgro. Frank Hackelberg E. H, Caillet, Wilbert F. Barnes, J. V. Graves, T. M. Kretzer, Gustav Morrison, John O. Rogers, William E. Topolian, Garabed Witt, Robert Ni Nissen. Claus K. Barroner, F. W. Haislett, Tulie Cain, Earl Grebe, William R. Krieg, Barney L. Morrisson, J. H. Rome, George Torres, Faustino Wolff. Justin Hall, Donald Noggle. James F. Campbell, James Bartori, Dimitri Greene, George H, Kroger, Carl Morrow, James Romero, Lawrence Touart, Joseph R. Hall, Lonnie Wong, Han» Chin Campbell, N. O. Basar, M. C. Nowak, Clarence R. Greener, Francis Kross, Teddy Morse, Wm. Rooks, Court Tracey, James R. Capo, Anthony Woodard, Rufus B. Halverson, Denver Bashore, F. D. Odom. Law Gregory, Charles Kumke, Wm. H. Mosley, Ernest Rooney, Alvin P. Traficano, Sam G. Carey, Chas. D. Hammock, Whltten Woodbury, V. A. Bastiansen, G. D. Ogier. Rtpon W. Grennan, Leo Lachney, Milton J. Moulds, Jack W. Rosenqulst, Shirley Traham, Harold J. Michael D. Hare, Carhume, Pasquala Battle. James C. Oliver. Mark O. Woodrow. Dickens Griffin, James Lake. H. D., Jr. Mouton, Phillip Rn.ss, Louis Carlson, John A. Baudine, Armand Tramontanic, J. M. Wooley, Joseph Harris. Homer G. Ondus. Mich. F. Griffin, J. V. Lamb, Joseph A. . Wulina, C. Lero.v Rozmusz, Robert Carney, Lee O. Bechtold, Vernon Treadway, William Word, John J., Jr. Hartman, Charles Ortiz. Humberto Grishy, T. H. Lamego, Antonio S. Munici, Salvatore Rubis, Philip Hary, Henry Carpovlch, Philip Bednowski, F. Treuil, Clifton Wright, David A. Gross, E. J. Osborne. Ralph Landrum, Oliver Murphy, Carmelo Ruggers, L. N. Carr, Lev Hauptmann, E. E. Begg, Alfred Tromberi, Angelmo Wrona. Tadeus Guerrero, R. G. Oswald. Samuel C. Landry, Anlolne Murray, John H. Ruiz, George A. Haynes, C. M. Carswell, James Bellonde. Harold L. Guggino, Stepano Tubman, J. M. Yachishyn, N. C. Ottosson. NUs H. Landry, James Nakamura, Al. Rule, J. M. Caruso, Guiseppe Hebert, V. A. Benlsh, Wm. J. Guidry, N. J. Tucliibr, Ernest Young, Earl H. Parady, Roland Landwerlln, L. L. Navarro, Trinidad Rushing, Clifford Caruso, Joseph Henry. G. E. Bennett, Roger Guidr.v, Walter P. Tucker, Thomae J, Young, John W. Larsen, W. T. Parcolla. Joe Nesbitt, Wm. L. Russell, Henry T, Cary, K. A. Henry. James P. Bentley, J. F. H. Guinee, J. E., Jr. Larson, Arno E. Tunnell, J. R. Youtzy. Ralf. W. Parsons. Edward Newton. Charles Casanova, Ray H. Hermes, Gerald Benz, Charles Gunter, Thos. L. Turner. William J. Zalch, Antony J. Larson. Gustolf A. Nick, John J. St. Clair, Clifford Patterson, Krlst Casas, Herman Hernandez, E. F. Berger, David Guthrie, John W. Turner. William L. Zavadil. Jan La Soya, Michael Saide, Joseph Jr. Pattlson, Robert Nicolay, Bernard Cassas, Herman H, Berger, William High, Robt. G. Gutierrez, Frank Turner, William P, Zepeda, Eliseo Latapie, Jean Saldlvar, Gregorlo Payne, Robert C, Niedermeyer, Robt. Catalanotto, Jos. Hinson, T. W., Mr, Peaslee, Louis C. Berry, Lawrence F. Guzzino, Antonio Umholtz, Fred E. Zitto, Salvador Lauer, James Salzarulo, Thomas Noles, Geo. H. Castanzo, Carl Holmes, Oliver Berthold, Frank Habinghorso, Chas. Lauzon, Stuart M. Underwood, John Zloch, J. A. Sancedo. Willie Pedlar. W. Norwood, Frank A, Catalano, Ebblita Hong, Yuan Beuchler, Raymond Haddock, Dellard Lavelle, Wm. J. Zuzov. John Sanders. Union H. Ussery, Cleveland Perry. Manuel J. Nouwen, John Causey, John P. Hoover, Daniel B. Bice, James R. Hadficld, E.-E. Lavery, John B. Saneem, Hans Petrantos, Stayos Nuschier, John Howard, Walter D, Celmayster, Sylvain Bigwood, John Hale, Julius D. Lazar, Joseph A, San Martin, P. Pierce. Wm. B. O'Briant, Victor Cedra, J. J. Billitor, Woodrow Hall, Homer Leahy, F. G. Saranthus, W. P. • Tfiicxcrapfl. Edward TTHwarrl F. O'Brien, Chester Huggard? Chance, Robert Davis, Wilson Hall, Renfro Lc Blanc, Joseph Pope. Emanuel A. Sardum, Hans Abate. Mario Caisen, Soily R, O'Connor, Philip N. Hughes, Wm. J. Chandler, Albert L. Davis, Woodi-ow W. Handley, John Le Bianc, P. C. A. Olive, George D. Satterileld, Wm. Abbey. Richard Caldeira, A. B. Hurlburt, Leroy H. Powell. M. E. Chandler, George Davison, A. C. Hane, .iohn E. Lee, James Pregeant. Abel L. Sauvlac, James T. Adams, James P. Callahan, M. J. Olsen, F. T. Hyland, Daniel Chapman, W. A. De Almeida, Jose Hansen, Paul E. Lee, Theodore E. Sawyer, C. B. Adamisin, George Caloptakas, Theo Ontai, Gib.son P. Jackson, Robert J, Priester. Eugene Chee, Choy Loi DeBautte, Ernest Hansen, Paul O. Lee, Tinerman J. Priscu, Nicholas Schaeffer, J. Aderhold, Fred Calson. Foltet L. Opfer, Elbano Jacobs, 'John Chevane, Berdth W. De Busschare, E. Hanson, John T. Lee,' Victor Schanglies, J. Pulliam. Walter P. Atpaugh, K. H. Camp, Auden Z. Childress, S. C. De Coulode, J. R. Jacobsen, S. Hanson, Thomas E. Lehnig, Armond, L. Purcell, James Schearer, George Ames, Omar O. CampbeU, Walter Jim, Harold Chlsholm, Audley R. Degru.she, .\verll Harper, E. L. Leister, D. H., Jr. O": Purdy, Thomas H. Schieb, John Andersen, Alfred Cautrell, R. D. Chltty, Eugene Delaney, E. Johansen, Harold Harper, Jo.seph B. Lemoine, Adam, Jr. oiti/' RB^ Randazzo. A. J. Schmidt, Emile R. Anderson, Wm. P. Cantwell, Hubert Johnson, Carl R. Christal, George G. Denddo. .'tnthony Harper, Robert H. Lemoine, Sam J. Rasmussen. KJeld Schmidt, H. M. A. Anglin, Joseph Cap, Daniel W. Johnson, John R. Christian, John W. Dorer, Harry E. Harr, Sidney Lemointt Vernon E. L\BS g Rebane, Paul Schribcr, Harold AntiU, AUen Caporale, Alfred Johnson, Robert C, Christy, Charles W. Devol, E. P. Harris, Harold Lera, Anthony D. Sa ioselih Reed. B. G. Apalopoulos, Cirilos Carraway, Wm. N. Schubart, Emile Jones, Vincent Civello, Anthony J. De Vries, Peter Harris, R. L. Leva, Anthony D. Reed, Max Arena, George H. Carrier, Geo. C. Owens. Clarence E. Schultz. Albert N, Clark, Gerald Jones, Walter R, Diaz, Joseph Harris, Wm. E. Levcrman, Egon T. Held, Glen Arledge, Geo. D. Cart, George B, Packer, Stewart A. Schulz, Gustav Jorlbio, Luciano Clark, James P, Dimass, George S. Hart, Albert Libby, Leonard A. Armstrong, James Carver, Roy M. Remijn, Adrian Palizzolo. jVntonlo S. Schupstik, John Jung, Sing CUfford, U. B. Dixon, Charles Hartie, Roy G. Liles, Thomas Atlschaffe, Joe Cagey, James Reviil, Jos. C, Palmer, Eugene Schwartz, Rudolf Juzang, James B. Coats, J. W. Dixon, Omer Harvey, Emmet L. linum, Leo E. Aubert, Golden A, Castillo, Thomas • Palsson, Gadjon H. Scott, Carl E. Kalogrides, Spyres Rich. David C. Cobb, Clarence Do Amaral, Antonio Harvey, Geo. H, Lesser, Joseph E. Bach, Irwin Cathcart, Paul Riebel. John Panjon, Jamrs. Kapsomenagis, P. Secura, John Cobb, John L. Donnelly, Adrian Harvey, Lee J, Liuzza, Giacomo Balaskos, George Rios. Juan Pappalardo, Joseph Cavanaugh, Thomas Kavitt, WiUiam B. Cogglns, Wm. Sellers, Elbert O, Doublede, H. B. Harwell, G. E. Liuzza, Michael BaUance, Ocie M. Ceprlano, Theo. Rivas. Robert E. Parker, Marie V. R. Kee, Ling Hun Shea, John E. Coleman, Gordon C. Dougherty, P. K. Hauke, Adam A. Logan, Thomas Barlow, Joseph E. Chai, Joe Roberts. Robert E. Stewart A. Parker, Kelley, Edward T. Colgan, John T. Sheppard. George Driggers, Tolphus Hawkins, J. Longley, Julian Barnes, Eugene P. Chalikias, S. O. Rodder. James G. Kelly, R. H., Jr. Parks, J. Colligan, James Driscoll. William Shero, Harvey E. Hawkins, Stanley Lopez, Ernest R. BarnhUl, Dan-ell Chapman. T. A, Rodriguez. John King, Reginal E. Parnell. Chas. E. Collins, Fioyd C. Dunn, Hustus D. Shidden. Cecil E. Haworth. Lafayette Lopez. Juiseppe Becker, Edward Chase, H. Kinser, Arthur R. Rodriguez. Jose Parsons, M. Collins, Frank M. Durden, Hudson B. Haychuck, M. M. Shipley, Marvin Lorsen, Nils Bell, Clarence E, Chee, Choy Lot Klondyke, Joseph Collins, H. D. Rogers, James Parsons,^Marshall Duryea, T. A. Shonkwiler, J. H. Hebert, Eric J. Loute, Charles Bell, Traues Chiotls, Evange Knowles, John J. Patterson, Eddie Rogosch. Paul ^ Collins. H. T. Dykstra, Frederick Hebert, Roland Shultz. Wm. Lovem Wm. A. Bencic, James Christian, Aloy Kohn, Joseph Colling, Joseph Roll, Bernhard Earle.v, Norman D. Heckman, Earl Shupe, ». W. Lowdcrback, Bemie Bender, Anthony Rr Christian, E. Kontas, Theo, A. Colpe, Juan A. Rollins, P. Easter, Fred M. Shy. R. Hee, B. Lowe, Edward B. Pauhn, Pietro Bennett, Charles R, Clark, H. F., Jr. Korenklewicz, P, Comeaux, Alvin Eaton, Elles M. Ryerson, James Peck, Gordon Silagyl. Julius Helduckl, Stanislaw Lowe, J. Bennett, Paul Cleater, John Kosmas, John Conners, T. J. Edmotidsun, G. C. Rome, George Pederseii, H. T. Simmons, C. W. Heliend, Eimer G. Lozes, Frederick L. Bendit, Kenneth Cline. Delmcr Kubik, Charles Constantion, E. Efferson, Henry W. Hendricks, J. Rosomoirch, S. J, Peluso, Merlin J. Simonavage. A. Lulzza, Giacomo Berberlck, £. J. Cohen, Jay C. Kutkowskl, S. S. Edgeit, Fred Cook, John J, Rossy, Catalino Pence, Floyd L. Hendrix, Donald Luke, Adgar W. Bivins, Auman Combs. Claude F. Kung, Zee Ah Egper, George P. Cook, M. C. Rowell, Buford D. Henkle, T. M. Pendergross, James Simpson! L." i^! Jr. SlY!" Luna. Carlos M. Conklin. Frank N. Lacy, Hancel H. Cooper, Clarence H. Eisert, Paul V. Pooo.no. Aotbonv |i~ Henry, Hayden Rowland. E. L. Ponnino, Anthony Lundy, Arthur W. Conrad, Jos. Lae, Joseph E. Cooper, V. B. Eldhuse, A. Rupport. Raymond Hensley, Chas. R. Luxemburg, Robert Peralta. Jack Boggs, Harold W. Contresas, Juan Laffey, Stephen R. Russell, James P. Copland, Edward Elie, Luclen R. Herald, Ralph P. Perez, Charles Sivetz. Peter Lyle, Samuel Bonsangue. N. Cooks, Cyrus M., Jr, Lampkin, Samuel Elliott, Jolin H. Corbert, R. C. Ryan. Joseph A, Herek, Emll Perrie, William R. Lynchard, Billy E. Skinner, Ewell Boss, Richard D. Cooper, Ed. Leirgston, John R.' Ryan. Peter Corley, Norman D. Emerson, Hurdes Hernandez, P. J. ' Perry, Morris J. Skorupaskl Loca, Manuel Boucher. Joseph Cosper, Lonnie Larson, Gustalf A, Emery, Harry L. Cormier, Elmer Hernandez, S. Sammons, A. J, Pestick, Anthony J. Slagle, R. Lynn, Billy C. Boudreau, Amer Cox, Thomas Larson, Nils Corrigan, E. T. Emmons, H. C. Hernandez, Tony Sanchez. Henry Peters, George A, Slettemo, Oscar McAvoy, Arthur Coyne, Joseph BourrilUon, D. Lauchs, Gordon Costello, Joseph A. Engelder, Herbert Hessman, Clarence Sanderson. A. 3. Pezoll, Frank L. McBride, Phillip 0. Sloctowicz, J, J. Boyd, Chas. Craft, Isaac Lay, Thomas F, Englehardt, E. E. Costlllo, Rozelllo Heucr, Otto C. Sartin. Oscar L. Philips, I.ouis M. McCarthy, A. W. Small, B. R. Brady, Robert B. Crawford, Elda R. Leagy, Wm. Coumas, Chester R. Eppeison, John R. Higgcnbotham, L, Sawyer.'Louis B. Phipps, J. R. McCarthy, Jack Smith. Amber Bramca, Wm. G. Crooks, C. M.,. Jr. Ledbretton, Harry Craddock, Leonard Erickson, Eric B. Higgins, John S. Sawyer, Vernon L. Pickett, Robert McCarthy, Justin T. Smith. Eben Brands. Henry Crowley, John" Oscar Lee, Eschette, H. Crafts, Earl Higgs, Wm. E. Schenk. John R. McCracken, Geo. Pierce, Buford L. Smith. Eugene Brannan, James C. Ciywley, Joseph Lee, Tarantine Crane, Thomas Esteven, Adelian Hightowef, 'Wm. M. McDees, James . Scherdin. F. L. Pierson, Leroy Smith. Floyd H. Breedlove^ L. J.. Jr. Curlett. Francis A, Leger, Vlllar Crecdon, William Ezell, WaUace Hill, Arloe McDonald, T. G. Schofield, R. H. Pinarando, Flo. Smith. Frank W. Broadus. Jerry Curran, John Lego, Andy L. Crispen. William Fabian, .Toseph M. HUl, Hughle H. Schiimaker. Wm. J. McDowell, T. O. Pitman, Donald Smith. Henry Brock. Robert L. Daly, Michael-P. Lelbig, E. W. Corft, Ernest Fahm, Wm. A. Hinchy, Joseph H. Schwartz. Harry W. Mcintosh, Howard C. Plzzatowskl, H. J. Smith. J. A. Brown, H. M. D'Ambrosia. N. E, Lennon, James L. Crowe, Alga B. Fah-burn, Morris Hlppard, Chas. L. Scott, Thomotra Mclnturff, Ralph C. Plahn, Guy F. Smith, John H. Brunell, Victor D. Damm, Paul Lewis, Edward B. Crowell, S. C. FamlgUo, Frank 3. Hiscoch, Carleton Seattle. Wm. B. McKeever, John Floppert, Francis Smith. John O. Buck, Lin E, Daniel, BI,ewis, Frank W. Cuccla, Jacob Farmer, Frank R, Hodges, C. C. *T Segrest. Elbert A. McKenna, John J. Plumstead, Thomas i't"; A.iuiiiav Smith. oiiiii,... Monte BulgCr. ArthUT Darawlck. Michael Lewis. Howard M, Cummlngs, Floyd Farr, T. B„,Sr. Segundo. Dem. JamesF.polizzolo. Antonio . . Smith, Murrgdl,.J,, Bqras, Fred.. Jr.Davis. Alvin Lewis. R.'B, Cummlngs,'ilohn », Faulkheh E. F.' ' SelboW. .Karl wnii,™ PolPoHo. M. B. • Smith. Murr^ •" Biitler, Shirley , Davis, Ceo, We'f. LmhU Wailw H;; .. Selbold. .Ki ,G. Cummlngs, Ralph Febyk. Nicholas Hogue. William C, McLeaish, Donald L. Pond. Geo. F. Smith. BudoljBh , Cahoon. Dehnle'' Davis. Uoyd 'D. Ueberman, Wm. (ConUnued Daly, Joseph G. Holland, H. A. Fecke. Jos. McMUlan,CecUR. PontUb Aide /. Smltb. Stii^I OU A Cdmi, Joseph Devls. ^in',' J. "-'4^ 1 Ligtids. Ahdirdefc'G.f GovernmenNOwned Ships Huff, warren G. •\ �September t, 195B SEAFARERS MEET THE SEAFARERS LEONARD SPIVEY, Boson Six-foot-two, medium complexIon, brown hair and green eyes are the identifying characteristics of Seafarer Leonard T. Spivey. Born in North Carolina, April ' 11, 1921, he came to Baltimore in the early '40's and worked as a me­ chanic at the Mar­ tin Bomber fac­ tory. His trick was the grave­ yard shift from 11:30 PM to 7:30 AM. After a long stint as a man be­ hind the man he Spivey decided he could do more for Uncle Sam by helping to get the war goods to the fighting fronts. So early in 1943 he went to the St. Petersburg Maritime School's deck classes. He began his voyaging as an American sea­ man six weeks later. Sailing at that time for Spivey was strictly "for the duration". However, after the armistice, every trip was his "last trip", only to be followed by "just one more". He did leave the sea for one summer to work in Baltimore as an electrician for a utility com­ pany while they convented a dan­ gerous poison gas to natural gas. "That's the longest I've stayed avvay. I was happy to get back." Likes Poker During off hours aboard ship, his shipmates know him as a man who loves a good game of poker. However, he reads occasionally but gets more enjoyment out of pass­ ing the time by talking over a hand of cards and winning a sizeable pot. Only thihg that bothered him during the war was that an enjoy­ able game'might be,interrupted by enemy planes bombing. This did occur several times, and he was rather disheartened when once he had to spend five hours on a 3-inch 50 when it could have been spent drinking coffee and playing cards. Baltimore has been his sailing port regularly for the past twelve years. By 1957, he is hopeful of buying a new home in the Belair Road section of Baltimore where his three little ones and his wife can wait for him to return from 'the seas. JULIUS B. SMITH, Elect. Most men get the lust for the sea at an early age, but this was not true ef Seafarer Julius Bill Smith. Bom October 22, 1900, in the small farming town of Mischoppen, Pa., he lived in ' : the immediate area until 1940. By that time he was married and had a son, Ed­ ward. It was just before the war that he ventured southward to Bal­ timore to look for Smith work at the Beth­ lehem Shipyards, After he' was settled, his wife and boy joined him to live in the small community of Brooklyn, just outside the met­ ropolitan area. During World War I. Julius was too young to wave the flag for the United States; during World War II, they said he was too old. There must be something that he could do regardless of his age, he decided. His determination led him to the merchant marine to help carry the urgently needed equip­ ment and material to the Ameri­ can youths and allies in far-off lands. It wasn't that easy though. He didn't have the papers and neces­ sary qualifications to sail out in the ocean. He finally managed to get hired aboard an intercoastal tug, eventually working up to the deepsea ships and the SIU. Swore Off Sailing In 1947, when he was sailing on the Cubore (Ore) through the Windward Pass from Santiago, the ship took a terrific list and virtu­ ally limped into Baltimore. This made Smith cautious of the sea. He swore he'd never again put his name on a ship's crew list. He stayed ashore long enough to re­ ceive his electrician's endorse­ ments and decided to try it again. His most serious injury to date makes Julius blush. While aboard the Yorkmar, he hit his elbow on a ladder and paid no attention to it. The next morning he was awak­ ened by an unbearable pain in his hand, wrist and arm. That every­ day accident caused him to receive treatment at the Baltimore Marine hospital for several months. T A1t4f%ll nFlTTRmaYTll New problems for plumbers in the atomic age include handling of titanium piping costing $1,100 a foot for various atomic energy in­ stallations. Consequently the AFL Plumbers International Union is undertaking a' px'ogram of steppedup teacher training so that appren­ tice plumbers will be equipped for the demands of the atomic age. S" 4" Office employees working for the Supreme Council of the Knights of Columbus in New Haven, Conn., ended a four-day strike with a 17-cent package in­ crease. The 300 office workers are members of AFL Office Employees Local 329. Part of the package in­ cludes sick leave, vacation and holiday improvements. 4" 4' 4" ' Washington's buses and street­ cars are running again after being idled by a 52-day strike of AFL operators and mechanics. Work­ ers for the Capitol Transit Com­ pany netted a 15-cehl>an-hour pay increase plus ^veif^'ifringe b?ne-- flts. rat6s':sjlsC^^6M up,,tf}^mjj)J to 19 cents. About 3,000 men were involved. 4" 4" 4" Pace Eleres LOG 'Do You Smell Something?' An Twenty-three men died last December when the LST Southern Districts was lost without a trace. Earlier another ship of the same company, the Southern Isles, sank with the loss of 17 men. The Southern Isles was definitely overloaded—even the inspector admitted to that;—but cause of the Southern Districts' loss is not as clear, for there were no survivors. One of the unfortunate aspects of marine disasters is that the organiza­ tion responsible for the safety of these ships—the Coast Guard—is also the agency which investigates and reports on these tragedies. Just as it has so often been found that police departments that investigate reports of police brutality find no evidence, so it must be said that the Coast Guard likewise can be expected to find no evidence of wrongdoing on its own part. The fact remains, however, that if the safety minimum on American mer­ chant ships is to be maiiitained, then the group responsible for that safety must he answerable to someone other than itself. Must Protect Crews Some 125,000 miners in the If **deals" are to he made by the owners with the Coast Guard to evade northern soft coal fields have just won a $2 a day wage package, fol­ safety minimums some action must be taken to protect the men who must lowing agreement between John L. Lewis' United Mine Workers and man those vessels. northern mine operators. The pact provides that hourly wages will go If the question of whether or not to repair a ship is decided solely on the up 15 cents starting Sept. 1, and will be boosted by ten cents more basis of cost, then safety ^v^ill come second, especially when the Government on April 1, 1956, to make up the agency involved gives its okay. $2 figure. The miners also got guaranteed time and a half for Sat­ The widows and orphaned children of the jnen lost on the Southern Dis­ urday work and double time for Sundays. Up until now they got tricts deserve a great deal more than the report issued by the Coast Guard the overtime only if they worked absolving themselves and the company of all blame. Likewise, the thousands the five or six days previously. of men sailing America's ships today deserve the protection and, more im­ 4" 4" if More guaranteed annual wage news was made by the CIO Steel- portant, the enforcement of US ship safety laws. workers Union when it signed a Whitewash is a word carelessly used these days, but after one reads the contract for 52-weeks' guaranteed pay with the American Can Com­ Coast Guard report and the accompanying letter by the Coast Guard com­ pany. Union spokesmen hailed the settlement as a true guaranteed mandant, it is the only word that rightfully applies to the disaster of the wage and indicated they hoped to Southern Distnets. far, as the SlU.is concerned,-this is by nQ.uieaUs, the makd it the pattern" ,fog next ^;^eal''s j-.-.-ayV jmsnc .V#*. sg^wl negoliatiphs. v , end tOitlUS.'Case.v- a T" ^ t'. .V �Paffc Twelve Architect Fish Tale Was The Real McCoy Fishing appears to be a popular pastime aboard most ships these days, especially on Isthmian vessels, whose crews seem to find good spots for dropping a line over the side almost everywhere they go. But all the Izaak Waltons out they had landed a real big 1 will have to take a back sea one that was more than two and a for a long while to the intrepid fishermen on the Steel Architect, who go about this sort of thing witii real "malice aforethought," as the lawbooks say. Attacking the problem with a vengeance, several crewmembers landed a real prize at Hilo, Hawaii, recently, in the gruesome person ' of a hammerhead shark. This was no little baby, either. It measured 15 feet from tip to tip, which is a lot of brain food in any man's cupboard. How it all began is not too clear, but it appears that the stew­ ard, Seafarer Fred A. Delapenha, doesn't take kindly at all to all forms of the shark family, and decided to do something about it. Several other crewmembers eventually joined in the "shark hunt," as they sawed harpoon-like notches in a meat hook, baited it with raw meat, attached a heaving line and tossed the lure over the side to await developments. The otiier end of the line was secured One of several crewmen on to a cable, and then to the deck. the Architect who were in The 40 foot waters alongside on "the kill," Seafarer Jack the ship didn't produce anything Ross, AB, poses with 15for a time except froth, but then foot hammerhead shark tliey saw they had a strike and the caught At Hilo, Hawaii. fight was on. About a half hour later the shark gave up trying to get a>vay half times the size of the average and just lay on the surface waiting man oh the ship. to be picked up. Eventually they improvised a Nobody expected that he was runner, hauled the monster up and wliat he was until one precise hung him out to dry. All agreed individual dug out something to it was great except the shark. He ' measure tlie beast with, and found was speechless by that time. Seafarers In The Hospitals II ^•'*"^'•i''•./•••' Ui^' USPHS HOSPITAI. USPHS HOSPITAL BALTIMORE, MD. NORFOLK, VA. Manuel Antonana Albert Hawkins Edwin A. Ainsworth Ralph J. Palmer Eugene W. Bent Edward F. Lamb Frank T. Campbell David' G. Proctor Carl E. Chandler Robert McCorkel Arthur L. Cox Frank A. Ross Charles Coburn Earl McKendree Waller L. Davis Norman D. Wilson Victor B. Cooper Robert G. McKnew USPHS HOSPITAL Thomas L. Dugan Thomas F. Mungo SAN FR.\NCISCO, CALIF. Gorman T. Glaze Fred Pittman Marcelo B. Belen John F. Murphy USPHS HOSPITAL A. F. Martinez M. E. Pappadakis BOSTON, MASS. Alonzo M. Milefski Edw. F. Broussard USPHS HOSPITAL USPHS HOSPITAL SEATTI.E, WASH. GALVESTON, TEXAS Sverre Johannessen John E. Markopolo John E. Tillman SEASIDE HOSPITAL PROVIDENCE HOSPITAL LONG BEACH, CALIF. MOBILE. ALA. Malcolm M. Cross Jose Pagola USPHS HOSPITAL DETROIT, MICH. CITY HOSPITAL Tim Burke William IMitchell MOBILE. ALA. Clias. Stringfellow USPHS HOSPITAL lUEMPHlS. TENN. CHARITY HOSPITAL Charles Burton NEW ORLEANS, LA. Sklward Brevier USPHS HOSPITAL FORT WORTH, TEXAS USPHS HOSPITAL Ben.iamin F. Deibler Jose Santiago SAVANNAH, GA. Albert W. Kozina Rosendo Serrano Jimmie Littleton Ernest H. Webb Janne F. Pierson SAILORS SNUG HARBOR STATEN ISLAND, NY. USPHS HOSPITAL Joseph Koslusky NEW ORLEANS, LA. USPHS HOSPITAL Taimadge P.Barbour Duska Korolia STATEN ISLAND. NY. Julian B. Barrett Leo H. Lang Has.sen Ali .John Michlck Carol J. Bauman Theo. E. Lee Thomas D. Dalley Paige A. Mitchell Mel lon Baxter Tinerman J. Lee D. Eldermire J. L. Buckelew C. R. Nicholson Perry Roberts Gerald Fitz.lame* John L. Caldwell Alfonso Olaguibel George H. Robinson Estell Godfrey Llo.vd T. Callaway Thomas A. Scanlon Alvin C. Rockwell Jesse Lockler .Tames M. Davis W^oodrow A. Snead Jose Rodriguez I William McKeon Peter DeVries Heni-y S. So.sa Matii Ruiisukallio KINGS COUNTY Marcel Dumestre Lonnie R. Tickle BROOKLYN, NY. Leo Fontenot Dirk Visser Luis Moreno Louis Guarino James E. Ward USPHS HOSPITAL Earl T. Hardeman David A. Wright M.A.NHATTAN BEACH E. G. Knapp BROOKLYN, NV. Edmund Abualy Leonard Leldig , Fortunato Bacomo James R. Lewis ; Frank W. Bemrick Arthur Lomas , Claude F. Blanks Mike Lubas i Robert L. Booker Francis F. Lynch I Joseph G. CanJoseph D. McGraw I Gabriel Coloni Archibald McGuigan Under the SIU contract, US : Mariano Cortez Harry F. MacDonald Walter W. Denley Michael Machusky Public Health Service doctors John J. Driscoll Vic Milazo have the final say on whether Bart E. Guranick Melvin O. Moore I Taib Hassen or not a man is fit for duty. If Eugene T. Nelson I Joseph li'sits Joseph Ncubauer there is any "question about I Thomas Isaksen James O'Hare John W. Keenan ^our fitness to sail, check with Daniel r, F. fiu^giano Rugglano ...... John R. Klemowicz George E. Shumaker the nearest USPHS hospital or Ludwig Knstiansen Henry E. Smith I Frederick Landry Harry S. Tuttle I Jaines . J. I^wlor _ _ * v KaiTrel USPHS Has Last Say On Hnty Slip SEAFARERS LOG MAI (Bull), July 11—Chairman, K. Carlson; Sacratary, W. Morris. No beefs. Motion made to accept and concur with headquarters communica­ tions linanimously. MARCARETT BROWN (Bloomflald), July 3—Chairman, M. Sanchez; Sacra­ tary, H. Ward. New washing machine InstaUed. All hands to study contract and no water to be wasted although we have plenty aboard. Electric Iron, checkers, dominos, dart board and darts, magazines, cards, and cribbage board purchased from ship's fund. Crew Is In fuU accord with- recent communications from hq. Ship's secretary-reporter elected. Vote of thanks to ship's delegate. All hands asked to keep recreation mate­ rial in good order and ' all SIU pub­ lications in one drawer. Watermelon party to foUow meeting. ORION COMET (Orion), June 3«— Chairman, J. Oavln; Secretary, 1. Weisbrot. Two men sent to hospital. Steward requested lemons to be used for lemonade. Vessel has been in the tropics for seven months and lemon- Digest of ships' Meetings ade was on the menu once. Crew asked to return chairs from deck after being used. ROBIN KIRK (Robin Line), July 14 —Chairman, J. Hanners; Secretary, K. Jackson. Motion made and carried to accept and concur headquarters com­ munications. ^ STEEL ADVOCATE (Isthmian), July 11—Chairman, J. Oeleonardo; Secre­ tary, F. Umheltz. Motion made and carried to accept and concur with all headquarters communications up to dale. STEEL DESIGNER (Isthmian), July 11—Chairman, P. Foy; Secretary, W. Keiley. Recent ^communication from headquarters accepted and concurred unanimously. Crew shall take turns in keeping the laundry and library clean. July 12—^hairman, F. Foy; Secre­ tary, F, Hurd. Recent headquarters communication accepted and con­ curred. No beefs. STEEL VOYAGER (Isthmian), July 2—Chairman, G. Fargo; Secreiary, J. Anderton. Ship's delegate ejected. Vote of thanks to steward dep.artment. Repair list to- be given to ship s delegate. SWEETWATER (Metro), July 4— Chairman, C. Hill; Secretary, C. Braunster. Repair lists posted, dind Captain O.K'd same. Flowers sent to brother who passed away in Willimount. California. Ship's treasurer elected. Motion made and carried to have persons who destroy anything, steal, or abuse anything aboard ship to be put on charges. Discussion on safety. Everything to be kept clean. WESTPORT (Arthur), July 14— Chairman, J, pray; Secretary, E. Gates. Motion made and carried to accept and concur headquarters comiiiutiieation unanimously. Everything running smoothly. Septemliep %, 1955 munlcationa. Vote of thanks to siewarit department. OCEAN ULLA (Maritime Ovartaas), July 13—Chairman, D. PIccaralll; Sac­ ratary, H. Robarts. Motion made and carried unanimously to accept and concui' with headquarters communi­ cations. No beefs were left unsettled, patrolman took care of everything. - ROBIN TUXFORD (Robin i.lnei), March •—Chairman, R. Olfvar; Sacra­ tary, D. Furman. Chief Engineer to be contacted regarding the regulation of hot and cold water, in showers. Li­ brary to be locked In port. One shower is out of order in the steward department. SEATRAIN NEW JERSEY (Seatrain), July 14—Chairman, J. Glenn; Secre­ tary, P. Patrick. Shelf in storeroom to be installed. Ship's trcBSUr.y $18.51. Recent communications from head­ quarters accepted and concured. Steward was asked to improve night lunch. Electrician complained that washing machine was left running all night. TOPA TOPA (Waterman), July 15— Chairman, H. Eby; Secretary, C. Nail. This vessel is in good shape. Motion' made and carried to accept and concur with recent communication from headquarters. No beefs. _AMPAC IDAHO (Trans Oceanic Marine), July 14—Chairman, H. Mesford; Secretary, E. Alrey. All dele­ gates were asked to turn in rep.-Ir list.s. Ship's fund, $730. No beefs. Motion made and carried to accept and concur with communications from headquarters unanimously. Ship's sec­ retary-reporter, and treasurer elected. Discussion held on poor preparation of food. ARCHERS HOPE (Cities Service), July 15—Chairman, T. Weems; Secre­ tary, E. Cox. Motion made and car­ ried unanimously to accept and con­ cur with headquarters communication. BRADFORD ISLAND (CItlos Serv­ ice), July 17—Chairman, J. Parker; Secretary, S. Evans. Motion made and carried to accept and concur with headquarters communications. COUNCIL GROVE (Cities Service), July 17—Chairman, J. Schwebland; Secretary, R, Kimbrell. Motion made and carried unanimously to accept and concur with recent communications from headquarters. DE SOTO (Pan Atlantic), July 17— Chairman, W. Hollinger; Secretary, J. Chermeslno. Repairs were taken care of and new fans will be ordered. Ship's fund, $34. Motion made and carried to accept and concur head­ quarters communication. Suggestion made to use the ship's fund to buy swings. Messman requested that drink­ ing glasses be returned. FORT HOSKINS (Cities Service), July 11—Chairman, P. Parker; Secre­ tary, N. Whipple. No beefs. Motion made and carried to accept and con­ cur with headquarters recent com­ munication. Ship's delegate advised crew to apply for vacation pay in San Pedro. July 17—Chairman, F. Throp; Sec­ retary, N. Whipple. Ship's fund $13. Ship is in good shape, no beefs. Motion made and carried to accept and concur with headquarters com­ munications. JEAN (Bull Lines), July 10—Chair­ man, C. Moletta; Secretary, R. Sadowski. Ship's delegate elected. Motion made and carried to accept and eoncur headquarters communication. Mo­ tion made and carried to see patrol­ man about awning back aft. Discus­ sions held on night lunch, and crews cooperation in keeping pantry and messroom clean. ALCOA PARTNER (Alcoa), July IS —Chairman, B. B. Price; Secretary, E. Howard. No beefs. All communica­ tions from headquarters to date ac­ cepted and concurred. KATHRYN (Bull Lines), No dateChairman, H. Fitzgerald; Secretary, A. Gonzalez. Smooth sailing. No beefs. Ship's delegate resigned. FAIRLANO (Waterman), July 4— Chairman, L. Curry; Secretary, G. Seeberger. Ship's delegate elected. Ship's fund contains $11.30. Commu­ nications from headquarters accepted and concurred. Motion made and car­ ried to see patrolman regarding steam line, it is too noisy. LEWIS EMERY, JR. (Victory Car­ riers), July 17—Chairman, B. Maxwell; Secretary, F, Bruggner. Motion made and carried to accept and concur with recent communications from head­ quarters. Vote of thanks to Ben Rees, Norfolk poi-t agent for coming to ship on Sunday AM to square beefs. HILTON (Bull), July 15—Chairman, J. Hogge; Secretary, R. O'Rourke. Discussion held on recent headquar­ ters communications. All communica­ tions to date accepted and carried unanimously. REPUBLIC (Trafalgar), July 11— Chairman, B. High; Secretary, J, Crowley. All repairs from last trip completed. Motion made and carried to comply with rules at pay-off, in port of dlschargt. Repair list to be compiled. Ship's treasurer elected. Cots and mattresses are to he secured. Vote of thanks to steward depart­ ment. July 17—Chairman, B. High; Sacra­ tary, E. B. Tliley. Ship's fund $27. Motion mr.de and carried to accept and concur with headquarters com­ munications unanimously. JEAN LA FITTE (Waterman), July 3—Chairman, E. Leasgang; Secretary, W. Lea. Ship's fund contains $13.64, and $20 was donated to brother O. Rosales. It was recommended that patrolman see captain about money draws. JEFFERSON CITY VICTORY (Victory Carriers), July 3—Chairman, J. L. Hodges; Secretary, J. Meehan. A ship's delegate, secretai-y-rcportei-, and treasurer were elected. Motion made and carried tliat crew take bet­ ter care of wasKihg machine, and turn off the motor after using it. It was agreed that each department alternate to clean the recreation room. KATHRYN (Boll), July 1»—Chair-man, C. H. Martin; Secretary, A. Gon­ zalez. Motion made and carried to ac­ cept and concur headquarters recent communication. No beefs. MADAKET (Waterman), July 10— Chairman, E. Anderson; Secretary, R. Thrles. Few beefs and ail were set­ tled. Ship's treasury amounts to .$33. Vote of thanks to 'baker for pizza pie at coffee time. ' MARIE HAMILL (Bloomfleld), July 10 —Chairman/ R. Groseciose; Secretary, C. Berg. It was recommended that vessel be exterminated. Ship's fund, $13. Motion made and carried to ac­ cept and concur headquarters' comr VAL CHEM (Valentina), July 12— Chairman, O. Padersen; Secretary, W. Stevenson. Ship's delegate urges all members to read constitution. Ship's fund $27.03. One brother missed ship in deck department. Brother Williams spoke on safety. Motion made and carried to accept and concur with headquarters communication. Ship's delegate and secretary elected. Crew to clean messhall and return cups after playing cards. Motion made and carried to donate tv set to USPHS Hospital in Galveston, Texas. July 14—Chairman, A. Pedersen Secretary, B. Grice. Motion made and carried to accept and concur witi> headquarters communications unani­ mously. LEWIS EMERY JR. (Victory Car­ riers), May 14—Chairman, Carl Lawson; Secretary, Vic Harding. The pant/y sink Is in poor condition. Over­ board valves will be checked at the first opportunity as deck department toilet bowls flood over when ship is loaded. Steward cautioned all hands to go alow on 4;he coffee as too much of san^ is being USed. Playboys and •.A nshounds warned of master's inten­ tion of tlirowing the book at anyone fouling up. Launch service at Inchon discussed. June If—Chairman, Carl Lawsen; Secretary, Victory Harding. Ship's delegate spoke on the washing ma­ chine being abused untU it broke down. Engine delegate has assurance thai it will oe repaired in Pedro if pa^rts are on hand. All delegates asked to compile list of dues mem­ bers Intend to pay to union at payoff. July 4—Chairman, Carl Lawson; Secretary, Victor Harding. Thanks ex­ tended to the steward department for the good service received. The deck engineer received thanlfs for his work in fixing the washing machine. All hands were cautioned to stay sober at the payoff and to be sure to leave all dealings with the patrolman to their respective delegates and the ship's delegate. Master was contacted in re­ gard to some port time which might be payable to steward department for tiie Port of Everett. The crevy was congratulated on the happy voyage. STEEL ROVER (Isthmian), July 12— Chairman, R. Jackson; Secrstary, W. Parksrson. All the latest communica­ tions and reports were read and dis­ cussed among crewmembers and accepted. SOUTHWIND (Souin Atlantic), May IS—Chairman, H. Jones; Secretary, H, Krohn. A new washing machine is needed in addition to soqp dishes and two new electric fans. There is a very good crew on board this trip and it Is a pleasure to have ail members cooperating. The company took .the measurements of the sinks at Jacksuuvillc and promised the Union to have them installed on arrival there. The stores in Savannah are of a very poor quollty especially the meat, fowl, fruit and fresh vegetables. AMEROCEAN (Amerocean), June 24 —Chairman, D. Ruddy; Secretary, W. Pedersen. Suggestion, made that cook­ ies be kept in a cooler place. Appre­ ciation was voiced to the steward department personnel for the fine job they did. The laundry should be bet­ ter taken care of. Treasurer reported $10.88 in the ship's fund. BEATRICE' (Bull), July 11—Chair­ man, Herman Ricci; Secretary, Evaristo Jimenei. Alotion made by Howell to send the ship's delegate to get in touch with the port agent to come aboard and check with the chief steward. Accepted by majority vote. CHESTER HARDING (Construction Aggregates), June 19—Chairman, H, .Siem; Secretary, Aussie Shrimpton. The ship's delegate gave a general talk regarding the jneed for coopera­ tion from the entire crew in making this ship an outstanding success. The need to save fresh water during the run down to Maracaibo was stressed. A record player, records and read­ ing material were purchased before leaving the States and an itemized report was submitted. It was decided by a majority vote ,to assess each member a sum of $1.50 for ship's fund. Discussion on running an arrival pool. STEEL KING (Isthmian), July 4— Chairman, J. Procele; Secretary, P. Haraye. Ship's delegate reported that three men have been logged, otherwi.se ever.vtliing is okay. If any crewmember has somctliing to say see the ship's delegale first instead of a patrolman. IRENESTAR (Triton), June 5—Chair­ man, Steward; Secretary, Arkersen. Suggestion made that glasses he re­ turned and washed while utility is not on duty. Crewmembers were asked to put soiled linen in linen bags.' June 24—Chairman, C. Gray; Secre­ tary, W. Mason. WUl check to see If decks can be painted. Mattresses are needed for crews room. The patrol-^ man read the latest communications to the crew. ROBIN MOWBRAY (Seas Shipping), May 24—Chairman, none; Secretary, O. Ravner. The bosun stated that from this day forward that any man not turning to on deck would go before the chief mate or captain. If time off is wanted crewmembers should ask for it. Steward delegate told the steward department men to come to him on all beefs. A vote of thanks was given to the chief steward. April 29—Chairman, E. O'Brien; Secretary, O. Raynor. Motion made and cari'ied to strip all unusable parts from the old washing machine and destroy the rest. Talk on wiiethec the shore gang In all ports in Africa should do any work. A re­ port from headquarters was read and discussed by all hands, CHOCTAW (Waterman), June 20— Chairman, J. Corlow; Secretary, G. Johnson. Discussion on food situation. Htecommendations were made which steward accepted. Ship's delegate will see about -jury toilets for Korean workers. Crew mess asked crew not to stand in pantry or doorway while he sels tables. Any ciewmemher using the washing machine should check same to make sure it is turned off. STEEL FABRICATOR (Isthmian), July 7—Chairman, Reyes; Secretary, Bialack. The latest communications were read and discussed and a motion was made by Brother Reyes to ac­ cept same. Carried unanimously. LAWRENCE VICTORY (Mississippi), July 3—Chairman, C. Kaust; Secre­ tary, S. Rivera Repairs completed. Two men were hospitalized, one in Japan the other in San Francisco. Mo­ tion made and carried to accept com­ munications unanimously. To check with patrolman regarding third cook, as to wliether he may be able to go second cook. Vote of thanks to night cook and baker, crew messman, and crew pantryman for good service. July 15—Chairman, A. Kaust; Sec­ retary, S. RIvara. M(rtion made and carried to accept -and concur with headquarters communfcations iinanl3JM>usiy.;.v , y'. /> �.• ' '.' i,"".* -v. ..j, . -•: • " "^K'E ^ptember 2. 19S5 'There's One In Every Crowd' —By Seafarer Rabert "Red" Knk lyyjpJ / QO/T P^iriKtHG/l INO /V}#/?E vv/»5r;n/<: At«vey oU .^SO^E, • /«ri 6OIM<9 ro 7'~\5/»VE My /^bA/f; SlU, A&G District BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Earl Slieppard. Agent EAstern 7-4900 BOSTON 276 State St. James Sheehan, Agent Ricbmond 2-0140 HOUSTON 4202 Canal St. C. Tannehlll, Acting Agent Capital 7-6558 LAKE CHARLES, La -1410 Ryan St. Leroy Clarke, Agent HEmlock 6-5744 MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. Cat Tanner. Agent HEmlock 2-1754 NEW ORLEANS 523 BlenvlUe St: Lindsey Williams. Agent Magnolia 6112-6113 NEW VORK... 675 4tb Ave., Brooklyn HYacintb 0-6600 NORFOLK 127-129 Bank St. Ben Recs, Agent ^ MAdison 2-9834 PHILADELPHIA 337 Market St. S. CarduUo, Agent Market 7-1635 SAN FRANCISCO ... 450 Harrison St Leon Johnson, Agent Douglas 2-5475 Alarty BreltboK, West Coast Representative PUERTA do TIEHRA. PR Pelayo 51-La f Bal CoUs, Agent Phone 2-5996 SAVANNAH 3 Abercorn SiT E. B. McAuIey, Acting Agent Phone 3-1728 SEATTLE . 2305 let Ave. Jeff Gillette, Agent Elliott 4334 TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. Tom Banning, Agent • Phone 2-1323 WILMINGTON, Calil 505 Marine Ave. Ernest Tllley, Agent Terminal 4-2874 HEADQUARTERS . 675 4th Ave., Bklyn. SECRETARY-TREASURER Paul HaU ASST. SECRETARY-TREASURERS J. Alglna, Deck C. Simmons. -Joint J. Volpian, Eng. W. Hall, Joint . £. Mooney. Std. R. Mattbews, Joint SUP HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. Phone 5-8777 PORTLAND 522 N. W. Everett St. Beacon 4336 RICHMOND, CALIF 257 5th St. Phone 2599 SAN FRANaSCO 450 Harrison St. Douglas 2^363 SEATTLE 2505 1st Ave. Main 0290 WILMINGTON 505 Marine Ave^ Terminal 4-3131 NEW YORK..... 675 4tb Ave., Brooklyn HYacintb 9-6600 Canadian District HALIFAX, N.8 128'/4 HolUs St. Phone- 3-8911 534 St. James St. West PLateau 8161 FORT WILUAM... 118',4 Syndicate Ave. Ontario Phone: 3-3221 PORT COLBORNE 103 Durham St. Ontario Phone: 5591 TORONTO, Ontario 272 King St. E EMpire 4-5719 MONTREAL Burly Pave Thfrteea SE AW AR^R%- LOG Bites Lawson Beef —Gets A Moutliful Every time a guy opens an oyster he always nourishes the hope that maybe this time he'll find a gleaming, valuable pearl on the inside. The hoping goes on endlessly; only the oysters seem unwilling to cooperate. Aboard the 88' George A. that the unnamed Seafarer in ques­ Lawson, one brother took a tion bit beef and came up with a VICTORIA, EC ... 617ts Cormorant St. Empire 4531 VANCOUVER, BC 298 Main St. Pacinc 7824 SYDNEY, NS 304 Charlotte St. Phone 6348 BAGOTVILLE, Quebec 20 Elgin St. Phone: 545 THORGLO, Ontario ... 62 St. Davids St. CAnal 7-3202 QUEBEC 113 Cote De La Montague Quebec Phone: 2-7078 SAINT JOHN 177 Prince WiUiam St NB Phone: 2-5232 bite and did find an unexpected gem. But he was having beef, not oysters. It wasn't exactly a jewel that he found either; it was a .22 caliber bullet. The crewmember involved was concerned right away about his choppers. He almost blew up on the spot, of course, because he had tried to bite the thing in two un­ til he found out what it wasn't. Certainly he had a beef about the beef. It was definitely a "bum steer." But he bore up pretty well, and managed to down the rest of his meal without incident. l>Iot that the beef wajp't tasty. It was just that the "impurities" bothered him. There's no indication what the reaction to the tale was when he told it to the messman, who passed it dn to the cook who told the steward about it. The ship's min­ utes of July 13 are almost bare on details, except for the salient fact bullet instead. How the missile got there in the first place, of course, is another story. The smart boys are saying that the company port steward cor­ rals his own stock and isn't too fussy now and then if it weighs in a little heavier than expected be­ cause of its extra cargo. Actually what probably happened is that the beef still seemed a lit­ tle too frisky when the Lawson's cook mounted it on the cutting block and he just peppered it, but good. Chairman of the ship's meeting at which the incident was officially reported was S. Woodruff. The secretary was H. S. Greenwald. Joseph A. Long is the ship's secre­ tary-reporter. Great Lakes District ALPENA 133 W. Fletcher Phone: 1236W BUFFALO. NY 180 Main St. Phone: Main 1-014V CLEVELAND .... 734 Lakeside Ave., N£ Phone: Cleveland 7391 DETROIT 1038 3rd St. .Headquarters Phone: Woodward 1-6857 DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St Phone: Melrose 2-4110 SOUTH CHICAGO 3261 E. 92nd St Phone: Esses 5-2411 Quitting Ship? Notify Union A reminder from SIU headquarters cautions all Seafarers leaving their ships to contact the hall In an^ple time to allow the Union to dispatch a replacement. Fail­ ure to give notice before paying off may cause a de­ layed sailing, force the ship to'^ail short of the manning requirements and needlessly make the work tougher for your shipmates. LOG-A-RHnHM; Stray Not, My Dear By M. Dwyer V/hen I am dead, and o'er me, Bright April shakes out her rain-drenched hair. When leafy trees bow down. Their branches wet with morning dew, When birds begin to fly about and sing. My dear, 1 will not care. ••'At Puzzled like everyone else about the bullet in the beef, Jimmy Cox, baker (left), and Andy Kudlow, cook, pose in galley of the George Lawson. These things I shall not see, nor hear. No senses have the dead; I will have peace. While all above me, including you. Are in such torment and distress. When ships still sail and'balmy breezes blow. When gulls still cry their message to the wind. When waves roar high, and lash against the shore, Your absent days will give me pain no more. Perchance you'll think, and yearn for me, someday But too late will your longing be For I will have sailed by then, Unto the port of no return. Mealtime aboard the George A. Lawson on another occasion, when beef was just beef and did very well at it. Pictured (l-r, clockwise) are Tony Michalski,- oiler, engine delegate; Monte Smith, AB, deck delegate; Bob Everton, OS; Blackie Peters, OS; Roy Peebles, AB, and Carl Ainsworth, AB. Then, if you care to seek me out And o'er my grave you stop and kneel to pray Waste no teardrops then, on me, my dear For I shall be long dead. And more cold-hearted than you are now. **Bad trip, ionay porta •9 By Bernard Seaman iCOl^A IhHSl&IAfRJO. . . i �,^^rr:rr< Fase FourtecB SEAFARERS Vury-R/gged' Baker Shines On Bienville The fact that the steward department—"the least unsung medium aboard ship," in the words of Seafarer William Calefato—can prove its versatile abilities in the face of an emer­ gency was amply shown re-*^ cently on the Bienville, a cook Edwin Vireia." Waterman ship on the Far Calefato pointed out also that the crew, which heartily sympa­ East run. thizes with the seasick baker, can't I As far as the steward depart­ ment on the Bienville is concerned, be blamed for secretly hoping now "no matter how it's battered, it and then that he stays that way. always rises," he said. This came about recently when the baker suddenly became af­ flicted with "mal de mer" and had to retire from his duties posthaste. The lack of bread might have been a real calamity, except that Leroy Pierson, steward, stepped in to fill the breach. "Looking at the steward, you would not suspect that his talents Pierson in actual per­ formance at a galley range or oven are superior to those displayed ashore," Calefato commented. "We didn't have those monoton­ ous square loaves that you always Familiar to Seafarersee. We had twisted rolls, bread patients at the New Orleans cups and the kind of luscious marine hospital, where pastry that would make most she's been putting on shows Fi-ench pastry cooks go back to every month, is Ruby Dee school," he added. These helped Villars, "The Crescent City further enhance the vfery palatable Cowgirl." Dusica "Spider" menu turned out by chief cook Frank Atkins, assisted by third Korolia sent in the photo. NO Cowgirl Fresh Fish On Steel Navigator LOG September 2i 1955 Thanks For Aid By Seatraln NY To the Editor: My thanks and appreciation to Captain J. J. Wenzel of the Seatrain New York and fellow crewmembers who put me ashore at Key West, Fla., with appendicitis recently. At a time when the serious­ ness of my situation was not clearly apparent, Captain Wen­ zel exercised caution in having the Coast Guard removA me from the ship. Within a few Letters to the Editor Bwered many questions to the satisfaction of the crew and in­ vited all suggestions and criti­ cisms to be sent to headquarters. This we approved 100 percent. Need Set-Up Permanently After the meeting, many brothers voiced the opinion that we should have a headquarters representative riding SIU ships between US ports on a perma­ nent basis. He could help us solve minor food beefs and problems aboard the ships before they ^eally get acute. If hq. is aboard the ship for several days and observes con­ ditions, he can acquire a thor­ ough and familiar knowledge of the beef, and can help remedy it on the spot. To this, I say "Amen." In conclusion, let me con­ gratulate our Union officials who are responsible for insti­ tuting the new SIU feeding system, and may I hope, along with the members of the crew of the Chickasaw, that this sys­ tem is not something temporary, but will be a part of our exis­ tence as a progressive Union. Gus L. Taylor Ship's delegate 4" 4< t Member's Wife Wants LOG Heme . To the Editor: My husband, John B. Gelssler, is SIU book G-567. He gets the LOG on all the ships he is on and has shown me several copies. It is a wonderful publication. Please put my name on your mailing list for the SEAFARERS LOG. Right now, John is shipping out of this bustling old Port of New Orleans' in the steward de­ partment. Mrs. Doris Geissler (Ed. note: Your name is being added to our mailing list so that you can receive the LOG regu­ larly.) 4 4 4 Anniston Trip in Fine Shape To the Editor: hours my appendix had rup­ The SS Anniston, with coal tured, but I was already at the cargo loaded at Newport News, US Naval hospital here, where has arrived, after a crossing an operation saved the day. with exceptionally good weather, From my experience over the at Rijika, Yugoslavia. past four weeks I would ven­ This ship Is the second one ture to say that a man could being crewed by Seafarers for hardly expect more competent this company, so the crew is medical care anywhere in the aware that we are in a way country than he receives here. on trial, and is doing g job in The doctors are among the best, such a mariner as to be a credit and though my recuperation has ^ To the Editor: In the July 22 issue of the to the Union. been slow, it has given me an The chief engineer and the opportunity to observe that a SEAFARERS LOG there was a merchant seaman Is given the poem- in the "Log-A-Rhythm" first mate, in turn, while un­ best of attention by the hospi­ column titled "Baby Prayer," familiar with our agreement, by Harry Price. show a willingness to cooperate tal staff. I have mislaid the LOG and In carrying out its provisions. Seatrain Lines also acted We held a shipboard meeting promptly in seeing that I had would like to know if you transportation for returning to could please send me a copy on August. 14 and found every­ New York. Again I'd like to of the above-mentioned poem. thing in order except for a few My husband and I really en­ details that can no doubt be thank all concerned and wish joy the LOG very much and corrected easily. Steward J. L. them smooth sailing. look forward to reading every Beale has his troubles but, in Frank Flanagan issue we receive. Keep up the his usual good way, is getting good work. the wrinkles ironed out as fast Mrs. Olga Bagley as could be expected. (Ed. note: A copy of the As this is being written, the LOG containing the material word has just been passed that To the Editor: you requested is being sent to Captain Tkacz is pleased with As ship's delegate of the SS you.) the crew and apparently has no Chickasaw I wish to express N beefs. That, I think, is just as 4. 4 4« the appreciation of the crew and 'good as adding a good many myself for the new system of jobs to our ready, willing and feeding our Union has adopted, able list. and which Brother Phil Reyes is To the Editor: •v. C. Bums Introducing aboard this vessel. 4 4 4 I want to take this opportuni­ This ship has always been feeding well, like any SIU ship ty to thank the crewmembers of the SS Mae (Bull) and everyone should, but when Brother Reyes came aboard to ride with us else who donated for a wreath for several days, the food and at the time of death of a loved To the Editor: one. My husband, who has been service became even better. We It was appreciated by all. sailing with the SIU for 16 are all for that. John O'TooIe years, has had nothing but Like many other members, we 41 4> 4 praise for the Union. I, on the were wondering from what we other hand, being married to read in the LOG what this new­ him for three years, didn't see fangled idea of feeding was, that all was well. before Reyes came aboard. To I wrote to you in 1953 or '54 our surprise, we learned it was To the Editor: I hope you can print a line of asking why wives and children not a new idea, as we had thought, but was the application thanks to the mate and crew of »weren't covered for hospitaliza­ of plain common sense to the the Steel Chemist (Isthmian) for tion, what were the benefits of preparation and serving of food, saving my life on the dock in having seniority, etc. You al­ ways answered my questions, which has to be prepared rignt New Orleans. I understand that a long­ saying these things were being and served right in order to be enjoyed. This Brother Reyes is shoreman drove me fast to the studied. marine hospital where they are But, the recent May 13 Issue demonstrating to us. doing an excellent job. Thanks of the LOG, detailing all the Knows Job Headquarters should be con­ again to aU of them for their advantages being provided for dependents under the SIU Wel­ gratulated in its choice of Reyes kind help. M. Oschitzki fare Plan, made me join with to help the steward department my husband in praise. And I 4 4 4 establish the new system, as am sure all the wives of Sea­ many Seafarers know him to be farers feel the same as I do— not only thoroughly familiar we belong. with steward department work Achievements like the Union but also no mean cook in his To the Editor: I am writing to acknowledge recently made call for a celebra­ own right. He demonstrated this your recent letter with most tion. 'How about organizing a when he went to the galley and dance to be held at one of the did the work with the gang to sincere thanks. We appreciate very much the Union halls and let the- women familiarize it with the mechan­ trouble which you have taken get together for a change. We ics of the new syst^. From what I heard from the in giving us such detai^d infor- could cry on each other's crew and most of the steward mation about the new Seafarers shoulders discussing the fact that we are married to "no-good department, including the stew­ Welfare Plan. ard, who is a good Joe, Brother This material will be very , husbands" whose first love is Reyes' presence aboard the ship useful to us in planning welfare the sea and that in spite of all is welcome. measures for seafarers in India. that we wouldn't change them At our regular shipboard C. P. Srivastava for any frustrated man ashore. meeting where he explained the Directorate General of What about it? new feeding system, Reyes an-. ^ Shipping, Bombay, India , Mrs. Npstpn A. Raine Fan Letter For Seafarer's Poem Chickasaw OK's New Feeding Plan Halls Kindness Of Mae Crew Wife Now Sees The Light Too Thanks Chemist Crew For Help A couple of kettles of fish which provided some sport of Sea­ farers out in the Persian Gulf on the Steel Navigator are dis­ played by proud fishermen ll-r) Schopfer, 2nd elec., Evans, bosun, Gillis, MM, and Sanchez, AB. Seafarer Lars Nielsen, who took the photo, said he wanted it known definitely that these fish were not caught in a saloon. Editor, SEAFARERS LOG. 675 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn 32, NY I would like to receive the SEAFARERS LO,G—please put my name on your mailing list. (Print Information) NAME STREET ADDRESS CITY Z^NE Signed STATE ^ TO AVOID DUPLICATION: If you are an old lubsertbar and hava a ehanga af addrasf, piaata qiva your formar addrait balow: |r^'< ADDRESS te"'' icitY^: |M:: I- > I• . L..> f 7 '' •-1 Welfare Data Aids Indians �^'':V fleptcflAcr t, 1958 SEAFARERS All of the following SIU familiee will collect the $200 maternity benefit plus a $25 boTtd from the Union in the baby's name: Eileen Patricia Vaufhan, ,bom June 13. 1955. Parents, Mr. and .Mrs. William Vaughan, New York, NY. Bruce William Cash, bom July 29, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Cash, Winthrop, Mass. t 4 t Elaine Joyce Brinkenhoff, born July 30, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Albert C. Brinkenhoff, New York, NY. ^ ^ Diane Lynn Hilbum, born Au­ gust 5, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Hilbum, Fairhope, Ala. , Deborah Jean Whisenant, born June 30, 1955. Parents, Mr, and Mrs. Marcus Whisenant, Balti­ more, Md. t » t " Michael Roy Clark, born March 14 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Roy Clark, La Porte, Tex. ^ $> Rickie Brian Laurent, bora Au­ gust 3, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Laurent, Pasadena, Tex. i 4 t Larry Edmund Hensley, born July 22,1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hensley, Camden, NJ.. ' ' 4 3> SJ" Carmen Antonia Hernaiidez Rivera, born July 11, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Juan Hernandez, Puerto De Tierra, PR. 4" , ' i 3^ Michael Donovan, born June 30, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Donovan, Boston, Mass. $ 3> 3;> Clifford Michael Aversano, born July 25, 1955. Parents, Mi*, and Mrs. Michael Aversano, Brooklyn, NY. t 3i t 4> 4> 3^ 4 3i 3> 4" 3^ 3^ Denise Sorensen, born Auguk 2, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs, Ejuind Sorensen, Brooklyn, NY. ^ ^ Maria Xlynthia Smith, born July 31, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Smith, Algiers, La. Kathleen Mary Baker, born July 12, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Norman Baker, Portland, Me. Beverley Anne Bowley, born July 21, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bowley, Coplague, LI. Kevin Michael Spence, born Au­ gust 3, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Spence, Brooklyn, NY. J, y . 4, i rue WUittm LOG Report On Ship Disaster Is CG 'Y/hitewash': SIU (Continued from page 8) coaster, is running on a certificate limited to inland waters. The failure of the Southern Dis­ tricts to come out of the storm which it was entering when last sighted on December 5, 1954, ap­ pears to be coupled directly with the structural condition of the ves­ sel and the certification that she was fit following repair work at a New Orleans drydock. The SIU challenge of the Coast Guard procedure governing the case stemmed principally from the admissions in the record by its own inspectors and by the operating manager of the company, E. F. Railsback. The damaging testimony by Seafarers who had sailed the ship up until her last voyage was later corroborated by much of what CG and company officials dis­ closed. "Deal" With CG One of the more explosive dis­ closures at the January hearing was testimony by Railsback con­ cerning an understanding between the operators, the Coast Guard and the American Bureau of Shipping to allow the ship to "get by" with patched plating under the power plant instead of renewing the plates as required by safety direc­ tives. The agreement, made early in 1954 avoided replacement of worn and damaged plating which would have required expensive re­ building of that portion of the ship. Expressing the regr^ of the Union that the Coast Guard which, in this instance as Jn so many others, occupied the dual role of judge and jury in reaching its final verdict on a matter Involving its own personnel, SIU SecretaryTreasurer Paul Hall called upon the Coast Guard to explain its questionable action not only to the survivors of the missing men, but to all seamen whose safety at sea rests largely in the hands of Coast Guard marine Inspectors. "Given testimony," Hall stated, "that a ship has a variety of major and minor defects, that wooden plugs were used to stop leaks below the waterline, that a Coast Guard inspector conducted a survey of the engine room over a cup of coffee In the salon with the chief engineer, that seamen with 19 years of ex­ perience admitted this was the 'first ship in my life that I was ever afraid to ride,' given all this, the Coast Guard has chosen to look the other way. .• "We're still left with the orig­ inal question of what happened to the Southern Districts. Somewhere there la an adequate answer. This whitewash of all concerned is not the solution," he added. Nineteen Chargea In filing their auit for losses off behalf of the men's survivors, at­ torneys had listed 19 general spe­ cifications citing the company's re­ sponsibility for the disaster on the basis of testimony offered at the hearing and other fact? uncovered later, and attacking its cln m for limited liability: They went further, relying upon the testimony of Railsback and others, in charging not only was the vessel unseaworthy, but also that the company knew it was such FINAL DlSPAfCH (Continued from page 10) Sewell. Jfoyl* E. Shain, J. Shelton, Dale Sherry, Leslie Sierra, Efrain R. Sigafoose. B. J. Simmons, Wm. H. Siverly, Lawrence Sloan, Armond E. Smith. CharUc P. Smith, Johh Soieau, Jos. L, Solomon, Pua Sorenson, Soren Springer. L. V. Sterling, James Stevens. Greer C. St. Laurent, H. Stockman, Richard Stokke, Sverre M. Stone, F, L. Stone, Henry Suire, Joseph J. Sylvester, L. E. Talbott, Elwood E. Terrington, T. R. Thomas, Ed. Thomas, James D. Thomas. John Thomas, Paul W. Thompson, A. Thomson, John Thomson, John R. Thonis, Antonio Thrasher, Julius P. Thurmond, Carl Ticrnan, T. J. Tighe, Raymond Timmons, Ramond Torina, Samuel Tramblie, Harold Trlche, Jan L. Truxillo. Thomas Tulp, Jolm Jr. Usher. Allen Vanos, Jan J. Vasseur, C. E. Versloot, Wm. C. Walczykowskl. Tom Waldrop. James L. Wales, B. K. Walker. D. C.. Jr. Walker. M. B. Wallace, C. F. Wallace, Melvin Wanchek, John Ware, Lewis A. Warren, Frank Washburn. R. L. Weghorst, Arnold Welch, Louis A. West, Clarence West. LesUe H. Wetterhom, Karl White, James H. WhitseU, Robert Whyte, Stanley B. Wieczorriewicz, S. West, Lester Wiillk, MikaU Williams, F. L. Willis, Frank H. Wilson. Charles W. WUson, Wm. A. Winstead, Joe D. Whithers, G. G. Wisner, AUen Wood, David Woodworth, F. W. Wright, Esaiv A. Wynn, Frank J. , Young, George Zacharia, N. Zajanc, Walter C. Zdzislaw, Martin Zeigenfuss, C. B. The following men have retroaqjive or unclaimed wages of from Earl Henry Cahoon. 55: A resi­ $1 to $283 each coming from the dent of St. Johns County, Florida, Paymaster, Alcoa Steamship Com­ Brother Cahoon pany, 17 Battery Place, New York died of heart dis­ 4. NY: ease on May 26, T. Applewhite, Jr., O. Alien, E. Alns1955, in New Or­ worth, E. P. Achee, E. O. Aldridge. leans, La. Place N. D. Abernathy, O. W. Alston, H. Arlinghous, v. Alvarez, A. G. Boyd, J. B. of burial is not Berrier, Jr., T. H. Brown, R. L. Brock. known. Sailing in J. Brigham, R. J. P. Burke, M. D. Bozard. N. Breedin, G. D. BarSeld, H. the deck depart­ G. Burt. E. J. Bourgeois, B. J. Burk. ment for nearly J. v. Bissonnet, R. L. Booker, P. Bilbao. R. H. Brooks, J. -M. Barrett, Jr., J. C. nine years Broth­ Baiidoin, J. H. Babson, F. E. Burley. er Cahoon had C. L. Crabtrec, J. F. Crawford, .Ir., C. The deaths of the following Sea­ farers have been reported to the Seafarers Welfare Plan and the SIU death benefit is being paid to their beneficiaries: Holger Pedersen, 57: A heart at­ tack proved fatal to Brother Ped_ erson, who died on July 7, 1955. Burial took place at sea^aboard the SS Council . 1 E. Camiel, R. E. Cuevas, J. Cobb, w. Grove. Joining joined the Union in wew Mew York Conley, C. A. J. p. Corrent. C. C.C. B. CoUins, E. R. the Union in m XOTK. He ne is is survived surviveu bv uy i, ^happen, Colella, Coburn, E. his brother, Bruce Cahoon of St. F. Cox, I. C. Cox. M. Cobb. W. Chom1951 in the Port jak, R. Davis, T. D. Dailey, I. J. Decarof. Galveston, Augustine, Florida. eaux, J. P. Doyle. J. R. Davis, R. B. Dear.mon, J. 1. Decastro, A. Djuve, M. J. Brother Pedersen Darce, S. C. Day, R. E. Duncan, H. O. 4 4 4 had been sailing Diamond. E. E. Davidson. Joe Daniel Bodiford, 58: Brother B. G. Edelmon, M. W. Eayers, J. E.^ in the steward department.- His beneficiary is a Bodiford died at Coral Gables, Eubanks. D. E. Emory, J. T. Edwards. W. Franklin. A. R. Fry, R. Ferreira. Florida on July L. friend, Calvin Jones, of Houston, J. W. Faircloth. O. Fillingira. J. P. Faulk­ 26, 1955, of heart ner. A. C. Fivek, H. P. Flynn. Jr.. P. Texas. Foster. J. S. Fason, D. B. Fields, L. E. trouble. Burial S. 4 4 4 Foskey, H. Gallagher, T. M. Griffith. C. F. Gardner, A. E. George, T. J. Gaffney, took place at Robert Miller, 35: On August 3, A. J. GaUagher, I. J. Gorgas, G. Gordon. Mount Olive in B. 1955 Brother Miller died of acci­ R. W. Guthrie. Luverne, Ala­ D. H. Horn, S. Halvorsen, G. A. Hawk­ dental electrocu­ bama. He had ins. H. C. Herring, S. F. Hayes, A. C. tion due to a R. G. Hurley, Jr., P. Hinds, been a member Headricks, v. J. Hcbert, J. J. Harty, H. E. Horn. shorted electric R. B. Hunt, H. HiU, F. E. Ingram, R. L. of the SIU from drilL Burial took Jones, W. D. Johns, E. C. Jordan, C. F. the early part oC Jeffers, W. J. Jarrctt. C. D. Jernigan, B. place at Forest 1953, and had Jackson. F. Johnson, G. Johnson, B. R. Lawn Cemetery Jarvis, R. K. James, J. B. Kilgore, A. C. been sailing as Kimberly, J. J. Kemp. J. King, J. C. In Norfolk, Viran AB in the deck department. He Kueider, J. J. Kennedy, J. C. King, Jr., K. gina. A member W. Kelly. J. J. Krohn, J. T. KeUy, W. is survived by his daughter, Mrs. Kunak. of the engine de­ A. H. Smith of Savannah, Georgia. R. C. Lumpkin. J. A. Lazar, R. L. Little­ partment, be had ton, A. JI. Lester, JI. Lublejewski, P. H. been sailing SIU Lacoste, H. M. Lee, H. J. Lee, C. B. Lewis, W. Levcne, E. Lafcuntaine, T. P. since 1949, when Llnd, £. A. Lindgren, B. R. Leblanc, P. he joined in New York. He is sur­ C. A. Leblanc. J. G. Lakwyk, J. B. Lipvived by his wife, Beulah Miller of uincott, A. La Porte, W. R. MacDonald. J. A. Morris, R. W. Martin, M. Martin. Norfolk, Virginia, W. G. Murray, G. Martinez, M. Morsette. NOTICES Ramon Suarez, born June 20, The following men are asked to 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. An­ contact SIU headquarters or the tonio Suarez, Brooklyn, NY. nearest SIU hall as soon as pos­ Ernest Rodrigues 4 4i 3i sible on a matter of importance Edward Churchille Cromwell, You are asked to write to your Born March 12, 1955^ Parents, Mr. wife at 3045 - 22 St.. San Francisco. to 4hcm; ' B. L. Bone, Allen L. Boone, J. F. and Mrs. Edward C. Cromwell, East Billot. John W. Butler, Frank N. Bachot, W. P. Jackson T. L. Blackledge, G. W. Berthold, C. Lynn, Mass. A personal letter is being held Burns, J- T. Bowman, Robert J. Cole­ 3> 3> 3> man, JoSe Cubano, Frank F; Cacloppo, Sherry Lee Slayton, born August for you at the SEAFARERS LOG S. C. Carregal, Elda R. Crawford- T. W. office in New York. Cassidy, J. C. Clevenger, W. C. Dawley, 2, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. G. Del Signore. William G. Dyal. Marion John F. Smith James Slayton, Rome, Ga. P. Edge, B. Eerman. Fi-ederick Engle; D. B. Fields, John P. Forget, A. R. Your Union receipts left aboard Fetchko, 3^ 41 K. M. Fletcher, T. J. Gray, Deborah Lynn Haigley, born the SS Del Aires are being held Peter Garvin, L. E. Gregory, W. Hughes, Hauser, John J. Harty, V. A. Herbert, May 28, 1955. Parents, Mr. and for you at the SEAFARERS LOG F. P. J. Harayo, Edgar R. Hay, M. V. Mrs. Arden- Haigley, Baltimore, office in New York. Howton, F. R. Hattaway, E. K. Iverson, W. J. Jackson, S. Jackson, J. S. Kornek, Md.C. Kinnke. Joseph Kissel, Stephen B. Thomatra N. Scott Kutzer. C. J. Kerrigan, M. R. Knick3* Si. 3^ . Please contact G. Blanchey im­ Bob Nolan Webb, bora July 2, mediately at PO' Box 25, Los man; T. L. I-aningham, F. A» Lord, Horace 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. James Angeles 59, Calif. LedwelL Robert Lipscomb, James A. LaCostS, P. v. Marsh, Coy L. Morrow, Webb, Mobile, Ala. H. Mones, G. Merola, T. Merosa, A. D. Friends of retired Seafarer Wil­ J. 3/* 3< 3^ Nash, Martin T. OToole, F. E. Perkins, liam P. "Sihokey" Grabenauer are Leroy D. Pierson, K. F. Parks. B. J. Jeannette Griilith,. born July 3, Paniccio. E. Pappel, J. E. Roberts, D. N. 1955. Parents, Mr. and ' Mrs. asked to write to him at 900 East Roditas, R. R. Rice: W. Sloberman, W. M. Stanley, K. G. Thomas Griffith, Brobkhaven, Miss. 9 St., Kansas City, Mo. Sanford, H. St. Clair. Albert E. Stout, Baggage for the following men S. P. Schlenrier. Warren E. Straw, William 4* 4 Melvin Joseph Wolin^I, born is being held in the baggage room K. Sutherlin, Frank Scme-'e. J. R. Schullz, E. J. Swatski, H. S. Sosa, William J. July 13„ 1955. Parents, Mri and at the hall; W. Lawhorae, John Smith, H.^ S. Thomas,, WiiUam D. Thicmt)nge,•' li' Thdmpsoh:' Walter Mi-S.' Frank Vi^blinsij, New Orleans,- Hhrley; E; t. Ap^^^^ G, Bjork- Tobiaaon, V.• T; E. Williams. E. C. Yeaihan. mafl„JJ,e..La»9U.JUan.{i;..Zetterman.. #iRSONAI.S and thus was liable much beyond any limited Hgure applied in court. Seafarers lost aboard the ship were: Sotirlos Galardos, 22, Nor­ folk; James H. Brandon, 38, Tampa; Louis B. Cook, 53, Lake Charles; Thomas Nicholas, 29, West Lqke, Fla.; Frank Famiglio, 18, New Orleans; Samuel B. Thomas, 35, Thomson, Ga.; John Daniels, 36; Conway, SC; Wladslaw Hinc, 46, Philadelphia; Purdom Morris, 30, Fordyce, Ark.; William T. Cooper, 27, Savannah; James B. Sellers, 29, Savannah; Victoriano R. Martinez, Norfolk. The two SUP men lost were Herman Klotz, Jackson Heights, NY, and Billie Nolan, Miami. MONEY DUE MATBSAnneemsm it^iHP EAirmee SWAP TWEPkSHTSONTV. .//HWUDW PRICED W/ELCQME/jeREAT raUROWNPLACB. Ot^EQAfOCPERAfSD SEAFARERS ..J ai ......a 1....,, . B. L. Messerall. R. C. MiUer, J. W. MuUis. F. Martinez. M. E. Miller, C. Mullis, W. C. MiUer. J. H. Morris, S. A. Mangold, J. H. Murray. L. Mizell, T. P. Martens, D. J. Moylan, J. R. Matthews, R. J. Moylan, G. D. Mc­ Neil, J. R. Mclntyre, O. McLean, H. C. McCurdy, A. P. Nickels, A. S. Nelson. E. S. Newhall, J. Oosse, Jr., G. C. Oglesby, H. J. O'Brien. T. M. Orr, E. Olbrias.' W. D. Ott, H. R. Peters. A. J. Panepinto. C. S. Perez. C. G. Pedersen, E. Painter, H. J. Piszatowski, R. L. Peacock, C. 1. Pollard. M. ' R. Perez, R. M. Powell, Jr., A. P. Power. :J. T. Regan, H. W. Roberts, R. M. Rutledge, C. Rayfuso, J. Robinson. G. Ray. W. E. Roberts, E. Robinson, I. Ranew. Jr., H. T. Revels, N. T. Ragas, J. B. Hambo, J. E. Rounsavall, J. L. Rogers. W. J. Reed, W. O. Roberts, W. Rivera, C. L. Reeves, R. Da C. P. Ramos, E. S. Rau. F. L. Hcdner, F. M. Regan, M. Rial, W. H. Rhone. A. P. Stearns, V. J. Segesta, F. R. Sullivan. F. H. St. Mary. P. J. Senior, F. E. Shimelfenig, J. Sccviour, H. E. Salter. J. F. Smith, W. C. Scott, J. A. Slay, H. C. Stcsch, Jr., R. W. Saunders, G. A. Sandlund, .S. M. Simmons. O. E. Sargent, J. D. Sargent, G. J. Smith, T. A. Spencer, O. Simoncioni, F. Sarmento. E. Silverstrin. J. F. SUloway, C. R. Sim­ mons, J. Silagyl, M. Straka, E. W. Seeley. Henry A. Zanders, A. Swensen. O. W. Trawirk, W. H. Thompson. L, Teck, .Ir., H. L. Thomas, H. S. Thomas. J. L. Taylor, C. Taylor, R. Threatt, A. Teodorini. J. Turk, Jr., R. D. Tuthill. D. C. Thompson, J. W. Thomu, C. I. Transon. T. Vasquez. P. Vasquez, D. Visser, M. L. Vissier, J. H. VaUot, A. Vargas, P. Vladhou, B. H. Vega. M. A. Webre, P. Wicks, W. M White.-k-, er. J. E. Wiiliford, R. Harold Wilson, Er A. Wright. J. R. Wolfe, C. Waldrop, R. L. Welch, A. E. Wen,ger, J. P. Williamson. H. C. Willingham. R. D. WUUford. A. S. Young. J. T. - wuim. -. .. Yates. X axes. V. Zambito. .C. K. vZaL...J..Xu.Zuanuc- "r.-.-I'll ^Ij �-:^,:J'f~.-r!:^ SEAFARERS • OFFICIAL O.RGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION • LOG ATLANTIC AND GULF DISTRICT • AFL • A Catfc of ^toin.^ Mia It was probably fitting that a ship named the Amerocean spent the Fourth of July in Calcutta. The name signifies America spanning the oceans to deliver goods all over the world, and grain W the millions of India certainly fills the bill. For the Seafarers on the ship, the monotonous long haul across the Pacific passed without incident. Crewed up out of the SIU Seattle hall on May 12, the ship sailed from Vancouver, bunkered in Manila and Singapore, called at Vizagapatam, India, to dis­ charge some cargo, then proceeded north to Calcutta, 500 miles away, arriving July 4. On her return to Vizagapatam, she took on" a full load of manganese ore and sailed home for Balti­ more. "Just another routine trip," said Seafarer Don Ruddy, steward, who supplied the excellent photos. Dockside at Vizagapatam, India, the Amerocean discharged 2,000 tons of ca'rgo to lighten her load for the trip to Calcutta. They got there in the middle of the monsoon season. Pulling away from ddck at Vancouver, Wash., the Amer­ ocean was crewed with Seafarers from the Seattle SIU hall. Good crew, said Ruddy, made monotonous trip "a plea­ sure. Haircut kills time. Pedersen, NC6, clips King, wiper. Card game busies (l-rl Pedersen, NCB; Osborne, AB; Turner, FWT; Dunne, OS; Eubanks, MM; Burleson, OS. Rf''"-;'' • '•: 1,^. ;• itif's'f- I ii. •• *,' m- . 5. >r;' •,'•:• Galley gang included (l-r) Swanson, Brezina, Harvey, Pedersen, O'Neil, Eubanks, Clevenic|er, Ruddy, steward. .They did heads^up jobi by all a^zcoAinte/ Ship's medic, 2nd mate R. Simmons,; treating George . , (^lennon,. DM. Getting bunkers In Singapore, ship was visited by native peddlers. Serlo, fireman; King, wiper; Pedersen, NCB, bar­ gain, as Allen andThomley, ABs (seated), have coffee. Bumboats and peddlers are every where in flie Far East. � 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 September 2, 1955 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 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. XVII, No. 18 Description An account of the resource Headlines: LABOR DAY - 1955 A TRIP ON A RUNAWAY-FLAG SHIP UNION MEN FOUND BEST IN RESISTING RED BRAINWASHERS SIU STEWARDS TO MEET SEPT. 12 LAUNCH NEW SUP HALL IN PORTLAND 2 YEARS OF SIU LIBRARY: 170,000 BOOKS TO SHIP GOV'T SETS HEARING ON BERNSTEIN SIU RAPS REPORT AS CG 'WHITEWASH' IN SHIP DISASTER CG WAIVES RULES FOR PACIFIC LINE BALTIMORE BEEF-CLEAR HAIL SMOOTH PAYOFFS SIU AWARD WINNER EYES LEGAL FIELD SEAFARERS SPEED CARD FILING FOR FAMILY HOSP-SURGICAL CARE NEW MOSCOW 'LINE' APED IN CP WATERFRONT PITCH ILA'S CRIMP SEA 'UNION' GATHERING DUST IN NY 'BLACKBALL' ISSUES FLARES IN NMU WATER BEEF NETS $2800 IN SEATTLE FLORIDA GOES INTO DRYDOCK FIRST TANKER-DRY CARGO SHIP ON TRIALS; MOBILE EYES BOOM LAKE CHAS. LURE: FISH AND SHIPS FLOOD PERIL STILL GRIPS BOSTON AREA A TRIP ON A RUNAWAY-FLAG SHIP CREWING OF LAY-UPS HYPOS NEW YORK MA MOVES TO REJUVENATE 2 LIBERTYS HEAVY CARGO MARKET UPS SHIP PRICES ARCHITECT FISH TALE WAS THE REAL MCCOY BITES LAWSON BEEF - GETS A MOUTHFUL 'JURY-RIGGED' BAKER SHINES ON BIENVILLE REPORT ON SHIP DIASTER IS CG 'WHITEWASH': SIU A CARGO OF GRAIN FOR INDIA Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 9/2/1955 1955 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/1d5261f2417e5d035bf29bfc1686f987.PDF 35bb563641bdfa91ad3fa4675787145e PDF Text Text House Votes to Keep MARAD Out ef Trunsportutien Depurtment Page 3 Vol. XXViii NO. 18 SEAFARERS»LOG OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION . ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS DISTRICT • AFL-CIO Despite Anti-Union Propaganda... Anti-Union Legislation... Anti-Union Employers... Anti-Union Press... .. • U'rr'-.I ^ .'ili L'.~ :>il<^ ! �SEAFARERS Page Two AFL-CIOCxec CountU Stresses Need For Fronomk Balance in Nation , f September 2, 1966 LOG Report of International President by Paul Hall CHICAGO The AFL-CIO at its mid-summer meeting here marshalled the basic weapons of the Support for an independent maritime agency has grown tremen­ trade union movement—organizing, free collective bargaining, legislative activity and political ac- dously during the last year among the nation's legislators. It is bebecoming increasingly clear to them that the national security of the tion—to win a fair share for the American worker and help keep the economy on an even keel. United States is already in real peril because of the deterioration of The federation's Executive of 900,000 members over a threeOn the organizing front it gave U.S. Maritime capability brought about by continuing bureaucratic Council took a close look at the year period and the organization's new momentum to the drive to current problems of increased Internal Disputes Plan functioning organize farm workers in Cali­ neglect of maritime. The need for such an independent maritime agency, free from en­ living costs, spiraling interest rates, smoothly. fornia by granting a charter to the tanglement in the bureaucratic mire of the Department of Commerce employer resistance to new con­ In international affairs the coun­ United Farm Workers Organizing tract improvements and civil rights cil reaffirmed its strong support of Committee, made up of groups or the proposed Department of Transportation, has been called for by and came up with a comprehen­ President Johnson's policies in that have merged their, efforts in the AFL-CIO at its last convention and by the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department, as well as by the SIU and other maritime unions. sive analysis and program. Viet Nam, urged union involve­ the Delano grape strike. The increasing interest in such an independent agency is reflected in It laid the groundwork for a ment in economic planning in AFL-CIO President George legislation already introduced into congress which would remove the new farm workers organization to Latin America and strongly com­ Meany said the charter was an Maritime Administration from the proposed Department of Transporta­ help win economic and social jus­ mended the work of the American "essential step toward winning a tion and set it up on its own with an Administrator empowered to tice for exploited agricultural la­ Institute for Free Labor Develop­ measure of economic justice for make independent decisions based solely on the needs of maritime. bor. ment. farm workers" and termed it an Many of the nation's legislators have voiced their support for such It found the AFL-CIO in good This is what happened at the event of "great importance." legislation, both at the recent Save Our Shipping Conference and in the health and growing, with a gain three-day meeting: On the bargaining front the halls of Congress. The proposal has already been approved by the House council gave its unqualified sup­ Merchant Marine Committee. The importance of an independent maritime agency cannot be overport to unions in the electrical and communications industries in stressed in terms of the future of the U.S. maritime industry and the their current negotiations for new national security which it directly affects. During the years that the Maritime Administration has been a part of the Department of Com­ contracts. merce the maritime industry was allowed to fall into a steep decline It pledged "complete and un­ which has brought it to the point where it is now necessary to break­ Twenty-one more Victory ships are being broken out of the Reserve stinting support of the efforts of out 25-year-old vessels from the reserve fleet to meet demands brought Fleet in order to meet the increased demands of the Viet Nam military the Communications Workers to about by the Vietnam conflict. sealift. This will bring to 141 the total number of reserve ships re­ achieved an equitable contract for The ships in our active fleet have become worn out and obsolete. its members at the Western Elec­ activated since July of last year. The ships in our reserve fleet have proven to be in little better condition tric division of the Bell System able to sail again. The new break out was re­ and are, in any case, almost gone. Action to save the U.S. maritime Another important factor that and reaffirmed its all-out backing quested by the Military Sea Trans­ industry must come now, and the establishment of an independent portation Service from the Mari­ delays getting Reserve fleet Vic­ "without reservation" of the ob­ maritime agency would be the first step. time Administration. MARAD of­ torys on the high seas again is jectives of the AFL-CIO National ficials noted that the action will that there are too few shipyard Committee on Collective Bargain­ leave only 33 Victorys in the workers around to perform the ing with General Electric and The latest statistics available on average weekly earnings of factory United States standby reserve job. The lack of trained shipyard Westinghouse. production workers in southern "right-to-work" states continues to be workers has been caused by the fleet. The council voiced its support the most eloquent plea possible for the importance of repealing Section administration's past attitude of in­ The Victory ships being called also for strikes of the Boot «& Shoe 14B of the Taft-Hartley Act, which makes such "right-to-work" laws difference and neglect towards the up are old and have been lying Workers at a Genesco plant, in possible. American merchant marine. The in various local reserve fleets for Factory production workers in these states continue to be the worst Tennessee and the Washingtonmany years, some since the end government, in its failure to im­ paid in the nation, with average weekly earnings in some cases less than plement the Merchant Marine Act Baltirnore Newspaper Guild's of the Second World War. Most half of what workers in similar jobs earn in states that have rejected have not been thoroughly moth- of 1936 and sponsor an adequate struggle at the Bureau of National "right-to-work" legislation. program of shipbuilding and car­ Affairs. balled and will take a long time The direct relationship between the existence of "right-to-work" laws go support, has contributed to the to be reactivated. Meany told a press conference and low wages is dramatically revealed in the fact that the one southern flight of trained shipyard workers Maritime labor has been warn­ to other industries. It is primarily that coordinated bargaining in the state that does not have a "right-to-work" statute on the books is also ing the Government for many because of this that United States electrical industry is an effective the state in which southern production workers enjoy the highest aver­ years that just such a situation shipyards cannot compete efficient­ approach and could well form a age weekly wages. would occur if the nation ever ly for the current reactivation pattern in other situations where It is for these reasons that the AFL-CIO has pledged a continuing developed a quick need for mer­ work and get the reserve fleet a number of unions hold contracts fight to repeal Section 14B vvhich makes possible the abolition of the chant ships. The almost prohibi­ ships ready promptly. union shop in these states through the so-called "right-to-work" laws. with the same company. tive cost of reactivating these Vic­ torys at United States yards has forced the Defense Department to Union Training Program Graduates New Total 76 move slowly in calling up reserve vessels. Each ship has been esti­ mated as needing almost a halfmillion dollars worth of repairs and conversion in order to be Eight more Seafarers have passed the U. S. Coast Guard examination and have been issued their engineers licenses after preparing at the training school jointly sponsored by the SIU and District 2 of the Marine Engineers Beneficial Association. A total of 76 Sea­ farers have now received their engineer's licenses as a result of the recently instituted program. Of the SIU men who recently Robert Simmons, 31, an SIU of FOWT and oiler endorsements, ence payments of $110 per week passed their Coast Guard exami­ member since 1961, has sailed in joined the union in 1953. whjle in training. nation six were licensed as Third the ratings of oiler and FOWT; Engine department Seafarers Offlctal Publication of the SfUNA The SIU-MEBA District 2 Assistant Engineers and two re­ Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters are eligible to apply for any of the Thomas Carter, 44, has sailed training program is the first of its District, AFL-CIO ceived their licenses as Second most engine room ratings, includ­ kind in maritime history. It as­ upgrading programs if they are 19 Executive Board Assistant Engineers. PAUL HALL, President ing deck engineer and electrician sists engine department Seafarers years of age or older and have 18 Seafarers receiving their licenses CAL TANNER EARL SHEPARD to obtain instruction in prepara­ months of Q.M.E.D. watch standExec. Vice-Pree. Vice-President as Second Assistant Engineers are: tion for their Third Assistant En­ AL KERR LINDSEV WILLIAMS Emile Glaser, 43, sailing with gineers license. Temporary Third See.-Treae. Vice-President the SIU as FOWT and oiler, has Assistant Engineer's license or ROBERT MATTHEWS AL TANNER been a union member since 1946; Original Second Assistant Engi­ Fice-Presidenf Vice-President Clinton Webb, 40, SIU member neer's license in either steam or HERBERT BRAND Director of Organizing and since 1946, has sailed in all engine motor vessel classifications. Publications room ratings; The training school is operated Managing Editor The newly licensed third assist­ under a reciprocal agreement be­ MIKE POLLACK Art Editor ant engineers are: tween the SIU and District 2 of Assistant Editor BERNARD SEAMAN NATHAN SKYER Peterson MEBA. SIU men who enroll in Simmons Beryl Peterson, 51, who has Dooley Escbenbacb the program are provided with shipped in the SIU since 1951 and Staff Writers meals, hotel lodging and subsist- ing time in the engine department, DON BEVONA sailed as reefer, oiler and FOWT; and has been a book member since PETER WEISS plus six months' experience as a 1953; wiper or equivalent. James Barnette, 43, has sailed PibllshnI biweekly at 810 Rhode liland Aranae H.E., Washington, D. C. 20018 by SIU engine department men in­ as oiler, FOWT, pumpman and the Seafarers International Union, Atlantic, terested in the program should ap­ Golf, Lakes and Inland Waters District, deck engineer, and joined the AFL-CIO, 675 Foirth Avenae, Brooklyn. ply immediately, or obtain addi­ union in 1946; M. Y. 12252. Tel. HYaclnih 9-6600. Second tional information at any SIU alasa gostan Raid at Washington, D. C. Lonnie Dooley, 41, an SIU hall, or directly at SIU headquar­ MSTHASTErS ATTERTIOII: Form 3579 member since 1955 and has cards eboald be sent to Seafarers Internaters, 675 Fourth Avenue, Brook­ tlanal Unlaw, Atlantic, Galf, Lakes and In­ shipped as FOWT, oiler, and ordi­ land Wateis District, AFL-CIO, 675 Foarth lyn, New York 11232. The tele­ Aaanac, Bnchlyn, H. Y. 11232. nary seaman; phone number is HYacinth 9Glaser Webb Charles Eschenbach, 39, holder Carter Barnette 6600. 21 More Victory Ships Slated For Reserve Fleet Break-Out Eight More Seafarers Win Engineers Licenses SEAFAREBS^LOO �September 2, 1966 SEAFAHERS MTD Board Raps Legislation Threatening Right to Strike CHICAGO—The AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Ex­ ecutive Board at its quarterly meeting here voted full support for legislation to create an independent maritime agency outside the proposed new Transportation Department, and strong opposi­ tern by Congress or the Adminis­ tion to legislation that would tration, noting that it is the "type of action that could be used in the threaten the right to strike. ' future to club labor into accepting SIU President Paul Hall, who is management offers that are un­ also president of the MTD, served reasonable and unrealistic." as chairman of the two-day meet­ In other actions, the MTD Ex­ ing which took place in Chicago ecutive Board adopted resolutions: August 18 and 19. • Calling for the immediate In calling for the establishment adoption of a program for the con­ of an independent Federal Mari­ struction of a strong Americantime Administration as proposed flag bulk carrier fleet. in pending House legislation (HR• Urging a program designed 15963), the Board cited the need to aid the U.S. fishing industry to focus greater attention on the through fleet modernization, eco­ growing problems of the maritime nomic incentives, research and industry and provide a better or­ conservation. ganization for dealing with them. • Opposing Military Sea Trans­ Branding the present Maritime portation Service plans to replace Administration a "stepchild of the U.S. crews aboard six MSTS ves­ Department of Commerce, lost sels with foreign crews. within already complex and over­ • Blasted Secretary of Defense burdened administrative machin­ McNamara's "callously indiffer­ ery," the resolution pointed out ent" attitude to the U.S. maritime that "The history of departmental industry. reorganization shows that our mer­ • Urged strict adherence to the chant marine made greater prog­ provisions of the 50-50 laws. ress when its administration had • Demanded that U.S. unsubthe most independence." sidized lines be accorded fair and In going on record as unalter­ equitable treatment by MARAD ably opposed to any type of in the allocation of reserve fleet strike-ban legislation, such as that ships. • Warned of the need for a proposed during the recent Ma­ chinists' strike against the airlines, positive government policy toward the MTD condemned this still- maritime and sea research in view pending legislation and those who of the Soviet Union's recent mas­ have supported governmental in­ sive strides in shipbuilding, fishing ceai^r tervention in labor disputes. The and oceanography. resolution urged all.organized la­ bor to resist any and all attacks on the free collective bargaining sys- APl-CIO Retards Sharp Cain In Membership CHICAGO — AFL-CIO membership has grown rapidly in 1966, with a gain of 347,000 in the first six months of the year, the Executive Council re­ ported. The sharp gain continues a three-year trend during which the membership of the feder­ ation in the United States moved from a low point of 12,464,000 in the 12 months ending June 1963 to 13,385,000 for the same period ending in June 1966. For the first half of 1966, the council said, membership topped 13.5 million. This does not include about 1 million members of AFL-CIO unions in Canada. These unions pay per capita on their members in Canada to the Canadian Labor Con­ gress and the figures are not included in the AFL-CIO tabu­ lation, which is based on actual per capita payments to the fed­ eration. The total gain over the threeyear period has been about 900,000. About 403,000 of that increase came in the 12month period July 1964 to June 1965. The council reported that slightly less than half the 130 national and international un­ ions affiliated with the AFLCIO expanded their member­ ship during the 1963-65 period. LOG Page Three House Votes to Keep MARAD Out Of New Transportation Department WASHINGTON, Aug. 30—^The House of Representatives voted today to keep the Maritiine Administration out of the proposed new Department of Transportation. The vote was 260 to 117. The House action came on an amendment to the Administration bill to create a cabinet-level transportation department. As originally proposed the bill would have lumped within the new department a number of federal agencies, including the Maritime Administration, Coast Guard, Bureau of Public Roads, Federal Aviation Agency, and the safety functions of the Interstate Com­ merce Commission and the proved a bill to make MARAD completed but no action taken. Civil Aeronautics Board. an independent agency. The Today's decision by tbe House After passing the amendment House is expected to consider to keep the Maritime Administra­ to delete the provisions of the the measure next month. tion of out of the proposed Trans­ Transportation Department bill Rep. Edward Garmatz (D.- portation Department and the de­ for the transfer of the Maritime Md.), chairman of the House cisiveness of its vote indicated the Administration to the new De­ Merchant Marine Committee, in­ degree of Congressional aware­ partment, the House rejected an troduced the amendment calling ness and concern over the plight amendment to keep the Coast for the removal of the Maritime of the nation's merchant marine. Guard out too. With the Maritime Administra­ Administration from the trans­ Following the action on these portation department bill and tion as part of the Department of and other amendments, the House spearheaded the successful floor Commerce, the industry has been declining steadily to the point approved the measure to create fight to win its passage. Strong support for the amend­ where U.S.-flag ships carry less the new department by a vote of ment came from the AFL-CIO than nine per cent of the nation's 336 to 42. Executive Council, which last foreign commerce and its ship re­ A significant factor in the fight week warned that the third-rate pair and building capacity are on to keep MARAD from being buried in the new department was status "which gravely threatens the verge of disintegration. With the increasing demands the vigorously and united effort the security of the nation," will made by all segments of the mari­ continue, "if the Maritime Ad­ for more U.S. tonnage to meet the time industry-labor and manage­ ministration is permitted to be needs of military operations in ment. The campaign to block buried in another government de­ Viet Nam, the neglect which the transfer of MARAD to the new partment, whether Transportation maritime industry has suffered at government agency hands has department and to set it up as a or Commerce." The AFL-CIO Council then been driven home very clearly. completely independent agency The successful fight in the was a highlight of the emergency strongly endorsed the concept of conference to save U. S. shipping- an independent Maritime Admin­ House to keep maritime from be­ that was sponsored by the AFL- istration—free from control by ing lumped in an overall trans­ CIO's Maritime Trades Depart­ any overall government depart­ portation department is regarded as a step toward the only logical ment and Maritime Committee in ment. resolution of the nation's shipping The transportation department Washington in July. The House Merchant Marine bill now goes to the Senate, where problem—the establishment of and Fisheries Committee has ap­ committee hearings have been completely independent agency. 5^" Viet Cong Mine Rips SIU Pacific DIst. Ship; 7 Die The Baton Rouge Victory, an SIU Pacific District manned freighter, was ripped by a Viet Cong mine in the Long Tao channel of the Saigon river, about 22 miles east of Saigon on Aug. 23. Seven crewmen—five of them members of the SIU Pacific District Mar­ ine Firemen's Union and two engine officers of the Marine Engineer's Beneficial Association—were killed in the explosion that flooded the engine room. room, No injuries were reported among the rest of the crew. The SIU Pacific Marine Fire­ men members killed were: Ray Barrett, Chief Electrician; R. J. Rowe, Fireman—^Watertender; J. MacBride, Oiler; Earl Erickson, Second Electri­ cian; M. Reardoii, Oiler. The MEBA members killed were: John Bishop, First Assistant En­ gineer; C. Rummei, Second Assistant Engineer. Following the explosion the ship's captain, Konrad Carlson, of Seattle, ran the vessel into the bank of the river to avoid blocking the channel. The ship then sank to its main deck. The chief engineer, Herbert F. Kenyon, of San Francisco, was SIU Pacific District-manned Baton Rouge Victory lies on bank of Saigon River about 20 miles south­ also in the engine room, but was east of Saigon a few hours after she was hit by communist mine that ripped hole in her port side. unharmed. He and an oiler were on a platform about 20 feet above Two small South Vietnamese gunboats are pulled up directly alongside stricken vessel to give aid. the area where the others were layed and the Baton Rouge Vic­ er, recently withdrawn from the save the cargo of U.S. supplies. working. tory was hit instead. U.S. river reserve fleet for service in the Viet­ The Baton Rouge Victory was "Suddenly, there was this great patrol boats and armed helicopters nam sealift, the Baton Rouge blast," he said. "It knocked me the first vessel to be sunk in the provided protective cover for the Victory was under charter to the down and stunned the oil man Saigon channel during the period Military Sea Transportation Serv­ salvage operations. next to me. I helped him out of of intense American involvement ice. The Baton Rouge Victory, op­ the engine room and went back. in the war. The vessel's surviving crew ... I rushed to get help, but it Official sources said the Viet- erated by States Steamship Com­ members—SIU Pacific District pany of Seattle, sailed from San was hopeless." cong were trying to mine an am­ SUP men on deck and Marine Francisco July 28th carrying gen­ ^ Salvage crews went to work to munition ship that had been sched­ Cooks and Stewards in the galley eral • cargo, mostly trucks and refloat the 8,000-ton Baton Rouge uled to travel up the river ahead —are being repatriated to the heavy gear and a crew of 45. Victory and to recover the bodies of the Baton Rouge Victory. The A World War II—built freight­ West Coast. of the seven crew members and ammunition ship however was de­ •1: �Eight Additional Seafarer Oldtimers Join Growing Union Pension Roster The names of eight more Seafarers have been added to the list of men who are now receiving union pensions. Newcomers to the SIU pension ranks include Johannes Kari, Anthony Conti, George Crabtree, Gustav S. Carlson, Alex Woodward, Sidney Day, James Dueitt, Oscar Holton, Jr., and Thomas McLaughlin. sailed as a cook. A resident of Mobile. A native of Louisiana, he Johannes Kari joined the SIU New York City, his last ship was now resides in Baltimore. Day in the port of New York. Born the Julia. sailed as AB and boatswain, and in Estonia, he lives in Mastic Gustav Carlson, a member of his last vessel was the De Soto. Beach, L. I., with his wife, Hilda. the Deck department, was born Oscar Holton, Jr., sailed SIU He sailed as an AB and bosun in Sweden and now resides in ships in the deck department after joining in the port of Norfolk. He Texas City, Texas, with his wife Ruth. He joined the union in the port of New York. Carlson sailed as a bosun. His last ship was the Seatrain Savannah. Alex Woodward joined the SIU in the port of Port Arthur, Texas, where he resides with his wife, Lelal. Bom in Louisiana, the SeaWoodward Kari and his last vessel was the Linfield. Anthony Conti sailed as a mem­ ber of the steward department. He joined the union in the port of New Orleans which was his place of birth. Conti lives in Slidell, La., with his wife, Leona. His last ship was the Del Norte. George Crabtree was born in North Carolina and joined the un­ ion in Norfolk. A member of the steward department, Crabtree i Holton Daeltt farer sailed in the engine depart­ ment and was last employed by the Picton Towing Co. Sidney Day joined the union in Conti was born in Portsmouth, Va., and now resides in Chesapeake, Va. He was last employed by the Pennsyl­ vania Railroad of Va. James Dueitt was born in Leakesville, Miss, and now resides in Lucedale, Miss., with his wife, Virgie. A member of the engine department, he joined the union in New Orleans. His last ship was the Radcliff. Thomas McLaughlin was born in Plattsburg, N. Y. A resident Cruise Ship Biii Passed by Senate; Weaid Bar Unsafe Ships from US WASHINGTON—^A cruise ship safety bill designed to bar from U.S. ports all passenger vessels considered to be tmsafe by the Coast Guard has been passed by the Senate. The bill now goes back to the House for approval of Sen­ the original measure before the ate introduced amendments that Panamanian-flag Yarmouth Castle make the legislation both stiller disaster occurred. and more inclusive than the origi­ As passed by the Senate, the nal House-passed measure. main purpose of the bill is to As it now stands the bill slaps police unscrupulous foreign-flag both safety and financial respon­ passenger ships which have been sibility rules on cmise ships sail­ sailing out of United States ports ing from U.S. ports. The "get without the rigid safety checks tough" provisions inserted by the that American-flag passenger ships Senate are a direct result of the must undergo. Yarmouth Castle fire disaster in In addition to barring from which over ninety people died. U.S. ports any vessels deemed unThe House had already voted on seaworthy by the Coast Guard, the legislation would: • Require all passenger vessels to disclose their safety standards on all advertising literature. • Make owners of such ships The first new cargoliner of a establish financial responsibility in scheduled five will be delivered to case of death or injury to passen­ the SlU-contracted Delta Steam­ gers and repay passengers if the ship Lines of New Orleans by the ship failed to sail. early fall of next year. The keel • Require that American-flag was recently laid by Ingalls Ship­ ships affected by the law meet upbuilding Corporation at Pasca- to-date U.S. ship safety standards goula, Mississippi. by 1968. The five new cargoliners are the The SIU and other maritime second group in the company's unions, in addition to other U.S. long-range replacement program. groups have repeatedly called Five new vessels are already in upon Congress to stiffen the regu­ service on the South American lations governing foreign-flag and West African runs. Thirteen cruise ships operating from U.S. vessels in all will be replaced when ports. the program is finished. However, the Senate will not The new ships will be 522 feet move this session to include a pro­ long and have a width of 70 feet, vision in the "safety at sea" meas­ with a deadweight capacity of ure that will compensate the rela­ 13,250 tons. Each will have ship­ tives of American passengers who board cranes aboard permitting lose ,their lives at sea. efficient loading and discharge of A • spokesman for the Senate cargo. , Commerce Committee said that Additionally, the ships will as­ the measure has been set aside for sist in the fight against water pol­ further study. The new liability lution, common to many ports, by measure will be designed to elimi­ the installation and use of sewage nate an old law limiting shipown­ treatment units. ers to only $60 a ship ton in com­ The first vessel will be launched pensation in case any passenger next summer and delivery is ex­ was injured or lost his life in a pected in early autumn. shipboard accident at sea. Delta Line Orders Fhre New Cargoilners September 2, 1966 SEAFARERS LOG Page FOOT McLaughlin Crabtree of West Hollywood, Fla., with his wife, Emma. McLaughlin sailed as a tankerman for the Interstate Oil Transport Co, He joined the union in Philadelphia, McLaugh­ lin is a Navy veteran. U.S. Shipbuilders Rap Navy Contracts With British Yards WASHINGTON — The U.S. shipbuilding industry has re­ newed its protests against the con­ struction of U.S. naval ships in foreign shipyards following a Government announcement that a $24 million contract has been awarded to British shipyards to construct three new vessels. The new protests are against the foreign construction of an oceangoing tug at a cost of $7.3 million and two naval survey ships at a total cost of $16.7 million. The U.S. Government has de­ fended the award of the contracts to British yards with the conten­ tion that it is part of a reciprocal agreement for the purchase by Britain of U.S. warplanes. The U.S. shipyard industry has warned however that such a build-abroad" program threatens the future of the already-de­ pressed U.S. shipbuilding indus­ try. American shipyard men have also questioned the price of $7.3 million for the oceangoing tug, noting that the largest and most powerful tugs presently in the U.S. fleet cost only about $1 mil­ lion, and a 10,000 horsepower heavy duty tug being built in Japan cost only about $2 million. The Atlantic Coast by Eari (Bull) Shepard, Vice-President. Atlantic Coast Area] The SIU is successfully meeting maritime manpower requirements brought on by the Viet Nam conflict. Through its various upgrading programs the SIU has managed to man all the many ships revived from the mothball fleet that have been assigned to SlU-contracted com­ panies. In cooperation with District 2 ships again. Buren just completed of MEBA we have also assisted a trip to Vietnam aboard the in the upgrading of unlicensed Beaver Victory. He has been a personnel to licensed status. This member of the SIU for nineteen program has helped meet the call years. for personnel in that area. After a vacation in Puerto Rico, Additionally, the SIU's pro­ Luis Ollvera will start thinking gram of preparing members for advancement to higher endorse­ about his next ship. His last ship was the Yellowstone. Dallas Hill ments has raised the level of en­ recently got off the Annlston Vic­ dorsements for many Seafarers. In this program ordinary seamen are tory for a routine check-up. Puerto Rico assisted in obtaining AB ratings, After an extended stay on-the and wipers are aided in their ef­ beach Felix Serrano felt it was forts to become oilers, firemen, time to get his sea and water tenders. legs in shape The SIU will continue, through again. He grabbed its many programs, to meet the a job as AB on manpower requirements of the the Ponee. Off to American merchant marine. In­ India on the Al­ formation on all these programs is coa Voyager, available at all SIU halls. Frank Mateo will With the opening of the new be riding in the clinic in Cleveland, the number of oiler's berth. InSIU medical facilities is raised to Mateo junctions have twenty-one. been handed down by a Chief New Ym-k U. S. District judge requiring two John Simonelli, last on the Vel local trucking firms to comply lowstone, is renewing friendships with the Federal Wage and Hour while waiting for his next trip. Law. The Senate Labor Commit­ Also, looking up old pals around tee recently finished its hearings the hall is Frits Nilson. Frits is on the minimum wage law in keeping one eye on the big board. Puerto Rico. His vacation is over now and Al­ Boston fred H. Neilson is around the hall Far away from the hustle and looking for the good run. He was bustle William "Cappy" Costa is last on the Sapphire Gladys. P. L. enjoying himself at his summer Hass, who just piled off the Rice retreat. He is relaxing and doing Victory, is looldng forward to a a bit of fishing at his camp. His long stay on the beach. last ship was the Robin Trent. Baltiniore Also vacationing with his family At present the Alamar, Losmar, is Fred Rashld. Fred's last sea­ and Trustee are laid up, but the going hotel was the Norfolk where Helen "D", will be crewing up he was an AB. Just out of drysoon. Shipping continues to be dock George "Swlfty" Swift is fair. looking for the first job to hit the On the beach just off the Ban­ board. Swifty last saw duty as an gor, George R. Graham is prepar­ oiler on the Azalea City. ing for his vaca­ tion. Chester B. "Chet" Wilson, an SIU member since 1938, had to leave the Norina because of a brok­ en thumb. Chet sails as bos'n and Members of the SIU Inland carpenter and is WilBon Boatmens Union went to the polls ready now to get in June and elected officers for the back into action. Oswald Seppet Atlantic and Gulf Coast Regions was recalling for his shipmates a of the IBU. day in 1944 when he was tor­ Balloting was held on the June pedoed off the coast of Spain. union meeting dates in each re­ His last ship was the Alcoa Ma­ spective city where meetings are riner. held, and on the day after the Philadelphia meeting. Elmer "Ted" Wheeler, an SIU SIU-IBU members also made black gang member for sixteen their choices known through mail years, last sailed on the Com­ ballots. Those elected, as an­ mander. Ted is waiting for his fit nounced by the IBU Tallying for duty. Last on the Merrimac, Committee are: Jack Arellanes, is raring and Atlantic Coast Regional Direc­ ready to go again. Jack sails in tor, Robert A. Matthews; Assist­ the deck department. ant Regional Director for port of Vacationing after a few trips on New York, Earl Shepard; for the Merrimac, Joseph Doyle is Philadelphia, Joseph Trainor; for spending time on the homestead Baltimore, Raymond J. Herold, doing odd jobs. Frank Cake is Sr.; Port Representative for port looking at the board anxious to of New York, A1 Kerr; for Phila­ take the first oiler's job that shows. delphia, John Hoare; for Balti­ Norfolk more, John J. Syplewski. Larry Comhs, an SIU member Gulf Coast IBU Regional Di­ for twelve years, will be glad to rector, Lindsey J. Williams; As­ get back to sea. Larry has just sistant Regional Director for the been discharged from the Army. port of Mobile, Luke LeBlanc; Buren Elliott wants a couple of for New Orleans, C. J. Stephens; weeks on the beach before he for Houston, Paul Drozak. S/U Boatmen fleet New Union Offiters •'!) I •!) �September 2, 1966 Page Five SE/iFARERS LOG Growing Ship Shortage Endanger US Serurity, Congressman Warns The Gulf Coast by Lindsey Williams, Vice-President, Gulf Area Local candidates endorsed by COPE and the New Orleans Maritime WASHINGTON—The United States has just about played out all its shipping cards in support­ Trades Department fared well in the Democratic primary election held ing the Vietnam War, according to Representative Thomas N. Downing (D.-Va.), who said August 13, 1966. Of the four endorsed candidates in the judgeship that the nation would not have enough ships to support another military build-up anywhere else in races, Arthur J. O'Keefe, Jr. was elected to the bench in the First City - Provide enticing enough sub- the Committee for American Court; Walter F. Marcus, Jr. led a field of four for judge of the Civil the world. District Court, and missed being Downing made his statement sidies so that shipowners can be­ Steamship Lines and Maitland elected in the first primary by a say he could not be in for the as a panelist on the Navy League gin to replace their worn-out ton­ Pennington, special assistant to mere 4200 votes out of 98,000 latest meeting. Creel, who was Symposium on seapower in Wash­ nage. the Maritime Administrator. cast; Louis Trent and Maurice dry docked recently, says that ington. He said that if the Viet­ Admiral James said that the • Let the people of the United Friedman ran first and second re­ things get mighty lonely in the nam war "escalates into Red States find out exactly how badly Russian merchant marine has spectively in the contest for two piney woods without a few words China, we have had it," because off their merchant navy really is 1,315 merchant ships today com­ new traffic court positions. Mar­ from old shipmates: His address "we now have almost every avail­ so that they, once aware of the pared with 1,012 American-flag cus, Trent and Friedman face a is Route 2, McComb, Mississippi. able ship on the bridge of ships true situation, will be able to in­ vessels. Even though these ships After six months as FWT on to Vietnam. We have taken them fluence future budget decisions in are smaller and the Soviet Union run-off. the Iberville, J. off the paying run and given this Washington. is behind by about 6 million tons, The second primary election Adams is looking business to foreigners, and we are This action is necessary, he said, it is increasing its fleet by more will be held September 24, 1966 for a run on a going to have a hard time getting because there appears to be no than one million tons yearly. and all union members, their fam­ Delta Liner to it back." Admiral James pointed out thrust or focus from any corner ilies and friends, are urged to vote South America. that "The Russian Minister of of the Administration to "bolster and work for the election of He urged that the Administra­ Also scouting a Merchant Shipping, Viktor COPE and MTD endorsed candi­ tion lay out an additional $100 our lagging maritime fleet." He Delta Line run is Bakayev, is the most powerful noted that on the "contrary there dates. Charles Cassard, million a year to enable the United seems to be a thrust in the direc­ man in world shipping today, bar Mobile last on the Del States merchant marine to build tion of reducing if not eliminating none. By 1980 Bakayev expects Currently registered and ready Campo. Monk at least 20 new ships annually for shipping subsidies." to have between 20 million and Sherman at least ten years in order to re­ to ship out is John W. McNellage Sherman finished 25 million tons of new ships mak­ Other panelists who spoke in­ who has recently completed two two trips on the Del Mar and main a leading mercantile naval cluded Rear Admiral Ralph K. ing him Czar of the world's largest power. years aboard the bauxite-carrying plans to hang around New Or­ James (ret.), executive director of merchant fleet. Representative Downing de­ Alcoa Ranger. He has shipped leans for the remainder of the clared that he would prefer to from Gulf ports for the past summer. twenty years. Last aboard the Around the New Orleans hall spend a dollar and not need it Warrior, Charles R. Sanchex is chewing the fat with old ship­ rather than reduce the nation's almost resting: he is doing some mates were pensioners Frank security to such a low ebb that its work on his home. Relaxing with Vivero, Sam Hurst, Ignace De- survival is at stake. the family in Mobile after a careaux, Niels Hansen, Rufus Suggests Program couple of trips to the islands Stough, Phil O'Connor, Percy The shipping crisis facing the by Frank Drozak, West Coast Representative Charles L. Reeves says he enjoyed Boyer, Frank Kouns, Joe Munin, United States, he said, can be the Alcoa Commander, but plans Edward Boyd, and Ralph Suhat. Highlights of the AFL-CIO's California Labor Federation Conven­ to take it easy before shipping All of these oldtimers can be solved in the following ways: tion included a pledge made by the labor body to mount an unprece­ again. • Create an independent Mari­ dented election campaign against "the forces of extremism." reached by mail through the New Hemington Hurlstone, just off Orleans hall. time Administration The state's civil rights problems and the impending election at the the Claiborne, is • Develop a fleet of nuclear DiGiorgio complexes at Delano and Borrego Farms were also discussed Houston currently regis­ Saturday, August 27, 1966 powered ships at the meeting. Speakers included '^Artisan and Geneva were in travel. tered in group United States Undersecretary of C. T. Scott AB, and one of the one deck waiting marked the Second Annual Din­ Labor John F. Henning and State real SIU oldtimers, expects to ner-Dance of the West Gulf Ports for a run to strike Controller Alan Cranston. catch a short vacation after spend­ his fancy. SIU Council. Featured speakers were SIU President Paul Hall attend­ ing seven months in Vietnam and Congressman Bob Eckhardt, ILA veferan George ed as a special representative of two months in the hospital for a Saucier, an SIU President Teddy Gleason and A F L - CI O President George leg injury. Brother Scott is Mary­ SIUNA President Paul Hall. member since the A full slate of officers for the land bora and a 27-year SIU man. inception of the Houston Port Agent Paul Drozak Atlantic and Gulf Regions of the Meany. Hurlstone Seatfle V. Valencia, just out of the union, recently was a member of the Sponsoring United Industrial Workers has Committee which took care of USPHS hospital in San Francisco paid off on the Alcoa Ranger. The shipping picture now is real been elected as UIW members is waiting for the next job opening Earl K. Whatley who just paid preparations for the event. good, and the outlook for the John Ziereis, veteran deck man went to the polls in June to select that hits the board. off the Alcoa Commander after a the candidates of their choice. next couple of weeks looks like it Wilmington long trip, says that he plans to recently off the Midlake, is getting The elections were provided for will be the same for all rated man tired of soaking up Texas sunshine take it easy for awhile. in all departments. Shipping actvity remains good and is looking forward to a long under the terms of the regional Payoffs for the last period have here with 11 ships passing through constitutions in effect since August New Orleans trip. G. Lee is anxiously waiting been the following: Rice Victory, in transit and the Steel Architect 1962. Pensioner James P. (Sloppy) to start the engineer upgrading Anniston Victory, and Vantage Progress scheduled Balloting for UIW members in Creel, a regular at the monthly school in New York. Lee says Transeastem and to pay off. All men in all ratings Atlantic and Gulf Regions took membership meetings, called to he's ready to give it hell. Penn Sailor. are finding it very easy to ship in place on the June Union meeting The Rice Vic­ Wilmington. date in each respective city where FOWT's, AB's, and Cooks are tory and Anniston meetings were held. In addition, V i c t o ry were still hard to come by at times with mail ballots were sent out for the shipping as busy signed on since convenience of those members in as it is. The out­ the last report and cities where the constitution look is still good, the Walter Rice, makes no provision for members too, and we wel­ Seattle, Anchor­ Foreign-built midbodies used in constructing American-flag mer­ to vote in person. Halfhill come all rated age and Calmar chant ships are now subject to Customs duty as a result of a decision A membership-elected tallying men. handed down by the United States Court of Customs and Patents. committee supervised the voting were in transit. Ken Gibbs, af­ Hubert Halfhill, whose last ship in both the Atlatnic and Gulf Re­ The legal body ruled that the ter spending some vessels and cannot be entitled to foreign-built midbodies are not the "duty free status. No other gions. Voting has now been com­ was the Summit may try the Viet time on the beach, Nam run for a change of scenery. vessels and therefore not en­ claim having been advanced in pleted in both regions and all the has decided it's Charley Crossland, is just off Gibbs titled to duty-free status upon their support of the protest against the ballots have been counted. The time to start ship­ importation into the United States. classification found by the cus­ results of the election have been the Transeastem and will be grab­ ping again. The motion reversed an action in toms collector, we find the classi­ certified by the respective tallying bing the next AB's job hitting the Bennie Magnano was recently board. a lower Customs court which said fication of the customs collector committees. repatriated from the Erna Eliza­ Candidates elected in the two that the midbodies were vessels to be correct and the decision of San Francisco beth after staying on her for a and not subject to customs duties. the Customs Court is therefore regions are: Shipping here in the port of year as Deck Maintenance. On his Atlantic Coast Regional Direc­ San Francisco is still very active first visit to the USPHS he was The action was originally start­ reversed." ed by a group of importers who Midbodies are often used to tor, Ralph Quinnonez; Assistant and we have plenty of jobs open declared fit for duty and is quite protested against a decision made jumboize older American tonnage Regional Directors for the port of for AB's, Oilers, FWTs, Electri­ upset that the Doctor in Trinidad by the Collector of Customs in to create larger tankers and bulk New York, Frederick Stewart; of cians, Cooks and Bakers. took him off such a good ship for The Freedom Victory, Overseas an apparently minor problem. He labelling the structures under the carriers from smaller vessels. The Philadelphia, John Fay; of Balti­ Tariff Act as "articles wholly or process involves inserting the new more, Warren R. Leader; Local Dinny, Beaver Victory, Delaware, is registered now and hopes.to in chief value of iron or steel not midbody between the fore and aft Representatives for the port of Rio Grande, Los Angeles, Cor­ take a Bosun's job pretty quick. George Cortez is on the beach specifically provided for." Under sections of an older ship to in­ New York, John Dwyer; of Phila­ nell Victory, Santa Emilia, Cour delphia, Albert Bernstein. D'Arlene, Young America, Free here and hopes he will soon be, this application importers were li­ crease cargo capacity. able for customs duty. Gulf Coast Region—Regional America and Northwestern Vic­ given his "Fit for Duty" slip. He's The insertion of the midbodies Director, Lindsey J. Williams; As­ tory paid off and signed on crews been laid up since June and would is one temporary method U.S. The higher court said that since the exclusive purpose of the struc­ shipowners have used to upgrade sistant Regional Directors for the while the Yorkmar, Oakland, Cal­ much prefer working to sitting ture was to serve as a mid-section their fleets and improve their com­ port of New Orleans, Ysmael Paz; mar, Steel Admiral, Steel Flyer, around on the beach. We wish him Bethfwd, Vantage Progress, Steel a speedy recovery. of Houston, Paul Drozak. * of an ore carrier, they are not petitive position. The Pacific Coast SlU-inW Beets Regmnal OfRters Foreign Bulh Midbodies Subject To Customs Charges, Court Rules .iii 0 .OCi 'jt.l I i.' , i !•) •• ; •; f.i;' J �Pmge Six From Aug. 12 to Aug. 25, 1966 The Great Lakes by Al Tanner, Vice-President and Fred Farnen, Secretary-Treasurer,Great Lakes A new SIU clinic facility to service Seafarers and their dependents in the Cleveland area is now located at 200 Republic Building, Cleve­ land, Ohio 44115—Phone number 621-1600. This is the late.st addi.tion to the Union clinic service available to SIU men and their families in all major ports across the country and in Puerto Rico. Voting in the 1966 Biennial and we expect to hear from them Election of Officers is continuing shortly. at a steady pace during the month The tanker Transbay (Atlantic of August. During the first two & Gulf) is expected to call for a weeks we boarded and voted crew late in October. The Transforty-eight ships in the Ste. Clair bay is presently in the American and Detroit rivers. As many as Shipyard at Lorain, Ohio and is six ships were voted in one day, being jumboized, which will add with patrolmen getting off one an additional seventy feet to her ship via the SIU service launch length. Hudson Waterways, own­ "SIUNA" and going downstream ers of the Transbay, also have again to board another vessel. two more vessels in Great Lakes During the last weeks of August yards that will be ready sometime we voted the Ann Arbor Railroad next year. carferries in Frankfort and the The Great Lakes "ship of the Arnold Transit Fleet at St. Ignace, future" has been described in a St. Michigan. Because many of our Lawrence Seaway Administrator's full book members are sailing out report as a "hybrid" vessel of over on the coast we expect a light 17,060 tons capable of traversing vote. the Seaway carrying cargoes di­ Negotiations are continuing on rectly between Great Lakes and the industry-wide vacation plan foreign ports. This type of ship for SIU Great Lakes District has been increasing on the Sea­ members. The Union submitted way in recent years according to its latest proposal last week to the the report, and still bigger ships GLAMO Negotiating Committee are in the offing, it predicts. THE INQUIRING SEAFARER N September 2, 1966 SEAFARERS LOG Question: Do you agree that football is replacing baseball as the national pastime in the U. S.? Carmelo Clemente: From con­ versations I've had with my shipmates I think football is moving up on baseball as the number one sport, although in my native Puerto Rico, baseball is very popular. Most of the guys think football has more action. Frankly, I'm not to crazy about either sport. I prefer boxing for real action even though interest in the sport is declining. In boxing, you need to be in per­ fect physical condition and it is very interesting. Charles Kerns: I think that baseball is still on top. If you con­ sider the sched­ ules of each sport you'll find that on the average base­ ball draws as many, if not more, fans than does football. Baseball is as strong as ever. When the race is as tight as it is in the National League a lot of in­ terest is generated, but the Amer­ ican League is too far lopsided to be of any interest. — 4,— Gerald Knight: Football is def­ initely more popular with today's fans. I think this is because baseball does not have enough action. On the other hand, football is a game that is colorful and full of action. I personally pre­ fer footbaU. I think that there is more player contact and the action is continu­ ous. Baseball is a drag. <1> Port Boston New York ... Philadelphia . Baltimore .... Norfolk Jacksonville .. Tampa Mobile New Orleans . Houston Wilmington .. San Francisco Seattle Totals DKK DEPARTMENT TOTAL SHIPPED TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups All Groups Class A Class B Class C Class A Class B 1 2 1 2 4 44 25 43 41 87 2 3 12 12 19 3 6 17 15 37 4 9 7 6 17 2 0 4 3 12 0 0 0 2 5 4 11 12 12 26 19 28 44 35 58 12 20 31 27 40 8 3 1 3 7 29 12 " 25 21 37 16 17 4 10 18 144 123 214 189 367 REGISTERED on BEACH All Groups Class A Class R 25 5 299 103 38 17 129 42 33 12 15 3 15 8 85 14 146 80 136 33 31 1 69 2 48 24 1,059 344 ENGINE DEPARTMENT TOTAL REGISTERED Port Boston New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Jacksonville Tampa Mobile New Orleans ..... Houston Wilmington San Francisco Seattle Totals Class A 3 70 7 17 9 5 4 13 37 38 6 7 9 225 Class B 1 44 7 20 8 7 2 10 35 34 1 12 12 193 TOTAL SHIPPED Class A 1 37 4 18 1 2 3 12 37 41 3 21 15 195 Class B Class C 0 1 31 30 3 4 4 17 7 6 2 5 0 2 7 11 22 25 10 29 7 0 7 29 7 12 137 141 STEWARD DEPARTMENT TOTAL REGISTERED TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups All Groups Class A Class B Class C Class A Class B Port 0 1 0 4 1 Boston 12 24 16 34 40 New York 6 5 6 6 7 Philadelphia 17 4. 14 2 15 Baltimore 8 0 2 2 5 Norfolk 2 1 1 1 5 Jacksonville 0 0 1 7 1 Tampa 12 3 9 4 2 Mobile 36 36 38 42 6 New Orleans 27 14 15 14 8 Houston 6 5 1 1 4 Wilmington 38 22 9 6 7 San Francisco .... 19 4 Seattle 8 7 6 208 116 116' 103 Totals 106 REGISTERED on BEACH Class A 12 179 19 72 24 8 12 34 87 85 11 45 23 611 Class B 1 89 11 39 8 6 6 4 47 44 2 2 6 265 REGISTERED on BEACH All Groups Class A Class B 10 4 174 39 20 16 79 19 11 26 9 2 24 2 7 54 121 66 72 31 16 1 41 1 18. 3 649 217 Rodney Buckingham: Yes, ex­ cept in Baltimore; that's where I'm from. In Bal­ timore everybody Tentative Conservation Agreement Reached is excited about the Orioles being so far out in front. I think that base­ ball's long sched­ ule makes it dull for most people. But football which is played only once a week Efforts by the SIUNA-affliated West Coast fishermen's unions to preserve California's off-shore is something to look forward to. fisheries have begun to show some results. California's Governor Ednrmnd G. Brown announced re­ Julius M. Prochownik: I think cently that the Soviet Union has tentatively agreed that the Russians will not fish from vessels within the sports are about equal. Since 12-miles of the U. S. Pacific gations of both nations would manded immediate action. baseball is a sum­ Coast. A special State Department del­ make the following recommenda­ mer sport and The tentative agreement, football .a winter made at a Moscow meeting of egation, headed by William C. tions to their governments: • The Russians would agree sport, they each U.S. and Soviet officials, came Harrington and representatives of that their vessels would not en­ have their season. after the Governor's recent Wash­ the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Serv­ gage in fishing within 12-miles of Perhaps football ington conference with Secretary ice met with Russian officials on the Pacific Coast of the United has a slight edge of State Dean Rusk in which the fish conservation problem. States. since the crowds Brown told Rusk that the future After a successful meeting, • The Russians would reiterate are so large, but of California's fishing industry de­ Harrington reported that the deletheir instructions to their fleet in there are fewer the area off the Pacific Coast not games for the fans to see. In Bal­ to fish for salmon. timore, where I live, the Orioles • Both governments would are on top of the American agree to take steps to reduce the League and there is great interest concentration of fishing vessels on in them. In recent years, the Colts other fishing grounds in order to were wildly popular. I think both prevent the depletion of resources. sports have their following. Within the next few weeks CLEVELAND—^The latest addition to the growing system of there will be an exchange of fish­ SIU clinics has begun serving members and their families in the John Galloway: I believe foot­ ing personnel and scientists be­ Cleveland area. The clinic is located in the Republic Building, ball is gaining on baseball. Most tween American and Russian fish­ Room 200. Phone: 621-1600. guys seem to talk ing boats in order to map ways to more about it The facility will provide free diagnostic service to the many SIU help preserve the fisheries. than they do base­ Great Lakes District members, SIU Great Lakes Tug and DredgeHarrington said that there will ball. I find that men and SIU Inland Boatmen's Union members in the area as be another Moscow meeting No­ football has more well as to their dependents. vember 13 to discuss conservation action. I like to programs and establish rules on a SIU clinic facilities are already available to Seafarers and thsir see as many long-term basis for both Atlantic families in the Great Lakes ports of Buffalo, Duluth, Sauk Ste. games as I can and Pacific coastal waters. Marie, Toledo, Superior, Wis., Melvindale, and Alpena, Mich. and am a great The Senate Commerce Com­ The system of SIU clinics was begun in 1957 with the opening fan of the Green mittee has recently approved legis­ of the first facility in New York. Other union clinics are located Bay Packers. I'm sure that if foot­ lation to bar foreign fishing ves­ in Boston, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Norfolk, Tampa, San Juan, ball isn't number one now, it will sels from operating within 12Ponce, New Orleans, San Francisco, Seattle, and San Pedro, Calif. be soon. Baseball is a good sport, miles of the coast of the United but it's kind of slow. States. • •''•'I.I I ••i'. 1. I r, 'I.! V.I/"./-./A.H iiiii -I ) v ^r»uin. tbiu (. •• • • ... Soviets Agree to Honor Twelve-Mile U.S. Fishing Zone Along West Coast New Union Clinic Facility Provided For Cleveland SIU Members — 4^ 1 n �i~ 'i-; • SEAFARERS Meany Asks Admimstration To Halt Interest Rate Rise . Page Seven LOG "First Down!" AFL-CIO President George Meany has asked the Administration to step in and halt the sudden upward rise in interest rates that are afiecting the bulk of Americans. The hike in interest rates, he charged IS boosting prices and throwing residential construction into a panic and he demanded that these loan rates be rolled back to reasonable levels. 'Interest rates, "Meany said, "are higher than at any time since the 1920's. "That era, as everyone is well aware, was the lull before the big depression, a boom time when credit began tightening and inter­ est rates ran high. A 33VS increase in the price of money since last December is robbing the average salary earner of a chance to benefit himself by financing the building, renovation or purchase of a home." The consumers, small businessmen and farmers of the United States are being immobilized by the commercial banks in this country" Meany said, because they are not able to afford loans at high interest rates. The money they are forced to borrow must now be repayable by interest rates that are as high as ten per cent or more. The only winners in the current interest rate squeeze play, he added, are com­ mercial banks and the privileged group of individuals and organiza­ tions who hold large blocks of Government and commercial bonds. • • « An auto safety standards bill has won House passage. The Senate had passed a similar, though weaker, measure in June. Conflicts be­ tween the bills will be worked out by a Joint House-Senate Conference committee. Both bills direct the Secretary of Commerce to establish interim safety standards for 1968 model cars. However, full implementation of the bill is not anticipated until the 1969 model year. An advisory panel will set up standards to guide foreign or domestic car makers. It is assumed that the panel will devise standards similar to those required of automobiles and trucks which are bought by the government for its own use. Such standards have long been em­ ployed by the General Services Administration. Used car safety is also touched on in both bills, though the Senate bill only requires a study of used car safety while the House bill allows the government to set used car safety standards. Violations of safety standards, once established, are punishable by a $1,000 fine for each violation, not to exceed $400,000. There afe no provisions for criminal conviction in either bill. Tire safety and grading standards are also included in both bills. The House Takes a Step in the Right Direction William Schoenberg, founding president of the Cement, Lime and Gypsum Workers, died in a suburban Des Plaines hospital after an illness of several months. He was 88. His union activity began in 1913, when he was named a representative of the Chicago district of the Machinists. A few years later he was appointed lAM general representative, and in 1933 was named AFL general representative in the Midwest. He was placed in charge of AFL or­ ganization of Portland cement plant employees and in September 1939 was elected president of the Cement, Line and Gypsum Work­ ers when it was chartered by the AFL. He retired in 1955 and was designated president emeritus. Surviving are his widow. Bertha, and two sons, William, Jr., and Alfred. <I> Dr. Joseph Mire, executive di­ rector of the National Institute of Labor Education for the past eleven years, has been appointed a research professor at the Ameri­ can University in Washington's Department of Economics. The Austrian-born Dr. Mire had been economics and labor advisor for the Chamber of Labor in Vienna for 14 years and taught at such schools as Ruskin College and Oxford University. 4/ A sportswear firm which clan­ destinely "ran away" from Peru, Indiana, to a new $250,000 citybuilt plant in Uniontown, Ala­ bama, should be . compelled to offer jobs in the Alabama plant to the employees it deserted, pay all their family moving expenses and make up their iost income, a Na­ tional Labor Relations Board trial examiner has recommended. The examiner, rejecting the employer's argument that an employer "has the right to close his entire busi­ ness" even if the closing is moti­ vated by "vindictiveness toward the union," ruled that the McLoughlin Manufacturing Corpora­ tion of Peru did not actually go out of business but instead moved its machines to Alabama and formed a new firm called Lady Jo, Incorporated. ^ A locomotive fireman who shoved two boys from the path of a moving freight train last winter was honored at a public luncheon in Indianapolis. Nelson D. Rey­ nolds, 30, of Evansville, who works for the Chicago and East­ ern Illinois Railroad, received $250 and a plaque as winner of the quarterly safety award of his union, the Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen. Reynolds worked his way to the front of his engine in Poseyville, Indiana, grabbed the handbar with one hand and swept the frightened young,sters to the side of the track. Racists and anti-union pres­ sures lost out in Canton, Missis­ sippi, after workers at the Udico Manufacturing Co., plant here voted for union representation in a National Labor Relations Board election. Workers at Udico, a run-away shop from California, were harassed by Canton's mayor, city councilmen and business lead­ ers who warned them to expect trouble if they voted for the Elec­ trical, Radio & Machine Workers Union. Bread and butter issues of such greater importance as a wage hike, seniority and grievance ma­ chinery won out. The action of the House of Representa­ tives to keep the Maritime Administration out of the proposed new Department of Transportation is a hopeful sign. By the decisive vote in which the House members approved an amendment to exclude the Maritime Administration from among the agencies which would be lumped in the new transportation setup, it appears that the issue was very clear. The legislators passed the bill to create a new cabinet-level Transportation Department by a vote of 336 to 42, but first they amended the measure to delete the provi­ sions that -would have transferred the Mari­ time Administration from the Commerce De­ partment to the proposed transportation de­ partment. The vote on this amendment was 260 to 117. This important House vote indicates that the members of that branch of the legislature are concerned about the state of the Ameri­ can merchant marine, and that they recog­ nize the dangers to the nation in its con­ tinued decline. They obviously do not want any further damage to the position of the merchant ma­ rine, which would be inevitable were the Maritime Administration and the business of the maritime industry placed in the proposed new transportation department. There it would be buried in a welter of other gov­ ernment agencies, and subjected to the abuses and antagonisms that are an inherent part of their attitude toward maritime. Under such conditions, maritime would not only be unable to develop and expand, it would very likely be hard put to survive. By their vote, the House members appear to understand this problem. The House Merchant Marine Committee Chairman, Rep. Edward Garmatz, who comes from the port city of Baltimore, and who spearheaded the effort on the House floor to keep MARAD out of the new department, ap­ parently got the seriousness of the situation across to his colleagues. The successful outcome of the vote in the House is also evidence of the effectiveness of a maritime industry in getting its story understood when it is united across the board—every labor and management seg­ ment in the industry. The lesson to be learned from the effective manner in which the industry functioned on this issue is that it can do a job in the interest of the total industry and of the nation when its efforts are coordinated and concentrated on the real objective of all concerned. Important as it was, the House action is only the first step in what must be a long and arduous campaign if the maritime in­ dustry's continuing decline is to be reversed and a healthy, expanding industry is ulti­ mately to be achieved. The Transportation Department bill now goes to the &nate for action. It is hoped that the Senate will take action similar to that of the House. Meanwhile, the fight must go on to win the creation of a completely independent maritime agency, which could then offer the means whereby the industry could at long last be revitalized, and the U. S. could have a shipping industry that fulfills its require­ ments. As the AFL-CIO Executive Council pointed out at its Chicago meeting preced­ ing the House vote, the nation must adopt the concept of an independent Maritime Ad­ ministration. Subordination to a Transpor­ tation Department or the Commerce Depart­ ment, in which MARAD presently lies, the Council said in a strong resolution, would result in the "essential needs" of maritime "being continually ignored and submerged." Rightly, the Council called for a reversal of the trend through the upgrading of the agency charged with overseeing the merchant marine. �m Pace Elcht SEAFARERS LOG Septmnlier 2, 1966 J i . t !• Nowhere to go but Union . r. ; "s i 1:,. F ARM workers have for a long time been the most povertystricken depressed and under­ privileged working people in Amer­ ica. They earn on the average about $1,000 a year in agriculture. Many earn less than 75c an hour. They often must travel hundreds of miles at their own expense to find jobs of short duration, and sometimes to find no jobs at all. Their housing is usually miserable, health conditions scandalous, and education for their children is usually inadequate, if available at all. But American farm workers today are moving toward the only answer to their problem. They are organiz­ ing into unions and acting collec­ tively to improve their condition. Farm workers have taken strike ac­ tion in Florida, Texas, Arizona, Mississippi, California and else­ where. For the most part their de­ mands are only to be paid the Fed­ eral minimum wage in return for their backbreaking labor. Strikes are underway within California's $3.5 billion agricultural industry against some of the state's biggest, most powerful powers, and the movement is spreading to other states. One large California grower, Schenley Industries, Inc., has already signed a contract with the farm workers' union and negotiations are presently, underway with another big com­ pany, Christian Brothers. .I ;' JJ Ram Werkers te Sam Deeeat Cea^la^ aim^ They are treated as second-class citizens or worse. They do not even enjoy the minimal protections af­ forded other American workers un­ der the Minimum Wage and Hour Law and the Fair Labor Standard Act. Abandoned and ignored by the social legislation other Americans take for granted, they enjoy no social security, no protection against child labor, receive no unemployment in­ surance in any but one state and are totally excluded from the provisions of the National Labor Relations Act —something that has hampered their organizing into unions for many years. ; <! The Desperate R^t Other big growers, most notably the huge DiGiorgio Company, which alone has yearly net sales of over $200 million, remain intractable to the farm workers' organizatimi and to any improvement in farm work­ ers' wages and conditions. But the workers, though not strrnig in wealth and power as are the big growers, are tough, determined, and stead­ fast in their purpose. With the solid backing of the AFL-CIO and other groups interested in their welfare they have made great strides in a short time and can look to the future with hope. How did this drastic change in the hopes and aspirations of Ameri­ can farm workers come about? without this new legislation, the 1 in September, 1964, by the AFLscene was already set for direct ac­ CIO Agricultural Workers Organiz­ tion by the workers themselves. ing Committee (AWOC), which was set up first in 1959 to begin the or­ Although in California the farm ganization of farm workers. The workers are striking against more strike was later joined by the Na­ than 30 big growers in the Kern and tional Farm Workers Association Delano County areas, the fight for (NFWA) formed in 1962 as a selfrecognition has centered itself help organization for Mexicanaround the huge DiGiorgio Fruit American farm workers. These two Corp. organizations recently merged under The California strike was called the AFL-CIO banner and now pre- In large measure their new hope for the future was made possible by the successful struggle waged in the halls of Congress by the AFL-CIO that culminated in legislation out­ lawing the importation of the socalled "Braceros"—cheap, tempo­ rary farm labor from outside the United States. Passage of the anti-bracero act in 1964 denied to the big U.S. growers one of the strongest levers at their disposal to use against American farm workers. In most cases the growers could no longer undermine American farm workers' organizing attempts by importing thousands of foreign laborers to take their jobs and starve the American workers - into submission. The growers fought long and hard against anti-bracero legislation. They raise cries of doom for the industry and warned of gigantic crop failures all over the nation. The AFL-CIO persevered, however, and the legis­ lation was passed. Harvest time came and went without braceros and there was no disaster. The harvest, picked by American workers, was the greatest in history. Meanwhile, the AFL-CIO con­ tinues the struggle for farm workers' rights demanding the inclusion of farm workers under the Fair Labor Standards Act, the National Labor Relations Act and minimum wage and hour legislation. But money that the growers refuse to pay to their farm labor pours into Washington to pay lobbyists to help defeat the legislation. Legislators from states in which the growers are strong are threatened with political extinction unless the legislation is killed. The massive dose of money and political blackmail has succeeded temporarily in preventing passage of the AFLCIO sponsored measures. The fight for this legislation is going on, how­ ever, and will succeed. But with or As effectiveness of strike grew, big growers drafted six and seven-year-old children as scabs and set California county sheriff's deputies to stand guard to see that they stayed In the fields, completely Ignoring state's child labor law. �September 2, 1966 SEAFARERS LOG Pace Nine Voices of striking California vineyard workers calling "Huelga" (strike) to workers in the fields were drowned out by tractors without mufflers driven by company foremen. Other strikers were sprayed with insecticide from crop dusting planes. "Huelga (Strike) Day" was proclaimed in San Francisco and support for grape workers' strike and boycott of DiGiorgio Company products was voiced during Market St. parade. AFL-CIO instituted nationwide boycott of DiGiorgio products. sent a solid front to the growers during the continuing strike, Today American farm workers are determined to do the impossible and break, through their own efforts, the vicious cycle of poverty-ignorancepoverty. And they are succeeding, with the help of the organized labor movement. (As the Log goes to press, a rep­ resentation election is underway among workers of the DiGiorgio Corp.) m The strike in the fields has been bitter. Farm worker pickets have been arrested and jailed on the slight­ est pretext, "accidentally" sprayed with insecticide by low flying planes, evicted from houses in which they have lived for 20 years, seen their jobs taken by scabs, their picket signs torn down and burned by com­ pany goons and "special deputies." Led by the DiGiorgio Corp., most of the growers have remained in­ tractable, refusing to recognize the union or bargain in good faith. Di­ Giorgio set up a company union, staged its own union representation election on two days notice and ex­ cluded strikers. Company represent­ atives accompanied voters into the polling places and supervisors voted. The striking unions absolutely re­ jected the results of such an election. While the strike goes on, a mas­ sive boycott of the products of the struck firms has been instituted by the AFL-CIO. These products have been placed on the "Don't Buy" list and publicized in trade union pub­ lications across the country. Farm workers are fighting in 1966 a battle that most American workers fought and won 20, 30, 40 or more years ago. They are fighting for a living wage to raise their yearly in­ come above the basic poverty level. They are fighting to eliminate child labor in the fields. They are striking to gain an education for their chil-j^ dren. They are striking to back up their claim to first-class citizenship after many years of being treated as second-class citizens or worse. Against them is ranged the vast monetary and political power of the nation's big farm industry. These in­ terests do their best to foster the belief that American agriculture is still made up of small "family farms," that would be stifled and destroyed if farm workers were paid decent wages and guaranteed decent conditions under federal law. The truth, however, is that the "family farm" is on the wane in the United States and would not be affected by such legislation in any case because such farms do not employ enough help for sufficient periods to come under the laws' provisions. The things the American farm workers need, are fighting for, and will achieve through union organiza­ tion are simple. They include protec­ tion under the National Labor Re­ lations Act, the Fair Labor Stand­ ards Act, and the Child Labor Act; unemployment insurance; minimum wage and hour protection; work­ men's compensation; social security coverage, and decent educational standards for their children. For too many years the most af­ fluent nation in the world has treated those who pick and tend its crops as second-class citizens somehow outside the mainstream of American society. Through their own efforts and with the aid and support of the American organized labor move­ ment these forgotten citizens are now determined to enter the main­ stream of American life. And they will not be denied. Boycott of fruits and wines produced and marketed by DiGiorgio Co. was backed up by informational picket lines manned by striking workers, their families and friends. Boycott has cut deeply into company's annual sales of over $200 million. AFL-CIO President George Meany (left) issues new farm union charter to Cesar Chavez and Larry Itliong as AFL-CIO Organization Director William Kircher looks on. Presentation took place during Executive Council's Chicago meeting. Over 8,000 supporters of striking grape workers gathered at the California state capitol at end of 300 mile march in Sacramento on Easter Sunday to demonstrate striking workers' determination to win decent farm wages and union recognition. �/ Eric Chittenden, who sails as AB, and oiler Gene Stewart, catch up on shipping news in the LOG. September 2, 1966 SEAFARERS LOG Page Ten f:i • Preparing a roast beef lunch for a bunch of hungry Seafarers are C. Guevara, saloon messman and Oliver Celestine, the Chief Cook. W. "Sleepy" Matthews, bosun, chats with George "Duck" Owen and Ed Blevins of Deck department while waiting for payoff after African voyage. Bob Fowler, electrician, catches up on some work in the ship's engine room. Ready for some relaxation ashore are Donald Keith, ship's purser, and V. R. Coscarelli of Deck de­ partment, Don wants to show off his new shirt, Francisco Tirado pours a cup of coffee. He was member of Steward Dept. Pete Marozas, AB, thanks Oliver Celestine for great job Steward department turned in. Whole crew agreed their work was the best. Hard at work on deck is Luis Bonafont, OS. Luis hails from Puerto Rico. Dan Dougherty, OS, has gear all packed and Is ready to leave vessel. Ship's delegate George Stanley said Goodfellow Seafarers ranked with the best he's sailed with. Taking time out for a smoke and conversation on deck are George Owen, C. Sherpinski, O. Lee and E. Smith. Ship's watchman joins in the chatter. Talking over trip in the ship's messhall are Dan Dougherty, Ed Blevins, C. Sherpinski, R. Aragones, ancT Sam BIsin. All hands agreed it was a good trip. �September 2, 1966 Object Of Their Affection Chester Coumas, Tom Delaney and Joe Sloan (l-r) gather around the mermaid woodcarving in the Port O'Call bar in the New York Union Hall to ponder who she may be. Mermaid herself isn't talking. SIU ARRIVALS Patrick Alters, bom July 27, , 1966, to the Paul Allers St. Ignace, Michigan. — 4/ — Mark Leonard Wescott, born June 20, 1966, to the J. A. Wescotts, Lynn-, Mass. i Timothy Paul Tremmel, born July 21, 1966, to the Ronald Tremmels, Toledo, Ohio. <t> Margaret Dofredo, bom June 30, 1966, to the Domingo Dofredos, Seattle, Wash. Raenell Ann Tesser, born June 10, 1966, to the Ralph Tessers, Duluth, Minn. Kyla G. Tincher, bom January 25, 1966, to the Kyle M. Tinchers, Tampa, Fla. ^ Barbara Reed, bom May 18, 1966, to the Charles Reeds, Gretna, La. Kevin Samuels, bom May 13, 1966, to the John Samuels, Mobile, Ala. vt' Tammy Snsan Smith, bom May 20, 1966, to the Norman Smiths, Marine City, Mich. —— DeFani Smith, bom May 12, 1966, to the E. J. Smiths, New Orleans, La. Port O'Call Mystery Maid's Name Promotes Strong Seafarer Debates The intriguing and subtle female has always aroused men's curiosity and interest. Seafarers know this full well because they have their own special mystery girl at the Port O'Call Bar in New York. . Thirsty seamen who come in for a drink always smile at her and sometimes kiss and embrace her. And the nice part about it all is ^>—7—r r .. , ^ ~ , , , , , .J who she was, he said, but was cer- the Queen of the Mermaids or one that she's always there provid­ tainly curious to find out. Old of the Naiades', water nymphs ing a bit of female companion­ timer Tom Delaney said that he who were believed in the ancient ship for everyone. was sure Minnie was a grown-up world to inhabit and rule over The only trouble though is, that copy of the "little girl on the rock waterways, oceans, rivers, lakes no one really knows who she is. in Copenhagen harbor." and springs. This beauty has no voice. She Coumas also offered the clew Many Theories is an attractive wooden figurehead that since the mermaid had some­ Other Seafarers had interesting thing of a Nordic cast about her with long flowing hair and a shiny well-laquered face. Her amply- theories. T. Daley thought she she might be Frieda, the Ger­ built figure regally holds up the was simply called "Gertude," manic Goddess of Peace. The front end of the ship-like Port while Fred Boyne, a Seafarer who Frieda theory seems a little better O'Call Bar. She has a fish's body hails from Liverpool was always than the rest according to Coumas and a figure reminiscent of the under the impression the young who noted that the Port O'Call Valkyries, legendary maidens who lady represented Maggie May, the Bar to which the mermaid is at­ carried Vikings who died in battle famous tart from Lime Street in tached has a clinker-type hull con­ up to Valhalla heaven for an Liverpool. struction, slat over slat, much in Seafarer Chester R. Coumas the way the ancient vikings built eternity of feasting and drinking. Tommy the bartender, who came up with the most interesting their longboats. draws tall beers and cool drinks theory. He said that Minnie could However, despite all the learned for the Seafarers, said that he al­ be a number of mythological observation of Seafarers on the ways thought she was called "Min­ maidens. Perhaps, she was the name and lineage "Minnie the nie the Mermaid, as far as I goddess Fortuna, a copy of the Maiden," the subject still is a mat­ know." She has always been a statue that the Etruscans put up ter of conjecture. favorite, he said, with Seafarers on their ships. Fortuna was the The real "Minnie the Mermaid" first and only goddess of Fortune, is yet to be discovered and any who frequent the bar. Coumas said, and a particularly information on the origins of this Good Luck Omen appropriate symbol for seamen. beautiful lady will be welcomed "I've known guys to come in by the LOG. He also said that she might be and kiss her after they pulled in from a bad crossing. A lot of them come to see Minnie right after their ship berths. She's their good luck charm" Tommy ex­ plained. Young and old Seafarers also have their doubts about who she is. The Seafarer's Log has the gen^ Eric Johnson, 68: Cancer Peter Raptakis, 58: Seafarer eyal impression that Minnie is a claimed the life of Seafarer John­ Raptakis died, July 1, in Staten figurehead copied from a famous son on May 20. Island, N. Y., af­ museum masterpiece, but just He sailed in the ter an illness. which museum is a mystery. Deck department Born in Nafplion, "But she's gotta have a name," as an AB. John­ Greece, he lived most seamen who come into the son was bom in in Brooklyn. The bar feel. Sweden and re­ Seafarer joined Seafarer Joe Sloan, who was sided in Brooklyn, the SIU in San having a cool beer recently at the N. Y. He joined Francisco. A Port O'Call said that Minnie was the SIU in the member of the a mystery to him. He didn't know port of Seattle, Deck department, he was certified to sail as bosun. Wash. Surviving is his wife, LemHe is survived by a cousin, Harik- pi. Johnson's last ship was the lia Glamboury of Greece. Burial Hercules Victory. Burial was in Greenwood Cemetery, Brooklyn. was in Brooklyn. FINAL DEPARTURES Dawn Tamlyn, born July 4, 1966, to the R. T. Tamlyns, St. Ignace, Michigan. ^ Tammy Odom, born July 2, 1966, to the Thomas Odoms, Uriah, Ala. <1> Betty Moore, born December 12, 1965, to the W. W. Moores, Orange, Texas. Jean Rainier, born May 14, 1966, to the Harold Rainiers, Mathews, Va. James Andrew Nitz, born July 28, 1966, to the Carl Nitzs, Cherry Hill, N. J. — — Linnette Ctdby, bom April 29, 1966, to the Raymond Colbys, Maple, Wise. Page Eleven SEAFARERS LOG Cecil Jennette Please contact Donald White, P. O. 7121, Portsmouth, Va., as soon as you can. Y. R. (George) Tallherg Please get in touch with your wife at Route 2, Box 939, Punta Gorda, Fla., 33951, as soon as possible. Joseph M. Novatny Please contact Ann Novatny of Portage, Pa., concerning a family matter. <1> E. L. Avery Please contact R. A. Yarborough at the Seattle Hall in re­ gard to an urgent matter as soon as possible. "Red" Strickland Please contact Mrs. Charles Slater, 1854 Annunciation St., New Orleans, in regard to the per­ sonal effects of Charles Slater. Newton Paine Please contact your wife, at home, as soon as possible. — — William C. Cronan Please contact Doc Gorton at 61 Appleton Ave., Pittsfield, Mass. <t> Richard R. Conlin Please contact SIU Headquar­ ters in New York, third deck, in regard to a ring lost on the Rafael Semmes. Tax Refunds Held Income tax refund checks are being held by Jack Lynch, room 201, SUP Building, 450 Harrison St., San Francisco, Calif., for the following Seafarers: Margarito Borja, W. R. Layton, Alii Nasroen, Wong M. Sing, Charies E. Switzer and W. O. Wallace. Charles Louis McCuHoch Please contact the firm of Ungar, Dulitz and Martzell, at 328 Chartres St., Suite 100, New Orleans, La., as soon as you possi­ bly can in regard to a very im­ portant matter. Carl Anderson, 63: Heart di­ sease caused the death of Brother Anderson at St. Mary's Hospital, Duluth, Minn. He was a lineman for the Great Lakes Towing Company and joined the un­ ion in the port of Duluth, where he lived with his wife, Esther. He was born in Sweden. Burial was at Sunrise Memorial Park, Duluth. Calleja Saturnino, 73: Heart disease claimed the life of Seaf a r e r Saturnino in Brooklyn, N. Y., March 20. Born in Spain, he was a U. S. citi­ zen and made his home in Brook­ lyn. He sailed in the Engine de­ partment as a FWT. Brother Saturnino joined the SIU in the port of New York. Surviving is his sister, Adela. Burial was in Linden, N. J. : WiUlam G. Sargent, 57: Brother Sargent was lost at sea, while sailing as an oiler on the New York­ er on the Viet Nam run, June 16. He joined the SIU in the port of Philadelphia. Born in Maine, Sargent resided in Brooklyn, with his wife, Marie. Prior to serving on the New Yorker, he sailed on the Rice Victory. He held a jun­ ior engineer rating. Clarence Osborne, 48: Brother Osborne died of cancer in New Orleans, March 28. A messman in the steward de­ partment, Osbom joined the union in New Or­ leans. He was bom in Alexan­ dria, La., and re­ sided in Gretna, La., with his wife Rit?i. Hi^ last vessel was the Oceanic Cloud. Burial was in the Christian Social Cemetery, Gretna, La. �Pags Twelve SEAFARERS LOG ^kin Poti Moys ttsOrainOimlivery to flte £dit<»r: ; I have just come off a run to India where we were stuck for three weeks off Bombay wait­ ing to unload. Why in heaven's name must we sit around these Indian ports when the Indian Government needs the grain we carry so badly? Anybody who has sat around one of these ports for this length of time will know just what I mean. Something should be done about it and soon. I don't think anybody likes the situation anyI more than I do. R. Folsom LETTERS To The Editor Building of Ships Overseas Rapped To The EditoK 11cannot understand how some ji&ple in Washington can say there is to much unemployment, then approve of plans to build navy ships in overseas yards. This hypocrisy will keep work­ ers in the United States from working at a time when countless phipy^d employees,/ men - with great skill in their professioni are leaving for industries that offw sSteady work. American yards are closing while the U. S. aids for­ eign ship yards- Some of these nations pay us back by allowing fheir ships to trade with North ietnam, a country that is at war ith the United States. / Ships coming out of mothball heed extensive repair work be­ cause of years of inactivity. I do not think the U. S; Government wants to be responsible for any accidents that occur to these vessels because the repair work was inferioi' England, the benerficia^ of the American warships , to constructed, is one of the nations that has traided with Noith Vict Nam. This Can be called fattening their pockets from both sides of; the fence, I' , Ed .Green : Pdlley The Edtton V I would like to say that I feel it is a shame that Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara is ! undermining the role of the i Merchant Marine during the !i yietnamese crisis, when U. S, i^ips are playing such a vital i part in the war effort, - In spite of the fact American 1 ships carry 98 per cent of the war supjplies, McN^ara urges elimination of U. S. Cargo pref­ erence laws for all except mili­ tary cargoes. Military authori­ ties say our fleet is inadequate to handle a second battle front. We eamipt limit o^ cargo prefer­ ence to military goods of our total cargo capacity will shrink. McNamara has been one of the leaders in the attempt to dpvrirgrade\:the''''M€^^ ;Ma-C rine. The industry has proved it's worth countless times but the i^retary continues to hamper ifforts by Congress to aid the hipping industry. He continues our fleet is adequate when September 2, 1966 bunding. In the United States is among the leaders in scrapping ships. In addition, the United States is approaching the bottom of it's reserve fleet and the Vietnam war is showing signs of expand­ ing before it ends, which would tax the Merchant Marine even more. I think the Union should do everything it can to make the American people and perhaps even Mr. McNamara aware of this dangerous situation. Frank Henderson From tlie SHips at Se A suggestion was made by Ernest Puras on the Del Norte (Delta) that timers be purchased for the washing machines. The machines would automatically stop after twenty minutes so the crewmembers won't have to wait long periods of time for the previous user to come back for his clothes. "Red" Hancock suggested a informs us. The ship just paid R. Marrero, ship's treasurer on washing machine be taken from off in New York and from all the Transyork (Commodity), re­ the crew laundry and installed reports it was a good trip. There ports that $22 was in the aft galley. Crewmembers were no beefs and the Steward collected for the are asked not to let the machines department got a vote of thanks. ship's fund. A run all night as it wears the ma­ balance of $4.35 ^ chine out and remained after Shipyard Workers disturbs sleeping $ 10 was spent for seafarers. Meeting Bugs have met their downfall on Find Other Work flowers and $7.65 chairman Robert the Alcoa Runner (Alcoa) after for a radio mes­ To The Editor: Callahan reports the ship was sage to SIU head­ The Government indifference that a Brother had sprayed on the quarters. C r e wto the shipping industry has Marrero a heart attack in last voyage, meet­ members Charles come home to roost. Now that Houston. He was ing chairman R. Longerbeam and Frank Moronships are needed, due to the war treated at St. Jo­ P. Coleman re­ gello received medical treatment in Viet Nam, skilled workers for seph Hospital. It Puras ports. A new lead in Keelung, Formosa. The crew the nation's shipyards are no was suggested that wire will be put had uncomplementary reports on longer available. Seafarers carry their last two dis­ on the TV anten­ sanitary conditions in the town. The shipyard worker had little charges with them while ashore. na. Ship's treas­ The ship will be paid off in Nor­ opportunity for steady work and The ship's fund totals $175 and urer J. A. Waith folk. Coleman when some shipyards like the the movie fund, $377. Bakers reports that the Brooklyn Navy Yard closed, he Carl Jordan and Goon P. Thiu ships fund totals $12.50. No beefs got fed up and left the industry. were applauded for an excellent are reported as the ship heads foifc We don't need a large Mer­ Mutual administration by the job as was the chief electrician. a Mobile payoff. Steward department and crew of chant Marine, the Government The ship will be in Rio and Buenos said. Now, the need for ships is the Kent (Ameri­ Aires soon. great, but yards cannot meet the can Bulk) was ex­ manpower requirements. pressed during a The first thing Julius Smith did Ship's delegate John Dickerson Workers left for jobs in other recent voyage, ac­ when he was reelected ship's dele­ suggested on the Cottonwood industries where employment cording to meet­ gate on the Fairisie (Pan Oceanic) Creek (Bulk was steady and conditions better. ing chairman E. was request his Transport) that the It is not too late for the Govern­ P. Covert. The fellow Seafarers importance of oc­ ment to act and help the in­ Steward depart­ to keep up the casional safety dustry by offering steady work ment was extend­ good work on a meetings during for skilled people. ed a vote of smoothly run ship. CoUler each voyage . nutTaeker thanks by the No beefs are re­ should be stressed. crew for the fine food they pre­ ported and if any Dickerson and the pared and they in turn thanked arise, crewmem­ steward departthanks SlU Far the crew for keeping the messbers are asked to ment were Rothschild room clean. Covert was elected Welfare BeneRfe:>f partmental delethanked for the Smith ship's delegate and Ralph Collier go staight to de- fine work they did. Seafarers were To tiie £dit<m was named treasurer. His first re­ gates. It was suggested by Seafar­ reminded to be quiet at night in We are a husband arid wife port stated that $2.44 was in the er Ira Brown that a repair list be the passageways. New screens for who are deeply grateful to the ship's fund and he requested any compiled prior to arrival in port the vent blower in the fan room union for taking care of oxir Seafarer with loose change to put for the next shipyard survey. Cari and some work on the water foun­ hospital bills. it in the kitty. The Deck depart­ Heiiman, meeting chairman re­ tains heads the repair list, meeting Thank God for the SIU. I ment says they have too much ports that Seafarers aboard the secretary S. Rothschild reported. don't know what we would have overtime and not enough sack vessel were reminded to continue There are no beefs, Rothschild done without them during my time but they aren't complaining. their cooperation in keeping the writes. vrife's last stay in the hospital. ship clean. A vote of thanks was Thank you again from the bottom of our hearts for everything. •' extended the steward department and ship's delegate Smith. Q. X and Daii^ Iez2i George Stanley, ship's delegate New fans will be installed in the aboard the Robin Goodfellow, (Robin Line) re­ A fine crew of Seafarers plus crew rooms on the Beaver Victory Ur0es Brothers Vote a good Stewart department to (Bulk Transport), ported it was one Sidney Garner of the best crews cook good food in iP66 Mleetions meeting secretary he ever sailed and serve it pro­ To the Editor: reports. Garner with. "The ship perly is the com­ I think the elections coming i said 24 new fans is the best feeder bination needed up this fall throughout the coun­ have been orin the SIU", to beat the heat try are going to be very hot d e r e d. Brother George said and on the Persian and very important. Leslie Bryant was most of the sea­ Gulf shuttle, C. A lot of progress has been elected ship's del­ farers aboard Walker, meeting Markris made during the past couple Of egate in Danang. agreed. Chief chairman on the Gamer years, thanks to the work of the I. Bergstrom, Cook Oliver Celestine and Chris Western Clipper Walker unions, which are really the only (Western Agency) meeting chairman, said all dele­ Markris, baker, came in for high outfits that support the kind of | reports. Walker has just been gates did a fine job and received praise from the crew. Markris, laws that benefit all the people. elected ship's delegate. S. Escobar, votes of thanks. James Newsome who used to own a bakery on Da­ I'm speaking of the type of meeting secretary says it has been of the engine department was vis Ave. in Mobile, kept the men law like Medicare, which il happy with his superb pies. a good trip but one of the crew- hospitalized in Japan. really a big lift to older folks members has been requested not who have no other way to meet to move from seat to seat during their big medical expenses, and 1 meals since, this confuses the Editor, which helps their families—^sons I SEAFARERS LOG, and daughters — who had -0 messman. The ship is heading for I Okinawa and a regular supply of 675 Fourth Ave., meet the bills for them. i mail and logs is helping to keep the Brooklyn, N. Y. *11232 'V We have to keep men in Con­ I Seafarers happy aboard the vessel. gress who support the aims of I i would like to receive the SEAFARERS LOG—please put my -— — the working people. If we don't, I name on your mailing list/ a lot of important laws will The suggestion was made on never get passed, and the ones the Steel Director (Isthmian) to NAAAE i IM that have been passed will be hold a general i in danger of being wiped off meeting before STREET ADDRESS J- i the books. payoff, Meeting CITY STATE,,...... TiP . •! ^ITY J, , STATE,ZIP..... So all SIU men should 01 Secretary J. P. their part by juaking sure that Balldny reports. T0 AVpfD OUPUCATIONs » you ar« an old subscriber and have a char ^' address, please give your former address below; all of us vote in the coming elec-;. E. Quigley had to tions for the kind of people whq get off in Alex­ IDPESS t will represent us. And we should,/ andria, Egypt, to get our families and friends fo recover from ill­ ness, L. E. EUand, George bortllo BaMday meeting chairman <1> —— —J,— • 4 V • • i • �September 2, 1966 SEAFARERS LOG Lifeboat Class No, 158 Casts Off The newest group of SlU lifeboat ticket holders gather for pic­ tures shortly after graduating from Lifeboat Class No, 158. Meri completed the course at the Harry Lundeburg School of Seamanship in New York City. Seated, left to right, are: Dick Average, Luis Perez, Konstantinos Keramidas, and John Wirtshafter. Standing are: Adolph Demarco, Mike Heckert, William Myles, John Spahr, Joe McCarthy, and the lifeboat class instructor. Ami Bjornsson. From Monkeys to Ostriches, SlU Manned Ships Had 'Em All More Dangers on Land Than Sea, Seafarer Discovers In Viet Nam Getting caught on barbed wire in Saigon isn't the type of experience John K. Donnelly of the En­ gine Department would like to go through every voyage, but it happened to him on a recent trip to Viet Nam aboard the Cuba Victory. 'We were in Na Bay, about 15 miles from Saigon," John der the ship to plant mines." Al­ stant barrage going on around though the Cuba Victory was them. Crewmembers also watched said, "and this road had been the never attacked, a Navy LST was helicopters drop troops into battle scene of a lot of ambushes." After bombed near them. "There was a positions at the mouth of a river leaving town by taxi, the Sea­ hole in the vessel, but not much outside Saigon. farer had to get out and walk the damage," John stated. Donnelly is currently at the remaining distance since local Sounds of war were heard all SIU's upgrading school and will drivers were not too fond of night the time, Donnelly pointed out. A soon be taking his tests for oiler travel. "It was pitch black," Don­ Navy destroyer poured shells into and FWT. He's been sailing SIU nelly said, when suspected enemy positions for ships for six years. The Seafarer suddenly he was hours on end, and Seafarers found comes from New York, where he entangled in it difficult to sleep with the con­ makes his home. barbed wire. "The more I Reaches Milestone s t r u g g 1 e d, the worse it got. There was a compound of South Vietnamese Donnelly soldiers nearby and they turned on flood lights. For awhile, I thought I'd get shot. I shouted at them, that I was an American." Fortunately for Don­ nelly, the Vietnamese recognized him as an American helped him out. "I still have scars on my back," Donnelly said. The Seafarer spent 84 days in Viet Nam on that run. There were some restrictions, he pointed out, and crew members were told they would have to go ashore at their own risk in towns that were off limits. Seafarers were not permitted to carry weapons for defense, he said. "There were six specially trained MP's standing guard while the ship was in port," Donnelly said. "They would throw concus­ Seafarer Alvin C. Carpenter became the first two-gallon contrib­ sion grenades overboard to keep utor since the SIU Blood Bank began in January of 1959. Carpenter the Viet Cong from swimming un- sails in steward department. Mary Larsen, RN, lends helping hand. The recent story in the LOG about ships' mascots touched off much discussion among Seafarers not only on the question of mascots, but animals that have been carried as part of the cargo on SlU-manned vessels _ • , , , in the Catskills. Crewmembers Seafarers who sailed on the aboard the Robin Trent had a Delta Lines ship, Del Monte a zebra aboard back in 1952. few years ago, have fond mem­ A Penn ship once had a mas­ ories of "Slipper" the seal. The cot called "Jocko," a small mon­ seal was found in Angola, West key who liked to drink from a Africa, by fisherman and brought cup while perched on a Seafarer's back to America on the Del shoulder. Another ship had a mon­ .;i' ebNBA0;-titejtime::., Awist I—Ohairtnan, G. B. GiS! Monte. The seal was turned over key with a penchant for wearing eration), pttc; S^retary, M&e Smith. There Is to the New Orleans zoo as a gift an SIU T-shirt and cap. Most still some disputed or in the deck depart* ment although some has been straight-^ from the crew. of the crew thought he looked ened out. Ship should be fumigated for roaches, etc. Reauest patrolman meet ship The crew of the Robin Locks- pretty good. in Victoria in order to get some very matters straightened out as; Another SIU ship carried {ngjortant ley had the company of an ostrich there is still auite a trip ahead; Men off ; watch would like to know if they can a few years ago. The bird de­ horses, while one vessel recently claim subsistence from OSOfl to 1600 due completed a trip to Puerto Rico parted the ship in Brooklyn for •to chipping oyer quarters that keeps them awake. . • transportation to a game farm with a load of cattle. OGSANIC TIDE (Trans-World), August 7—Chairman, J. Jursng ; Secretary, H. d. ScHrelner. $7.60 In ship's fund. Also to have Board of Health ekamino meat and fish boxes. One man hospitalized in Singapore. EXPRESS VIRGINIA (Marine Car­ riers), August 4—Chairman, B. Lowder:^k: Secretary, A. I^h. 0»e misled ship in Okinawa. Motfoh made thatN3oropany pay transportation td' hew crewmembers joining the ship, whether hV local bus, when available, or taxi to dock area. Ship's delegate'urged crew to pre­ vent dock workers from using ship's facilities and messhall. ; $9.14 in ship'a 'fund. •••••••..•..vv'.' Typical of the many different varieties of animals which have sail­ ed as mascots or cargo aboard SlU-contracted ships is the ostrich shown above, which the Robin Locksley carried to U.S. from Africa. DID YOO PUT gACKf V Page Thirteen STEEL ROVER (States Martne),; Jnly 28---Chairman. Lester C. Long; Secretary,; Praiik Van Dhsen; Hhip'a delegate re-;^ ported that all, id runnihg smoothly.; $44.81 in ship's fund. No beefs yepofted , ;bse,;department • delegates.,;; Brothferi Ijester .wm alwrtd^shipls fdelednte,/ I'M euRpR\eBv AT y'oul SWAT'S A RorrgAi/ roDoi _ __ _ ^ _ . . , ludson Waterways), tno ;19—Chairinah,; Bill Horne: Secre-; jary.' O. Frezzii, Brother Irving Futter|nan was elected to serve as ship's dele­ gate. No beefs reported. Everything is runnihg smoothly. Motion made to piaee ;::TV-.aets'^Dn .all, ships.; HENRY STBINRRENNBW (Kinsman Marine), July Sl-^^Dhairman, Charles Otteiin ; Secretary, Grant K. Lewis. Men aboartl still waiting ior copies of Wel­ fare Plan Program. Everything Is O.K. • JAMES DAVIDSON (Buckeye). July dd—Ghairman, Gary D. Soonds: Secre­ tary, Terry D. Orton, Discussion on safety, sanitation and consideration for fellow crewmembers. "No beefs reported that w«rt not taken care of. DICEST of SIU MEETINGS SAVER VICTORr (Bum TTans., May 17—Ghairman, William Parker; Sec. rctery, Sidney A: Garner. Brother Nor­ man Wroton, Jr. was elected to serve as ' ship's delegate. Patrolman to be conr; tacted regarding delayed sailing and smne small matters. Members would like; rcj tirement before 65 years of age. , BEAVER VICTORY (Bulk 'Transport), July 31—Chairman, J. Bergstrom; Se^; retary, Sidney Gamer. Some disputed OT in engine department. All members voted for a better retirement plan,—lowering the age and shortening the sea time. Brother Leslie Bryant was elected to serve as ship's delegate. Vote of thanks ex­ tended to all delegates for a job wit done. PRODUCER (Marine Carriers), July Si; —Chairman, James Smith; Secretary; Herbert Welch. Ship sailed short a steward. Dmiartment delegates will collect $1.06 from each member of their reapeci; tive department for ship's fund. Deck delegate thanked his department for their cooperation. No beefs reported by depart­ ment delegate. Ship's delegate retiuested all hands to cooperate in keeping messhall and pantry clean and taking proper care of washing machines. Vote of thanks to deck engineer for prompt repair of washing machine drains. PENN TRANSPORTER (Penn Ship-; pfttg). August 7—Chairman, W. H. DCal;; Srtretary, R. A. Sanchez. Batrolman fe*; be eontSeted in regards to repairs. thing 0,K. and no hegEe reported. �TRANSYORK (Commodity Chirtering). August 7—Cbnirmsn, I. Buckley; Secre­ tary. D. Blumlo. Some disputed OT in ench department. Lost five men during this trip and picked up four as replnccments. Voyage has been fair to average. Balancci in ship's fund, S4.S6. The mem­ bership on board voted to have SIU head­ quarters contact this company concerning the doctor and medical facilities in Kec; lung. Formosa. More modern medical focitities should be available. Meetings SIU-AGLIWD Meetings New York. .Sept 6—^2:30p.m. Philadelphia Sept. 6—2:30 p.m. Baltimore . . Sept. 7—2:30 p.m. Detroit .... Sept. 9—^2:30 p.m. Houston .. . Sept. 12—2:30 p.m. New Orleans Sept. 13—2:30 p.m. Mobile .... Sept. 14—2:30 p.m. Wilmington Sept. 19—2 p.m. San Francisco Sept. 21—2 p.m. Seattle .... Sept. 23—2 . p.m. Great Lakes SIU Meetings Detroit Alpena Buffalo Chicago Cleveland Duhith Frankfort Sept. 6—2 p.m. Sept. 6—7 p.m. Sept 6—7 p.m. Sept 6—7 p.m., Sept 6—7 p.m. Sept 6—1 p.m. Sept. 6—7 p.m. Great Lakes Tug and Dredge Region Detroit ... .Sept 12—7:30 p.m. Milwaukee .Sept 12—7:30 p.m. Chicago .. . Sspt 13—7:30 p.m. tSauIt Ste. Marie Sept 15—7:30 p.m. Buffalo ... .Sept. 14—7:30 p.m. Duhith .... Sept. 16—^7:30 p.m. Cleveland . .Sept. 16—7:30 p.m. Toledo ... .Sept 16—7:30 p.m. SIU Inland Boatmen's Union Philadelphia . . Sept. 6—5 p.m. Baltimore (licensed and unlicensed) .. Sept. 7—5 p.m. Norfolk Sept. 8—5 p.m. Houston Sept 12—5 p.m. New Orleans . .Sept 13—5p.m. Mobile Sept 14—5 p.m. Railway Marine Region Jersey City Sept 12—10 a.m. & 8 p.m. Philadelphia Sept. 13—10 a.m. & 8 p.m. Baltimore Sept 14—10 a.m. & 8 p.m. •Norfolk Sept IS—10 a.m. & 8 p.m. United Industrial Workers New York .... Sept. 6—7 p.m. Philadelphia .. Sept 6—1 p.m. Baltimore .... Sept. 7—7 p.m. ^Houston Sept. 12—7 p.m. New Orleans . . Sept. 13—7 p.m. Mobile Sept 14—7 p.m. DEL NORTB (Delta), August 7—Chair­ man, Robert Callahan ; Secretary, Bill Kaiser. Ship sailed short one man in San­ tos. Picked up man in Rio de Janeiro. Ship ; low on ice the. whole trip. $175.66 in ; ship's fund and $877.35 in movie fund. Motion made to have patrolman check to see why rooms are not being painted, since it has been over two years ainee they were painted. Discussion about ask­ ing the Union about having blood type put on health cards. Bakera given a big vote of thanks for a job well done. DEL ALBA (Delta), July 31—Chaiiv t Meeting held at Labor Temple, Sanit man, J. ColllnB; Secretary, Z. Y. Ching. Ste. Marie, Mich. Ship's delegate reported that ship had * Meeting held at Labor Temple, New­ nice crew and it was a nice trip. No dlsport News. s puted OT and no beefs. Ship to be fttwiI gated for rosiches. Vote of thanks to the ^ Meeting held at Galveaton wharrea. s steward department for a job well done. COTTONWOOD CBEEK (Bulk Trans­ port), July 80—Chairman, J. Dickerson ; Secretary, S. Rothschild. Department de­ legates reported that everything is run­ ning smoothly. Motion made to stress the importance of occasional safety meetings, each voyage. Some companies are very las in this respect; Ship should be fumi­ gated for roaches. Vote of thanks to the steward department for a job well done. Vote of thanks to Ship's Delegate J. Dickerson for a job well done in every respect. piRECTORYof UNION HALliS SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters Inland Boatmen's Union United Industrial Workers DEL SANTOS (Delta), August 7—Chairman, John Calan^a ; Secretary, Don­ ald Bowe. Disputed OT in each depart­ ment. One man missed ship. "Three men hospitalized sent back to the States, PRESIDENT Paul Hall EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Cal Tanner Earl Shapard Al Tanner DIGEST of SIU VICE PRESIDENTS Lindsay Williams Robert Matthews SECRETARY-TREASURER Al Karr HEADQUARTERS 675 4(5 Ave., Bklyn. HY 9-4400 ALPENA, Mich 127 River St. EL 4-3414 BALTIMORE, MD 1214 E. Baltimore S<t. EA 7-4900 BOSTON. Mass 177 State St. Rl 2-0140 BUFFALO, N.Y 735 Washington St. TL 3-9259 CHICAGO. Ill 93B3 Ewing Ave. SA 1-0733 CLEVELAND, Ohio 1420 W. 25th St. MA 1-5450 DETROIT, Mich. .. 10225 W. Jefferson Ave. MEETINGS ALCO MARKETER (Aleoa), August 18—Chairman, Carl Pmnelun; Secretary, H. H. Busby. Some repairs have bren completed. Disputed OT in deck and en­ gine departments. Condition of food to beSreported to patrolman. VI 3-4741 DULUTH, Minn 312 W. 2nd St. RA 2-4110 FRANKFORT. Mich P.O. Box 287 415 Main St. EL 7-2441 HOUSTON. Tax 5B04 Canal St. WA 8-3207 JACKSONVILLE. Fla 2408 Pearl St. \ EL 3-0987 JERSEY CITY, N.J 99 Montgomery St. HE 3-0104 MOBILE, Ala I South Lawrence St. HE 2-1754 NEW ORLEANS, La. ... 430 Jackson Ave. I NORFOLK, Va PHILADELPHIA. Pa BANGOR (Bermuda Shipping), August 3—Chairman, Wm. Roblnron : Sojretary, Elrnest Harris, Some disputed OT in deck department. One man in steward depart­ ment missed ship in New Orleans. BANGOB (Bermuda), Augmst 8—Chairman, Wm. Biobinaon; Secretary, E Har­ ris. Some disputed OT in deck and en­ gine departments. Brother Selice was elected to serve as ship's delegate. OCEANIC TIDE (Trans-World Marine), June 6—Chairman, H. S. Schreiner; Tel. 529-7544 I Secretary, R, Buie. Ship's delegate re­ ported that everything is running smooth­ IIS 3rd St. ly with no beefs. One man missed ship Tel. 422-1892 in San Francisco. Motion mode that crew 2404 S. 4th St. cooperate and keep natives out of passage DE 4-3818 and quarters. 1348 Seventh St. PORT ARTHUR, Tex SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. 350 Freemont St. DEL OBO (Delta). July 24—Chairman, DO 2-4401 SANTURCE, P.R. ...1313 Fernandez Juncos Sherman E Miller; Secretary, Ramon Stop 20 Irizarry. Ship's delegate reported that all Tel. 723-8594 I the repair lists are comple^ and ready SEATTLE, Wash 2505 First Avenue '• to be turned in upon arrival in port. MA 3-4334 Everything is running smoothly in spite ST. LOUIS. Mo 805 Del Mar of the shortage of men. $144.88 in ship's CE-l-1434 fund. Vote of thanks to the steward deTAMPA. Fla 312 Harrison Sit. Tel. 229-2788 i pazdment for a job well done. Vote of WILMINGTON, Calif. ...SOS N. Marine Ave. i ihanks to ship's d9l^f>to fw a job.well TE 4-2523 , ,done. 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 CPA audit every three months by a rank and file auditing committee elected by the membership. All Union records are available at SIU headquarters in Brooklyn. TRUST FUNDS. AH trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. AH these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. AH expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. AH trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING BIGHTS. Your shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by the contracts between the Union and the shipowneia. Get to know your shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all Union halls. If you feel there has been any violation of your shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contacts between the Union and the shipowners, notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: 4-Earl Shepard, Chairman, Seafarers Apjieals Board 17 Batterir Place, Suite 1930, New York 4, N. Y. Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to you 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 you work and live aboard ship. Know your contract rights, as well as your obligations, such as filing for OT on die proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, any SIU patrolman or other Union official, in your opinion, fails to protect your contract rights prop­ erly, contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY—SEAFARERS LOG. The LOG has traditionally refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the Union, officer or member. It has also refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the Union or its coHective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September, 1660, meetings in all constitu­ tional ports. The lesponsibUity for LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the Executive Board of the Union. The Executive Board may delegate, fhMD anMDg ita raoka, one individual to carry out thU reaponsibility. >) September 2, 1966 SEAFARERS LOG Page Fourteen FAIRISLE (Pan Oceanic Tankers); , July 8—Chairman, Carl Hellman; Secro- ) tary, Ira C. Brown. Brother Julius B. » Smitli was re-elected to act as ship's delete j gate, with a vote of thanks from all | hands. He reported that everything was . running smoothly. Vote of thanks to the j cooks and steward for tho good food. BARRE VICTORY (Delts), August 12 , —Chairman, W. R. Gels ; Secretary, James U Blanchard. $8.01 in ship's fund. No ; beefs reported by department delegates. WINGLESS VICTORY (Consolidated Mariners), August' 7—Chairman, G. Fersberg; Secretary, Larry Santa Ana. Ship's delegate reported everything running smoothly. Some disputed OT reported by deck department. Ordered new washing machine. Vote of thanks given to ship's delegate for job well done. ALCOA RUNNER (Alcoa Stwimship), August 10—Chairman, R. P. Coleman: Secretary, H. Smith. Ship's delegate re­ ported everything running smoothly. Sug­ gested having new wire to antenna put on. $12.50 in ship's fund. No beefs re­ ported by department delegates. Motion ^ made to have the negotiating committee^' enter negotiations with all companies under contract to qirovide air conditioned y messroome and pantries on aU ships ini)> the bauxite trade or any runs similar T where the port holes and ventHations aystems have to be closed at all times. If no agreement can be reached on that ]>oint, then it was suggested that the crew will be paid room allowance while ves­ sels are being loaded and discharged. Motion carried. Vote of thanks given to the steward department for job well done. Ship's delegate will sec boarding patrol­ man ahout the deck coating that is being , used. It is harmful to the men whfle shipping and painting the decks. Also to , see about the time when chipping is to hd done around the sleeping quarters.. PENN VANGUARD (Penn Shipping), Augrust 16—-Chairman, O'Nefl; Secretary, H. Pruge. Vote of thanks given to old ship's delegate. No beefs reported by de­ partment delegates. Crew was ask^ to help keep messroom and pantry clean. Brother Walter Colley was elected tb serve as new ship's delegate. INGEB (Reynolds Metals), August 13 —Chairman, A. J, FYlcks; Secretary, G. CoRman. Ship sailed short two men. Some disputed OT reported by deck and steward departments. Had discnssiim on food and the quality of such. CONSUMERS POWER (American), July 26—Chairman, Gary W. Panknin; Secretary, D. Barber. Crew would like better quality and preparation of meals. More variety. No other complaints. DEL NORTE (Delta), July 2—Chairman, Robert Callahan ,* Secretary, Bill Kaiser. Skip's delegate reported that crew had a good trip last voyage and hope they have the same this trip. $83.65 in ship's fund and 86c in movie fund. It was suggested that every one carry their, last two discbarges while ashore whiclt PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official Union receipt ia 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 should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. The SIU publishes eveiy six months in the SEAFARERS LOG a verbatim copy of its constitution. In addition, copies are available in all Union halls. AH members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time you feel any member or officer is attempting to deprive you of any constitutional right or obli­ gation by any methods such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, then the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. RETIRED SEAFARERS. Old-time SIU members drawing disability-pension bene­ fits have always been encouraged to continue their union activities, including attend­ ance at membership meetings. And Hke all other SIU members at these Union meet­ ings, they are encouraged to take an active role in all rank-and-file functions, in­ cluding service on rank-and-file committees. Because these oldtimers cannot take shipboard employment, the membership has reaffirmed the long-standing Union pol­ icy of allowing them to retain their good standing through the waiving of their dues. EQUAL RIGHTS. AH Seiffarers are guaranteed equal righte in employment and OS 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 Seafarer may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he ia denied the equal rights to which he is entitled, he should notify beadquarten. SEAFARERS FOLITICAL ACTIVITr DONATIONS. One of the basic rights of Seafarers is the right to pursue legislative and political objectives which wUl serve the best interests of themselves, their families and their Union. To achieve these objectives, the Seafarers Political Activity Donation was established. Donations to SPAD are entirely voluntary and constitute the funds through which legislative and political actlrities are conducted for the benefit of the membership and the Union. If at any tlaie a Seafarer feels that any of the above righu have been violated, or that he has been denied his constltntional right of access to Union records or inrornmtion, he shonid immcdiaUiy notify SIU President Fnni HoU at bcadqnartcrs by cortiSed mail, return receipt requested. DO NOT BUY H. I. Siegel "HIS" brand men's clothes (Amalgamated Clothing Workers) YAKA (Waterman), July 81—Chair­ man. A. L. Adams: Secretary, D. Qemeiner. Some disputed OT reported in deck and engine departments. THBITS (Bye Marine), July 81—Chair­ man, Richard V. Ceiling; Secretary, Grover C, Turner. Some disputed OT ported by deck and steward departimcnt delegates. Chief engineer will put locks on air conditioner. Brother L. Gibbon was elected to serve as ship's delegate. TO LABOB; Seafarers and their families are urged to support a consumer boy­ cott by trade unionists against various companies whose products are produced under non-union conditions, or which are "unfair to labor." (This listing carries the name of the AFL-CIO unions in­ volved, and will be amended from time to time.) WINGLESS VICTORY (Consolidated Mariners). July S—Chairnian. M, Casonova : Secretary, I,arry Santa Ana. Ship's delegate reported everything running smoothly. Ship saUed short one man. $1.00 in ship's fund. No beefs reported by department delegates. Discussion had on painting crews messroom pantry and galley. Crew was asked to keep doors to engine room closed at all time, THETIS (Rye Marine August 8 Chairman. Richard V. Gelling; Secretary, Grover C. Turner. No beefs reported by department delegates. Ship's delegate to find out if allotment checks are going home O.K. Also to check on mail. Broth­ er Addrew A. Thompson was elected to serve as new ship's delegate. Laundry room to be locked while in Singapore. imfAIB ^ Sears, Roebuck Company RetaU stores & products (Retail Clerks) <|> Stitzel-Welier Distifferies "Old Fitzgerald," "Old Elk" "Cabin Still," W. L. Weller Bourbon whiskeys (Distillery Workers) J. R. SImpIot Potato Co. Frozen potato products (Grain Millers) — ^ — ^ iJ j KIngsport Press "World Book," "Cluldcraft" (Printing Pressmen) (Typographers, Bookbinders) (Machinists, Stereo'ypers) — Jamestown Sterling Corp. (United Furniture Workers) Empire State Bedding Co. "Sealy Mattresses" (Textile Workers) — — White Furniture Co. (United Furniture Workers of America) Genesco Shoe Mfg. Co. Work Shoes . . . Sentry, Cedar Chest, Statler Men's Shoes . . . Jarman, Johnson & Murphy, Crestwortb, (Boot and Shoe Workers* Union) Dl Giorgio Fruit Corp. S and W Fine Foods Treesweet (National Farm Workers Association) SIGN Lnms,. For obvious reason.s • the'CdG canppt 0^ letters or other eommiuMcations sent by Seafarers unless the author signs his name. If circumstances jusiify, the LOG will withhold a signature on re­ quest. ' �September 2, 1966 SEAFARERS LOG Page Fifteen PORTS ofthe World B UENOS AIRES, the largest, most sophisti­ cated city in South America is a favorite port for Seafarers. This cosmopolitan me­ tropolis with its wide avenues and magnificent plazas is a world show place. Juan de Garay founded Buenos Aires in 1580. He gave the city its present name which, trans­ lated roughly means, "healthy climate" and start­ ed the Argentine beef industry by bringing along thirty head of cattle with him. The city is built on a block plan and the main streets run in parallels down to the port area. Corrientes, the principal avenue, is the glittering, bustling Times Square and Broadway of Buenos Aires. It features the best steakhouses and the largest and most important theaters in the city. World famous artists are common attractions along this thoroughfare. Some of the popular spots frequented by Seafarers are the Jouston Hotel (pronounced Hugh-ston) and the Long Horn Bar and Grill. North of the old docks is the old and charm­ ing quarter of the city called La Boca. This area has been a favorite seaman's haunt for cen­ turies. Riverside Avenue (Costanera) which winds along the riverfront is the site of a popular bathing beach. The Boca district also has its own night­ life attractions. Just off the Avenida 9 de Julio, reputed to be the widest avenue of the world, is the large pub­ lic market called the Mercado del Plata. Nearby the Avenida 9 de Julio is the Plaza Lavalle which has a huge complex of movie houses ahd theaters which hardly ever close. Among the SlU-contracted ships making stops at this delightful port is the Delta line which has a regularly scheduled run to Argentina. The popular American-flag luxury liners of the Delta Line, the Del Norte, Del Mar and Del Sud are frequent visitors to Buenos Aires. Heavy overcoats on Lavalle Street stroll­ ers reveal that when it is summer in the United States it is winter in Argentina. Florida Street is closed to traffic during the afternoon and it becomes filled with portenos (the people of Buenos Aires) who shop and walk about during lunch hour. Among the many SlU-contracted vessels that are frequent visitors to Buenos Aires is the Delta Lines lux­ ury passenger ship Del Sud. The 10,373 gross ton, 467-foot long cruise liner is shown about to leave the port of New Orleans with flags flying on its traditional passenger run down to Buenos Aires. 1 The tall, white obelisk commemorating the anniver­ sary of the city's founding stands high above the traffic on a congested part of the Corrientes. Buenos Aires, a favorite city for Seafarers is a sprawling, bustling and very active seaport. The waterfront area, perhaps the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, is often so crowded that deep-sea merchant vessels haye to tie up side by side because there is no room for them at the crowded quays. �Vol. XXViii NO. 18 SEAFARERS«U>G OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION . ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS DISTRICT . AFL-CIO DARI-ING of REACTIQil •4/ VER since theif ^erwhelming defeat in the^ 1964 presidential- election the reactionary, right wing forces have been casting about for a Hollywood-type leading man around whom they could renew their efforts to turn back the clock in the United States. They think they have come up with" the right man for the role in the person of Ronald Reagan—ex-motion picture and T.V. actor turned politician and representative of big business. He is running for Governor of Califor­ nia on the Republican ticket. He has taken the V place of Barry Goldwater as the golden sword^ fbearer of the Right Wing. • Although he has abandoned—^temporarily, at least—the silver screen, Reagan now mouths what is probably the worst script of his career— the credo of the Right Wing. His slogans are anti-labor, anti-union, anti-medicare, anti-social security, anti-unemployment insurance. He is against low cost housing, against aid to education, against unionization of farm workers and against the war on poverty. He is wholeheartedly for Taft-Hartley Section 14B, "right-to-work" laws and the open shop. Reagan has not forgotten the skills of the a^tor, however. With an eye toward pulling the wool over the eyes of the vast majority of California voters he has suddenly adopted the role of a "mod­ erate" Republican. His extreme right wng state­ ments have been temporarily laid aside, or at least toned down considerably. His contempt for the poor, the sick, the aged, the unemployed and the uneducated is not so evident as before. His opposition to the organized labor movement and all it stands for is not so loudly proclaimed. Reagan's true beliefs are on record, however, and dog his political footsteps. He has repeated them loudly and often—^first when he toured the country on the payroll of the General Electric Cdmpany and later on behalf of the Presidential candidacy of Barry Goldwatef With minor vari­ ations he has delivered and had reprinted the same speech, so many tintes that it has become known as"The Speech." He has repeated it so often that it must be considered to represent his ttu6 philosophy, no matter what tuhe he sings now out of political expediency. , .^^t is Reagan's 'philosophy?" Even a quick i^reading of the Speech shows that ff represents no real thou^t at all, but is simply a catalogue of petty spites apd beefs tied together hy ^.thread of people. It is simply a blind attack on the federal government's efforts to improve the quality of American life and the security of the American people. It offers no alternatives to the programs it berates and behttles. It offers po cures whatso­ ever for existing social problems, and refuses to even admit that any real problems exist. EAGAN'S absolute contempt for the poor shows clearly in his attack on the antipoyerty program. "We were told four years ago," he says in The Speech, "that 17 million people went to bed hvmgry every night. Well, Aat was probably true. They were all on a diet." Addressing a Republican dinner in California, Reagan attacked unemployment insurance. "Un­ employment insurance," he »iid, "is a prepaid vacation plan fm freeloaders." A Reagan attack on labor was reported in the Los Angeles Times. "I favmr Section 14(b) of the Taft-Hartley Act, permitting states to outlaw the union shop," the actmr s^. He attacked civil rights in a San Francisco ad­ dress on October 20, 1965, saying, "I would have voted against the avil Ri^ Act of, 1964." He attacked medicare in a Sacramento, Cali­ fornia, address on August 3, 1965. ". . . the doctors' fight against socialized medicine (medi­ care) is our figU," he said. The catalogue is endless. He blasted urban renewal programs in another speech. "MeanwhUe," he told his listeners, "hack in the ctty (he had previously been attackhig the farm program), under urban renewal, the assault on freedom carries on. (It is) a program thid takes fnnn the needy and pves to tfhe greedy,..." Ripping a leaf directly from the right wing extremist handbook, he hints in another address that the progressive income tax is communistinspired. "We have," he decided, "received this progressive tax from Karl Mara who designed it as the prime essential of a socialist state." R EAGAN has attacked TVA, the income tax, foreign aid, the United Nations, housing, civil rights laws, aid to ^ucatioh, Social Security, farm programs, the gold drain, unbal'r anced budgets, federal programs generally ^ "The R .iy•' t.'ViTi,':!». - h advance of socialism," unenq)loyment insurance, labor medicare, the Supreme Court, urban renewal, anti-poverty measures, and much more. His "arguments" and "statistics" more often than not have been mere echoes of the wild claitns and charges made by various right wing extr^st groups. In ur^g reactionaries to bombard Con­ gress with mail supporting right wing causes, he cites statistics taken directly from the Blue Book of the John Birch Society. In attacking social security he cites "statistics" quoted by John Rousselot, former California congressman and admitted Bircher. Other arguments he uses come either directly or indirectly from such extreme rightist groups as those of Gerald L. K. Smith, Fred Schwarz, Rev. Billy James Hargis and others. Attacking and ridiculing programs is easy, how­ ever. The test of a leader or even a potential leader's worth is his constructive suggestions, ^at does he suggest to eliminate Or alleviate existing problems. What does he propose to replace an existing program which he deems objectionable, but which is so important to the welfare of the American people? || N the basis of this test, Reagan has proven himself not worthy of a single vote. There is nothing constructive in any of his state- j ments. He would knock down what already exists without being able to build anything to replace it, The political aspirations of Barry Goldwater and Richard Nixon came to grief for this very reason, and rightly so. A leader must know where he is going. He must plan for the future to cope with the changing ne^s of the people. Reagan and his fellow conservatives seem to know only the past, and lacking imagination and ability they wish only to return to the long outdated and in-^ adequate solutions of the past. His new political makeup men are hard at work trying to make the conservative, right wing Reagan look like a new man-r-a clear-thinking moderate, with plans for a better future for all Americans. But Reagan was never a character actmr and the new part he plays does not suit him. He rehiains what he is—an extreme right winger, devmd ot constnictive ideas and fiUed wth contempJt for tte American peoplo j^ O .;;AmeriM'• • -1 •f '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 1960-1969 Description An account of the resource Volumes XXII-XXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource September 2, 1966 Description An account of the resource Headlines: AFL-CIO EXEC. COUNCIL STRESSES NEED FOR ECONOMIC BALANCE IN NATION HOUSE VOTES TO KEEP MARAD OUT OF NEW TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT VIET CONG MINE RIPS SIU PACIFIC DIST. SHIP; 7 DIE GROWING SHIP SHORTAGE ENDANGERS U.S. SECURITY, CONGRESSMAN WARNS SOVIETS AGREE TO HONOR TWELVE-MILE U.S. FISHING ZONE ALONG WEST COAST MEANY ASKS ADMINISTRATION TO HALT INTEREST RATE RISE NOWHERE TO GO BUT UNION – THE DESPERATE FIGHT OF AMERICAN FARM WORKERS TO GAIN DECENT CONDITIONS ROBIN GOODFELLOW IN PORT PORT O’CALL MYSTERY MAID’S NAME PROMOTES STRONG SEAFARER DEBATES MORE DANGERS ON LAND THAN SEA, SEAFARER DISCOVERS IN VIETNAM PORTS OF THE WORLD – BUENOS AIRES TRUE BLUE RONALD DARLING OF REACTION IN “TURN BACK THE CLOCK!” 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 09/02/1966 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. XXVIII, No. 18 1966 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/2a1d3e20aa394c1c230b9451813dedc9.PDF a3eb39619d1463addb8f2772f1b47b1f PDF Text Text CABERSJOQ  OFFICIAL  OBOAN  OF THE ATLANTIC AND  GULF DISTRICT,  SEAFARERS' INTERNATIONAL UNION  OF NORTH  AMERICA  w. ­t'': '^'   '5 r^:  •   VOL.  II  NEW  YORK,  N.  Y.,  FRIDAY,  SEPTEMBER  20,  1940  446  No. 14  SIU  Gets  Increase  to  331  Per  Cent  In  Bonus  for  African  Run  SIU Cannery  Longshoremen Settle Tacoma Workers  Win  Beef with NLRB 6 Weeks'Strike  uTO' RESPECT  ALL  PICKET  LINES!  Aided  by  the  SUP's  refusal  to  handle "hot"  cargo, the ,A.P. of  L.  longshoremen  of  Tacoma,  in  the  A  strike  involving  some  3,500  course  of  strike  action,  forced  a  cannery  workers  attlliatea  witli  the  Seafarers  International  virtual  annulment  of  the  two­ Union  was  terminated  after  six  year  old  NLRB  decision,  giving  weeks  of  struggle  at  Monterey,  Harry  Bridges'  ILWU  jurisdic­ California,  last  week.  The  strik­ tion  over  coastwise  longshore  ers  returned  to  work  victoriously,  woik.  the  agreement  concluding  it  con­ Even  Bridges'  strike­breaking  taining  closed  shop  and  eight­ order  to  the  CIO  longshoremen  hour  day  provisions.  in  Seattle  and  importations  to  Members  of  the  cannery  work­ Puget  Sound  could  not  stem  the  ers  union  slapped  a  picket  line  determination  of  the  A.  P.  of  L.  around  the 12  plants  in  Monterey  dock  wallopers  to  challenge  the  after  the operators  had  refused  to  unfair  decision  handed  down  meet  with  the  union  negotiating  against  them  by  Bridges'  stooges  commitee.  They  kept  their  lines  on  tiie  NLRB.  Intact  and finally  brought  the  After  a  two­weeks'  struggle,  in  employers  to  terms  after  six  the course  of  which  the  men were  weeks  of  militancy.  threatened  with  the  old  bogey  that  they  were  "striking  against  Aided by SIU  SIU  branches  in  various  ports  the  government,"  the  National  showed  their  solidarity  by  giving  liUbor  Relations  Board  conceded  moral  and financial  aid  to  the  the  demand  and  agreed  to  review  strikers,  helping  substantially  to  the  case  and  hold  elections  in  bring  about  the  victory  achieved.  each  port'.  It  has  been  called  to  our  at­ tion  that some  members of  the  union  have  been seen  frequent­ ing  a  barroom  on  West  Street  (New  York)  which  is  being  picketed.  So  as to  avoid  such  a  recur­ rence,  we  wish  to  call  atten­ tion  to  the  Preamble  of  our  Constitution,  whi^h  pledges  every  SIU  member  "To  assist  other  bona fide  labor  organizations  whenever  possible  in  the  attainment  of  their  just  demands."  In  line with  the Constitution,  any  member caught  crossing a  picket line at  this or any  other  struck  barroom  will  be  sub­ ject  to  immediate  disciplinary  action.  Dutch  Seamen  Reform Union  Ranks Here  Arbitrator Admits Union Has the Goods, ButFavon Robin Line in Bum Award NMU  Rank  and  File  to Benefit  by  Increase  Due to SIU Militancy Despite Curran Sabotage  The  SIU  has  been  awarded  an  increase  in  the  bonus for  shipping to  South  and  East  Africa, from  25  per  cent to  per  cent,  by Arbitrator  Aaron  Horvitz  of  the  LabnV  Depart­ ment.  The  award  is  the result  of  a  .strike  pulled  by the Sea­ farers  International  Union  on  the  S.S.  ALGIC,  operated  by  the  Seas  Shipping  Co.  (Robin  Line),  la.st  July.  Although  justifying  most  of  the  union's  arguments  in  presenting  de­ mands,  Arbitrator Horvitz  did  a  somersault  in  arriving  at  a  decision, denying most  of  the demands  made and  only  grant­ ing  the meagre increase  in  bonus pay.  Mr. Horvitz,  to  judge  from  his  own  written decision, acted in  a  peculiarly  "impar­ tial" fashion.  He  argued  for  the  union  and  decided for  the  1^.  company,  VOTE  ON  THE  AMENDMENTS!  NMU  to  Gain  Too  Slim  though  the gain  is, the  NMU  rank  and file  will  un­ doubtedly  benefit  from  the  militancy  of  the  SIU  which  Voting  on  the  amend­ achieved  it.  While  the  SIU  ments  to  the  Constitution  went  so  far  as  to  resort  to  BALTIMORE  Dutch  seamen,  more  than  one  of  the  Seafarers  Interna­ strike  action  to  get  a  higher  thousand  of  whom  hit'  Atlantic  tional  Union,  Atlantic  and  bonus for  trips in the increas­ ports  regularly,  took  steps  this  Gulf  District,  is  now  in  ingly more  dangerous African  week  to  reform  their  union  ranks  waters,  the  Curran leadership  by  constituting  an  organization  progress  at  all  SIU  of  the  NMU  did  not  as  much  Ships  Abuilding  ­  Paddy's  At  It  Again!  with  headquarters  in  New  York.  branches.  The  amendments  as  move  a finger  to  protect,  its  Their  home  union,  the  Dutch  own  membership.  On  the  con­ Seamen and  Draft • • '^ISavalization'  Coming?  Central  Transport'  Workers,  sea­ deal  with  vital  issues  af­ trary,  by  continuing  to  allow  men's  division,  ceased  to function  fecting  the  new  set­up  of  NMU  ships  to  work  at  the , old  BALTIMORE,  Md.,  Sept.  9.—  local  yard  is  stepping  production  when  Hitler  invaded  Holland  last  the union as  brought  about  rate  of  overtime  pay,  Curran  and  Shipping  continued  average  up  in  an  effort  to  catch  up  with  Spring.  Authorization  to  reconsti­ Co.  stymied  the  attempt  of  the  throughout  the  past  week  with  the  San  Francisco  yard,  which  tute  the  organization  here  came  by  the  recent  referendum  SIU  to  get  the  10c  overtime  in­ Dispatcher  Hansen  reporting  117  launched  the  Moremacsun  48  from  leaders  of  the  Dutch  Cen­ which amalgamated the two  crease  from  the  Robin  Line,  tral  Transport  Workers  in  Lon­ shipped  and  126  registered  in  the  days  after  the  keel  was  laid.  which  has  been  obtained  from  don,  where  they  escaped  after  districts.  three  departments.  Jotal  registra­ most  of  the  companies  under  con­ Idle  Ships  their  country  was  overrun.  tion  shows  264  members  are  on  Members  of  the  SIU  in  tract  with  U6.  Mississippi's  DELARGENTINO  the  beach  here,  but  this  number  should  be  ready  for  her  crew  by  George  Thompson,  New  York  good  standing  can  cast  According  to  the  terms  of  the  is  not  excessive  if  the  turnover  the  middle  of  October.  However,  agent  of  the  National  Union  of  award,  this  decision  is  subject  to  maintains  a  hundred  per  week  work  on  the  other  three  passen­ Seamen  of  Great  Britain,  was  in­ their votes at  Branch meet­ termination  by  the  company  or  strumental  in  aiding  the  Dutch­ average.  the union  within  30  days after  be­ ings  every  Monday  night,  ger­cargo  ships  for  the  same  line  Ocean  Dominion  is  rumored  to  has  not  as  yet  begun.  Bull  Line's  men  to  set  up  their  union.  At  a  ing  rendered,  when  negotiations  be  bringing  out  four  more  ships  CLARE  ie  drydocked  here  for  ex­ series  of  meetings  held  on  vari­ or  in  the  union  halls  be­ can  be  reopened  upon five  days'  for  their  West  Indies­Canadian  tensive  repairs,  including  new  ous  Dutch  liners  in  New  York,  tween 12  and  2 P.M.  every  notice.  service,  but  it  will  be  at least  an­ quarters  for  the  crew;  while  the  the  crews  joined  the  branch  day,  when  the  balloting  Union's Argument  other  month  before  these  ships  HELEN  of  the  same  outfit  is  union  and  namqd  J.  P.  "Vande­ When  the  ALGIC  strike  was  could  be  readied,  and  the  pros­ temporarily  idle,  awaiting  the  be­ berg and  J. J.  Vanderville  organ­ committees are on hand for  submitted  to  arbitration,  the  SIU  for  the  United  States.  izers  pects  are that  they  will  be  taken  ginning  of  the # fruit season.  that purpose.  put  forward  as  a  minimum  de­ News and Views  from  the  tied­up fleet  in  the Gulf.  This line  also  expects  to  have  the  first  of  its  new  ships  ready  by  the  end  of  the  year.  Bull  Line  expects  the  BARRE­ ADO  and  MONROE  to  be  ready  about  October  1st.  The  two  old  timers  are  a  little  too  heavy  for  the  coastwise  trade  and  will  probably  go  out  on  charter.  Ships  Abuilding  .V'/­:­ The  Bethlehem  yard  at  Spar­ rows  Point  Is  building  two  more  ways  in  an  attempt  to  catch  up  with  their  back­log  of  ortirrs,  which  now  amounts  to  contracts  for  26  ships. 'It  is  expected  that  the  ai*  Robin  Line  ships  will  cpme from  the yard  in close  order  after  the first  of  the  year,  as  the  . ­­f­ ^  .  Ore Line  has the  MANGORE on  the  Cuban  run  and  the  CUBORE  MLRB  ORDERS 7 RADIO  on  the  40­day  grind  to  Chile.  OFFICERS  REINSTATED  South  Atlantic. skipped  this  port  Delivering  an  indirect  blow  at  with  the  SUNDANCE  and  ended  the  NMU  officialdom,  the  Nation­ the  articles  in  Norfolk.  After  the  al  Labor  Relations  Board  last  overhauling  our  three  musketeers  week  ordered  Moore­McCormack  (Dickey,  Vechio,  and  Deutsch)  to  reinstate  seven  radio  operators  gave  her  the  last  time  she  was  who  were fired  because  they  re­ in,  it's  no  wonder  she  decided  to  tained  their  affiliation  to  the A.F,  give  Baltimore  a  wide  berth.  of  L.  Commercial  Telegraphers  Moderate  Beefs  Union  and  refused  to  join  the  Waterman.'s  CITY  OF  ALMA  CIO's  American  Communications  and  WARRIOR  signed  articles  A s s o c.i a t i o B.  The  company  here  last  week,  with  the  LAFAY­ claimed  that  the  NMU  officiais  ETTE  scheduled  for  this  week.  had  compelled  them  to  discharge  Beefs  were  moderate  during  the  the  radio  men  on  throat  of  a  week  with  all  except  one  being  strike  by  the  other  departments,  justified  squawks. The first  of  the  which  are  controlled  by  the  NMU.  .. {Continued  on  Page  3)  Special  arrangements can  be  made  for  whole  crews  to  cast  their  ballots  at other  hours.  In  such  cases,  the  ship's  delegate  should  notify  the  branch  office  as to  the  exact  time  when  the  crew  wishes  to  vote,  and  the  office  will  see  to  it  that  a  bal­ loting committee  is on  hand  to  conduct  the  poll.  The  SIU  is  YOUR  union.  Its  affairs  are  of  vital  concern  to  YOU.  Study  the  proposed  amend­ ments!  Exercise  your  democratic  rights  as  a  union  member!  Vote  on  the  amendments  at  your  union  hall!  mand  a  war  risk  bonus  of  at  least $1  per  day. In  support  of  its  demand  the  union  argued  that  in  the  Mediterranean  and  North  At­ lantic,  until  the  blockade  area  was fixed  by  the  United  States.,  government,  there  had  been  an  increase  in  war  risk  bonus  from  25  per  cent  to  $30  and  then  $40  per  month,  as  the  dangers  in­ creased,  going  up  as  high  as  100  per  cent.  Since  there  is  now  a  constant  increase  in  war  risk  within  African  waters,  an  in­ crease  in  bonus similar  to that  in  the  Mediterranean  and  North  At­ lantic  area  before  they  wera  closed  to  shipping  was  in  order,  the union  argued.  {Continued  on  Page  Z)  j  • 1  �T H E  SE A  F A  RE41 S '  L OG  PilbllBhed  by  tlie  Seafarers^ Internationtd Union of North America 'dfftliated  with  Pte  American  Federatiam of  Labor  , . ^  HAKBY  LUNJ)EBERG,  Acting President  110  Market Street,  Room  402, San  Francisco, Calif.  Friday, September 20, 1940 MORE ABOUT:  How's About  SIUGets Increase to 33^%  The Hurricane,  /irr Afr^an RuMBomus  Blackie?  In  a  very  sorrowful  blab  prlnb­ (Continued  fmm  Page 1)  INGS,  200  (TWO  HUNDREDI)  ed  in  the  last  issue  of  the  Pilots  Atlimtic  District  In  his  >vTftten  decision. Arbitra­ PER  GENT  HIGHER  THAN  the  "Great  Organizer"  Blackie  KCADQU«RTER8  tor  Horvitz  bears out  this  conten­ THE  RATE QUOTED  AT  THE  Myers  laments  about  all  the  mis­ New York  (Phone:  BOwlIng Green  9­3437)  2 Stcme  Street  BEGINNING  OF  HOSTILI­ haps  that  have  stood  ­In  the ­way  tion  of  the  union.  He  says:  pflANCItES  TIES. .  of  ihis  success  (such  as  on  the  P  Bears  Out  Points  Boston  330  Atlantic  Avenue  and  O).  Says ;he:  Beans  for  Beameu  Proyldcnoe  465 ,Bo.  Main  Street  "In  this  area  (Africa)  there  'Sit  is  not" strange  that  the  SIU  PhOadelphla  a.  6  Nortfh  6ttt  Street  . After  pointing  out  these  tindis­ has  been,  in  the  judgment  of  has  opened  a  new  hall  in  Texas  Baltimore  14  North  Gay  Street  the  arbitrator,  some  slight  in­ puted  facts,  and  after  admitting  City,  to  be  used  as  a  base  of  op­ Norfolk  60  Commercial  Place  crease in  the war  risk over  that  that  cargo  rates ­for  the  same  pe  erations  against  our  imioh.  This,  San  Juab, B^rto  Rico  .B  Coradonga Street  prevailing when  the 25  per  cent  riod  had  jumped  from  1 per  cent  to 2 ­per A7ent._A  100  PER  01 Nf  of  course  (of  course!),  links  pp  pa­ymept  was  established."  HEADiaUARd^ERS  Although  he  restricts  himself  INCREASE­^  this  so­called  arbi­ with  the  "framing ' of  Deuchare,  our  patrolman  In­Texas City,  and  Hew Orleans  i  .809 ChaitrSS  Street  to  saying  that  the  growing  risk  trator  ha.9  the  unmitigated  nei've  also  (and  also!)  accounts  for  the  BRANOHES  was  "slight ' .which  is merely  an  tij.HMy  tliAt,  foi  seainen. '­'the  risk  fact  that  Arthur  Tliomas  opened  Savannah  218  East  Bay  Street  opinion^he  heaps  up  evidence  has  increased  sufficiently  to Justi­ a  ^in­mill  In  Port  Ai­thur.  This  Jsckflonvllle  .......... ...i*...................... .186  Bay  Street  fy  the  33%  per  cent  bonus  al  that  the  danger  for  seamen  is  be­ Tampa  206  South  Franklin  Street  coming  more  and  more  substan­ lowed  by  this  award"  and  NO  est'abllshiPent  is  also  to  be  used  Mobile  55 So. Conception Street  tial  and  real.  To  quote  his  writ­ MORE!  (We  need  hardly add  that  as  a  basis  of  Operations  against  Teyas  City  105  ­  4th  Street  N.  the  company's  FREIGHT  rates  the  union."  ten  decision:  ,  <Sreat  Lakes District  jumped  .66  per  cent  at  the  same  The  links  that  cdnnect  Myers'  ' '  Waiters Mined  HEADQUARTERS  adversity  with  the  SfU  «re  In­ • time!)  is ^  Detroit  .1038  Third  Stieet  "As far  back  as May  18, 1940,  deed  without  limit!  So  the  open­ Apparently  this  "just"  arbitra  A&DR^a AliD GO'RBESPOND^ENCB eONCEBmNO- THIS German  Navy  Headquarters  of­ tor is .of  the opinion  that the lives  ing  of  our  Texas  Gtty  hall  links  PUBLICATION TO: flcially  announced  that  mines  of  seamen  are  worth  less  consid  up  with  an­ alleged  frarne­up  and  had  been  planted  off  the  South  eration  of  risk  than  dead  cargo  the  establishment'  of  some  gin­ "THE  SEAEAREKS' JLOG"  African  coast  to  hinder  British  and  the wooden  hulls of  ships!  mill  in  Port  Arthur!  Why  not  P. O. Box 522, Churdh  St. Annex,  New  Yofk,  N. Y.  shipping  around  the  Cape  of  Before  "magnanimously"  grant­ with  the  recent  explosion  of  the  Good  Hope,  The  New  York  ing  the  23%  ­per  cent  bonus,  the  Hercules  works  in  Ne>  Jersjey  or  Times  of  August  1  stated:  arbitrator ­said  In  his  written  de­ the  Hurricane  sweeping  up  from  'The first  news  that  a  cora­ cision :  the  Gulf?  ­merce  raider  was  loose  in  the  This  "linking"  up  technique  Is  ' Atlmits  Seamen 'a  Right  South  Atlantic  came  in  May  not  new  ­with  Mr.  Myers.  It  is  when  mines were discovered  off  "The right  to  increased  com­ tlie  technique  of  the  "Moscow,  pensation  (for  seamen)  for  in­ Trials"  staged  by  Joe  Stalin,­ to  Cape  Agulhas;  south  east  prom­ creased  risk  must  be  deter­ whom  "Blackie"  owes  liis  alle­ intory  of  South  Africa",  and  an  IS:'  mined  by  factors  such  as  are  giance.  It  is  worked  on  the  to­ authoritative  English  Ministry  set  forth  above,  which  ACTU­ talitarian  principle  enunciated  by  of  Defense.communique states:  'A  mine field  has  been  located  ALLY  DO  INCREASE  THE  Bloody  Joe's  Nazi  partner;  "The  IMMEDIATE  RISK  and  which  bigger  the  baloney,  the  more  at  Cape  Agulhas  etc."  it  should  .Tf  New  York  is  any  indication,  the  poll  on  the  amend­ be  noted  that  Gape  Agulhas  is  indicate  an  increase of  belliger­ chance  it  has  of  going  oyer  ments to  the Constitution  should  bring  out  one of  the largest  the  sea  lane  ­traversed  by  the  ent  activity  in  a  given  area  among  unsuspecting  folk."  The  eventually  leading  to  intense  only  trouble  with  this  blab  Of  votes ever  registered  among the membership  of  the Seafarers  S.S.  ALGIG  after  leaving  Gape­ International Union.  In  one  week's time, the total  of  seamen  town  ­for  ports  of  call  on  the  armed  conflict  and  to  blockade  Myers'  is,  that  the  baloney  is  East  African  coast."  '  edict."  pretty  thin,  and  tliat  as  regards  casting  their  ballots  on  the  amendments  at  the  New  York  By  establishing  this  fact  in  his  himself,  seamen  are  hardly  un­ As  if  that  were  not  enough  to  branch  amounted  to  about  half  of  the  total  vote  cast  in  this  prove the case,  Mr. Horvitz  points  written  argumentation,  Mr.  Horo­ suspecting.  Better  try  again,  branch  on  the  last  referendum,  Avhich  was  conducted  oir  the  out  further:  witz flies  in  the  face  of  his  own  Blackie!  phoney decision  which is given  on  amalgamation  resolution, in  the course, of  eight weeks!  "  War Spreading  the  basis  of  '"some  slight,  in­ This  is  indeed  a  good  showing  to  begin' with.  From  the  "That  there  is  considerable  crease"  in  risk.  The  facts  speak  creases, would  have proved  to Mr.  looks  of  things,  the  same  pace  will  be  kept  up  during  the  belligerent  activity  in  Kenya  for  themselves.  Horvitz  beyond  a  doubt  that  no  Mr. Horvitz  argues  for  the  sea­ concessions  whatsoever were  entire period  of  balloting.  Reports have  not  yet arrived  from  Colony,  northwest  of  Mombasa,  la.st  port  of  call  by  the  Algic  men,  and  DECIDES  in  favor  of  made  by  the  union  to  the  oper­ other  branches  in  respect  to  this,  but  we  feel confident  that  on  theTSast  African  coast,  that  the  shipowners.  ators!  But  to  ask  Mr.  Horvitz  td  in  the  rest  of  the  Atlantic  and  Gulf  ports,  the  .same  interest  Italian  Somaililand,  around  His  award  is a gratuitous  GIFT  be fair  would  be asking  too much.  will  be  shown.  which  Italian  war  activtity  has  to  the  Robin  Line.  For  the  sea­ We  challenge  him  to  produce  a  increased  considerably,  in  re­ men,  it  is  a  RAW  DEAL,  for  single  shred  of  evidence  to  show  It is  a  sign  of  the  growing  maturity  of  the SIU  member­ cent  months,  is  very  close  to  which  he  himself  can find  no  jus­ that  the  SIU  relinquished  any  ship.  It  is  living  evidence  that  the  rank  and  file  of  Uie  or­ Mombasa,  etc."  tification.  <« 11  established  gain  or  any  demand  ganization are  beginning  to understand  the meaning  of  uni(,)n  How  Mr.  Horvitz  can  at  the  made  at  the  time,  to  the  compa­ Raw  Deal  on  Overtime  democracy,  that  they  are  aware  of  their  democratic  rig:hts  same  time  stress  that  war  activ­ nies  from  whom  the  overtime  in­ His  decision  with  regard  to  crease  was  obtained!  as  union  members  and  that  they  intend  to  take  full  advan­ ity  is  INCREASING  COiNSIDER­ ABLY  in  territoiy  VERY  CLOSE  overliiiie  is  no  less  raw. The  SIU  tage of  these  rights.  ^  Unfair  Arbitration  to  ports  where  the  Robin  ships  pointed  out  that  it  had  received  An alert  membership,  on its  toes in  the  exercise of  its du­ call  and  yet speak  of  "some slight  an  Increase  of  lOc  per  hour  in  j  The  arbitrator  admits  that  ths  ties as  well  as its  rights  is indispensible  to a  bona  fide  labor  increase  in  tJie  war  risk"  for  the  Overtime  pay  FROM  NO  LESS  increase  in  overtime  was  ob­ seamen  who  man  them—is  some­ TBAN  FOURTEEN  (14)  OTHER  tained  by  the  SIU  by  "very  fair"  union.  It  is  the  very  essence  of  union  democracy.  COMPANIE,''. What does Mr. Hor­ use  of  collective  bargaining  pro­ If  the  increasing  participation  of  the  members  in  refer­ thing  that  he  himself  could  hot  vitz  say  to that?  Just  this:  :  cedure.  We  can  only  add  that  the  possibly  explain,  it  is  a  piece  of  endum  voting,  in  attendance  at  meetings,  etc.,  has  any  sig­ shameless  jugglery  rarely  seen  "That  by  the  very  fair  and  SIU  failed  to get  the  overtime  in­ proper  use  of  collective  bar­ crease  on  the  Robin  Line  by  Mr.  nificance  at  all, it  signifies that  the  raiik  and file  of  the SIU  in  arbitrators'  decisions.  gaining  procedure,  the  Seafar­ Horvitz's  very  unfair  use  of  AR­ is growing  up  to  the  height  of  its task.  It  is a  token for  the  Shameless Jugglery  ers International  Union In  some  BiTBATION  PROCEDURE.  future.  "With the affairs  of  the union  the concern of  all, wages  How  shameless  this  word  jug­ fourteen  instances  on  the  East  In  acting as  he  did,  the arbitra­ and  conditions  are  bound  to  undergo  constant  improvement.  glery  really  ;s  becomes  even  Coast  was  able  to  get  the over­ tor  has  only  taught  the  union  a  Keep  up  the  good  showing!  Turn  in  every  vote  on  the  more evident  when  h^ says  in  his  time  increase  requested,  is  un­ lesson:  to  be  wary  of  arbitration.  doubtedly  a  matter  of  satisfac­ The  union  will  know in  the future  amendments!  Remember,  this  union  is  your  responsibility!,  decision:  "In  this area  there has  been, in  tion  to  it  and  its  members  who  that  the  best  thing  is  to  continue  the  judgment  of  the  arbitrator,  benefited  thereby.  It  may  to  make  "very  fair  use  of  collec­ some  slight  increase  in  the  war  have  been  obtained' in  exchange  tive  bargaining  procedure" — to  Seafarers'  Log  risk  over  that  prevailing  when  fop other  ooncessiohs. . ."  rely  on  its  own  strength, its  own  the  2j}  per  cent  payment  was  es­ militancy,  its own  action!  (Fiiir  Play by  Union  tablished,  but not suffiCfeht  to  jus­ And  with that, he  denies the de­ tify  ­an  Increase  In  the  bonus"  ?  S.S.  LAFAYETTE  .$10.00  mand  for  the  overtime  increase!  WHILE­^  .  lOscar  Hammar  !  .25  Did  Mr.  Horvitz  ever  bother  to  J}  Skyroeketiug ­ Insurance ­  Rale  find  out  what "cpncessions"  were  „S.S.  COLLED A  19.25  An  account  of  the  sO'CaJXed  Just  a  few 1 paragraphs  further  exchanged?  That  would  only  be  "OMord"  ih,  the  NESacO  arMtra­ .  aR­DONCE  DE. LECiN  oiOO  down  in  his  wrltteh  decision  he  fair. That  would  prove  that  tbere  tion  cdse,  as  well  as  a  dissenting  ­fXS. HASTINGS  3.75  himself  points  out  that  were  none;  that,  as  a  matter  of  opinion  by  Arbitration  Board  ;  H.  KOPRESI  6.15  "It  is  to  be  noted  that'there  fact, the  UNION  received  another  Member  Charles  Ogburn  sharply  ^^.S.  PANAMA CITY  ;.  5.50  has been  an increase in­the last  important  concession  from  the 14  criticising  it,  will  ­be  carried  »»  • few months  in  war risk­  insuf­ companies .in  the  way  of  110  and  the  next  issue  of  the  LQQ.  :  S.S.  MAIDEN  CREEiC  ;  0.50  ­anoe rates for  the Onited'States  $7.50  monthly  increases  in  basic  iH­ .  S.S.  STEEL  TRAVELER  4.00  m e r e h a n t ' Vessels  covering  pay.  In  additiort' to  the  overtime  j  Texas City Branch  (Donators. Unknown)  ..  3.75  south'and  east Afrtcah  ports. . .  inorefise!  Purthermo'r.e,  Mr:  Hor­ I  iBobert  Brown  3.00  MifM  rates­  from  S/te  par  cent­ vlta  w6uld'  haVe  ^outtd  out  that"  S:S.' IB'SRVl­LL'E  4.00  Mo DONALD,  Bdotswalrt  had­  advanced  ­aa­  high''as  two  •   tnese  ­demauds  wefS  oMained  pvti  oOnt  and  ;»re  frem' companies  with  whom  tWe"  ' aboard  8;8.'Raphael  'Semmes  1 "W. Buckman  ........,..  .50  : Mkyi 194b,'pie««e conrrntmlcate  pevi­odnt;:'  BiU dHrPjKiy  fililinerasr«ie­ ^Oseac H}ijnmer  >  v.,:  .  .25  $79;65  at  from­  ­1  lid  I  ­with  Alfreda­Natale, cgre  Sam­ itleftt#!:­  A'  glance' a!t  the 'jactuiS'  I•   Beaal.­'^H^'iBi'dAdway;  N«,V^  "• 'r  J?  i^iTotaL..  ..........$72,65:  OUT  DURING  THE  HEAlS­ • Urge  "A  ommtrifft » * •  hi The Balloting On  The Amendments  Honor Roll NOTICE ATTENTION  I.  'i  �J  r H F  S E A F A R  E R  S '  L O  G  Friday, September  20, 1940  BALIIMORE  W.h at* 8  Doing —  News and Views  Ships Abuiiding - Paddy's At It Again! Seamen and Draft-^Navalizafian* Coming'? SAVMSAH  So  it  should  be  constantly  put  before  the  members  that  on  these  combination  jobs,  the  man  in  the  Sept.  14,  1940.  Sept. 10,  1940.  fireinom  has  more  than  enough  Editor,  Seafarers'  Log  Editor,  Seafarers'  Log  to  do  without  taking  on  a  little  Dear  Sir  and  Brother'.  station  Work  also.  If  the fireroom  Dear  Sir  and  Brother:  '  ^om'the  attitude  aboard  ships  needs  extra  cleaning,  another  This Is in  regard to the  Sunday  'It seethe  to  me  that  the  members  wiper  will  solve  the  problem.  bus  schedule  into  the  Ocean  TEXAS CITY are taking gutte  an interest  in the  'eonstitutional  amendments,  as  I  Brother  Hansen,  who  was  so  • have h  d  more  calls  for  constitu­ badly hurt  a  couple  Of  weeks ago',  tions  In  the  last  two  weeks  than  is  doing  as  well  as  can  b?  ex­ ever  before.  pected.  '  «  *  «  Steamship  Company  terminals.  {Continued  Irom  Page 1)  new  Seas  Shipping  Company  fleet,  the  ROBIN  LOCKSLBY,  will  slide  down  the  ways  on  Sep­ tember  20.  Eeso  tied  up  three  more  at  Solomons  last  week  and  will  start  the  new  ESSO  AL­ BANY  on  her  trials  this  week.  within  the  Draft  age  limits shall  be  required  to  register,  but  that  Bona fide  seamen  being  classed  as  skilled  and  neces.sary  workers  will  undoubtedly  be  exempt  fdr  army  duty.  Members  are  advised  to  get  their  papers  together,  so  they can  show sea  service.  The shortage  of  radio  qperators  has  become  so  acute  that  the  G.overnmeut  may  add  400  more  bows  to the  350  already  in  train­ ing.  Inasmuch  as  the  ships  of  this  company  pay  off  on  Sunday,  and  Port of  Baltimore Prospects  the  members  had  difficulty  in  get.  Merchants  &  Miners  have  sold  ting  down  there,  therefore  we  the  ESSEX  to  a  Panamanian  >K  •  »  negotiated  with  the  city  lor  a  concern.  The  company  will  prob­ Personally  I  think  this  shows  I  sec  by  the  thousand  squares  bus  schedule  on  Sundays  and  ably  sell  a  few  more  before  the  a  very  healthy  interest  in  mat­ ters  regarding  the  oi;ganization.  unrolled  (Pile­it to you)  that  the  holidays  and  have  been  success­ end  of  the year.  '^'Navalization"  Coming?  purge  is  on  again  in  the  NMU.  ful  in  getting  came.  Heretofore,  As  long  as  the  members  will  With  the  navy  letting  contracts  With  the  disbanding  of  .the  Last  year  if  you  were  a  Wob,  out  we  have  not  had  any  bus  service  check  the  constitution  against  you  went.  Now  if  you  know  a  at  all  into  these  terminals  on  the  for  201 ships  the  other  day,  ship­ Western  Union  company  union,  tiie  proposed  amendments as  pub­ yards  throughout  the  country  employes  of  that  telegraph  com­ Wob,  out  you  go. After  all, that is  .above­mentioned  days.  The  bus  lished  in  the  Log  when  it  be­ will  go  into  continuous  opera­ pany  are flocking  into  the  CTU.  right.  If  the  members  start  talk­ company  nOw  agrees *to  run  a  comes  time  for  the  members  to  t'ion.  Work  on  the  naval  vessels  The  Merchant  Marine  will  ing,  they  might  get  an  idea  and  fifteen  minute  schedule,  arriving  vote,  in  whichever  hall  they  may  one  is  all  they  need  to  decide  there  at  7:05  A.M.,  and  the  last  will  alow  down  the  building  of  probably  be  placed  under  the  ju­ be  at,  they  will  be  in  a  position  merchant  vessels,  and  we  look  risdiction  of  the  Interstate  Com­ that  the  SIU  is  the  producing  bus  leaving  the  terminal  at  to  vote  intelligently.  forward  to,  heavy  chartering  of  merce  Commission  shortly.  Union.  1:05  P.M.  *  »  «  ships  in  the  tied­up fleets.  With  Watch  out  for  legislation  aimed  *  «  «  It  is  of  vital  importanoe  that  .watei­­born  commerce  out  of  the  at  "navalization"  of  the.,.  Mer­ Speaking  of  voting,  I once  sat  I  also  see  that  Duke's  suitcase  in  Frisco  alongside  of  a  Brother  has landed  down  here.  According  our  members  use  this  bus  for  the  port  170  per  cent  greater  than  chant  Marine  at  the  beginiling'­nf  who  was  trying  very  hard  to  get  tc the  File­it,  enough  dough  l.s  on  next  four  Sundays  at  least,  as  this time  last  year,  Baltimore  be­ the  next  session  of  Congressr  the floor  in the meeting  one night.  hand  hero,  not  only  to  pay  a  this  service  .was  put  on  for  a  36­ comes  the  number  one  port  for  Port  Facts and  Figures"  He  thought  he  had  something  of  man's  room  rent  but  to  also fi­ day  trial,  and .If  it  Is  not  being  jntercoastal  shipping  in  the  importance  to  say.  The  chairman  nance  an  extended  drunk.  Now,  patronized,  naturally  the  com­ United  States.  Average  attendance  at  this  didn't  see  the  mSn  and  called  the  there  is  drunks  and  drunks,  but  pany  will  discontlnue  same.  branch's  business  meetings  Aver  Paddy's  at  It  Again  Fraternally  yours,  question.  Instead  of  taking  the  an  extended  di'unk  really  takes  NMU  members  representing  the  the  past  three  months  was  'ise.  floor  then  and  there,  he  burnt  up  dough  or  at least  it always  has as  Charles  A.  Waid,  Agent.  phoney  Stalinite  Peace  Committee  Seamen  from  the  Lakes  are  be­ and  said  nothing.  far  as  I  ever  knew.  To  think  of  were  tossed  out  of  the  House  of  ginning  to  trickle  down  thie iway  *  *  «  this  hall  being  able  to finance  Representatives  gallery  in  Wash­ again.  SUP  shipping  out  iOf ^lthis  Since  then  I've  often  wondered  that  kind  of  a  bat  and  me  not' be­ IN THE BALTIMORE port  is  a  little  slow.  The  Seattle  ington  last  week.  how  many  men  that  have  some­ ing  able  to  get  oiled  myself!  (A.F.  of  L.)  longshoremen  are  on  MAIL BAG From  the  Labor  Herald:  "It  strike.  thing  of  importance  to  say  pass  «  «  *  seems  that  Patrick  Whalen,  NMU  up  the  chance  and  hold  their  Conspicuous  by  its  absence  is  A  letter  from  Mrs.  Alexander  agent  or  patrolman  in  a  Florida  The  Coast  Guard  patrol  boats  mouths'  shut  at  the  meetings.  all reference'to  the  P  &  O  in  Flo­ in  Baltimore  harbor  are  there  BUT  aren't  these  same  members  rida  in this  issue  of  the blah  blah.  Moore  thanking  the  organization  port, .Is  doing  a  lot  of  backdoor  for  the  purpose  of  keeping  other  for  the  cooperation  and  courtesy  shipping  for  the  party finks,  on  the  job  who  state  they  are  What  Is  wrong  with  the  Tampa  extended  the  family  of  Brother  while  regular  NMU  members  on  ships  away  from  vessels  loading  "agin" it?  typewriter?  Or  Is  he  now  busy  Wm.  J.  Ray  wlio  died  recently.  the  beach  are  passed  up."  Evi­ ammunition.  Wliat  is  it  the  navy  «  «  «  .  is  going  to  transport  in  all  these  on  organizing something  easy  like  dently  the  Florida  sunshine  has  •   • •     I've  already  met  members  who  the  Waterman  ships?  transports  they've  been  buying  not  changed  Paddy  a  great  deal.  state  they  didn't  vote  on  the  •  •  •   lately?  A  letter  from  a  M.  C.  &  S.  41  4:  4!  amalgamation.  HOW  ABOUT  Another  instance  of  solidarity  member  asking  the  branch  to col­ A  lot  of  work  is  promised  for  ALL  HANDS  VOTIiNG  ON  THE  is  in  the  West  Coast  Sailor,  Aug.  lect  some  overtime  for  him.  (Do  Ten  submarines  will  be  built  American  ships  carrying  maferial  AMENDMENTS?  After  all, these  30th  issue,  on  the  S.S.  Noyo.  we  have  to  collect  overtime  for  in  Wisconsin  for  the  navy.  to  the  new  United  States  bases  few  Brothers  that  raise  all  the  Seems  the.se  so­called  Marine  the  CIO  too?)  Seamen  and  the  Draft  from  Newfoundland  to  Trinidad.  hell  about  being  agin'  this  and  unions  all  want  the  chestnuts  Agent  Elkins  who  has  been  Deepening  of  the  St.  Lawrence  in that and  the  other  should  be  able  pulled  out  of  the fire  and  then  keeping  in  touch  with  Washing­ waterway  will  he  begun  next  to  find  time  to  get  to  a  hall  and  seasoned  before  they  are  inter­ A  letter  fi­om  the  "Peace  Mo­ ton  on  the  effect  of  the  Draft  on  year.  register  their  vote  once  in  a  ested.  On  the  coast  it's  the  .Sail­ bilization  Committee"  asking  for  seamen  reports  that'  all  seamen  W.  H.  Elkins,  Agent.  while.  ors  and  Firemen.  Here  it's  the  assistance.  (Nothing  doing.  We'i­e  «  »  «  SIU  which  goes  out  and  gets  the  against  the  Draft  as  a  matter  of  The  squawk  of  the  week;  why,  conditions,  etc.  Then  the  vultures  Union  principle,  but  not  to  lielp  oh  why,  do  some  members  get  to  swoop  down  for  the  pay­off.  the  Commies  can­y  out  their  or­ a  port  like  Corpus  Christi  and  «  *  *  ders  from  Moscow.)  Conscription  Bill  Passes; ^ All  Seamen Will Have  to  Register  suddenly decide that  only militant  Oh  well,  I  guess  the  donkey  Hi  4:  «  action  will  do?  that  said  a  man  can  escape  from  «  4!  «  A  letter  from  a  permit  boy  say­ everything but  his conscience  had  During  the  week  a  .ship  pulled  something  on  the  ball  after  all.  ing  he  has  gone  home  on  vaca­ The  Biu'kc­Wadsworth  Conscription  Bill  lias  been  passed  tion  and  we  should  notify  him  of  by  both  Houses  of  Congress  and  signed  by  the  President.'  It'  into  Corpus  and  loaded  barreled  Fraternally  yours,  all  the  jobs  that  come  up.  (Sure  gasoline.  The  crew  wanted  to  A.  W. Armstrong,  No. 136.  is now  law!  take  action  to  force  the  raising  of  the  bonus.  They  called  me  twice  and  I  was  forced  to  read  the  resolution  regarding  individ­ ual  action  to  these  members,  v  «  «  9^  we  will—not.)  Men  from  21  to­35  of  age,  inclusive,  are  made  liable  to  draft  by  this law, whjch  goes into effect  at  once.  A  letter  from  a  brother  on  the  beach  at  San  Juan  requesting  a  Begins October  16  ^  ister  in  the  precinct  in  which  he  small  loan  of  fifty  bucks.  (Why  Registration  for  the  draft  will  lives.  not  make  it  a  hundred  bucks?)  It  seems  rather  strange  that  Inquiries  as  to  what  citizens  begin  on  October  16.  While  there  *  *  4e  every  ship  that  comes  in  there  now  living  beyond  the confines  of  are,  under  the  law,  certain  defi­ and  sails  from  there  to  the  Far  A  letter  from  a  member  sug­ the  United  States  must  do  have  East  has  a  last­minute  beef  over  gesting  that'  we  have  a  special  nite  categories  of  men  (married  resulted  in  a  ruling  that  such  in­ something  like  this.  Do  you  think  The  crew  of  the  American­ place  in  new  union  books  for  with  dependents,  etc.)  who  are  dividuals  are  to  present  them­ something  smells?  I  do!  Hawaiian  Line's  S.S.  Oklahoman  social  security  numbers,  etc.  exempt  from  the  draft  itself,  selves  to  the  registration  authori­ was  paid  off  last  Thursday  in  (Might  be  a  good  idea.)  Frat'ernally  yours,  there are  no  exemptions from  reg­ ties  five  days  after  their  return,  New  York.  The  SUP,  whldh  has  at  the  outside.  Men  away  from  A.  W.  Arthstrong, No.  136.  4t 4i * istration.  that  line  under  contract,  protest­ their  home  precincts are  required  All  Must  Register  A  letter  from  the  Tin  Deco  Sept. 7,  1940.  ed  against'  this  procedure.  Pay­off  to  appear  at  the  nearest  registra­ prfeviously  had  beeii  on  the  West  Company  strikers,  thanking  us  It is  not  as  yet  clear  what  cate­ tion  office,  which  will  send  the  Editor,  Seafarers'  Log  for  our  assistance.  (Don't  men­ gories  of'skilled  seamen,  if  any,  questionnaire filled  out  by  them  Coast.  Dear  Sir  and  Brother:  Suspecting  a  ni'ove  to  switch  to  tion  it;  boys.  Glad  to  help  out  are  to  be  among  those "deferred"  to  the  office  in  their  home  terri­ Falirly  bilsy  week.  Tlihe  Marsa­ East  Coast  jurisdiction,  the  SUP  anytime.)  frbm  military  service.  In  any  tory.  dok  came  in'  with  the  main  beef  4"  4"  4!  case,  to  safeguard  your  interests,  the  actions  of  the  new  Chief fcn­ was  ready  for  action.  Already  the  Penalty for Delinquents  gineer  wanting  to  get  hi^  ship'  ruihor  had  got  around  that  the  A  letter  from  a  member  asking  you.  will  have, to  register  (f  you  After  registration  on  October  ail  polished  up.  He  TVartted  the'  company  was  dickering  • with the  if  the  time  spent  paying  off  and  are  between  the  ages  of  21  and  16,  each  man  registered  will  be  firemen  to  turn  oin  watch  And  do  NMU  to  Ship  a  crew  on  the scow.  signing  on  should  be  overtime,^  35.  If  ^ou  are  to  he  exempt,  the  sent  a  questionnaire  by  mall  to  a  little  cleaning  in  tlie 'flreroom.  Suppol't  of  other  waterfront  (Take  it easy,  boys.  Let's not  run  conscription  board  will  inform  the  address  given  by  hira  at  the  unions  Was  assured  the  SUP  in  you  to  this  effect.  *  «  «  the  overtime  business  into  a  time  of  registration.  This vques.  eloaiB  of  hn ^xtefided  beef  wi'th  the  The  delegate  told  hii/n  due  to  hole.)  Special Provisions  tionnaire  must  be filled  out  and  company.  However,  the  show  Of  the fact  thait it  was  a .Cdmbination  «  41  .«  All  men  in the  a^ category  be­ returned  to  the  Selective  Service  Job,  nb  ntatibn  work"  could fafe  uniort'htrength  hnd'solidarity  was  A  lettei'  from  a  thember  on  a  twjBen  21 and  85  have  been  called  Board  within five  days,  according  donC.  IhfCrrhCd  u|Jon  arrival  thht"  sufflclertt  to  bring the  company , tb  to  the  regulations  announced.  this  was  ciorr'eet,­he  agtibed to'no  terms.  Dn'  Saturday,  offlolals  of  Calrhaf'  ship'  about  soioftething.  Upon  to  fegistbr  on  October  16.  Failure to  comply  with  this pro­ ,Nq .riBglstration bas.been  provided  (All  we'^coifld'  makfe  out  was.  the  ' Ameriean­HaWailfan  LI  i  ­n  ­ 6''  dtatldn  wbrk.  Mb  itib  msftfe'  the  vision, it  is  announced,  will  entail  tor  outside  of  th^t  date,  as  yet.  '"boddam,"  aAd<  Riat's  A.k.  Wtli  ,agried~'i6 cbntiniie ­ttie  oW ptbcfe'­ femWbk  bWlen dh­ On  .that jlay  every  eligible  male  a  penalty  of  $500  and  a five­year'  •  ^  Ookaf  • us.)  ships of the  same type were  doih^  du re  of  pi^yin  ofi! at'  W.  H.  Elkina, Att«nto  tuuier  the requirements  is to  reg­ pri^qji; term or  both.  ports.  this  work.  5.5. Oklahomah  Tied  Up; Beef  5ettled by 5.U.P.  4!  ­  «  4i  ,  Si  �: •' ­ ®SE:'  THE  SEAFARERS'  LOG  ATTENTION!  ALL MEMBERS!  a:­r ­.  ;  hv"  m. ­ i  In  order  to  protect  yourself  it  is  advisable  for  you  to  have  your  membership  book  checked  whenever  possible.  .  Members  holdings  Atlantic  District  books  should  bring  their  books,  whenever  possible,  to  the  New  York  office  when  they  are . in  that  port,  to  have  the  dues  stamped  in  their  books  checked  with  the  dues  stamped  on  their  account  cards  on file.  Members  holding  Gulf  District  books  should  cheek  with the  New  Orleans  office  when  they  are in  that  port,  for  the  same  purpose.  Good Advice to Labor;  Watch  the  Draft Boards,  Senator Warns!  Friday, September 20, 1940  Not a Word on theFandO From Curran's Stooges! Continuing their  well­estab­ direct  comment,  their  impor  lished  policy  of  silence  when  tent  indignation  does  come  the facts  do  not fit  into  their  into  evidence,  however,  in  a  flimsy  pattern  of  lies,  Curran  little blurb  in the last issue  of  and  Co.  remain  discreetly  the  Pile­it.  In  it  they  an­ With  the. Conscription  Bill  en  quiet  about  the  case  of  the  nounce that  a meeting  of  four  acted  into  law  this  week,  Inter  P  and  O.  By  not  as  much  as  NMU ships'  crews met  at far­ esting  comments  were  made  in  a  whisper  have  the  rank  and  off  Havana  (!!)  with  repre­ formed  quarters  on  the  effect  the  file  of  the  NMTI  been  in­ sentatives  of  "maj^or  marine  new  law  will  have  on  the  fate  of  formed  of  what  actually  hap­ unions of Cuba"  (!!) and  con­ labor  in  this  country.  pened on that line.  To tell  the  demned  the  Labor  Board  pol­ Keeping  Up  With  Ourran:  Just  before  the  bill's  passage  straight facts,  the NMU offici­ icy  in  regards to  the P and 0.  In  the  Senate,  Burton  K.  als  would  have  to  admit  a  Furthermore,  that  this  meet­ Wheeler,  Senator  from  Montana,  warned  that  the  Draff  Boards  en­ damaging  defeat  for  them­ ing  recommended  that  the  forcing  the  law  may  use  it  as  a  selves  and  a  distinct  achieve­ P and 0 situation be taken  up  club  over  the  head  of  labor;  aboard  ship.s  as  a  "national  ment for  the SIIJ.  A showdown  between the  Communist  Party forces, led  by  issue."  All  such  "spontan­ Used  as Club  Ba!oney  Won't  Work  *'No  Coffee  Time"  Curran  as figure­head, and  the followers  "Let  no  laboring  man  In  the  They can  afford to  continue  eous"  actions  being  usually  of  Sidney Hillman,  CIO vice­president and  head of  the Amal­ country  fool  himself  as  to  what  slicing  out  the  baloney  about  cooked  up  by  Curran  liead­ gamated  Clothing Workers, is due at the State Convention  of  the  real  purpose  of  this  legisla­ the tanker elections because it  qnarters,  this  is  undoubtedly  the Congress of  Industrial Organizations, being held over  this  tion  is  and  what  the  result  will  is  hard for their  rank and file  in  line  with  official  policy.  be,"  Whdeler  said.  'vreekend  at Rochester,  New  York.  Only  Foam  and  Froth  ­'It  will  result  in  a  club  being  to  check  on  the  facts,  their  Resolution  on  Russia  held  over  the laboring  men  of  the  only  opponent  on  the  tankers  We  wonder  just  what  these  Upon  instructions  from  the  N.  discredit  on  the  Soviet  Union, are  country  in  every  industrial  cen­ being ­ the  phoney  company  gents  mean  by  making  the  y.  Joint  Council  of  the  United  content  to  have  the  whole  matter  ter."  unions.  P  and  O  case  a  "national  is­ Retail  and  Wholesale  Employes  slurred  over  in  a  general  resolu­ Union,  adherents  of  Hillman,  a  tion  against  dictatorships  with­ To  Intimidate  Labor  But  they  can't  say  boo  sue."  Are  they  intending  a  resolution  will  be  introduced  at  out  mentioning  names.  Confusion  "This  legislation,"  Wheeler  about  the P and 0 agreement,  "pressure"  campaign  on  the  the  convention  condemning  "Dic­ worse  confounded  is  preferable  continued,  "will  mean  for  the  la­ because the SIU is  right there  NLRB t  Are  they  foolish  tator  Stalin's  Russia,"  as  well  as  to  them  in  this  connection  than  boring  people  that  if  they  do  not  the  Nazi,  Fascist  and  Japanese  a  clear  statement  of  the  case.  do  as  they  are  told  to  do,  they  with  the  facts.  And  the  facts  enough  to  believe  that  even  Anything  to  prevent  a  condemna­ may  be  drafted  info  the  army."  prove  that  the  company  did  C.  P.  stooges  on  that  board  dictatorships.  Another  crucial  issue  before  tion  of  the  betrayal  of  the  work­ In  other  words,  play  ball  with  its  darndest  —  maneuvers,  could reverse  a decision  which ^  the  convention  will  be  the  en.  ers  by  the  Kremlin  cliQue!  That  the  employers  or  over  the  top  strike­breaking, goons  and all  was  brought  about  by  the ac­ dorsement  of  a  Third  Term  for  is  a  standing  policy—never  sub­ you  go.  —to  prevent  the  unionization  tive  participation  of  90  per  President  Roosevelt.  The  Curran  ject  to  change.  of  its fleet;  that  the  NMU  cent of  the men  that sail these  Who Will  Run Boards?  faction  is  also  expected  to  Intro­ C. P.  "Pacifism"  duce  a  resolution  condemning  "Much  is  said," Senator  Wheel­ leadership  did  its  worst  to  ships?  Or  is  the "national  is­ eort,scription.  It  is  expected  that  On  conscription,  "pacifism"  is  er  went  on,  "about  the  whole  gum up  the works for the SlU  sue"  just  a  matter  of  high­ on  all  these  issues,  "No  Coffee  the  vegetable  in  season  among  matter  being  conducted  by  local  and  that,  in  spite  of  all  this,  powered  "explaining"  to  the  Time"  and  Joe  Stalin's  boys  will  the  Stalinite  politicians  at  pres­ authorities. But  who  will  compose  the  SIU  came  off  with flying  increasingly  restless rank  and  try  to  hide  behind  the  bushy  ent.  Before  the  war  and  the  con­ the  local  boards  in  many  com­ colors  on  the  P  and  0:  a  file?  brows  of  CIO  head  John  L.  clusion  of  the  Stalin­Hitler  pact,  munities,  in  industrial  centers,  Lewis,  who  has  a  few  irons  of  they  were  beating  the  patriotic  which  will  have  in  charge  the  closed  shop  agreement,  in­ More  likely  than  not,  the  his  own  in  the fire  directed  drums  and  practically  ready  to  matter  of  selective  service?  crease  in  overtime,  payment  latter  is  probably  the  case.  against  Hillman  and  Roosevelt.  act  as  recruiting  sergeants.  Now,  "I  can  name  community  after  of  back  wages  for  time  lost.  It  looks  as  if  the  NMU­ with  the  war  going  at  full  blast  community  in  which  ^uch  a  club  "The  Party  Line"  "leaders" are  just  helpless to  Impotent  Indignation  The  current  formula  of  the  and  threatening  to  engulf  the  was  held  over  workingmen  dur­ Stalinites  for  the  "solution"  of  whole  globe,  the  best  advice  they  ing  the  last  war,"  the  Senator  While  they  withhold  the  do  any  more  than  foam  and  facts  themselves  and  even  in­ froth.  these  issues—as  evidenced  by  can  give  labor  is  to  remain  dis­ said  among  other  things.  their  maneuvers  at  the  CIO  auto  armed,  while  everybody  is  arm­ Wall Street Comment  and  electrical  workers  conven  ing.  Strange  behavior—but  easi­ tions  recently—seems  to  be  as  ly  understandable  on  the  part  of  Tending  to  corroborate  the  follows;  On  Roosevelt—propose  people  whose first  allegiance  is to  opinions  expressed  by  Senator  99  that  the  whole  matter  be  left  in  the  bureaucratic  gang  in  Moscow.  Wheeler  and  to  expand  further  on  possible  aims,  a  circular  is­ the  hands  of  a  committee  com­ sued  among financial  men  by  the  Reaffiliation to A.F.L.  posed  of  Philip  Murray  (pro­ Wall  Street  brokerage  house  of  After  concluding a  highly  "sue  Roosevelt)  and  Lewis  (anti­ It  is  still  hard  to  say  whether  Shields  and  Co.  (for  strictly  cessful"  (uproarioufi  for  the  spec  Roosevelt) :  on  Russia—propose  the  Hillman  faction—which  en­ This  week  the  New  York  pa­ a  • "general" resolution  condemn­ dorses  the  Roosevelt  administra­ limited  consumption  among  the  tators)  baseball  season,  the  crew  pers  carried  one  of  those  weird  ing  dictatorships  as  a  "compro­ tion  practically  without  criticism  big  shots)  has  the  following  to  of  the  S.S.  Seatraln  Texas  de  stories  concerning  a  Get­Rich­ mise";  on  conscription—where  and  without  any  reservations  in  say:  cided  that  the  gear  they  had  Quick  scheme,  which  makes  the  "While  most  of  the  legisla­ there  is  genuine sentiment  in  the  regard  to  current  policies  hitting  headlines  with  great  regularity.  ranks, a  blanket  condemnation  of  labor—or  the C.  P.­Curran  faction  tors  in  Washington  voting  for  bought  for  this  purpose  could  be  Only  this  time  it  concerns  sea­ iihlversal  military  training  as  will  carry  the  day  at  Rochester.  conscription  are  doing  so  as  a  used  to  better  advantage  by  the  men.  fench with  a  possible  compromise  In  any  case,  you  can  depend  on  measure  of  defense,  those  who  younger  generation  after  all.  Ac­ It  seems  that  two  slick  gents  Burke­wads­1 Curran  to  carry  out  the  "party  were  most  instrumentai in  writ­ cordinHy  they  requested  Assis­ by  the  name  of  Mivllle  (alias  ­WOi­th  Bill.  line"  to  a  "t."  A  split  has  been  ing  the  first  Burke­AVadsworth  tant  Secretary­Treasurer  Scotty  Patton)  and  Rooke  (that  feller  sailed  under  his  own,  unusually  "Subject to Change"  predicted  in  case  the  Curran  for­ Bill  go  further,  it  is  their  feel­ •   The  proposal  on  Roosevelt  is  ces  come  otit  on  top.  In  that  ing that universai  military serv­ Thompson  of  New  York  to  donate  appropriate  monicker)  rooked  Intended  to  block  Hillman's  case,  reliable  sources  say.  Hill­ ice  will  give  the  country  the  it  to  a  local  charity  institution  seamen  In  this  port  to  the  moves in  favor  of  the  current  ad­ man  may  move  toward , reaflllia­ needed discipline,  character  Scotty  obliged  by  handing  the  tune  of  $6,000  with  a  phoney  and  conservatism.  ifilnlstration  with  Lewis' backing,  tion  with  the  A.  P.  of  L.  baseball  paraphernalia  over  to  scheme  to  launch  an  outfit  "They  see  in  conscription  an  to  be  known  as  "Atlantic  and  SO  as  to  enable  C.  P.  stooges  to  St.  Peter  and  Paul's  Church,  404  Mediterranean  offset to subversive  ideas. When  Steamship  Lines,  conttnue  to  act  under  the  cloak  talked  with,  they  admit  that  a  Hudson  Street,  Hoboken.  The  Ltd,"  After  months  of  fancy fig­ • of  the  official  CIO.  In  1936  Cur­ Sun Yards  to Get  Ocean  large  standing  army  is  a  prime  Rev,  Father  Brach  of  that  Instl­ ure  skating  (they  wpre  supposed  xan  and  Co.  carried  out  the "par­ Dominion Contract  step  from  conscription  of  sol­ tution  received  it  in  the  name  of  to  have  obtained  a  loan  of  $12,­ ty  line"  of  that  time  arid  sup­ t>orted  P.  D.  R.  for  reelection.  It  The  Sun  Shipping and  Drydock  diers  to  drafting  of  industry  the  boys'  club  of  the  church  and  500,000  in  London  and  endorse­ Is  not  a  matter  of  being  for  in­ Co.  of  Chester,  Pa.,  was  low  bid  and  labor.  They  stress  that  expressed  his  warmest  thanks  to  ments  from  former  Prime  Minis­ ter  Neville  Chamberlain),  the  dependent  political  action  by  la­ der  on  three  C­2  vessels,  to  be  even  should  the  war  end  sud­ the  crew.  District  Attorney's  ofllce finally  tor  in  principle,  as  against  both,  built  foe  the  Ocean  Dominion  denly,  the  need  of  a  large  con­ P. S.­—An  account  of  the Texas'  • old  parties.  The  present  "party  Steamship  Co.  and  will  probably  script  army  would  not  be  les­ boys  baseball  prowess  was  include  caught  up  with  them.  line,"  requiring  opposition  to  the  get  the  job.  The  vessels  are  de,  sened,  for  subsequent  hard  ed  in  a  report  from  Texas  City,  But  before  the wind­up,  the  two  imperialist  politicians  of  the  so­ signed  to  carry  bauxite  for  the  times  would  bring  unrest  that  sent  in  to  the  last  issue  of  the  gents  were able  to collect  a lot  of  hard­earned  dough  from  quite  a  • tailed  democracies,  while  soft­ ­Aluminum  Co.  of  America  and  would  'have  to  be  controlled'."  Loff.  number  of  Innocents.  The  latter  pedaling  on  the  imperialist  poli­ will  be  operated  from  Atlantic  had  been  "rapidly"  promoted  ticians  of  Nazi  Germany  with  and  Gulf  ports  to  the  Carribean.  Labor Must  Be On  Guard  There  is  no doubt  that In  these  and  their  gains.  But  from  the  upon  coming  across  with  their  • whom Stalin  has  a  mutual  assis­ comments  there  is  just  an  ink­ above  comments  hailing  from  contributions  to  the  phoney  tance  pact,  imposes  the  current  ling  of  what  the  employing  class  Wall  Street,  It  is  clear  that  a  scheme.  Some  had  been  named  ­anti­Roosevelt  policy  on  C.  P.  of  the  country,  with  headquar­ Fascist  or  Hitlerite  threat  to  the  )ort  captains,  other  port  engi­ ­dominated  unions.  It  is  "subject  ters in  Wall  Street,  intends  to  do  free  existence  of  labor  can  come  neers—one,  even  port  admiral!  to  change  without  notice."  B.  FBAHCESCHI  to  utilize  the  new  military  legis­ from  within  as  much  as  from  The moral  of  this story  for sea­ A "Standing" Policy  Died in  lHarlem  Hospital, N.  Y.  lation  for  anti­labor  ends.  abroad.  men  is:  Don't  be  suckers!  Don't  ^0' Regarding  Russia,  the  C.  P.  fol­ September  12,  1940  Universal  military  service  is  Labor  will  have  to  be  on  Its  Invest  In  phoney  scpemes!  For  lowers  in  the  unions,  knowing  here.  There  is  no  question,  that  toes  to  see  that  the  Draft  Law  security—­join  a  bona fide  sea­ "that  the  rank  and file  will  never  the  working stiffs  of  this country  Is  not  turned  against  its  own  in­ man's  union;  the  Seafarers  Inter­ WILLIAM  H.  TYLER  • endorse an  outright  approval  of  will  have  to  and  should  equip  terests  and  to  utilize  universal  national  Union,  an  organization  Drowned  at  Sea —S.S. CoMeda  tStalin  and  Co.,  whose  • whole  tliemselves  with  the  military  military  training  for  the  defense  of  the  seamen  and  for  the  sea­ September  10,  1940  • tourse has  seryed  only  to  heap  training  to  defend  themselves  of  the  common  people.  men.  Showdown Between C.P.& Hillman  Conning at State CJ.O. Meet  By:.:  I"­ '• '  'iir,  I i­:^­ •'  ;•  r  0 0,1 •  • • • 'V I  Texas  Crew  Gives  Baseball  Gear  to  Kids  In  Memoriam  I  r  • • '•• '   i* • 'M'::;''.;'­'  •  l!v:  '^There's 1 Bom Every Minute — Bamum � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. 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Title A name given to the resource September 20, 1940 Description An account of the resource Headlines: SIU GETS INCREASE TO 33 1/3 PER CENT IN BONUS FOR AFRICAN RUN SIU CANNERY WORKERS WIN 6 WEEKS' STRIKE LONGSHOREMEN SETTLE TACOMA BEEF WITH NLRB RESPECT ALL PICKET LINES DUTCH SEAMEN REFORM UNION RANKS HERE VOTE ON THE AMENDMENTS NLRB ORDERS 7 RADIO OFFICERS REINSTATED HOW ABOUT THE HURRICANE, BLACKIE? THE BALLOTING ON THE AMENDMENTS S.S. OKLAHOMAN TIED UP; BEEF SETTLED BY S.U.P CONSCRIPTION BILL PASSES; ALL SEAMEN WILL HAVE TO REGISTER Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 9/20/1940 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. II, No. 14 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1940 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/a0356a27467701f9b43566d83ba57a10.PDF eda6b225e6151dacb0927e9caa80cc68 PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf District, Seafarers International Union of North America Vol. VIII. NEW YORK. N. Y.. FRIDAY. SEPTEMBER 20. 1946 No. 38 General Strike Wins Gompiete Victory; NMU Asks Pay Rise To Seafarers Levels Asks For Wage Increases That The Seafarers Gained By Fighting On Picketline NEW YORK—On the heels of the SIU-SUP victory over bureaucracy, came the echo from the National Mari­ time Union, CIO, which said: "Me, too." This echo is nothing new to the Seafarers. And the fact that the NMU waited until the SIU had won a terrific battle before re­ THIS ISSUE Because the Teamsters' strike did not end soon enough, the LOG this week has only 12 pages. As a con­ sequence. many features and articles were left out to make room for the all important stories on the general strike action. Three full pages of pictures about the action appear on pages 6, 7. and 12. SIU Action Forces Steelman To Reverse Bureaucratic Denial Of Seafarers Scales NEW YORK—With the announcement by John R;. Steelman, Director of Stabilization, that the Wage Stab­ ilization Board's decision, denying negotiated wage gains to the SIU-SUP, had been reversed, the greatest maritime strike in American history came to an end. ^ For a period of ten days not a questing higher pay, is what* ship moved or was worked in members of the SIU have come any port, on any coast, of the to expect. For quite some time United States. The action took now the NMU has been forced to on an international aspect when take second place in all action on foreign seamen refused to work the waterfront designed to better their ships in our ports, and when the lot of the working seamen. foreign stevedores went on rec­ This case is no exception. ord not to unload any cargo load­ As soon as the general strike Although seamen are now able duration of benefits, that is, certain waiting period. In most against the decision by the Wage granted unemployment benefits the individual worker's total ben­ States the waiting period is one ed in United States ports during Stabilization Board, which flag- in various states, this should not efit year depend on wages earned week in each benefit year, and is the strike. When the strike finally was 1-antly stole part of the wage in­ be taken as complete victory. A in the base period with a maxi­ the same for maritime workers as crease from SIU-SUP seamen, great deal of change must be in­ mum set by law. The following for those in shore industries. In brought to an end by the com­ was announced, the NMU was corporated into the existing maximums are fixed by this type New Jersey and Pennsylvania a plete capitulation of the Admin­ special waiting period of two istration, an estimated half mil­ quick to state that they would framework of the law if seamen of law: honor AFL picketlines and do all are to be accorded the same type following lion waterfront workers had al­ The maximum claimant can weeks immediately each period of employment under ready left their jobs, and more in their power to bring our strike of treatment as other workers. draw is: to a successful and speedy con­ The fight for an equitable Un­ Alabama—the lesser of 20 times shipping articles is required for were joining the action each day. VICTORY SURE clusion. employment Compensation Law the weekly benefit amount or maritime workers. The waiting periods for seamen in the States It was obvious from the time But actually, there was little must go on, but it is heartening 1/3 of wages earned in the base which have entered the Inter­ the walkout first started that else they could do. They were to American seamen to realize period. state Maritime Arrangement only a reversal of the WSB rul­ smart enough to realize that once that their efforts so far have met California—based oh schedule of therefore are: ing would bring to an end the the SIU had forced the Govern­ with a small measure of success. base period wages; maximum strike that had served to com­ Alabama—one week. This continues the article on ment to reverse the WSB rulingj ranges from $160 to $468 in a pletely paralyze all shipping and the NMU would also gain. Sec­ the present laws relating to un­ benefit year, or from 16 to 23 California—one week. water transport to and from the ond they knew that they did not employment benefits for mer­ New Jersey—two weeks. weeks. United States. For this reason it have the power, or the confi­ chant seamen. In case any ques­ New York—four "effective days," was expected that the Adminis­ New Jersey—the lesser of 26 dence of waterfront workers to tion arises, definite information that is, four days of unemploy­ tration would take a hand in the times weekly benefit amount try to break any picketlines es­ can be obtained through the Spe­ ment over and above 3 days of matter by asking Dr. Steelman or 1/3 of wages earned in base tablished by the AFL. With all cial Services Department of the unemployment In any week. period; minimum duration of to step in immediately. Instead the ballyhoo with which the Union. 10 weeks. Pennsylvania—two weeks. of this, the Government allowed CMU was launched, neverthe­ For How Long Can A Claimant Pennsylvania—based on schedule Texas—one week preceding or the strike to go on, and even alless it is the AFL Maritime Draw Benefits? of weekly benefit amount and Most States provides for vari{Coniinued on Page 5) (Coniinued on Page 4) (Continucd on Page 3) base period wages; ranges from 9 to 20 weeks. LEADING THE PARADE Texas—the lesser of 9 times the two-week benefit amount or 1/5 of wages earned in base period. Virginia—the lesser of 16 times weekly benefit amount or 1/4 of wages earned in base period. Washington—based on schedule of base period wages; ranges from 12 times to 26 times week­ ly benefit amount. New York is the only State now a member of the Interstate Maritime Arrangement with a uniform duration for all work­ ers. If a worker qualifies for ben­ efits in New York and remains unemployed he may receive 26 weeks of benefits irrespective of base period earnings. Thousands of SIU-SUP men jammed the building and over­ Foreshadowing what was to come, men of the Sailors Union flowed into strets around the New York Hall when the announ­ How Long Is The Waiting of the Pacific marched at the head of the line in the San Fran­ cement was made that the strike was over and a victory had Period? cisco Labor Day Parade. A few days after this, thousands of been won by the Seafarers International Union. It was a cause Unemployed persons become men from the SIU-SUP marched in other lines, picketlines, to for celebration, and every man had ihe right to do so. entitled to benefits only after a win back the wage increases withheld by the WSB. Merchant Seamen Still Await Changes In Present Unemployment Insurance Law I J �#iPPii^iiiBi'!''i'i'" • -'l, ., .-^.l-A^L- VW; • Pagre Two THE SEAWARMHS lOG Friday, September 20, 1946 SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated mth the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York, 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 4. - i'' :• >i t ft HARRY LUNDEBERG ------- President 105 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. JOHN HAWK Secy-Treas. P. O. Box 25, Station P , New York City Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. 167 Free Loading There is nothing which is more disliked among sea­ faring men than.a freeloader. A freeloader is the kind of guy who acts as a parasite upon the men who believe in strong unions, and who do a good job in building them up and keeping them strong. No freeloader ever does that. Instead he makes it his business to take all the advantages that the union has been able to gain through years of bloody struggle, and in return he damns the union and refuses to pay dues. The life of such a character is not a good insurance risk, and while he lives he certainly can't be very happy. Right now some of the NMU leadership is in the same position. So accustomed are they to the idea that the Sea­ farers International Union will take the lead in all matters that vitally concern the waterfront workers, that now they are out on strike to win the same wage scales which we already won for the entire industry. This play to the gallery is designed to throw dust in the eyesjof the NMU membership. Its sole use it to make the rank-and-file believe that what the NMU is sure to gain was won by action. But the members of the NMU, and all other waterfront workers, know the score. They all know that this is a free ride for the NMU. Left to themselves, the NMU would not have achieved a scale of wages on a level with what the SIU is now getting for at least another year. And by that time the SIU would have advanced even further. It is no accident that the SIU leads the way for sea­ men. Considering the amount of time that the leaders of the NMU spend on matters which do not concern the lives of merchant seamen, it is a wonder that they have These are the Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, been able to make any advances at all. as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging It is impossible to serve two masters. No one can do heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them, up by writ­ ,a good job for the communist party, and at the same time ing to them. do a solid trade union job. One task is sure to suffer— W. BRUCE JR. STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL and in the NMU it has not been the communist party. C. G. SMITH LEIF O. SVEUN With great rapidity the members of the NMU have PAUL DEADY R. L. FRENCH W. H. OSBORNE been waking up to the fact that their union has become L. A. CORNWALL WILBUR MANNING nothing mpre than a communist party cell. They don't W. B. MUIR CHARLES TILLER R. G. MOSSELLER like it. This free ride which the NMU leaders are now A. T. MORGAN C. V/. SMITH taking will prove once more that the leadership of the C. R. POTTER EDWARD CUSTER NMU is bankrupt, and that their best efforts are expended H. P. HARRIS JOHN R. GOMEZ only when the interests of the communist party are in­ H. P. HARRIS VINCENT FADOUL EL WIN MAXWELL J. FAIRCLOTH volved. ERNEST ROBERTS J. DE ABREU For their present position as riders of the SIU band­ ABDON SYLVERA L. L. MOODY wagon the NMU leaders must accept the entire blame. T. WADSWORTH THOMAS MORGAN "They are, and were elected to office to do the best job in F. GEMBICKI ROBERT YOUNG JARVIS SEELY, Jr. their power. They did not do so, and inseated they used W. G. H. BAUSE WILLIAM OATIS G. KITCHEN ^heir high offices to advance the policies and teachings of GEORGE CONNER J. N. RAYMOND the communist party. H. BELCHER ft ft ft That constitutes an act of treachery, and one for J. FIGUEROA BOSTON HOSPITAL which they will have to answer, in the near future. The L. B. KNICKERBOCKER H. STONE F. MARTENS inembeis of the NMU are gradually awakening to the fact P. KOGOY 1 ft ft that the union has been captured by a political party that P. CASALINUOVO NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL has not the interests of the workers at heart. When the day JOSEPH WALSH A. CHASE of reckoning comes, these men will be replaced by honest H. SAVINI E. JOHNSTON T. DINEEN trade unionists. FERDINAND VIGO E. DORMADY Perhaps the latest picture of the NMU leadership fol- STEVE (LEFTY) McCOY E. DACEY GLEN DOWELL Mowing where the SIU has already broken the g;round might J. W. DENNIS K. HOOPER •^hrixig that day of reckoning even closer. S. GILLIS R. M. NOLAN Men Now In The Marine Hospitals . ••••'irict'&s ."'S3''' I! Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegate by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday—1:30 to 3:30 p. m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday—1:30 to 3:30 p. m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday—1:30 to 3:30 p. m. (on Ist and 2nd floors.) BALTIMORE HOSPITAL HENRY WILLETT PETER LOPEZ E. J. DELLAMANO MONTEIRO NELSON JAMES KELLY WM. SILVERTHORNE WM. REEVES WM. KEMMERER ROY McCANNON MOSES MORRIS ARMAND PERRON ARTHUR KING NICK MAROVICH HARRY CRONIN RAYMOND MORRIS 35^00DR0W REID ft ft ft GALVESTON HOSPITAL GEO. RIGGENS J. P. FOUGHT J. LONGTEMPS W. E. PATTERSON K. A. PUGH -D.FAULK . �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, September 20, 1946 Page Three'- SIU-SUP General Strike Whs Reversal Of Anti-Laber Decision By PAUL HALL Now that we've successfully concluded our beef with the WSB, many men have asked what combination of forces made for our victory. I'm not going to say it was the Strike Strategy Committee, or the picketlines, or any other organized group that made for the winning of this fight. It was something deeper than all this, some­ thing deep inside each man. Call it self-determination or will pow­ er, whatever you will, but it was there. Perhaps an instance of what I saw on the third floor of the Hall will give you an idea of this basic thing that won the fight. An oldlimcr, about 60 or 65 years old was sitting there, his feet badly inflamed from pounding the bricks. Around him were stand­ ing several younger men of all departments all of whom were all con­ cerned over his welfare. One said, "The old man gave his best, but he just couldn't stand up under the gaff." I looked at the oldtimer and he still had the fight in his eyes, but the flesh wasn't willing. That showed to me clearer than any­ thing how much these men were putting into this fight. The con­ cern shown him by his shipmates was cooperation at its best. I take my white cap off to all of these boys, they showed they had the stuff and no fooling about it. Thanks To Longshoremen to Not only do we have complete cooperation from our own mem­ bers, but we owe great thanks to the Longshoremen who proved themselves to be true militants by backing us all the way down the line. We cannot underestimate the assistance given us by these men who know real waterfront solidarity. They are always ready, to give us assistance when we have a beef to settle. At the present they are still out, respecting the picketlines of the NMU, who are trying to pull their wages up to SIU levels. Watch Capitol Hill This strike, although won to the letter by the Seafarers, does not mean that we are through with our struggles. On the contrary our fight is just beginning. Do not think for a minute that the boys in Washington have forgotten us. The government will try with all in its power to destroy our infiuebce and strength. Watch the news­ papers. They will reflect the attitude of the shipowners and that in tm-n is the attitude of our Congressmen. What they will say about us and strikes in general in the newspapers will give you an idea of what they have in mind. ever as completely successful as {Continued from Page 1) lowed the WSB to save its face this one. by reiterating its original posi­ For an action of such major tion after the meeting held on proportions, there was surpris­ Tuesday, September 11. ingly little violence, or attempts That this was only a face-sav­ to break the picketlines. Some ing gesture was proved the very isolated instances were reported, next day when Steelman an­ such as the needless billy~ub nounced that the wage increases swinging by the Tampa police had been approved by him in his when they tried to force a lane capacity as Director of Stabili­ zation. As authority for his ap­ through the marching pickets. proval he quoted a little known SOME TROUBLE law, dating back to 1862, which Difficulties were also encount­ provided for such increases if ered in some of the Texas ports more than half of the shipping where injunctions were issued to industry was not under Govern­ force the SIU to remove the ment jurisdiction. The wages picketlines. This did not suc­ prevailing in the industry would ceed in breaking up the lines then be taken as the standard and as result a few Brothers wage. were arrested and fined. Far from He further ruled that the wage breaking the morale of the strik­ increases won by the SIU-SUP ers, these stories served to tight­ came within this scope and there­ en their determination to fight fore approved them at once. GREAT EFFECT There was no doubt of the ef­ fectiveness of the SIU-SUP tieup of shipping. Ports along all three coasts took on the look of ghost harbors. The only activity that could be seen was pickets patiently marching up and down in front of piers. For days on end not a plume of smoke came from the smoke stack of any ship in any harbor. The industrial history of the United States is sprinkled with general strike actions, but it can be truthfully said that no gen­ eral strike was ever as effective as this one. And it can also be said that no general strike was Philly Tugmen Hail SiU For Labor Victory Congratulations for the "splen­ did victory" won by the Seafarers International Union for "all or­ ganized labor" was extended to the SIU by the United Harbor Workers, Local Union 13039, Dis­ trict 50, of the United Mine Remember last June when Harry Truman frantically called for Workers. the draft of the Railroaders and the crippling of labor unions and The message, sent by telegram how quick the House of Representatives pushed it through? Don't to Secretary-Treasurer John put any faith in the "friends of labor" on Capitol Hill. Hawk by William E. Collier, field This fall, when Congress reconvenes, you can expect the im­ representative of , the latter or­ mediate introduction of a fibod of union-breaking bills. We fought ganization, which has always government bureaucrats this time and won hands down, and they worked closely with the Phila­ are going to try to fix our wagon. Well, we'll be ready for them and delphia Branch of the Seafarers, if necessary once more they will learn that we mean business when praised the local strike as led by we say, "free collective bargaining without government regimenta­ Agent James Truesdale. tion!" The text of the telegram fol­ lows Complete Unity Necessary In the recent strike the SIU proved that in spite of the hatchet job that maritime unions have been doing on each other, a union, when it has a good beef, can count on the unity and backing of all waterfront unions. Strikes, such as this, are no longer confined to one area or one port, but are nationwide. They are big business and the only way to fight fire is with fire. To do this, complete unity of action on a nationwide basis is the only answer and we showed them we had it. To prepare ourselves for any "incidents" that may occur in the future it is important that the SIU-SUP prepare a program to in­ sure the complete unity of the waterfront. The SIU has laid the cornerstone for the unity necessary when recently the AFL Mari­ time Trades Department was set up in Chicago. This is only the beginning of the closely knit machine that will be necessary for future operations. We intend to make our program such thar all maritime unions can unite behind us in our important job against the special inter­ ests and when that mechanism is set up we will be ready for any thing, whether it be union-busting, finkherding or government regimentation. John Hawk, Secy. Treas. Seafarers Intl. Union AFL "United Harbor Wokers, Lo­ cal Union 13039, District 50 United Mine Workers of Amer­ ica, representing tugboat per­ sonnel in the port of Philadel­ phia, extend congratulations to you and your organization for the splendid victory won by the Seafarers International Union. Your Union's gallant fight was for a pi'inciple vital to all organized labor. Our Union supported James Trues­ dale, SIU Port Agent in Phila­ delphia, during the strike and extend to him our respect for the capable job done here. He is a credit to your organization and to organized labor." Wm. E. Collier, Field Rep. the battle through to an over-' whelming victory. One of the big things, in ad­ dition to the fact that the WSB' was reversed, that came out Of this struggle, was the emergence of the AFL Maritime Trades De­ partment as a force to be reck­ oned with along the v/aterfronfc. Having come into being only a short time ago, the council took the lead in coordinating the ac­ tivities of all AFL v/aterfront unions in all seaports. The victory, and •fhe lessona. learned while the fight was on, leads to the belief that water­ front workers have come a long v.'ay since that day when they could be jailed, or fined, for the slightest infraction of the rules. From this battle the SIU and the other affiliates of the Maritime Trades Department v/iJl go on to bigger and better things. Steeiman On Seamen's Pay Following is the text of the statement by the Office of Eco­ nomic Stabilization in the sea­ men's wage case: Stabilization Director John R. Steelman issued an amendment to wage stabilization regulations permitting the Government agen­ cies to pay wages and salaries comparable to the wages and salaries paid for the same or com­ parable services by other oper­ ators in tlie same industry. It has been the Government's policy to pay "prevailing rates'' on Government jobs since Con­ gress so directed the Navy in 1862. This principle has been im­ plemented by various other con­ gressional and executive actions, such as the Bacon-Davis and Walsh-Healy Acts. SAME WAGE The Steelman amendment would authorize those govern­ mental agencies engaged in ac­ tivity in which private business also is engaged, to pay in their own operations the same wage rales as those paid by a substan­ tial portion of that industry. Under present wage regula­ tions if private industry desires to use a wage increase for price or rate increases, such increases must be submitted to the Wage Stabilization Board. This is not changed. The new amendment merely means that if the indus­ try agrees to pay an increase un­ der conditions which do not re­ quire Wage Stabilization Board approval, then the Government agency involved may pay the same rates without recourse to the Wage Stablization Board or other stabilization agency. The action was taken by Mr. Steelman with the recommenda­ tion of the chairman of the Mari­ time Commission. Text of the amendment follows; TITLE 32 — NATIONAL DE­ FENSE. Chapter XVIII—Office of Eco­ nomic Stabilization. Office of War Mobilization and Reconversion. Part 4001 — Stabilization of wages prices supplementary wage and salary regulations (Q). Supplementary wage and sal­ ary regulations are amended by adding a new section 205 to read as follows: Section 205 — Wage or salary increases in Government opera­ tions. (A) In accordance with long - established governmental policy, the Government agency responsible for operations con­ ducted by or for the United States may pay (or authorize the pay­ ment of) wages and salaries in. such operations, comparable to the wages and salaries paid, for the same or comparable services, by other operations in the same industry. However, this applies only if both the following con­ ditions are satisfied. 1. Such Government operations constitute less than half the total operations of the industry, when, measured by either the total number of persons employed ©r the total dollar volume of busi­ ness done; and 2. A substantial part of the r-emaining operations in the indus- . try (as above measured) arc pay^ing the comparble wages or sjilaries. NO PRICE INCREASES (B) For the purpose of tfaia* section, "operations conducted by or for the United States" do BOt include operations in plants, mines of the United States under section 3 of the war labor dis­ putes act or similar laws. (C) A wage or salary increasemade under the provisions of this-' section may be used as a basis for reimbursement by the United States, but shall be deemed an unapproved increase for theother purposes of these regula-v tions; provided, however, that aE • other provisions of these regula­ tions (except section 103) are su­ perseded insofar as they are in­ consistent with the making of a wage or salary increase (or it:imbursement therefor) otherwisd permitted by this section. This amendment shall becomateffective September 12, 1946. �•A THESE4FARERS LOG Pag0 Four Friday, September 20, 1946 Give Us Same Wages That SiU Wen Fer Themselves, NMU Asks {Con limitd from Page 1) Trades Department which has the most power along the water­ front. Even before the AFL formed its waterfront group, the NMU was forced to accept SIU leader­ ship in all matters pertaining to the waterfront. Take the 1941 Bonus Strike, for instance. While merchant seamen were being knocked off in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean like sitting pigeons, the SIU was the first seamen's union to strike a blow for higher pay for increased risks. The NMU officials threw^ up their hands and claimed that it wasn't patriotic to demand high­ er wages while Stalin was in danger, but when the SIU forced through more pay, the NMU rank-and-file wanted the same bonus. Finally the misleaders of the NMU had to come out and beg for the same deal that the Seafarers had won. • . Take the fight against the WSA Medical Program, for another ex­ ample. This was a phony deal under which the WSA could blacklist any union militant they wanted to. Of course, the SIU fought against, it; but the NMU, still playing footsy with the Ad­ ministration, said that it was a good plan, and anyway, the SIU was "strike happy" and looked for excuses to fight the Govern­ ment. ABOUT FACE But the shoe was soon on the other foot. Under SIU pressure, the WSA was forced to back down, and the NMU leaders heard about this from the mem­ bership. This was plain to see by the way the Pilot took off against the program—after the SIU had been successful in hav­ ing it rescinded. And if these two instances are not enough, have another one. In the struggle by the WSA to control merchant seamen, this agency came up with a plan that could easily be used to keep a good union man from shipping for a long time, if at all. They called this one the "Competency Card" plan. On the face of it, it sounded harmless enough. But hidden in the plan were plenty of jokers that could and would be used to eliminate militants. So once again the SIU went all out against the WSA. NO ONE FOOLED And once again the NMU made believe that there was nothing happening. Only when the WSA had backed down, and stated that the Competency Card would be a voluntary measure, did the NMU say anything against its wartime ally. None of these actions by the NMU fooled the men who sail the ships of the United States merchant fleet. They know that all fights in the interests of sea­ men are, and have been fought by the Seafarers International Union. It is to be gravely doubted whether this latest "me, too" move will be taken seriously. Most seamen are taking it in stride, and saying that it is just like the NMU to follow where the SIU leads. John Ward . During the last week or ten days, real Seafarers have been plentiful. On every picketline, in every chow line, there were a few men who were pointed out as real seamen; men who had fought the good fight for sea­ men's rights for a long time. Such a man is John Ward, FOW. Johnny has been going to sea since 1924, when, as he puts it, "I couldn't get a job any other way ao I shipped on ex­ cursion boats." Soon he advanced to other types of vessels, and he became the youngest coal burning fire­ man on the East Coast. In 1927 he took his first deep-sea assign­ ment, and at the same time he got his first interest in unionism. "Of course," he says, "I could not do very much about it then, but I kept the thought in the back of my head that one man had a hard row to hoe, but a lot of men could do the job a hell of a lot faster." In 1933 he put this idea to use, and he has belonged to a union for merchant seamqn ever since. AFL Policy in NMU Strike The following is the policy of ing head-on with the Govern­ the AFL Maritime Trades De­ ment the same as we did. In view of this difference, and partment: also considering the point that In view of the confusion exist­ we would like to see the CIO and ing on the waterfront, due main­ Independent Unions successful in ly to the manner of "administra­ their fight against the operators, the following shall be the policy tion" of the CMU Strike by of the SIU-SUP as well as the those persons in charge, it is AFL Maritime Unions: NORFOLK necssary to clarify the AFL 1. (a) All AFL Unions will re­ INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS policy. First, we must start with spect NMU, MCS and CIO^ Crew of SS Mary Biberdyke—$11.50. an analysis of our recently con­ picket lines around their | J. Higgina, $2.00: S. T. VIck, $2.00; cluded strike. contracted vessels. This to L. V. Bortmas. $2.00; L. L. Eccles, G. Daniela, $2.00; R. F. Hudson, ^ The SIU-SUP solicited the aid be continued until such $2.00; $2.00; A. DeSouza, $2.00; R. G. Styron, of the AFL Maritime Trades De­ time as these people defeat $2.00; R. L. Styron, $2.00; C. Hamil­ partment to gain their support in their operators and gain ton. $2.00; A. W. White, $2.00; M. H. the tying up of all ships in all the same wages and condi­ Mabe, $2.00. ports. We felt that this was tions that we have already NEW YORK necessary due to the fact that the won. SS GEORGE WASHINGTON SIU-SUP were engaged in a (b) In the event of Govern­ R. W. Campbell, $1.00. head-on fight with an Agency ment seizure and/or opera­ J. Kalmic, $1.00; J. Thompson, $1.00; of this Government, and this, of tion of any NMU or MCS H. Goering, $2.00; John Anton, $5.00; course, meant the Government it­ vessels, as a result of their D. C. Rodda, $1.00; F. E. Wasmer, $2.00; Robert J. Burns, $2.00; J. Marself. dispute, the AFL Maritime shall, $1.00; J. P. Romero, $1.00; M. We and the SIU-SUP also real­ Unions reaffirm their Soobramoney. $1.00; Grant Wilson, Jr., ized the necessity of gathering pledge of June 15 and will $1.00; G. O. Hinrichs, $1.00; R. J. as much strength as possible in consider such seizure and Augsbach, $1.00; T. E. Boyhan, $1.00; A. Gall, $1.00; H. Jobe, $1.00; F. such a struggle. In order to guar­ operation a lock-out and Schumacher, $1.00; G. Jackson, $1.00; antee the complete stoppage of deal it is such by stopping S. Walker, $1.00; J. Moore, $1.00; M. work of all AFL Maritime Unions work on all piers and all George, $1.00; S. Zauadoson, $1.00. and at the same time preserve all ship until such Govern­ SS T. MEADOWS of our affiliated Unions' contracts ment seizure and opera­ Crew—-SS T. Meadows, $37.00. with their employers, it was tions .stop. .A. Ferria, *5.00; 11. Corton, $5.00; Harry Levy, $5.00; J. E. Heard, $5.00; necessary to establish such picket 2. The AFL Unions request the J. O. Hargrove, $15.00; A. F. Waltz, lines to bring enough force to MCS and the NMU to with­ $5.00; J. W. Pence, $5.00; J.-W. Hamilbear against the Guveinment to draw picket lines from all ton, $5.00; L. Duncan, $5.00; P. J. force a reversal of such a decision $5.00; C. Hall, $5.00; J. J. ships, with the exception of Fiefer, Wenaling, $5.00; C. Carpenter, $5.00; as was made by the WSB in the their contracted vessels by no J. M. Etheredge, $5.00; C. B. McDonald, SIU-SUP case. later than 6 a. m. tomorrow $5.00; E. Rape, $5.00. This was done, and through the morning. This particular SS SIGNAL HILLS immediate support of our affili­ point we feel is very impor­ F. P. Gabral, $1.00. ated Unions—the Longshoremen, tant if we are to eliminate the SS SAN ANGELO VICTORY Towboatmen, Masters, Mates and possibilities of wide-open F. Swestka, $1.00; T. Chilinski, $1.00; Pilots—and the respecting of our jurisdictional warfare along C. Caus, $1.00. picket lines by CIO and Inde­ all docks in all ports. SS LAMARR pendent Unions, the Government H. E. Parsons, $2.00; I. S. Cardeal, We feel that the tying up of stand was reversed, and the door vessels by the NMU and the $2.00; T. Shea. $2.00. SS Lamar—Crew, $15.00. opened completely for the NMU MCS. on other than their own SS p. DONNELL and MCS to obtain the same vessels on a contractual prob­ SS p. Donnell—Crew, $45.00. wage scales as the SIU-SUP. lem between them and their J. L. Joyner, $1.00; D. H. Smith, This presents a fairly complete operators will only add to the $5.00; G. M. Hargrove, $5.00; William analysis of the present SIU-SUP existing confusion now in L. Carraway, $5.00; W. D. Dradshaw, Strike. the minds of so many of their members. The dispute of the NMU and the MCS now being waged in, the 3. The AFL will not man or name of the CMU is of an entire­ handle any ships that may be ly different nature. Their beef reallocated as a result of this is directly against the operators, dispute between, _the NMU, and does not involve their fightMCS and the operators. $5.00; R. Harmon, $5.00; N. N. Bathia, $5.00; H. M. Smith. $5.00; J. H. Bullard, $5.00; N. Spencer, $5.00; C. C. Spencer, $5.00; J. A. Greed, $5.00; E. Cole, $5.00; J. O. Rogers, $5.00; C. W. Paris, $5.00; R. W. Hill. $5.00; T. E. McClenney, $5.00; E. L. Evans, $5.00; William H. Pallett, $5.00; N. A. Barbour, $5.00; Hoyl Zimmerman, $5.00. SS MONTEBELLO HILLS H. E. Neal, $1.00. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS H. E. Neal, $1.00. R. Lester, $2.00. $1.00; Eustachy Bulik, G. O. Green, $2.00; Edgar Swabeck, $1.00; Frank Ferraro, $1.00; Keith Stebbins, $1.00; S. Weiss, 50c. PERSONALS And he has made his presence felt in any union to which he has belonged. The strikes which took place in 1935-36 found him an active participant. He fought for good honest unionism and he fought the bosses with the same heat. No picketline was too difficult, and no weather too tought. WAR YEARS When the war came he was still the same militant guy. He was among the first to ship out, and had the experience of mak­ ing one of the longest single trips made by any merehant ship dur­ ing World War II. The Mississippi Steamship Company had no idea that the West Gotomska would be gone fifteen months when she left a United States port for Russia. But that is exactly what happen­ ed. First the boat was held up for four months in England when she missed the convoy. Then she was held up for a while in an English port, and finally the ves­ sel reached the Russian port where she was supposed to go. None of this trip was pleasant. During almost the entire time the ship was under attack from dive-bombers and submarines. The Gotomska was reported sunk four or five times, and when the boat finally reached a home port, many wives and sweethearts were agreeably surprised since they all believed that the Got­ omska had been sunk. ORGANIZER John Ward has had his share of sailing unorganized ships, too. In the days of 1933-34, when it Your mother requests that you was murderous to board a ship get in touch with her as soon as if you were interested in doing possible. She is very anxious to an organizing job. Ward did hear from you, plenty of that sort of work; es­ X % X pecially in the tanker field. ATHUR G. CHAMPAGNE As a good union member, John Your sister, Evelyn Payne Syl­ can show picket clearances for vester is trying to locate you. She all strike actions that the SIU asks that you get in touch with has taken part in. When the chips her as soon as possible at the are down, he wants to do his following address 8087 LaMesa part for the Union he believes Blvd., La Mesa, Calif. in. LAWRENCE GREGORY LARONDE NOTICE! The following men are to re­ port to the Mobile Hall or the SIU Headquarters in New York to rectify an error in the issuance of receipts on August 30. Hercey M. Goodine T. 0. 19010, Robert N. Infinger T. C. 18875, J. T. Davis T. C. 18872," James H. Aichele T. C. 18874, Britton M. Baxley T.C. 18860 and Robert E. Blair T. C, 19009. These men hold receipts B-6920 through B-6925. For the past three years Ward has been a shore Bosun for the Mississippi Steamship Company, but right now he is ready to sail again. "You can't beat the sea," he says, "for companionship and for being able to do a good job as a seaman and as a good union man. From now on I want" to keep real close to the sea." Only a real Union can attract such fine guys, and only real seamen are the sort who stick to the SIU. It's a good combina­ tion, and one that pays off— take this strike for instance. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, September 20, 1946 BALTIMORE STRIKE MEETING Seamen Still Await Changes In Existing Benefits Laws {Cantbilled from Page 1) follov/ing the filing of an intial claim after layoff. Virginia—one week. Washington—fine %yppk. Are There Other Requirements? State laws provide also that a claimant must met certain re­ quirements before he is eligible for benefits. 1. He must file a claim and register for work at a public employment office. In New York special ar­ rangements are being made in connection with union hiring halls. Baltimore holds its first meeting after the strike call had been received. Above Agent Wm. "Curly" Rentz (with back to the camera) and other Branch officials, present the situation and call for discussion from the floor. Militant Unionism Of SlU-SUP Pays Off By EARL SHEPPARD Yes, we won our beef against the Wage Stabilization Board just like the SIU-SUP always win their beefs. It was a clean cut victory for the right of free collective bargaining—free ftom the intervention and dictatorship of any government bureau. And it will probably mean the death of the WSB sometime in the very near future. As a result of our victory and the signed agreements with the operators, we won the best wages and overtime pay ever secured in the maritime industry. Since then our Negotiating Committee has practically concluded nego­ tiations with the shipowners for the balance of * the contract. When finished, the SIU will also have won the best manning scales, working and living condi­ tions in the industry. By breaking the WSB strangle­ hold on collective bargaining be­ tween the Union and the oper­ ators, we also made it possible for the NMU, MCS, and MFOWW to secure the same high wages as the SIU. The fact that their strike is between them and the shipowners, not against the WSB as was the Seafarers, also changes the picture somewhat. NMU STRIKE PICTURE striking NMUers have no beef against the WSB. This govern­ ment agency was soundly whip­ ped by the SIU-SUP, and the Steelman decision left the road wide open for the NMU, MCS, and MFOWW raises. Merely to becloud the issues, and kid the MCS and MFOWW members in­ to thinking that the NMU was winning their increases, the NMU strike has been prolonged, In fact the NMU strike was not necessary in the first place. It was a last minute grandstand gesture intended to fool the NMU rank-and4fllers that the NMU misleaders were actually win­ ning something for them by their seemingly militancy. Merely by sitting down with their operat­ ors and bargaining collectively as did the SIU-SUP, the NMU could have secured the same gains as won by the SIU; As for the collaterals, once the WSB was removed from the pic­ ture, these items had already been jointly agreed upon as sub­ ject to James Fly's arbitration. By removing . the security watches on NMU ships, which they had maintained throughout the SIU-SUP strike, the NMU al­ so precipitated a further rift be­ tween them and the operators. We have no brief with the ship­ owners, but fail to see the jus­ tification of this inconsistent stand by the NMU misleaders. ISTHMIAN ELECTION Contrary to our earlier reports, the Isthmian election is not of­ ficially over until October 29. We mentioned in a previous article that September 18 was the dead­ line, but that was in error. How­ ever, if the' two remaining un­ voted ships—the Pere Marquette and the Atlanta City—are voted before then, the ballots will be counted immediately. One of the* brightest spots in the entire SIU-SUP beef against the WSB was the militant stand taken by most Isthmian crew­ men. Hundreds of these seamen, both SIU members and nonmem.bers were on the picket- SIU HALLS NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. HAnoVer 2-2784 BOSTON 276 State St. Bowdein 4057 (Agent) Bowdoin 4055 (Dispatcher) BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. Calvert 4539 PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. Phone Lombard 3-7651 NORFOLK 127-12i9 Bank Street 4-1083 CHARLESTON NEW ORLEANS SAVANNAH 68 Society St Phone 3-3680 339 Chartres St. Canal 3336 ...220 East Bay St. 3-1728 MOBILE SAN JL'AN, P. R GALVESTON 7 St. Michael St. 2-1754 45 Ponie dc- Leon San Juan 2-5996 30522nd St. 2-8448 TAMPA .... .1809-1811 N. Franklin St. M-I323 JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. Phone 5-5919 PORT ARTHUR . .909 Fort Worth Ave. Phone: 2-8532 HOUSTON 1515 75th Street Phone Wentworth 3-3809 RICHMOND, Calif 257 5th St. SAN FRANCISCO 59 Clay St. Garfield 8225 SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. Main 0290 PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside jt. WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Vlvd. Terminal 4-3131 HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. Cleveland 7391 CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. Superior 5175 CLEVELAND 1014 E. St. Clair St. Main 0147 DETROIT 1038 Third St. Cadillac 6857 DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. Melrose 4110 VICTORIA, B. C 602 Boughton St. VANCOUVER 144 W. Hastings St. MARCUS HOOK 1V4 W. 8th St. Chester 5-3110 CORPUS CHRISTIE ..1824 Mesquite St. Page Five lines in the various ports. They walked side by side with their SIU brothers just like Union members, and they'll certainly share in any SIU-SUP gains when Isthmian is forced to sign an SIU contract. 2. He must be able to work and be available for work. 3. He must not be disqualified under any of the provisions of the law. Since the purpose of luiemployment insurance is to provide com.pensation for involuntary un­ employment, there are certain actions on the part of claimants that may cause them to be dis­ qualified, either for the entire period of unemployment or for a limited period of weeks. These actions are: (1) voluntarily leav­ ing his last employment without Furuseth Would Have Been Proud Of His Boys In This Last Beef By STEAMBOAT O'DOYLE Well, Old Andy Furuseth sure must have been proud of the boys last week, they were some thing really to shout about. Talk about spirit! So help me, one of the boys in my gang went up to the bloodbank and sold a pint of blood for living expenses.- When the seamen sell. their blood to stay on the picketline, shipowner, look out! Another one brought his gal around to help while away the hours. We hung a sign on her and put her to work pick­ eting. Despite their good humor, how­ ever, the boys were in no mood for funny business. One wouldbe scab found that out when he nearly got. "Pepsi-Cola" stamped on his skull with a popbottle. I thought the war was rough, but after playing picket Captain to 17 militant Seafarers, give me an atom bomb any day! Last week saw several lies that have long been in currency wash­ ed out the scuppers. The high foreheads down in Washington were busy explaining to the ship­ owners why the multi-million dollar fink-training program of the Maritime Service had failed. The youngsters whom they tried to pump full of anti-union­ ism shocked their old school teachers by actually walking a picketline. Our younger Seafar­ ers have proved again that for militancy, spunk, and knowing the score, they are fully the equals of the old timers of '34 and '36. JOE'S BOYS DAZED The airy-fairies of 17th Street were also disgrunted at finding that we are as big as the water­ front. When the high-heeled boys from uptown discovered this they climbed on the bandwagon. At our big meeting in Manhattan Center I even saw Joe Stack sit­ ting in a corner like little Jack Horner, looking very bewildered 7. „ at what was going on. At one point where somebody asked a question, he looked ab­ solutely dazed. Well, maybe he knows how to conduct a demo­ cratic union meeting but I'm not taking odds on that. We'll be reading in the Pilot next week how they won us a five buck raise. Even Hogan wanted to play feely-feely with us; and just a month before he had ordered his Engineers to ignore our picketlines in the Coos Bay beef. If you heard teeth chattering and knees knocking it was the fancy men over at the Coast Guard. They've been telling each other for years that they're safe "because the seamen can't go against us Government bureau­ crats." Brother, what was that carcass we just ran over? That line is now as dead as Captain Bligh's cat. REAL KNOCKOUT We set out to fight unfair Gov­ ernment bureaucracy, but I guess it wasn't much of a fight at that. Now we know how Joe Louis felt after the Conn "fight." I don't blame the brasshats for shaking. They know they're next in line. Oh well, they can always hock the gold on their sleeves for five bucks. But probably the most impor­ tant thing last week showed is something I have always said— The shipowne.' is no longer our number one enemy. Today the Government bureaucratic finks are our biggest foe. If there was anyone who didn't learn that during the war, he certainly learned it during the current beef. We brou,ght the owners under control long ago. Now the only way we can be secure is to take away from the government agen­ cies the dagger they will some­ day put in our back—the Coast Guard. good cause; in some States the lav/ reads; ". . . without good cause attributable to the employ­ er.'; (2) discharge for misconduct that occurred in connection with his last employment; (3) refusal of the claimant to apply for or accept suitable work without good cause for such refusal; (4) participation in a labor dispute at the premises where he was last employed. In connection with refusal of suitable work, seamen will not be di.squalified in New York for not taking a job below their high­ est rating, provided there is rea­ sonable prospect of obtaining such a job. Claimants are also permitted to offer good-personal reasons for refusing a particular job. Moreover, they cannot be denied benefits in any State for refusing employment if they re­ fuse to accept new work under any of the following conditions: "(A) if the position offered is vacant due directly to a strike, lockout, or other labor dispute; (B) if the wages, hours, or other conditions of the work offered are substantially less favorable to the individual than those prevailing for similar work in the locality; (C) if as a condi­ tion of being employed the in­ dividual would be required to join a company union or to re­ sign from or refraining from joining any bona fide labor or­ ganization." In Alabama, California, New Jersey, Texas, Virginia and Wash­ ington, a person who is unem­ ployed as a result of participating in a labor dispute is disqualified for the duration of the dispute. In Pennsylvania, he is disquali­ fied for not more than four calen­ dar weeks following the week in which the dispute began, and in New York for not more than seven weeks following the date of his loss of employment because of the labor dispute. Thus he would become entitled to bene­ fits if otherwise eligible after 6 weeks in Pennsylvania and after 8 weeks in New York. Can Wage Credits In Several States Be Combined? It has been noted above that an unemployed seaman can claim benefits in any State where he happens to be unemployed. Pay­ ment is made to him from the State in which his wage credits are located. This is the plan worked out for all unemployed workers who have enough quali­ fying wages for benefits in some one State but who are located in some other State when they be­ come unemployed. If a worker has been employed by employers who are liable in several States, but has not earned sufficient in any one State to qualify under that State's law, he may still apply for benefits in the State where he is unemploy­ ed. Some States permit wage credits to be combined so as to give him enough qualifying wages to be eligible for benefits. In some States wage credits may be combined to increase maxi­ mum benefits payable. States which are not in this plan are Kentucky, Mississippi, New Jer­ sey, Oregon, Tennessee and the District of Columbia. (To Be Concluded Next Week) �Here is ihe way to win a beef. We lied up every port, and not a ship sailed or was worked until the Wage Stabilization Board was reversed. Most of the picketing was peaceful, but some ports reported that the police tried to break up picketlines. or that other unions made attempts to sail or work ships without proper clearances. All of this was taken care of. and it resulted in the first completely successful general strike in th? maritime history of the United States. t X t After the strike started, the Coast Guard continued to is­ sue Seamen's Certificates. To put a stop to this practice, which could easily have turned into a strikebreaking move, a picketline was established in front of the issuing office. Not many men went through this line, and those that did looked like the scabs they are. Many SIU-SUP men were supposed to go down to the CG office to obtain their papers, but none did while the strike was on. X pr Every man on the beach registered for picket duty. It took a lot of men to cover the many miles of waterfront, especially in New York, but there were plenty of men available for the job. No slackers in the SIU-SUP, and that is why we won our beef. X - This is ham, cooked and ready to serve. It took plenty of food to keep the picketers well fed, but somohov/ the job was done. Over two thousand hot meals were prepared daily, but with expert cooks, bakers, and messmen, it was not too difficult a job. Nothing was impossible for these men, and the standards of cleanliness were kept very high. The gal­ ley was neat and well kept; the dishes and silverware were washed and sterilized; the messhall was spotless; all this was done by the men who took a great pride in the fact that they were contributing to the victory which the Union was sure to win — and they were right. In New York the strike strategy was planned by the Join promised right off the bat by the AFL Maritime Trades Depart | which were held by the two groups. All important points wei within a short time after a decision was reached, all the outp informed as to what was going on. This was all to the good ai sible to the rank-and-file, from the type of union which is run , » » » 1 % X W".: P "3 ^ '' Next to picketing, food and housing is an important factor in winning strikes. The SIU-SUP took good care of this item, and if you ask the b;ys on the picketline they will tell you that the food was good and constantly improving all the time the strike was on. There was at least one hot meal each day, and strong coffee available an/ time a man felt in need of a cup. Thousands of cups of coffee, and at least a 100,000 dou^|||||uts were consumed in the 10 days of the action. mj'i i X The French Lines' SS Athos II had a hard time when she hit New York Harbor right after the strike started. For three days she stayed right there while the Union did everything possible to have the ship cleared. Finally on the fourth day arrangements were completed to debark the pas­ sengers. Among them were refugees from Hitler's prison camps, and reluming ex-spldiers who had been discharged in Europe and who were re­ turning to the United States. They had plenty of stories to tell about the way they had to live on board the ship, and most had paid first class pas­ sage. Any time a shipowner says that operating vessels is not profitable, don't believe him. mi mm t �\RERS LOG Page Seven Held Our Meetings, And Won Our Beef i . j!,: r\ 1 •, -•-•''I illP: ' n'f •'t '."i k -4 During a major action of this sort, there are sure to be some aefs and misunderstandings that come up. A committee- was set jp to settle these beefs as soon as they came up. It sure made Ihe work of the other committees easier. Here is what a fink camp looks like, but the men in the picture are not scabs. They were brought out to this tourist camp in New Jersey under false pretenses, and when they learned the score from representatives of the SIU-SUP, they left the camp flat. To prove their good inten° tions. all of the boys showed up in the New York Hall the next day to volunteer for picket duty. Calmar Steamship Company, who started this camp, and the other shipowners, can learn a les­ son from this. ilsthmntoowifl teHli* A •M n % i ^ •h >X> '••• TAiH '• ; Jf: AC T ^ i 'A-roit; , f „„g i.^' 4, On the fourth day of the strike, the tugboats tied up, and they didn't move again until the strike was over. The tugboatmen are members of the Marine Division of the ILA. and they were on our side 100 percent. This picture was tak^n in New York, but in every port it was the same story. Nothing moving, no towboats work'.ng, everything locked up tight. After a few days of this, the Government was really looking for a quick way out. II " fasSs^jfSi; S; r . V jS" !•::•! , f w >: s, X i • le Committee of the SIU-SUP. Cooperation and assistance was jmd the above picture was taken at one of the many meetings issed at these meetings. Information was relayed so fast that ceived the news, and the men on the picketline were kept well another difference that marked a democratic union, responle top without answering to the membership. I I I m It took only one picket to effectively stop any one from working during the duration of the strike. That's how tight the tie-up was. No wonder the United States Government re­ versed the decision of the WSB. They knew they could­ n't sail any ships any other way. I X X mm ti wmm ii , _ -. W4 "A'• • 1 iI 1 i ' M 1 Thursday night. September 12. the radio blared out that the Stabilization Director. John R, Steelman. had reversed the WSB and granted the SIU-SUP the raises which they had won in negotiations. But no official word came to the Unions involved. That night a meeting was held at Manhattan Center where it was decided to keep the strike going until the announcement was official and until we were assured that the unions who had helped us in this fight would not be discriminated against by the employers. By Friday night it was all over. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Pa§e Efghi Local Residents, Buslnessnien, Back Marcus Hook Seafarers 1' I \l 1 Friday, SeptemBer 20. 1946 COME AND GET IT—ITS HOT AND GOOD By BLACKIE CARDULLO MARCUS HOOK — Thei e are, Their attitude was indifferent, some weeks when news is scarce; and they attempted to move the around the ports, but right at Boise Victory with their load of present there must be plenty to | finks. The Strike Committee im­ write in from all the ports so lets j mediately acquired a launch, and get our story started from the j went alongside the ship as the port of Marcus Hook. [ stern lines were being cast-off. First off, we can boast of 100; When they saw this launch per *cent picketline- attendance with a determined-looking load of men, combined with the ac­ tions of the ship's officers who had hii the dock to a man with Three meals a day. that's what is being served to the SIU-SUP men on strike aginst dicta­ bag and baggage as they would torship. The sub-committee in charge of Food and Housing is doing a bang-up job, and the meals not work with finks, the ship did keep getting better and better. Thousands of meals are served daily in the New York Hall. not get away from the dock. At present we have 13 ships tied up around here and a de­ and other special squads. No man termined bunch of strikers who was ever late or missed a watch will stick it out on the picketline nor was any man ever intoxi­ regardless of how long it takes Check the slop chest be­ cated. us to win our beef. fore your boat sails. Make We can also say that we have We have been very lucky in ac­ sure that the slop chest con­ By STANLEY WARES the finest cooperation from the quiring the services of Howard tains an adequate supply of residents and business people of Conard, a ship's purser who has CLEVELAND—In the last is­ spite the many tricks the comall the things you are liable this town. They are doing every­ volunteered to handle all our of­ sue of Pilot there was an account mies are using to stall it. to need. If it doesn't, call the thing they possibly can to help fice work and has done a mighty of the recent NLRB hearings on Union Hall immediately. I always thought the main ob­ us achieve our aims in this dis­ fine job. the Midland Steamship Company jective of any seamen's union pute. In the '36 and '37 strike, elections and, as expected, the was the fight against the Lake due to the fact that the strike article was completely one of Carriers Association, but I'm be­ committee did not have the fore­ misinformation and misleading ginning to find out I'm wrong. It sight to try to win friendship of statements aimed for the con­ seems that the NMU is fighting their local residents, there was sumption of the Great Lakes sea­ anyone that doesn't go for their much bad feeling toward the sea­ men. brand of what they call union­ men. As SIU representative at that ism; and, brother, what a brand By W. H. SIMMONS In the present dispute the peo­ hearing, the Pilot stated that I they've got! ple figured that this was just an­ "let the cat out of the bag," by SAN FRANCISCO—Since my in. We can all be pleased with There's an old saying you've other bunch of rowdy drunks. last report to the Log, things the successful strike we have just practically admitting that we had heard many times: "you can fool Since learning the Way the SIU a hiring agreement with the Mid­ all of the people some of the have really been humming on won . and SUP conduct a strike, and land Company. the Old Gold Coast. Under that time, but you can't fool all the Business has been very good on that we have the interest of the I wonder what bag they Wei'e people all of the time," and it grand Ole SIU Banner, we have the Old Gold Coast, all during people at heart, they are over­ talking about? They forgot to seems most of the seamen are done it again , the strike. I have had my hands whelmingly in praise of the fine mention that they were going in­ through being fooled by the bunk Boys, we have just finished the full paying off ships, settling conduct of our boys. to their bag to pull out all the biggest Maritime Strike in his­ beefs and also attending all of tricks they know to stall this the NMU has been feeding them We seamen are welcome at any these last few years. So you can tory. I am really proud of the the Strike Committee Meetings. election. establishment from the highest expect the commies to pull out militant SIU manner in which My one and only Patrolman, Har­ They have charged us'with col­ a new bag of tricks now that to the lowest with a friendly our members handled this beef. old Teague, has proven himself lusion and back door agreements their old cry is pretty well worn spirit. If we do not achieve our My hat is off to all our trip card a very capable and valuable man with the shipowners. Well, any out. ends in this dispute we have to the SIU. I am proud to have and permit boys, too. seaman on the Great Lakes, achieved a friendship with the These boys have done a won­ him as my Patrolman here on whether he is a SIU man or not, REAL BACKING people in this town so that in the the Coast. derful job, and can share in all At the NLRB hearing I men­ can come into our halls and is future all seamen will be wel­ I'll have more to report on these welcome to see how this Union tioned above, representing the the glories of winning this beef. comed and respected in the port I was elected a member of the phony CMU picketlines later on. operates and look at our con­ SIU beside myself were O'Donof Marcus Hook. SUP Strike Committee, as an At­ Looks like these commies are tracts, then judge fpr himself nell of the Tugmen, Vegan of the PLEDGE SUPPORT lantic and Gulf Representative. crying their hearts out now. They whether there is any collusion or Dredgemen and Antosek of the wanted to get on the "SIU Band Longshoremen, better known as backdoor dealings. Pledges of support in the way All in all, fellows, I think that Wagon," but there wasn't any the Cleveland Marine Council. of both financial and material we had a good team on the SUP ON SCHEDULE more room on her. That will give you men on the aid have poured in to us from the Committees. I am not writing this because Midland ships an idea of the She was already filled with Our Food and Housing com­ local citizens and business men. nothing but good old AFL riders. we have to defend our actions backing you received at that In the event this is a long, drawn- mittee did a wonderful job. We This was a ride that was success­ here, but to let the men on the meeting. out affair, these pledges will had one of the finest soup kit­ ful to the end. "Poor Joe," what Midland ships know that we will come in mighty handy. chens on the Coast. All the boys Representing the commies were does his membership think now? have the election on schedule deDavis and Vargo, organizers for We have all kinds of commit­ had plenty to eat. We borrowed the NMU and they also had along tees on strikes, but whoever a mobile coffee and do-nut wagon a high-priced lawyer. I wonder heard of a good-will committee? from the Salvation Army. This coffee wagon was on the front why they had to bring a lawyer at all times to see that the pickets along when they claimed in the had plenty of coffee and do-nuts. Pilot that they had all kinds of proof concerning us? " Who do We rented a half dozen big By HENRY CHAPPELL they think they are fooling? trucks, which were used to carry the pickets to and from their ap­ The handwriting is on the wall TOLEDO — As we predicted Sailors in general don't want pointed docks they were to pick­ many weeks ago the NMU at­ to be dictated to or pushed for them and I guess tliey knuw We tried it for experiment only et. We had a mighty good and tempt to grab complete control around by any group, and the it. The seamen on the Great and. Brother, it has paid off in militant picket-line. Everything of Great Lakes shipping has turn­ high handed tactics employed by Lakes know it, too. This article i.s not directed pledges of support in the event was peaceful. At anytime the ed into a dismal failure. the NMU in this organizational lines were molested, a standing against their misguided members, of a long fight. drive bears witness to this fact. The majority of the seamen on squad was ready to handle the Our excitement began at this Because the unorganized crews as I've talked to quite a few of the Lakes know now that this port when the Sun Oil Co. took situation, big or small. did not submit to their demands them and know them to be pretty move waa not a strike to gain in­ All in all, we had very little the high-handed attitude of "to and walk meekly off their ships good men who are being misled creases in pay, or to better work­ trouble here in Frisco. All the by their so-called leaders. heU with the unions" and said ing conditions, but was a futile on August 15 like a bunch of AFL affiliates cooperated with So fellows, don't forget when that it would move the Boise Vic­ attempt to tie-up all Great Lakes sheep, they labeled them, as scabs. tory, an American-Hawaiian ship us 100 per cent. Everybody re­ shipping. While calling these unorganized the Midland elections are held, with a good union crew who had spected our picketlines. seamen scabs, they don't mention vote SIU and show those "lead­ In the event they had succeed­ the fact that UAW-CIO members ers" that you voted for a Union The National Maritime Union, struck and left the ship lay.ing the Marine Cooks and Stewards ed it would have been easy pick­ drove new cars from the assem­ that is a real bona-fide seafar­ at the dock. and the Marine Firemen respect­ ings for them to have demanded bly lines in Detroit through the ers union, a Union that takes or­ They recruited a load of finks bargaining rights from the com­ picketlines. ders from no one but its mem­ to move this ship into the stream, ed our picketlines and came to panies and claimed juristiction the Clearance Committe for bership. Even Philip Murray, president as they didn't want pickets in over all crews. clearances to man ships which we of the CIO ordered men to work front of their gates and around Instead of gaining increases in behind their picketlines. When men are not scabs, but a group of their docks. Their story wa.s that had cleared, such as Troopers wages and belter working condi­ a union does not get the support men representing the vast ma­ they were just trying to move this and Navy ships. ' I guess that each port figures tions for the NMU members, this of its sister unions and affiliates, jority of Great Lakes seamen who ship as it was a fire hazard. The Strike Cdiiimittee had issued a it had a bad time of it. Boys, we move has only been to create a how do they expect to bring in had courage enough to resist the statement that we would glady all lost a lot of sleep and did a feeling of resentment and hard new members from the unorgan­ efforts of an overly-militant min­ ority who were attempting to move the ship into the stream lot of worrying, but it was for feelings by the unorganized sea­ ized fields? As we stated fo the press and force them into joining some­ with a loo per cent Union crew one of the finest causes in the men toward the NMU and in if they would prove that the ship world, which we are all proud some instances this include.? their printed in the Log? our conten­ thing they basically disapproved tion is that these unorganized of, namely the KMU. wag a fire hazard. I that we were able to participate. own rank and file members. Check It • But Good Says Midland Vote For Union WIN Take Place As Scheduled SIU And SUP On West Coast Took General Strike In Stride NMU Grab For Lakes Shipping Is Called A Dismal Failure �"?!F'a?g^-' IP-"' BUT NOT ANYMORE Port New York, As Bid All Ports, Had Hectic Time In Strike-But Victory Now Brings New Troubles By JOE ALGINA Having Won Its Beef, Baltimore Turns To Normal SlU Business By JOHNNIE "HOGGIE" HATGIMISIOS BALTIMORE—Now that we've successfully concluded the great­ est maritime strike in the. na­ tion's history we are leaving the newspaper spotlight and return­ ing to the regular swing of work. The past strike showed what kind of a Union we have. No one can beat it. When we go out to do a job we do it in the right way and we get what "we want. In that respect we are not like the NMU. They didn't attempt to get everything for their mem­ bership, when the CMU boys got together, but when they saw we wouldn't take anything short of what we deserved and struck for it, they made a bee-line for our band wagon just as they did dur­ ing the bonus strike. I wonder what happened to the mammoth strike fund the NMU always tells their recruits they have available for any strike? In this port it wasn't long before they were out shaking the cans to get the local citizens to kick in to help them out. They seize on any excuse at all to grab the nickels and dinries. The people who contributed un­ fortunately didn't realize that a good part of that money was si­ phoned off by the comrades for the benefit of the Communist party. NO CAN SHAKING The SIU, I can proudly say, has never had to resort to can shaking in a strike yet, and dur­ ing the present beef we had enough resources to hold out for six months. The men we put in office are capable, and not concerned with spreading a political line (with the union funds,) but devote their entire energies to the bene­ fiting of the union membership in general, and not one small political clicque. The pettiness of the NMU's tactics was shown recently here in Baltimore when they resorted to selling coffee on the picketlines for five cents a cup to their own men. If a guy didn't have a nickel, no coffee. What kind of a union can you call that? But lets get away from the NMU. GOOD JOB Unions have done a wonderful job in this country for the work­ ing class. Without the solidarity of unions, God only knows where we would be today. The unions have the only method to keep abreast of the rising cost of living and that is to keep fighting for more money. The seamen will never have to worry about being overpaid, their worry is to keep abreast of prices. Unions, however, are handicap­ ped in the fights by the com­ munists. They are the cause of the wide­ Page Nine THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, September 20, 1946 spread attacks on all unions and until they are swept clean from the field we will have to go on seeing all unions in general con­ demned by people who think the commies control the organized labor unions of our country. In the recent strike every man concerned did his part and I am proud to say I was engaged in NEW YORK — The last few weeks were the ones that sepa­ rated the men from the boys. During all the preparation for the strike, and during the strike, the Patrolmen had a double job. They had to do their assigned work, and they had to get ready for the big job which they would take on as soon as the action started. Well, all of them came through in fine shape. Ships were paid off and signed on before the .strike; beefs were settled at. the same time. And when the time came for the big walkout, these men were ready to do their as­ signed work. The picketlines were manned in great part by men who had gained experience during the work-stoppage in-June and the Coos Bay Beef in July. Of course, they're real oldtimers, but most of the men in this port weflre fel­ lows who had learned plenty in just a short time. And they all came through like real veterans. There were few complaints from the area commanders about men who dogged it on the job, but these men were far in the minority. It was obviou.s that only complete cooperation could win this beef against the gov­ ernment bureaucrats, and since we won we must have had the support of every member of the Union. GOOD PLANNING Most of the planning was done by the Strike Committee. They had a tough job to do, and thev carried out their responsibilitie.s in true SIU fashion. The work of the sub-committee on Food and Housing was the inusl out­ standing. The meals were al­ ways excellent, and there was also always a bed for a tired picketer. Now that the strike has ended, our work still goes on. The busi­ ness of crewing ships keeps us on the jump and as crews sign on, the Patrolmen are on the ball to make sure that the proper ar­ ticles are signed. Business is now going on as usual, and we like it better that way. I guess we can expect the usual number of NMUcrs who will come flooding into the Hall to join the SIU now that We have won a great battle for seamen and for all organized labor. Every time we win a big one that leads the way for the water­ front, these men start coming in, telling us that they are tired of their commie leadership, and that they want to join a Union that fights for its members, not for the slogans of the Communist Party. We have told them before, and will tell them again: Clean up your own union. You non-com­ mies outnumber the commies. Join hands, get together, and you can beat the commies every time. But don't expect to come running to us now that they have your NMU under their con­ trol. Port Norfolk Strike Ties Up Harbor 100 Percent By RAY WHITE the fight with them. Every man worked hard as hell to see this battle to its successful conclu­ sion. I cannot pick out any in­ dividual to praise as every man did a, magnificent job. The strike committee, the men on the picketlines, the boys in the soup kit­ chen, all of them are. to be com­ mended for a fine job. CHOW TIME I called the boys in the galley "belly robbers," but that title is dead now: they did a fine job and everyone said the food was better than they could find aboard ship. They took a lot of kidding, about the chow, but every man was glad to sit down to a meal they prepared. The youngsters who were en­ gaged in their first beef got a lot of valuable experience that will come in handy in the fu­ ture. This is important exper­ ience as every beef will not be as easy as this one, and when the hard ones come along we want men who will hit the bricks and not lose spirit easily, but will stay out there and win. This Union was built the hard way, and the oldtimers know what I mean: nothing was hand­ ed to us on a platter and we had to go through hell to get what we have now, and it is up to us to keep it that way for the union men to come. WHY AJOT TAKe THE i5ossi/4N/ TRooPS oOT Cf 'Rdofv^ANiA, "SULGAM , e7c,grc,ETc., NORFOLK—Forging one more link in the solid chain of struck ports, the Norfolk Seafarers, with traditional efficiency, tied up all shipping in a m.atter of hours after the word went out that a strike was the order of business. Immediately 30 ships with SIU and SUP crews tied up in the harbor. Those ships that hung the hook in the bay had their crews removed by launch service and the men immediately report­ ed to the SIU Hall to register for picket duty. The operation was appropriate­ ly named P-Day. P-Day being 7 a. m., September 6, when the strike officially began in this port. Some of the fellows in their anxiety to get out on the lines began Thursday afternoon by picketing the office of Dickmann, Wright and Pugh Inc., steamship operators in this port. The boys got a few licks in before we got word to them to conserve their energy for the opening gun the following morning. through our lines the first days to remove perishable food from the ships, but that was all they could remove and we had men stationed on all of these ships to insure the removal of only perishables. HAM 'N EGGS. PLUS That very important depart­ ment, of course I mean the feed­ ing of the men, was handled very well. We had the exclusive use of a restaurant on Talbot street and we fed 600 men there every day. The boys really turned to in the place and in no time were putting out meals that surprised the proprietor. The usual breakfast before a long day of picketing was fruit juice, ham and eggs, toast and coffee. There weren't any beefs Now that it is all over I want to extend my appreciation to all the men who participated in this, the greatest maritime tie-up Nor­ folk has ever seen. By all work­ ing together we showed the bu­ reaucrats that we were able to shove their words down their throats in short order and with real unity. By working as a team we showed the real union spirit of SIU seamen once more to those who doubted oior word when we first informed the WSB of our in­ tended action to strike if nothing was done to reverse their dicta­ torial decision. Well done! The Patrolmen Say.. Overtime Comedy NEW YORK, Sept. 4 —Over­ time disputed at sea aboard the SS Eugene O'Donnell was quick­ ly converted to cash when the Eastern Steamship vessel paid off today after winding up a 15months trip to the Far East and return. Aside from the effort in­ volved in settling the matter of overtime, the payoff was clean. Well, everything ran off smoothly when the sun came up over the bay Friday morning. We had the support of the AFL Maritime Trades Council and that support was shown by the International Longshoremen's As­ sociation when 4000 members of that Union refused to enter upon the piers or cross our picket lines. Coupled with the 750 SIU-SUP The crew, all full book and seamen on the beach in this port probationary book members with we had an effective tie-up. the exception of two tripcarders, FERRIES LONELY The only movement in the bay were a clean cut bunch of young was the. Ferry Steamers and Bay men, who were very cooperative. boats. The passenger boats from In fact, the Patrolmen take this here to Baltimore and Washing­ opportunity to thank all, and ton were allowed to operate and especially the ship's delegates, for they sure looked lonely out there their whole-hearted cooperation. on the Bay. The enthusiasm of the mem­ bership was illustrated by an in­ cident where a seaman went into a main street bank and cashed a $50.00 bill; from there he went into the nearest cigar store and bought cigars for all the SIU or SUP men he could get his hands on. The cigar smoke was so thick in the Hall here we could hardly see the shipping board. We allowed the trucks of the Steamship companies to pass on the chow, and it would take a very particular eater to find anything lacking in the chow de­ partment. OVERTIME SOURCES The overtime settlements in­ volved: The Chief Mate, who did every­ thing possible to increase his own overtime by working him­ self, because two men were missing on deck, but his laborwhittling attempts were of no avail. At the end of the trip, the company paid the crew the division of wages which would have gone to these men. The Skipper, too, was a source overtime. While at sea, the glori­ fied Skipper ordered 150 meala served to him in his office. At the payoff 90 cents for each meal served went to the crewmen in­ volved, despite the plate-shaking screams of the Skipper and his refusal to sign the overtime sheet. SOME FUN Not to be denied in the deal was the Radio Operator, who did carpentry work at sea "to amuse himself." The Carpenter was more genuinely amused when he collected for the 46 hours of work which the wireless man had per­ formed. When the galley supply of coal had been consumed, it was neces­ sary for the Chief Cook and the Second Cook to chop wood. They chopped the wood for three months, and also chopped over­ time for - it at the payoff, al­ though the Carpenter and BosuA claimed it was deck work. Men who were aboard this ves­ sel and who have overtime money due them should write to the Eastern Steamship Company office in Boston for payment. Jimmie SheehaA Ray Gonzales Jim Drawdy �Page Ten THE SEAFARERS LOG iligested Minutes Of SlU Ship Meetli^s JEREMIAH S. BLACK. Aug. J 10—Chairman J. H. Parsons: Secretary R. J. Williams. New Business: New men acquaint­ ed with SIU policies. Main beef against the Steward De­ partment for their neglect in keeping messhall clean and coffee urn in working order. Chief Steward pledged his full cooperation. X X % JAMES GUNN. July 31 — Chairman and secretary not noted). New Business: Motion carried to have patrolman check on the following: (a) shiPE foc'sles to be painted and deloused (b) new mattresses (c) new porthole screens (d) fans, bunk lights, lockers, and em­ ergency lights to be repaired (e) check and repair galley range, steward dept. toilet seat jinri place soap dishes in all heads and showers (f) check mid renew, when necessary all pitchers and glasses (g) check reason for the ringing of gen­ eral alarm at odd moments (h) repair and paint crew refriger­ ator (i) repair and paint crew xnesshall table and chairs (j) evaporated milk unift for con­ sumption—have condemned by port authorities. Chief Stew­ ard walked out of meeting when questioned about depart­ mental duties. XXX CAPE HATTERAS, June 29 — Chairman Chick Fisher; Secretary Leo Allen. Good and Welfare: Steward to post notices in messhalls in regard to cleanliness in messhalls and passageways. Each department to use their own heads and showers. Patrolman to be noti­ fied of member who deserted ship. Cans to be placed in pas­ sageways for disposal of cigar­ ette butts, etc. % THIMBLE EYE. July 28 — Chairman J. Flannery; Secre­ tary W. P. Roma. Motions car­ ried: that crew is not to pay off until patrolman comes aboard; to have all lights checked; to keep all outsiders from crew quarters. Good and welfare: Company to be notified that a coffee pot and toaster is needed aboard ships, also matches, dis­ infectants and spray guns. An electric iron and cots are need­ ed also. XXX ARTHUR M. HURLBERT. July 17 — Chairman B. Mans field; Secretary Charles Rodzy. Motions carried: that Stew­ ards Dept. to do their duties as per agreement; that one of the Delegates give up his job since he is not fully informed on all points of the agreement; that messrooms be kept clean at all times; that members guilty of . violations be fined $1.00, money to be donated to the Log. Good and Welfare: Chief Cook wants to help out menus, and it was suggested by Charles Simmons that Chief Cook and Steward work out menu together. XXX WILLIAM PEPPER, June 13 —Chairman T. O. Melton; Sec­ retary A. DipasupiL Motion carried to have Delegates in­ ject Unim books and tripcards and submit written report on Crew's standing to the Chair­ man. Reports are to be posted the Gulf. Brother Larsoii ac­ cepted offer and was accepted unanimously by the crew. Bro­ ther Larson suggested that a Patrolman be on board in case of a payoff in next port; Broth­ er Larson gave a few points on what is expected of Union men aboard ship, their duties and and limitations. Patrolman Gonzales suggested to the Stew­ ard that a coffee pot be ob­ tained for the Engine Depart­ ment. on the bulletin board. No sign off until beefs and disputed overtime are settled. Members who didn't ship through Union on last trip should register if they wish to ship again. Crew extended vote of thanks to Stewards department for good service. Good and Welfare: Motion was carried to make the following improvements before signing on next crew: paint foc'sles, provide a bench for each, repair radio in mess and chart rooms, install electric fan in unlicensed personnel's mess, provide gratings for all show­ ers, change large radiator in Bosun's room for smaller one, install plugs in all wash basins, and provide a wind­ break for look-out. XXX HASTINGS, (Date, chairman and secretary not noted). Mo­ tions carried: to recommend several men for probationary books; to have Engine Depart­ ment man report to Patrolman, and to inform Tripcard mem­ bers on their standing. XXX OTIS E. HALL, July 23 — Chairman J. Barone, Secretary; L. L. Elie. New Business: Mo­ tions carried: that delegates ask Captain to have Steward leave icebox keys with Chief Cook while vessel is at sea; that any overtime work on topside quar­ ters is to be divided between the messmen and utilities. Good and Welfare: All the crew was warned of spitting in drinking fountain and throwing match sticks and butts in alleyways. All men to pick up spoons, cups after coffee time and wash same. Those that neglect this are to be fined 50c and money collected to be donated to the Log. X x'x MV MOOSE PEAK, Aug. 12 —Chairman J. McCullough; Secretary Charles Dowling. New Business: Special meeting called to order to have Patrol­ man take immediate action on various repairs. Deck Delegate reported that all drains be cleared and repaired in AB foc'sle while ship is in drydock, also all locks for deck department rooms be replaced with new ones. Steward de­ partment reported that drain in pantry be cleaned and re­ paired. Engine Department re­ ported that all chairs in mess­ halls should be repaired and put in servicable condition. To have all locks on oilers rooms be installed and bunxs be low­ ered to a peaceful and breath­ ing height. XXX JEREMIAH S. BLACK, Aug. 17 — Chairman J. H. Parsons; Secretary R. J. Williams. New Business: Chairman offered a suggestion that he resign his position as chairman in favor of Brother Larson who is one of the oldest book members of Friday, September 20, 1946 SEAFARER SAM SAYS XXX EDWARD LOGAN, Aug. 4— Chairman J. Watkins; Secre­ tary B. Torbick. New Business: SHARE Garbage can on degk has not >r^DUR SHIPS been emptied since ship left Rotterdam. Deck delegates AND UNIOM will see mate about it. Motions HALLS WITH carried: to see all trip carders TOUR FELLOW UNIONISTS. Po as to their intentions as to join­ ing union. Eeach department to recommend their trip card members to the union. No one will pay off until all beefs are settled. Any one paying off before will be brought up on charges. Repair list: plugs for wash basins, foc'sles need, painting also all departments and heads, wringer in laun­ dry to be repaired or replaced, dogs on ports to be freed and also replace missing ones, springs on bunks to be replaced where missing. Crew wished By HANK to thank Steward, cooks and other members of their depart­ Well, we gave the little Wage Stumblization Board a big fight ment for a v/ell fed ship thus making the trip an enjoyable and a good fight to win our beef and save our precious cabbage. one. Let all bureau-rats and ship-profiteers forever respect our con­ tracts and our intentions and policies! . . . This sleeping business isn't back to normal yet for most of us—especially for Lil Abncr! . . . One of our shipmates, Jack Merikle, who is now sailing as Number Two Mate, hit the bricks with his brothers, regretting, however, that he didn't see beardless Harold Farrington or Woody » » » DE SOTO, July 14 — Chair­ Roland the cook. Tommy Farr is in N. Y., anyway. Jack . . . Arthur man Marston; Secretary Boh- Berg, the oldtimer, is here in New York, after doing his bit in the menstiehl. New Business: Deck strike . . . Lucky Lee Luciano and Vic Combs are waiting to return and Steward delegates report­ to their lonesome berths aboard the Cape Ilatteras for those steady ed everything; okay. Engine delegate reported part over­ Island runs. They sure have a swell skipper too, by the way. YOUR SHARE TO KEEP THEM CLEAN — RDR YOURSELF AND YOUR UNION BROTHERS. CUT AND RUN time disputed at Antwerp. Men listed that paid fines for misde­ meanors aboard ship. Money collected from fines to be do­ nated to Log. XXX FERDINAND R. HASSLER, July 1 — Chairman Donald R. Short; Secretary R. O. Farrara. New Business: All delegates reported everything okay. Mo­ tion carried to have the follow­ ing fines put into effect: 50c for leaving cups, etc., on tables and sitting on tables—25c for abuse of laundry room—$1.00 for spitting on deck anywhere inside of housing—$10.00 for appearing at mealtime without proper clothing—fine—^no serv­ ice. Cigarette butts and trash in passageways—fino 2Ss. One minute of silence for brothers lost at sea. TEU- MiM OF THE AWAttTAlSeS OF SIU MEMBERSHIP — / 'BOIUD THE SIU / Tom "Beachie" Murray, bouncer at the Riviera in San Juan and the best friend of Caledonia, was probably pounding the bricks in Puerto Rico while his old pal Woodsie Lockwood was pounding the New York bricks. Woodsie also want to know how Marino of the Texas Bar is getting along . . . An oldtimer and a San Juna beachie, B. A. Morrison, who quit the NMU after get­ ting a raw deal on a legitimate beef, just finished pounding the bricks for us. Brother Morrison confessed the sincerest happi­ ness in seeing with his old eyes the way our Patrolmen settle beefs in the right way and the only w^y for the membership. "Red" Davis, is waiting to leave New York and hit Puerto Rico again . . , Someone named Angelpuss down there must be waiting to see "Red" Morgan which is also vice versa, ton , . Harvey Hill is here in New York and Red J. "Whitten just came back from Den­ mark with a swell, militant crew . . . Oldtimer Alex Anderson just came in from a trip . . . "Peg Leg" Andy Anderson just blew in from a trip with a black and white dog named Spot, who might have hit the bricks for a few days, too, if we know Andy. Well, this last part of the column will be about who's in town right now: John Bove, the Baker, who has sailed several Isthmian ships . . . Baker Oscar Grimm, who might start baking cigar pies in the future . . . "Chico" Philip Salino, dressed in that familiar brown suit . .. Frank Radzvila, the big Cook with the usual big smile. Well, we don't have to blow any more smoke about our .victory. Our two weeks of hitting the bricks will be remembered as V-SIU Days for a long, long time. Our victory was an atom bomb splash which opened up the scheming eyes of the anti-labor people and the sleeping eyes of all Labor. But let's not forget that many people will still be working against us, even with their smiles and signa­ tures on papers, hoping to cut our necks in some way. We're all Americans but when it comes to improving wages and conditions and thereby losing an inch of profits or an inch of pride and power —enemies are so easily a dime a dozen on the backs of seamen, as ndeed they have-always been. Let's watch Washington, let's watch and keep fighting the Coast Guard. We have our lives and our money to lose if we ever slack our militant lines. Brothers. �Friday, September 20, 1946 THE SEAFARERS LOG U. S. LABOR AIDS SPANISH UNIONISTS The first shipment of $5000 worth of medical supplies for the Spanish Trade Union (UGT) Center in France has been sent off by the Medical Aid Section of the Int'l Solidarity Com­ mittee. Above (1. to r.) are: Dr. Bernard Schneider, chairman of the Medical Aid Committee of the ISC; Louis Nelson, man­ ager of Local 155 of the IntT Ladies Garment Workers UnionAFL; Antonio Reina, American representative of the Labor & Immigration Dep't of the Spanish Republican Government in exile; and Dr. Leo Price, director of the Union Health Center, New York City. The ISC is sponsored by both AFL and CIO leaders. The medicines will help establish a new hospital for the Spanish unionists in exile. POWELTON CREW SENDS DONATION FOR HELEN MEN Dear Editor: Members of the crew, including officers, of the SS Powelton Seam have contributed $49.50 to the seamen of the SS Helen, who had their papers lifted by the Coast Guard's Kangaroo Court. If the seamen have had their papers returned to them, and have shipped out, the money is to be turned over to the Seafarers AN AB WITHOUT A LIFEBOAT TICKET: Log. Please print this list in the Log, NEAREST PATROLMAN IS MAN TO SEE and let the crew know that the To the Editor: Powelton men are ICQ per cent for them. Since when can a man who has sailed Acting AB without an The men and the amount con­ AB or lifeboat ticket turn around and sign on the vessel he has tributed follows: been sailing for the last five months as an Ordinary Seaman? Ch. Eng., $4.00; 1st Asst. Eng., And since when can a Bosun take it upon himself to say that it $2.50; 2nd Asst. Eng., $1.00; 3rd all right for the man to sign on without definite proof to this Asst. Eng., $1.00; Ch. Mate, $1.00. effect? Crewm.embers; Price, $1.00; The answer is: he can't! But the truth is: he did! Britt, $1.00; Orman, 11.00; Harri­ The finger can only be pointed to the Bosun and the man son, $1.00; Tilley, $5.00; Driver, himself for stating that it was proper for him to sign on, even $1.00; Keene, $1.00; LaFoe, $1.50; though he allegedly quoted a responsible union official as say­ Andrees $1.00; Nickel, $1.50; Holing so. strom, $1.00; Whitmer, $1.00; KeBill Taylor, 39841 rester, $1.00; Page, $1.00. Eric Upchurch, 24611 McLane, $1.00; Bowers, $1.00; S. Kinoshita, SUP 2219 Barber, $1.00; Gibbs, $1.00; Car­ away, $2.00; Hendricks, $1.00; Answer:—In a case of this kind see Ihe Patrolman at the first SIU port you hit. He will straighten things out. Gibson, $1.00; Bradley, $1.00; Christopherson, $1.00; Marcellus, $1.00. Also, $10.00 was added from SIU SOLIDARITY LOG STIRS WIFE'S the ship's fund. INTEREST IN 'SETS EXAMPLE E. Tilley, Engine Delegate FOR ENTIRE WORLD' LABOR MOVEMENT SKIPPER TRIES TO HELP PARENTS OF LATE SEAFARER Dear Editor: Dear Editor: The greatest maritime strike I hold probationary book 49821. While I was home recently I had the world has ever seen started the Log sent there. During that when the Wage Stabilization Dear Editor: time my wife became very inter­ This letter is written for the Board refused to recognize the ested in the Seafarers paper, arid express purpose ~of letting the newly gained increases our lead­ in the labor movement—a sub­ ership had wrested from the ject in which she had been very the newcomer felt and assured Brothers hear of a fine Skipper. shipowners. Dear Editor: Captain Frank Purdy of the SS ill-informed previously. him that he would be steered It has been my privilege many With the backing of all labor, Thomas B. Reed, Calmar Steam­ We recently changed our ad­ right. times to serve in the Stewards ship Company. He is a good a large treasury and an efficient dress, and she has reminded me In his new job Bill felt that sailor and a gentleman. Insofar strike set-up, we are prepared Department aboard on SIU ships he might not be able to handle as we always sound off about a for a showdown with the WSB, several times to be sure to have I have always enjoyed the job the Log sent to our new address and have studied each individual the job, but it wasn't long before phony Captain, we feel we or any other agency that at­ so they will be able to be keep so that a lot of unnecessary one of the crewmen showed him should speak up about a good tempts to interfere with our col­ up with "our" Union while I am trouble could be avoided how to set the table for dinner one. lective bargaining rights. away. This short story was inspired by and gave him some advice: The membership is grateful for On voyage No. 11 of the Reed, Labor unions are something "Don't get excited and argue from Boston to Baltimore to ports the support which all the mari­ the things that happened to me every one in my section of the when I broke in a messman on with the crew during meal time of western France, Captain time brothers have given us in country need know more about. his first job. It is of course fic­ because when a seamen is eating Purdy was everything one could this current issue. The morale of The Unions and a little bit of titious, but perhaps you may he wants to eat in peace. Al­ ask of a skipper. When William our rank and file has always broadmindedness are the things note something familiar in the ways keep your glasses polishec Joyce, Wiper, was killed in Le been good, but today it cannot that will pull the South out of the along with the silverware. Set Marques, France, the old man be surpassed. This is due to an tale. • backward state it is in today. your table in an orderly manner though ill, did everything in his educated membership and the in­ C. J. Luper "'SPEEDY' CARRIES ON" and serve the food like you would power to bring the boy's body telligent handling of Union af­ No. Carolina It was just another morning like to have a waiter serve it to home to his parents. He could fairs. at the SIU Hall and the floor was you. Whenever there are things have left most of the headaches The time has come for the bu- CREW ABOARD crowded with seamen milling on the menu that rates a side to the Consul, but instead worked reaucrats to realize that Labor around looking over the ships on dish serve it as such. At all times and worried himself into a state! will no longer tolerate any inter- CAPE HATTERAS the board. Most of them were make the crew feel as though you of near collapse. So bad in fact ference or high-handedness that A HAPPY FAMILY veterans of the dark days when are trying to give them the best that he was forced to go to bed submarines stalked merchant of service. Always cut grape­ for a few days when we put to was shown towards us during the Dear Editor: recent conflict. • ships in the deadly game of war. fruit and cantaloupe and other sea. We are a big, happy family on Both the STU and the SUP Near the edge of the crowd stood fruit like it should be cut. You'll We take this opportunity to have shown again, as in the past, the SS Cape Hatteras. a quiet self conscious youth. Like never go wrong if you follow thank a fine captain, and a true But the last trip was terrible. that they have the guts to fight all the rest he was waiting for a these rules. gentleman. The chow was lousy, and there for Union rights, as guaranteed ship, but unlike the rest this ship "Place ash trays in convenient The crew cf th-o was no service. We had no meat, by the laws,of our land. And meant very much to him as it places and put up a sign where SS Thomas B. Reed they have set an example of soli­ except for the pork we picked was going to be his first trip to the crew can see it asking them up in Ciudad Trujillo. darity for the entire world. sea. in a nice way lu put Uieir cigar­ messman, he looked back to his In San Juan, Bud Ray came Solidarity lies in the meeting We'll call him Bill Jones, Yes, ettes and ashes in them. Take a first days and realized that the aboard to check the store rooms Bill Jones, Messman, waiting for cloth and every morning sort of advice of his fellow seamen had of minds, in the exchange of and the iceboxes. ideas, and complete unity against his first ship. rub off accumulated spots on the reaped him rewards. The man who was Third Cook a common foe, and that should One by one the dispatcher bulkheads. Cooperate with the Finally the ship came back to be the goal of the maritime Avork- on our last trip is now the Chief called off the jobs and soon the dishwasher as such as possible the states and "Speedy" decided Cook, and what a cook he is. board was empty but for one and make his job as easy as your he needed a vacation for the ship er—solidarity. Bob Porter He's also a darned good Steward. opening. This, no one "desired and own." had been gone for twenty months. In fact, the service couldn't be the dispatcher told him the job better. Bill listened intently to the ad­ So he headed home and took was his and gave him his ship­ vice given him and in wasn't long things easy for awhile. WIFE READS LOG On deck, we have four Bosuns ping card and slip. After resting up he decided to TO CHECK ON who are ABs. Lucky is a Bosun before the crew noticed his dili­ now. We don't see the Chief gence and nicknamed him ship out again, so he went down NEW JOB to the hall. All the crew was SEAFARER SPOUSE "Speedy." Mate on deck, as was the case a there and they shook his hand Dear Editor: on the last voyage. He told me Bill boarded his ship somewhat REGULAR GUY and boasted that he was the best bewildei'ed and a little unsure he has a good deck crew this My wife and I would like to To France, Belguim, Holland messman they had ever sailed of his reception. He was met in time. This is a result of a meet­ have the Log mailed to our home ing we held on sailing day in the passageway by the Chief and other ports he sailed and al­ with. Speedy felt good and a address weekly. New York. Steward, an oldtimer in the sail­ ways whenever the crew met him happy feeling surged through Between you and me, I think Yes sir, we are a big, happy ing game, who welcomed him uptown they set him up with the him. He looked up at the board aboard and showed him his quar­ best drinks. The crew liked him and saw that a messman's job she's trying to keep a close check family on the SS Cape Hatteras— ters and the messroom. He show­ and called jiim a regular guy. was open. He applied for it and on me. I can think of no better and all SIU members. God bless our Union. ed Bill around and pointed out They fought his battles and went received it. As he left the hall way than to have her read the Pedro J. Eraso [le heard someone call, "Carry on Seafarers Log. his duties as a messman aboard out of their way to help him. Herbert H. Crowell Speedy began to like being a Speedy.' " Frederick Wilkins Deck Delegate ship. The Steward realized how 'Serve Or Sink'—How To Make Good As A Messman On The Rolling Seas /••A I �"I ^ ^11 iiMii ..' TBE SEAFARERS LOG Page Twelve Friday, Seplember 20. 1946 Strike Action Found Outports Ready HERE'S HOW "?r" The Philadelphia Hall was too small to accommodate all who wanted to attend the meeting on September 6, so arrange­ ments were made for a larger hall in the center of town. And even this one wasn't quite big enough. Everybody had some­ thing to say. and all wanted to hit the bricks to show the WSB that when the SIU-SUP win a wage contract, they want what they win! On this page we have pic­ tures and details of the way things went in Philadelphia and Baltimore. In other ports it was the same story, but for two reasons we are unable to print the story and the pictures of what happened. First of all, the Teamsters' strike has left all printers short of paper. The LOG this wek is only 12 pages. Second, all Port Agents wore so, tied up with work during the strike, and a'^ the action was over, that they found it impossible to send stories and pictures as yet. In the next few weeks we know that more stories and pictures will be sent to the LOG, and when they are, you can be sure that they will be printed. Philly Ready So Strike Is Successful PHILADELPHIA — From the Navy Yard straight up the water­ front, this harbor was shut down fighter than most people would have believed possible. You could stand on the Delaware River bridge and look in both direc­ tions, up and down the river, and not a plume of smoke showed from any smoke stack on any ship. It was the same way on the Schuylkill River, and the only boats that moved here at all were the rowboats and shells near the boat houses. The foot of Market Street look­ ed like a deserted town, with only the Camden Ferry run­ ning. All in all, there was no doubt that this was a 100 per cent tie-up, in Philly and all over the United States. While we were engaged in but­ toning up the waterfront, we were still interested in making sure that all the boys had good hot food in their bellies, and a plac to live each night. While the NMU was threatening strike ac­ tion, all the commie unions in this town ran around getting rooms for them to use. The com­ mie unions even put up cots in their halls for the boys, and at the last minute they weren't used. Even cots are comfortable at the end of a long day of picket­ ing. These cots in Baltimore are not an exception, and are only part of the strike preparations made by this port. When the pin was pulled, they were ready down here, and within a few hours, the port was locked up tighter than a miser's bank ac­ count. And it stayed that way until the beef was settled in our favor. Baltimore On The Ball When Strike Call Came By WM. RENTZ Off to the picketlines in fine style. No sense walking to the docks when all you are going to do is some more walking. This truck came in mighty handy to transport pickets and to pick up food in the wilds of New Jersey. everyone; most days we gave out about 300 sandwiches. BIG GAME HUNTERS Don't think that any of this was easy. We were feeding close to 900 men, and due to the OPA freezing the meat, we had to go into the wilds of New Jersey for our provisions. We went around from farm to farm, and where we found meat, we bought it. Brother Hodge killed a couple of Maybe that moving coffee pigs for us, and that was a fine house wasn't welcome t6 the break. guys on picket duty, Each watch The smiling faces of the boys we distributed 250 dozen dough­ on the chow line was thanks nuts, plus all the coffee the boys enough to the members of the wanted and plenty of fresh fruit. Food and Housing Committee As far as sandwiches were who were responsible for provid­ concerned, there was plenty for ing all the food and lodging that was needed. Most of us were busy 20 hours a day, but after the victory was a sure thing, we found enough energy to go out to do a spot of celebrating. Sonia's was a busy place that night, and the boys really deserve a good time be­ cause practically all of them had stayed away from the joy gas during the strike action. The entire. strike action Was fine, but now that it is over, we can all get into the fight to pro­ tect the gains we .have made, and to go even further. There are still some unorganized lines, and these should get our attention next, now that Isthmian is prac­ tically in-the bag. The Seafarers International Union has always led in the fight for seamen's Coffee and—This mobile canteen made picketing easier in rights, and this fight against the the City of Brotherly Love. It belongs to the AFL Industrial WSB is only one more in the long Union Council and is available for such work at any time. history. From here on we. do Sure comes in handy. I even bigger things. But those unions didn't lift a finger for us. We had to do the whole thing by ourselves, and we did a fine job. Not one man went without a hot meal at least once each day, and through the cooperation of the AFL Central Labor Council of Philadelphia, we were able to secure the serv­ ices of a mobile canteen. BALTIMORE — Simultaneous keep the American Merchant Ma­ with every other port in United rine on the high seas. Maryland States Baltimore's port closed up ' can be congratulated on having shop at mid-night Sept. 5. When defeated this would-be strike the word came to hang the hook breaker in the recent primaries. and place out picket lines we There was a little trouble at were ready. We are proud of the the Maryland Drydock Company manner in which we pulled off when a company bus tried to the maneuver and we know that force its way through the picketthe story was the same all along i line. The men showed the com­ the three coasts. The story of pany that the lines weren't there cooperation from every source to be broken and once more the connected with the waterfront company learned the hard way is a wonderful story worth re­ that the Union meant business. peating in every port concerned. We received the pledges of sup­ In Baltimore we received the port from the NMU as did every full support and cooperation of other port. Naturally "no coffee the Baltimore branch of the AFL time" Joe was anxious to support and the Baltimore Federation of us. Look at him now crying his Labor. Miss Anna Neary rep­ eyes out about unequal pay. Well resenting the two above named we're glad the NMU membership groups called personally at the is going to get the raise, but as Hall to give us the word of sup­ usual they got it through the ef­ port. We also received full sup­ forts of the SIU and not their port of the local cab companies. own leaders. The drivers stopped 15 feet from • NOT FOOLING the picketlines and unloaded. The Joe quickly assured LaGuardia Cab Union told us to take the that NMU crev^s would man number of any cab that tried to UNRRA relief ships. I wonder cross the line and we never had what he expects us to do now to make use of that privilege. that he is asking us to hang the From across the sea we received hook on all of our ships, relief word from the British Dock- or not. workers in Liverpool that they Well its all over now and we would refuse to handle the car­ showed the boys in Washington go of any ship loaded by troops that we weren't fooling. As we or finks during the course of the are the clo.sest port to the Capitol strike. I wonder if some of the WSB On the other side of the ledger boys ever came around to see if we have a typical bureaucrat up the port was really dead. Maybe to his old tricks. Senator Rad- they did and ran right back to cliffe of Maryland told President hide and drop the whole business Truman to call out the Navy to in Uncle Harry Truman's lap. Just like every other port: one continuous picketline from Boston all the way down the Atlantic Coast, around the Gulf ports, and up the Pacific Coastline. And plenty effective, too. Not a ship mcved for ten days. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1939-1949 Description An account of the resource Volumes I-XI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource September 20, 1946 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. VIII, No. 38 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Description An account of the resource Headlines: GENERAL STRIKE WINS COMPELTE VICTORY; NMU ASKS PAY RISE TO SEAFARERS LEVELS SIU ACTION FORCES SEELMAN TO REVERSE BUREAUCRATIC DENIAL OF SEAFARERS SCALES MERCHANT SEAMEN STILL AWAIT CHANGES IN PRESENT UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE LAW FREE LOADING STEELMAN ON SEAMEN'S PAY PHILLY TUGMEN HAIL SIU FOR LABOR VICTORY AFL POLICY IN NMU STRIKE MILITANT UNIONISM OF SIU-SUP PAYS OFF FURUSETH WOULD HAVE BEEN PROUD OF HIS BOYS IN THIS LAST BEEF THIS IS HOW WE PICKETED, FED OUR MEN, HELD OUR MEETINGS AND WON OUR BEEF LOCAL RESIDENTS, BUSINESSMEN, BACK MARCUS HOOK SEAFARERS SAYS MIDLAND VOTE FOR UNION WILL TAKE PLACE AS SCHEDULED SIU AND SUP ON WEST COAST TOOK GENERAL STRIEK IN STRIDE NMU GRAB FOR LAKES SHIPPING IS CALLED A DISMAL FAILURE PORT NORFOLK STRIKE TIES UP HARBOR 100 PERCENT STRIKE ACTION FOUND OUTPORTS READY PHILLY READY SO STRIKE IS SUCCESSFUL BALTIMORE ON THE BALL WHEN STRIKE CALL CAME Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 9/20/1946 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1946 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/a95d6884762938074f6aab18802802fa.PDF 46602455f15ae21f993cec89b6b90517 PDF Text Text SEAFARERS^LOG Vol. XXV N*. If l«pt«mb*r to 196S 'OFFICIAL ORQAMOF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS DISTRICT » AFL-CIO New 50-50 Rule Boosts US Shipping '"e -Story On Page 3 Is;? *®P'ein6ef MTD OKs Ship Program, Backs Canadian Beef 1963 SEE SUPPLEMENT IN THIS ISSUE -Story On Page 2 SHIPPING RULES SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters District, AFL-CIO AND CONTRACTED EMPLOYERS Complete Text Reprinted In Centerfold -lasigg^gas .'A: �Ufl S,BA,F4K^R^ 'LQ,0 MTD Urges Gov't To Aid Shipbuilding WASHINGTON—The AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department has urged Congress to provide "vastly increased" ap­ propriations for ship construction, conversion and repair as a means of reviving the nation's maritime industry. At a two-day meeting here the executive board of the 29union department called attention to the "constant decline" of the US shipping fleet of Canada and the Upper Lakes which, if unchecked, "por­ Shipping Company. (See separate tends liquidation" of the ship­ story below.) It adopted resolu­ building industry. The MTD board also took number of actions in connection with the dispute between the SIU Bull Line Plan Stalls tions condemning the Canadian Brotherhood of Railway, Trans­ port & General Wm-kers for its leading role to exempt Canadian affiliates of the AFL-CIO from the Federation's Internal Disputes Plan and for a proposal to abolish international unionism in Canada. A separate action branded the recent Canadian Industrial Inquiry Commission as a "union-busting program" and deplored the sup­ port given the Investigation by of­ ficers of the Canadian Labour Congress. Susxcsts Program The US industry's condition, the MTD board said, constitutes a na­ tional peril. In order to relieve unemployment among shipyard workers and to strengthen US shipping, the department called for: • A ship construction program that Would assure 80 new naval and 60 merchant ships a year; • Opportunity for "all qualified US shipyards' to acquire a "just share" of shipbuilding awards; • Allocation of adequate con­ tracts to insure continued opera­ tion of shipyard facilities; • Encouragement of private (Continued on page 10) An Unusual Chain Of £vent* As government, .her vigorou. PT^»T. from Aa CeneJi-. Wor^ movement, I. moving tow«d nc- tioa egiAwt Ao "moneUr." THE GREAT . iiftn . 3L "••• Q At that meeting, I understand there was an announcement of a financial contribution by William Mahoney of the Canadlan-U.S.W.A, to the Canadian Mari­ time Union In the amount of $10,0007 A Yes. Q I take It that that la not his fund personally, not a personal fund? A not..." No, I am certain It was Transcript, MOBRIS COMMISSION HiiAHIMGS, page 2066, line 27 - page 2068, line k By FRANK DREA Toronto Newaman • Telegram Staff Reporter NEW YORK—Manuel E. KuluJoins USWA Staff Seaway waterfronts are kundis last week expressed hope Toronto, Ont.—Frank Drea, na­ en tbe brink of bloodshed tionally known labor reporter and for the eventual reorganization of ,-)nd violence today as Cana­ columnist for tlie Toronto Tele­ his bankrupt US-flag shipping op­ dian labor mobilized for a gram, lias jmoed the Canadian pub­ struggle to the death against erations in the face of a trustees' lic relatiom stall of the Sleelworki Hal Chamberlain Banks — en as assistant to Dir. Murray report to a Federal Court judge with or wiAout the help of Cotterill. that the $1.5 million loan he re­ Ae Norris report. cently obtained from a Greek bank AFLCIO NEWS. WASHINGTON, THE TELEGRAM, Toront«i I is not enough to reactivate the re­ 'Wed., July 17, ISA} SEFTEMBER 7, 1963 mainder of his fleet. In July, the trustees had sug­ gested that $1.5 million in fresh One of the many unusual events in the dispute between the SIU money would be enough to get the of Canada and Upper Lakes Shipping is the sequence above that remaining vessels back in service. ends wiffi the naming of Toronto newsman Frank Drea to the Can­ They reported on September 9 that adian public relations staff of the United Steel Workers. USW new developments had made an pnbiications'snch as the "Great Lakes Sailor" have been active in additional $500,000 or more neces­ fighting the SIU, and an official iff the same union admitted under sary. oath during the Norris hearings that the organization has contrib­ Creditors' claims against the Kuuted heavily to the anti-SIU campaign. At the same time, Drea, lukundis shipping operation orig­ formerly employed by a daily newspaper, the "Toronto Telegram," inally had been estimated to ex­ has been writing numerous stories critical of the SIU. Two weeks ceed $5 million, including claims ago, as the "AFL-CIO News" reported, Drea joined the USW staff. by the SIU and other shipboard unions and claims by SIU crewmembers with liens against indi­ vidual ships for wages due. Meanwhile, SIU attorneys last week filed a formal petition with the US Supreme Court for a re­ view of Federal court decisions in­ volving proceeds from the sale of the former Bull Line freighter MONTREAL—The Seafarers International Union of Canada has just released a detailed Emilia. study of the one-man Norris Commission report on the Upper Lakes shipping dispute. The The established right of vessel crewmembers and their families to 108-page SIU document analyzes all aspects of the Commission hearing and Its recpnunendasecure unpaid wages when a ship tions, and finds that Commis-+ under seizure is sold at a marshal's sioner Norris repeatedly vio­ accord with the Commissioner's grantly disregarded." sale would be seriously affected if lated basic concepts of justice preconceived notions; double The SIU study documents the the rulings are upheld. The deci­ and had prejudged the issues. standards have been applied; Commissioner's conduct of the sions, by causing the sale proceeds (The fuU text of the SIU docu­ basic established rules of law hearings to reveal "that the Com­ to be used up for cargp discharg­ ment is carried in a veeial 24- have bee° wantonly violated; in­ missioner was not, from the mo­ ing expenses and other costs, page supplement in this issue of judicious conduct was openly' en­ ment of his . appointment, con­ would upset the order in which «be LOG.) gaged in the Commissioner; cerned wi& a dispassionate and payments are normally made—^at The Commissioner, tbe report rules of the hearing were objective, ev^uation of the subthe expense of seamen's wage points out, "omitted substantive changed at' the Oonunisskiner's jecta he was named to investiclaims. matterg, particularly when not In whim and objectlvitar was fla­ (Continued on page 6) Canada SIU Raps Hearing Report's Anti-Union Bias Baltimore City Officials Visit MTD Port Council AFL-aa To Meet Nov. 14 "'-i - > WASHINGTON—The fifth con­ stitutional convention of the AFL-CIO has been scheduled to open November 14 in New York City at the Americana Hotel. The convention comes at a time "of paramount importance to workers and to America," ac­ cording to the official convention call issued by President George Meany and Secretary-Treasurer William " F. Schnitzler on behalf of the Executive Council. The stated theme of the con­ vention will be "to meet the chal­ lenges of creating a full employ­ ment economy, assuring equal opportunity for all and intensify­ ing the worldwide struggle for freedom." "First among these tasks is full employment," the convention call continues. "The. apparent prosperi­ ty of most Americans cannot, should not. and must not conceal the distress of the others—amount­ ing to nearly 6 percent of the work force—who, month In and month out for almost six years, have been jobless. Little better is the plight of additional millions who can find only part-.time work, and still others whose earnings are below the level of bare subsistence." Notes Job Decline Noting the accelerating growth of the labor force and the constant shrinkage of job opportunities due to automation and other techno­ logical changes, the Executive Council's statement calls for "gov­ ernment leadership and govern­ ment action—bold, imaginative and far-ranging," to avert a job crisis. The first and founding AFLCIO convention was held in New York City in December of 1955. Biennial sessions since then have met in Atlantic City, San Francisco and Miami Beach. Also in November the AFL-CIO International Labor Press Associa­ tion will hold its annual conven­ tion in New York, featured by the presentation of ILPA's 1963 journ­ alistic awards to a number of un­ ion publications. The ILPA awards are to be announced November 12 in ceremonies at the Park-Sheraton Hotel. The SEAFARERS LOG has re­ ceived notification from the ILPA that it has been named as one of the award winners in the 1963 competition. Last year, the LOG gained two citations at the ILPA's Cleveland convention in competi­ tion among newspapers of various AFL-CIO national and internation­ al unions. The 1862 awards were citations for general editorial excellence and for an original editorial cartoon by Bernard Seaman, LOG art editor. In judging by professional newsmen. The LOG has received a total of SO awards since it en­ tered the labor press competition In 1947. SEAFARERS LOG Sept. 20,1963 VoI.XXV,No. 19 FAIR. HALL, President HBRBEBZ BHANO, Editor; levmt SFIVACK, Jdanaging Editor; BEHNARD SEAMAN, Art Editor; MIKE POLLACK, NATHAN SKYER, ALGXANDEB LESLIE, Staff Writers. Meeting of the Baltimore Port Council of the Maritime Trades Department on September 10 featured a visit by Mayor Theodore McKeldin and Baltimore County Executive Spire T. Agnew with MTD union officials and AFL-CIO representatives. Among those present (seated, center, l-r) were Sec.-Treas. William Schefeli of the Maryland State & District of Columbia AFLCIO; William Kirchoff, council president; Agnew; Mayor McKeldin (standing); Warren Leader of SIU, council exec, sectreas.; Charles Delia, president, Maryland AFL-CIO, and Joseph Townsley, council vice-pres. The Baltimore council has 28 local union affiliates representing about 30,500 workers. The meeting was at the SIU hall. PuUishMl biwraakiy at tha haadquartara of tha Saafarart Intarnatlcnal Union, AN lanMc, Oulf. Lokai and Inland Watara District, AFL-Cia 675 Fourth Avanuo, Brooklyn 32. NY. Tol. HYaclnth N6600. Sacond class noftaga paid at tha Fost Offica In Brooklyn, NY, undar tha Act of Aug. 24, 1712. �•'-.';s| s e^A'F ji n e tt 9 %&a Gov't Policy Shift Gives US Shipping, SO-SO Vital Boost WASHINGTON—Upholding long-standing SIU and indust^ protests that the Cargo Preference Act and other US shipping legislation was being bypassed at the expense of the American-flag fleet, top Government officials in the persons of With AFL-CIO Rep. Irving de Shetier looking on (left), new SlUNA charter for the Western States Transportation Serv­ ices and Allied Workers was presented in Bakersfield, Calif., to Park Orrison (center), representing TSAW group in the Western area. Wilmington SlU Port Agent George McCart­ ney Joined in the installation ceremonies on September 7. SlUNA Taxi Union Scores New Gains DETROIT—Greater expansion of the SlUNA Transporta­ tion Services and Allied Workers here and in other cities is expected, now that some 200 unaffiliated taxi workers have voted for the City Cab Driv--^ ers Association as their new Federal court action finally al­ bargaining unit. lowed the drivers for the City Cab Meanwhile, in ' Bakersfield, Calif., a separate SlUNA charter was issued September 7 for the new Western States TSAW (photo above). The Western States affili­ ate is launching an organizing campaign among taxi workers over a wide area. The drivers here voted 100 to 59 for the City Cab Drivers unit In a National Labor Relations Board election on August 14. The victory follo\t'ed a year-long fight which paralleled SIU-TSAW ac­ tivities in the Checker Cab fleet. Shipping Ruies In line with the policy of reprinting important Union documents every six months, the centerspread In this issue of the SEAFARERS LOG car­ ries the full text of the ship­ ping rules under the agree­ ment between the SIU and its contracted operators. The re­ print reflects all actions of the Seafarers Appeals Board through September 1, 1963. Copies of the actions taken by the SAB which ameiid the shipping rules are also posted and available in all SIU halls. Company to proceed with the NLRB-ordered balloting. A vote in the Checker fleet is still stalled by a Federal court injunction. Fred Ford, leader of the City Cab group, announced after the vote victory that steps are being taken to bring the association into the TSAW. The only sour note in the or­ ganizing campaign came from Teamsters Local 902, which circu­ lated leaflets shortly before the balloting to urge a "no union" vote. The Hoffa union did not ap­ pear on the ballot nor had it ever represented the City Cab drivers. In separate action earlier. Local 1 of the TSAW in St. Louis rati­ fied a new two-year contract with the Mound City Yellow Cab Com­ pany that establishes improved working conditions and provides several benefits the drivers never had before. Local 1 was the second group to affiliate with the TSAW last year after the SlUNA established a new transportation workers organiza­ tion in January, 1962, covering some 6,000 Chicago drivers and garage workers who had previ­ ously quit the Teamsters. Vice-President Lyndon B. Johnson and Attorney General Robert Kennedy have rallied be­ hind the maritime industry in its fight to obtain a fair share of Government-financed cargo shipments. The Vice-President, on a goodwill tour this month through Credit Corporation. This arose in the Scandanavian countries, lashed hack at European critics one particular instance last De­ of US shipping legislation—specifically the 50-50 law—and cember, when the Department held that cargo preference did not ap­ emphasized the right of the-^ ply to 300,000 tons of grain sorg­ but also on surpluses financed by US Government to "assure the Federal Government and sold hum sold to Japan on a long-term our nation of a private mari­ to US and foreign traders as a dollar credit basis under the CCC time capacity." program. "private" transaction. At the same time that John­ The decision by the Attorney If cargo preference had been son was affirming the need General was the culmination of a applied, at least half of the 300,for a US-flag merchant fleet dur­ vigorous fight waged by the SIU, 000-ton shipment would have ing his overseas visit, the Attorney the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades De­ moved on American bottoms. General took a big step on Septem­ partment and other industry Instead, Agriculture had taken ber 9 in plugging a loophole de­ groups against another attempt by the position that the cargoes in­ veloped by the Agriculture Depart­ the Agriculture Department to by­ volved were commercial transac­ ment in interpreting the 50-50 law. pass 50-50. tions, since payment would eventu­ Agriculture has been seeking to ally be in convertible US currency In a lengthy 36-page ruling ap­ plauded by all segments of the in­ move large quantities of Govern­ and because sales were to private dustry, he ruled that cargo pref­ ment-financed cargoes through persons and not on a governmenterence for US ships applies not American and foreign traders who to-government basis. only to foreign aid shipments on a receive a low Interest rate from a Although the Vice-President was government-to-government basis, Federal agency, the Commodity confronted with questions, and criticism of American shipping policy on each stop of his Scanda­ navian tour, he made his most pointed rebuttal while speaking at a dinner held on September 4 In the Swedish shipbuilding city of Goteborg. In a sharp rejoinder, Johnson reminded Swedish offi­ cials that 90 percent of American WASHINGTON—With the proposed Bonner bill still under oceanborne trade was "open to consideration by the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries (Continued on page 15) Union Opposition Rips Bonner Bill Committee, opposition to the measure by the organized labor movement continues to mount. ~~~ ; ~~ management disputes in most inOfficers of 22 AFL-CIO dustries, including maritime. The trade union organizations proposed measure would exempt have registered objections to the proposed legislation during the past week. They added their voices to the 40 labor groups which had previously responded to an SIU alert regarding the bill's proposed restrictions on free collective bar­ gaining and the right to strike. The controversial measure, spon­ sored by Rep. Herbert C. Bonner (D-NC), would set up extensive Federal Government - supervised steps via special mediation, fact­ finding and settlement legislation that would replace existing TaftHartley machinery, Taft-Hartley now governs labor- SIU Stewards' Training Session Briefing session between USPHS specialists and Seafarers In the SIU Stewards' Upgrading and Recertification Program offers a light moment, as Seafarer Francis T. DiCarlo (4th from left) raises a question on new feeding procedures. Six-week training course In New York offers both classroom and practical Instruction as a refresher program for SIU stewards. Pictured (l-r) are James A. Seller of USPHS, Seafarer Frank Napoll, instructor Eric Klingvall, Seafarers DiCarlo, Joseph Garlllo, L. Simos and Leo E. Movoll, plus Robert W. Wilson and James R. Reed of USPHS. shipping disputes from the cover­ age of the 1947 T-H Act. In the process, maritime unions would be barred from striking. If necessary, for 150 days, diuing the last 90 days of which Congress would consider legislation sug­ gested by the President to deal with the dispute. The 22 additional AFL-CIO un­ ion groups which have advised the House Merchant Marine Commit­ tee of their opposition to the Bon­ ner bill are: Central Labor Council ot Poplar Bluff, Mo., International Hod Car­ riers, Mid-Columbia (Ore.) Central Labor Council, Insurance Workers International, Laundry & Dry Cleaning International, Railway Telegraphers, New Orleans Central Labor Council, Louisiana State Federation, Brotherhood of Paint­ ers & Decorators, and Northern Kentucky Labor Council. Also, the International Typo­ graphical Union, Airline Pilots, In­ ternational Association of Fire­ fighters, American Federation of Teachers, Marine & Shipbuilding Workers of America, Milwaukee County Labor Council, Brother­ hood of Carpenters & Joiners, Baltimore Central Labor Council, Chemical Workers Lwal 306 (Binghamton, NY), Utility Workers of America, Transport Workers Union, and the Office Employees. As has been pointed out by the SIU and the other union organiza­ tions, the Bonner Bill (HR 1897) is a bad piece of legislation because it would throttle free collective bargaining and could serve as a dangerous precedent for dealing with all labor-management dis­ putes. Texas Tug Fleet Told To Bargain HOUSTON—The National Labw Relations Board has upheld charges by the SIU Inland Boat­ men's Union, and has found Tidelands Marine Services guilty of unfair labor practices. The board has ordered the com­ pany to begin negotiations with the SIU-IBU, cease its anti-union activities and reinstate three boat­ men fired for their union sym­ pathies. Tidelands operates 11 crewboats for the Humble Oil Company in Texas and Louisiana inland waters and in the Gulf of Mexico, pro­ viding services to oil and refining companies. Humble is the actual owner of the boats. The dispute between the com­ pany and the SIU began in 1962 when the union started an organ­ izing campaign among the com­ pany's boatmen who were employed at that time by Brown & Root, Inc. The company changed its name to Tidelands Marine to get the orig­ inal election petition thrown out. An NLRB Investigation also found that three employees, Theodore Elkins, Roy Klaus and Raymond Sons, who were fired by the company in 1962, were discharged in an effort to combat their union activities. The Federal agency ordered that they be re­ instated with full back pay and seniority for the period of dis­ missal. �s.K'A^F AM MRS '^Mtvm • ; ^ •• /• (Figures On This Page Cover Deep Sea Shipping Only In the SW Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District.) Report Period: September 1 - September 15, 1963 The shipping picture for SIU men this period again re­ flected the ups and downs that are frequent in the in­ dustry, as the number of men dispatched to jobs dropped " way off to a total of 1,178, This figure is the lowest it's been in three months and compares to a total of 1,545 shipped during the previous two weeks. Registration showed a similar decline this time. The total number of job registrants was reported as 1,224. Last period the figure was 1,583. But the figures combined to reduce the number of men on the beach at the end of business September 15 to 3,900. Only a few ports managed to escape the job .slow-up, among them Boston, Philadelphia, Tampa and San Fran­ cisco. All the rest listed decreased shipping or reported the situation unchanged from before, 'Frisco was espe- c'ally busy, more so than it's been all year, Baltimore and Houston showed the heaviest declines, while New York and New Orleans kept to a fairly active pace. The ship activity chart (see right) shows one of the causes of the slow-up generally; primarily, fewer ships in port. The number of payoffs, sign-ons, and in-transit ship visits all dropped. Houston had only 22 ships listed compared to 59 last time. In turn, Philadelphia also had 22 ships, but this was enough to keep the port busy. It had only 10 ships in port during the previous two weeks. One of the few places where a marked upward trend showed was in the seniority totals, where class A men accounted for a 58 percent portion of all the jobs shipped. Class B shipping dipped to 31 percent of the total, and class C handled the remaining 11 percent. Ship Activity Pay Siga In Offt Tram, TOTAL •orton 3 1 S ff New York 13 3 23 39 Philadolpkla .. 3 1 IS 22 SafHmora .... I 3 13 17 Norfolk 1 1 2 4 Jacktonviifo .. 1 0 5 4 Tampa 0 1 4 7 Mobllo 4 1 7 12 NewOrloani,. i 9 19 34 Homtoa 3 1 18 22 ¥nimlngton ..2 1 9 12 San PranclKO. 5 4 7 18 Soattio 1 1 7 9 TOTALS ..... 45 29 139 213 BECK DEPARTMENT Registered CLASS A Registered CLASS B Shipped CLASS A Shipped CLASS B Shipped CLASS C GROUP GROUP GROUP GROUP 1 2 3 ALL 12 3 ALL 1 3 ALL 2 3 ALL 1 2 4 10 0 4 2 2 3 1 1 2 0 3 0 0 2 2 75 3 19 47 9 13 18 34 15 56 4 29 12 9 22 9 4 • 15 0 1 10 17 6 5 12 15 3 6 10 1 22 1 7 3 21 1 11 5 8 5 3 14 6 12 23 2 1 0 4 1 2 1 1 1 3 5 2 0 0 0 2 1 1 2 0 0 4 4 0 2 3 5 0 0 2 2 0 5 1 6 3 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 4 7 0 3 1 4 12 0 4 7 1 2 2 4 7 4 0 11 0 1 5 4 33 11 65 2 21 15 26 43 1 25 74 1 39 10 5 15 21 17 28 7 52 0 11 14 25 3 18 9 20 1 9 8 3I1 4 6 1 0 6 1 0 5 0 2 1 1 3 1 4 7 12 3 22 2 8 14 12 16 32 2 4 4 6 7 15 13 1 4 8 1 2 3 6 2 5 1 8 1 4 4 9 89 170 43 1 302 11 62 100 1 173 89 136 41 1 2661 14 44 63 1 121 Port Boston New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Jacksonville Tampa Mobile New Orleans Houston Wilmington San Francisco Seattle TOTALS TOTAL Shipped GROUP CLASS 3 ALL A 1 2 B 0 2 3 2 0 2 19 56 22 1 5 13 0 5 6 22 1 10 0 0 1 23 3 1 0 0 2 0 0 2 0 6 1 1 2 2 0 0 1 1 7 4 0 0 0 11 5 0 0 74 0 0 0 21 0 0 0 20 18 0 0 2 0 4 2 6 15 0 9 3 12 32 0 0 1 1 8 9 18 26 1 46 266 121 2 Registered On The Beach CLASS A 1 CLASS B GROUP GROUP C ALL 12 3 ALL 1 2 3 ALL 7 11 2 20 35 0 4 2 6 8 97 88 160 29 277 6 19 46 70 122 38 13 6 22 13 48 0 3 15 18 27 34 1 33 17 84 0 10 34 44 0 4 10 9 20 1 5 10 16 1 2 10 10 14 7 1 25 2 18 9 12 3 1 7 3 13 0 1 1 2 16 32 0 35 7 74 0 5 15 20 0 95 66 69 14 149 8 51 80 139 0 38 60 83 12 155 2 27 36 65 12 10 2 11 2 7 1 22 0 9 12 59 15 20 2 37 2 24 15 41 18 27 1 23 6 56 _8 26 12 46 46 1 433 379 506 llflT 1 995 29 209 310 1 548 E::GINE DEPARTMENT Registered CLASS A Registered Shipped CLASS B CLASS A GROUP GROUP 1 2 3 ALL 1 2 3 ALL 0 2 0 2 110 2 35 9 10 14 11 33 8 50 8 1 5 1 2 9 2 12 12 2 0 5 9 2 13 5 0 3 10 1 1 0 6 0 5 0 5 3 0 0 0 4 0 4 0 0 6 1 8 1 10 5 6 33 19 58 11 42 5 58 17 8 29 3 22 3 28 4 10 2 6 2 2 2 0 4 4 3 4 11 2 16 3 21 3 0 3 0 8 0 8 0 Boston....... New York .. Philadelphia.. Baltimore.... Norfolk Jacksonville.. Tampa Mobile New Orleans. Houston Wilmington . . San Francisco Seattle GROUP 3 ALL 1 2 6 4 " 2 59 39 15 8 7 1 16 2 14 7 0 5 3 5 2 3 3 0 7 11 0 56 38 11 41 12 28 5 2 3 20 16 2 7 3 3 TOTALS 52 170 22 I 244 29 100 56 I 185 32~ 160 Fort Shipped CLASS B (JROUP 1 2 3 ALL 5 0 1 4 36 3 24 9 2 7 11 2 5 0 10 15 0 2 1 1 5 0 3 2 0 1 1 0 0 5 3 2 ,31 14 13 4 10 7 17 0 7 15 0 22 7 1 5 1 3 2 0 1 24 I 216 12 83 65 I 160 GROUP 1 2 3 ALL 3 3 4 10 20 55 56 131 4 7 12 1 0 11 27 38 12 8 4 0 3 10 8 21 2 0 1 1 0 16 14 30 9 68 63 140 4 40 47 91 11 6 5 0 4 12 18 2 0 15 14 29 18 15 I 42 216 150 42 | 408 167 492 57 I 716 42 241 262 I 545 GROUP 1 2 3 ALL 0 0 1 1 2 2 3 7 0 2 3 5 113 5 0 0 0 0 0 10 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 u 0 5 117 0 10 1 0 2 2 4 1 8 1 10 0 0 0 0 9 Registered On The Beach CLASS A CLASS B TOTAL Shipped Shipped CLASS C CLASS GROUP A B C ALL 123 ALL 8 2 20 16" 2 2 5 1 93 51 125 14 190 50 36 7 28 3 5 24 12 11 7 34 33 12 5 13 51 37 2 15 29 0 3 5 22 2 1 2 15 11 4 10 5 1 1 5 10 6 1 1 0 1 9 4 44 5 0 5 15 10 10 29 96 29 58 31 7 78 10 •J" 28 17 46 25 1 71 4 "100 12 4 20 4 16 4 21 1 7 10 27 5 44 38 12 21 3 0 41 11 9 8 28 4 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Registered CLASS A Port Bos.. NY.. Phil Bal.. Nor., Jac.. Tam. Mob. NO.. Hou. Wil., SF.. Sea. 1-8 0 6 0 3 0 0 0 1 5 5 3 2 2 TOTALS 27 GROUP 12 3 ALI. 7 2 2 3 44 15 7 16 2 10 4 4 0 5 12 4 0 1 0 1 3 2 1 0 5 1 2 2 6 0 9 2 11 8 23 47 15 6 7 33 1 8 0 4 7 0 11 19 0 0 2 4 69 28 79 I 203 Registered CLASS B GROUP 1 2 3 ALL 0 0 2 2 2 3 15 20 10 1 2 1 1 10 12 0 0 5 5 0 13 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 3 1 1 38 40 1 5 11 17 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 5 115 7 7 Shipped CLASS A Shipped CLASS B (;ROUP 1-8 123 ALL 0 0 2 3 5 5 17 60 8 30 1 3 13 3 6 2 7 2 6 17 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 2 0 3 5 1 2 0 2 5 3 8 7 36 54 0 2 3 10 15 1 0 1 1 3 3 4 2 9 18 1 0 0 2 3 12 98 I 117 17 46 28 108 I 199 Shipped CLASS C GROUP 123 ALL 1 0 0 1 13 1 1 11 5 0 4 1 8 1 1 6 1 0 1 0 0 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 7 0 7 0 SO 1 29 0 12 0 11 1 4 0 3 1 7 0 7 0 2 0 1 1 6 811 92 TOTAL Shipped GROUP I 2 8 ALL 2 0 0 2 1 0 11 12 8 0 1 7 1 0 0 .1 0 1 0 1 2 1 1 0 5 4 0 1 0 0 0 0 8 0 6 0 0 8 0 0 4 0 3 1 5 0 3 2 0 0 8 0 2 39 CLASS ABC ALL 1-g 8 3 5 1 2 60 13 12 85 35 5 8 26 3 13 26 12 8 1 17 2 2 0 1 1 T 2 2 5 0 5 0 5 10 0 5 7 0 12 7 54 30 6 90 12 15 12 0 27 23 3 4 4 11 4 18 7 5 SO ,6 5 7 2 0 3 48 199 Registered On The Beach CLASS A CLASS B GROUP 1 2 3 5 2 5 54 40 77 7 5 8 17 12 26 6 5 4 5 2 3 2 22 37 35 3 17 11 92 46 I 337 114 221 GROUP 2 8 ALL 4 0 4 64 3 S3 10 7 1 23 3 19 3 12 16 3 8 5 0 0 0 0 22 22 5 89 102 5 35 46 0 1 1 11 0 11 10, 39 55 ALL 1 15 'O 206 8 23 2 67 1 17 1 10 0 14 0 80 0 10 21 25 58 132 8 95 6 16 21 2 •* 13 0 49 0 5 21 S3 6 5 10 132 267"| 734 32 33 297 | 362 SUMMARY DECK ENGINE STEWARD GRAND TOTALS Registered Registered CLASS A CLASS B GROUP GROUP 1 2 3 ALL 1 2 3 ALL 89 170 43 302 "n 62 100 I 173 52 170 22 244 29 100 56 i 185 "96 28 79 203 7 12 '98 I 117 237" 368 144 749 47, i74 254 J ,475 SHIPPED CLASS A GROUP I 2 3 89 136 41 32 160 ^4 63 "28 108 184, 324 173 SHIPPED CLASS B GROUP 2 ALL 1 I 266 14 44 1^16 12 J3 I 199 5 6 J 681 31 ,1?3 3 63 "65 81 209 SHIPPED CLASS C GROUP 1 2 ALL 18 1 m 2 18 1 180 9 2 5 1 92 i 373 16" 38 3 26 15 39 80 TOTAL SHIPPED Registered On The Beach CLASS A CLASS B GROUP GROUP CLASS 3 ALL 1 2 _3 i 2 B C ALL ALL A 995 29 209 310 266 121 46 1433 379 506 110 I 46 I 42 216 150 42 4081167 492 - 57 716 42 241 262 I 46 199 "92 46 3371335 132 267 734 32 33 297 I 134 681 363 134 jll78l881 1130 434 2445 103 483 869 ALL I 548 I 545 I 362 11455, �• INT Juan Oauendo: I think I grew one out of curiosity more than any­ thing else. But after I let it grow in, 1 started to look like some­ thing the cat dragged in. Be­ sides, it gets pretty uncomfor­ table sometimes. The only advan­ tage to having a beard is that the women like it. Other than that it's a nuisance. 4" 4 F. T. Di Carlo: I had a beard for a while on one trip but after a while it started to look scraggly. I think the main reason I grew it is because! wanted to see how I would look. After I came back from the trip my wife said she didn't like the way I looked, so I shaved it off. I don't think I'll ever grow one again. 4' 4 3^ Dominick Blaczak: Beards are all right if you keep them neat, which takes a lot of time. I grew a small beard once but I found that it gets very damp from the sea and becomes uncom­ fortable. I de­ cided to shave it off because I don't really see any point to growing a heard ex­ cept as a lark. 4' 4 nUnfi SEAF Attn KB 't43a Buffalo MTD Unit Fights To Profecf Port's Grain Trade . QUESTION! Hav* you ever grown a beard aboard ship? • 4" ••y-t''-'' 4 Frank T. Harris; I grew a beard when I shipped around the world in 1960. But when I came back home my wife didn't like the way I looked and my kid was afraid of mo because she probably didn't recognize me with the beard. When your wife and kid don't like some­ thing you get rid of it. 4 4 4 4 4 4 Skip Wilcox: I always wanted to •ee how I looked in a beard so I grew one about Ave years ago on a trip to the Per­ sian Gulf. But I found out that it has a lot of dis­ advantages, es­ pecially in hot weather when it really becomes itchy. . It's not too bad in the cold because it keeps your face warm. Maybe I'll grow one again if I ship out to a real frigid climate. Walter Kushner: I grew a heard about three years ago on a trip to^ India. I was just too lazy to shave, as I can't see any point to shaving while you're at sea. It takes too much time and effort. When I got back from India I shaved the beard off be­ cause you have to look presentable whbn you're' hshore. BUFFALO, NY—John R. Roberts, president of the Buffalo Port Council of th» AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department, is in the forefront of the battle to protect this port's grain industry. Roberts has already-• pointed out to the Interstate skilled workers in the Buffalo Commerce Commission that area." Workers at Dixie Jute firm, Seafarers and members of other SlU affiliates in the Norfolk area joined in pre-election caravan around the plant to spur pro-union vote. Show of union strength helped spark 2-1 win. Norfolk SlU Drive Wins 5th NLRB Vote In Row NORFOLK—An all-out organizing drive by the SIU United Industrial Workers proved successful at the Dixie Jute Bag­ ging Company here, as workers at the company voted better than 2 to 1 in a National La-tbor Relations Board election efforts to obtain better wages and to have the Union represent working conditions. The workers any reduction in rail rates on grain moving eastward from Pittsburgh could deal a serious blow to the Port of Buffalo. In testimony to the ICC, Rob­ erts urged the agency to reject proposed rates for moving grain by rail from Pittsburgh. These have been proposed by the Bay State Milling Company, Pittsburgh civic interests and three railroads —the Pennsylvania, the Baltimore and Ohio, and the Pittsburgh and Lake Erie. Port Depends On Grain The Bay State Milling Company has said that it will build a flour mill at Pittsburgh if it wins the ICC's approval of reduced rail rates for grain. At an ICC hearing on the proposed rate change, Rob­ erts said early . this month that Buffalo was the largest flour mill­ ing center in the world and relied on the industry for its economic weli-being. "The proposed reduced rates from Pittsburgh would upset the already delicate, competitive po­ sition of Buffalo and could well mean the death knell of this in­ dustry," the Buffalo trade union­ ist said. Roberts told the Commission that in the event it approved the rate reduction in rail grain rates this could result in "permanent un­ employment to many thousands of Grain millers, grain handlers and other waterfront workers in the area who are affiliated with the MTD are all fighting the pro­ posed changes. Roberts is an offi­ cial of Local 1286 of the Interna­ tional Longshoremen's Association. SIU MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS NEW YORK, August 5—Chairman, Cat Tanner; Secretary, Edward X. Mooney/ Reading Cleric, William Hall. Minutea o£ previous port meetings accepted. Port Agent reported on shipping, need for engine and deck ratings, updating of clinic cards and blood bank. Report carried. President's report on Jay-Kay strike settiement, ILA convention, hear­ ings on Savannah raid. Senate hearing# on rail dispute. Sea-Land ship collision. Canadian beef, ship sales accepted. Wel­ fare services report carried. Meeting excuses referred to Port Agent. Letter from crew of Azalea City on retirement plan referred to headquarters for study. Auditor's reports accepted. Membership voted to non-concur after discussion on . two motions submitted by Charles Henschke regarding appointive jobs and terms of office for officials. Total pres­ ent: 412. countered with a mass display of union solidarity, as they paraded with signs and banners urging a vote for the SIU-UIW on elec­ 4 4 4 tion day. PHILADELPHIA, August (—Chairman, Cars with "Vote UIW" placards Frank Drozak; Secretary, Robert Alr> mounted on top also cruised up Reading Clerk, Leon Hall. Minutes oC previous meetings in all ports accepted. and down the entire three-block Port Agent's report on shipping, shortags area of the plant. of rated men. blood donors and standby jobs was accepted. Reports of the The NLRB election victory at President and Secretary-Treasurer for Dixie Jute Bagging runs the July were carried. Auditor's reports car­ string of recent SIU-UIW victor­ ried. Motion adopted under new busi­ ness that a doorman for this port be ies at previously-unorganized selected from one of the oldtimers In companies in this area to five in the port. No action taken on motion to Sign Name Cn revise present constitution as there was a row. The Union earlier won no second. Motion carried to put into NLRB victories at Coionna Ship­ effect a pension plan based on 20 years LOG Letters of seatime regardless of age and health. yard, McAllister Brothers, Curtis For obvious reasons the LOG Total present: 93. Bay Shipyard and Moon Shipyard. cannot print any letters or 4 4 4 Contracts have already been other communications sent in BALTIMORE, August 7 — Chairman, signed at Coionna, McAllister and by Seafarers unless the author Rax E. Dickey; Secretary, Furman Hippy Reading Clerk, Tony Kastlna. Minutes of Curtis Bay, and negotiations are signs his name. Unsigned previous meetings In all ports accepted. proceeding at the Moon Ship­ anonymous letters will only Port Agent reported on shipping, un­ checks for money due and yard. Negotiations for a first-time wind up in the waste-basket. claimed blood bank. Accepted. President's re­ contract by the SIU-UIW at Dixie If circumstances justify, the port and Secretary-Treasurer's report for July carried. Meeting excuses re­ NEW YORK—Seafarer Evaristo Jute Bagging are already in LOG will withhold a signature ferred to dispatcher. Auditor's reports progress. on request. accepted. Total present: 275. Jimenez, an active union member during his many years with the SIU, is also an active organizer of the "Puerto Rican Pioneers Parade" which will be held on Graham Avenue in the Williams­ burg section of Brooklyn on Sun­ day, September 22. At 10:25 PM on January 17, 1956 the SlU-manned Cities Service tanker Salem Mari­ The annual parade, in which the time was: taking on cargo at the company's loading dock in Lake Charles, La. SIU wili participate this year, Suddenly, without warning, the vessel turned into a roaring inferno, her 130,000 bar­ c 0 m m e morates rels of high octane gasoline v the arrival of the igniting and racking the ship perienced a fire in one of her The MA originally insured a first Puerto Riwith explosion after explo­ boilers, and, since June, the vessel mortgage of $3.9 million on tha cans into the US. has seen little service and has suf­ Gold Stream on December 3, 1957sion. Brother Jimenez Almost 1,500 firefighters fought fered. substantial operating losses. is a secretary of At the present time the ship-is the blaze through the night and As a result, the Red Hills Corpora­ in the Todd shipyards at San Pe­ the organization well into the next day. The fire tion, which owns the Gold Stream, dro, Calif., where it has been un­ which was found­ raged beyond the confines of the failed to pay the principal and In­ dergoing Inspection and repairs ed in 1961 by ship and loading area, as it set terest due on the vessel's Federal­ since June. Raymundo Gon­ barges aflame and burned a path ly-insured ship mortgage. zalez, who passed Jiminez three quarters of a mile up and Then, last month, with no relief away last year. In sight. for the ailing company, Acting president of the organiza­ down the Calcasieu River. When the rubble had cooled suf­ the Department of Commerce took tion is now Antonia Denis. The 1963 parade, starting at 1 ficiently to allow entry onto the possession of the ship. Foreclosure PM, wiil be the third one held in ship, a count of crewmembers re­ proceedings wiil be instituted as New York to mark the start of the vealed that 13 Seafarers were soon as possible. Mortgage Debt Puerto Rico community in the either dead or missing. Eight others who were members of the metropolitan area. The outstanding mortgage in­ Seafarer Jimenez has been an crew were also killed or missing. debtedness on August 5, 1963 Sold For Scrap amounted to a Jout .$3.3 million in SIU member for the past 20 years The ship was eventually offered principal plus $60,943.24 in interest since joining in New York. He sails in the engine department and has for sale as scrap and all its service­ on the first mortgage. Then there a proud record of being either able machinery was culled from the is $130,330 in principal and $18,ship's delegate or engine depart­ wreckage and incorporated into a 309.01 in interest due on the sec­ ment delegate on 90 percent of T-2 tanker, the Gold Stream, which ond mortgage held by the Mari­ the ships he's sailed on during was jumboized in December, 1957, time Administration as security for these many years. He was ship's The Salem Maritime was also a cash which had been advanced to delegate on the Kathryn (Bull) on war-built T-2 vessel. the operators to make principal The Gold Stream recently ex­ payments oa the first mortgagehis last trip out to sea; them as their bargaining agent. The election, held on August 28, produced an 89-37 victory for the SIU-UIW. Some 14 chal­ lenged ballots were not counted as they could not affect the out­ come. The Union's victory was impres­ sive due to the vigorous campaign staged by the company in an ef­ fort to beat back the employees' SIU Maps Puerto Rico Parade Role 'The Anatomy Of A Ship' �^E'jtFAklBkS ^t&E iiif m- Canada SlU Raps Report (Continued from page 2) major function was to examine the on the agenda of the next general gate, but rather was intent upon SlU-Upper Lakes contractual dis­ board meeting of the AFLrCIO. utilizing the hearings as a plat­ pute, as had been done by the A $1,(100 reward was voted by By Sidney Margolina form from which to launch an at­ Rosenman Commission which was the board for information leading tack, not only on the Seafarers appointed by the US Government to the arrest and conviction International Union of Canada, In July, 1962, at the request of the those responsible for the dynamit­ b enr ceneratlon, which ia supposed to he the affluent one, housing but on fudamental trade union Canadian Government. Instead, ing of the Canadian freighter How­ concepts which are contrary to the Commissioner quickly rele­ ard L. Shaw, which has been lying has become the No. 1 budget expense, outranking food for the first gated this primary contractual dis­ idle at a Chicago pier since April time. The Bureau of Labor Statistics now estimates that housing his way of thinking." The findings of the Norris Com­ pute to a secondary position and as a result of the Upper Lakes dls takes about one-third of a typical wage-earner's after-tax Income, concentrated on an examination of pute. It deplored the bombing in­ compared to 28 percent for food. mission, issued on July 15 in voluminous 318-page document, in­ the SIU's Internal affairs. For working people, the question of whether to buy or rent a home cident which occurred September cluded recommendations for MTO Action 7 and called for a US investigation is really a modern dilemma. Before union organization raised wage* series of repressive measures call­ and strengthened job security, most working families rented, or at In separate developments re­ of the circumstances. ing for the imposition of trustee­ garding the Canadian dispute, the Top level talks between the best, sometimes built modest homes themselves. Today, almost two ships and government controls on executive board of the Maritime Canadian and US Governments out of three families own their homes. all Canadian maritime unions. Trades Department, at its meeting both in Washington and Ottawa are Certainly for wage-earners who hought homes prior to the 1M0'8, Concern has developed among Ca­ in Washington last week, con­ continuing, meanwhile, on a means ownership proved to be a good investment. While taxes and operating nadian union leaders that the pro­ demned the role of the CBRT and of resolving the dispute. Canadian expenses and especially utility costs have increased, home ownership posals could set a precedent for the Canadian Labor Congress in Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson costs generally have not risen as much as rents, BLS figures show. restrictive moves against other setting up the CMU as a union- has said that the trusteeship legis­ But families now looking for segments of Canadian labor. busting apparatus an^ in support­ lation urged by Norris will be put homes are faced with some extra- t?,' Justice Norris' report developed ing the Norris inquiry. It asked that before the Canadian Parliament out of the dispute between the SIU the question of relations between after it convenes on September 30. ordinary prices, especially for new ^ houses. The Boeckh construction of Canada and the Upper Lakes US and Canadian unions be placed in Ottawa. cost index has jumped from 140.1 Shipping Company that erupted a year ago to 143.9 this year. This after the company looked out some is based on an index number of 300 SIU crewmembers and broke 100 for 1947-49; meaning, it now a- ten-year collective bargaining costs $14,390 to build the same relationship with the SIU. It then dwelling that cost $10,000 in 1947began recruiting crews through a 49, If you could find a house for newly-established Canadian Mari­ $14,390. time Union. In reality, the record of new The Commission was established mortgages being issued shows that by the former Canadian Labour Minister in the summer of 1962 SIU oldtimer Hugh D. "Frenchy" Fouche has received an­ the average new dwelling now has after leaders of the Canadian other boost from the SIU Welfare Plan in his battle against a price tag of $22,500. Only on older homes have price tags settled Labour Congress and Canadian crippling Multiple Sclerosis. Fouche became completely dis­ down a little, with the average Brotherhood of Railway, Transport price reported by the Federal Home and General Workers had dis­ abled and bedridden by MS-*rupted Great Lakes shipping by in 1956 when he began receiv­ could get around a bit if he had e Loan Bank as $17,300. Chief excep­ bringing about an illegal closing of ing SIU disability-pension motor-powered i^eelchair. The tion is in the West, where houses in the much-wanted. $12,000-$20,000 SIU Welfare Plan trustees prompt­ range still are rising. benefits. the St. Lawrence Seaway. Thus, the great argument of other generations, whether it is cheaper. Ostensibly, the Commissioner's Early in 1960 he learned he ly approved the necessary $600 needed for this purchase, enabling to buy or to rent, has become the great dilemma of our time—where Fouche to move about for the first can you buy or rent at a reasonable cost? time since 1956. Without considering personal preferences, here are comparative Later in the same year, they financial advantages and disadvantages: okayed a second purchase—a spe­ Advantages of Ownership: You are protected against excessive cial $235 set of long leg braces rent charges and any possible further inflation in rentals. You lose and crutches. The Plan also made perhaps 4 to 6 percent interest on the money you Invest in a home. the necessary arrangements to give Cliff Wilson. Food and Ship Sanitation Director Fouche training in how to use the But frequently landlords these days try to make the rentals you pay braces and crutches at the Medical provide a 10-12 percent return on their investment, besides their business overhead expenses and other costs. The general improvement in sanitary standards on ships brought Center in Columbus, Ohio. You also have an opportunity to invest "sweat equity"—^your own Since then, the Plan has taken about by the growth of strong seamen's unions and the adoption of labor—by maintaining and improving your property. care of the purchase of a conven­ modern worldwide sanitary standards has greatly reduced the spread tional wheelchair for the disabled Some of your monthly payment does build up equity. This argument of disease from country to country. Seafarer, to give him mobility on is often exaggerated by builders, mortgage lenders, and sellers. Tha Diseases spread by infected ships once raged periodically through partial fallacy is that you also "use up" a house while you are paying Europe and America. Influenza, plague, smallpox and other contagious both long and short runs. The latest expenditure as part of for it. There is some deterioration of the building and equipment. Also, diseases brought into port aboard ship once killed millions of people the SIU's special equipment bene­ in the early years you build up very little equity. Most of your monthly all over the world. In the days when little was known of these diseases or how they fit came last month, when the pow- payment goes to mortgage Jnterest. Still, it is possible to stave off some of the depreciation by wise spread, and no effective cures or methods of control were available, choice of a neighborhood that is improving rather than deteriorating, rough and ready methods were often applied to protect the public. and by careful maintenance of the property. If you keep the house It was once the custom to place a rigid six-week quarantine on any long enough, ultimately you will enjoy the benefits of higher equity. ship arriving at a port with a case of plague or smallpox aboard. You also have a tax advantage in owning, since mortgage interest During that time nobody was permitted to leave or board the vessel. and property taxes are deductible on Federal and some state income The shore population was thus protected but, as a result, the disease taxes. ' raged throughout the ship. Many of her crewmembers usually died For example, one young family in Oakland, California, whom we before the infection had run its course. recently counseled, was paying $105 a month for a 3Vk-room apartment. A drastic remedy employed later was scuttling a ship carrying We figured out that they could buy a hou/ie in the $16,000-$17,000 infection. This method was not effective, however, because the crew bracket, ..have more living space and still be a little ahead. In thia would scatter ashore and spread the infection that way. Also, rats bracket, the house would have to be either an older dwelling, but still swimming ashore from the vessel would spread any disease she carried. in good condition, or a new home in one of the larger outlying tracts The recent addition by the Port of London of a new quarantine or developments, since the husband had to drive to work anyway. vessel, the Humphrey Morris, as reported in "The Nautical Magazine," If this family had a 30-year, $15,000 mortgage, its monthly expenses points up the modern method of protecting the local population from for mortgage, taxes, insurance and operating expenses (not including shipborne disease. The 100-foot cutter is one of four vessels operated utilities or furnishings), would run about $125-$135 a month in that by the Port of London Health Authority to prevent infectious diseases area. But the family can deduct the mortgage interest and taxes on from getting ashore. its tax returns, and thus save about $17 a month during the first five Most ships that enter any port nowadays have a clean bill of years (in this case). Too, by the end of the fifth year the family would health. An arriving vessel may sometimes require the aid of a medical accumulate about $1,100 of equity. These savings would reduce their officer to treat non-infectious ailments like ruptured appendix or a real housing cost to about $90-$100 a month. seaman who suffered a shipboard injury. But today ships arriving from Advantages of Renting: If you rent, you do have greater fieri ibillty Seafarer Hugh Fouche is overseas ports noted for unsanitary conditions or outbreaks of disease you must move, or if your income or family changes and you want if pictured outside his Savan­ usually get special attention before being allowed to land. to reduce your housing expense. nah home in motorized Often every man aboard is given a thorough examination' before Also, unless you know you will stay in the same area at least several wheelchair purchased by being permitted ashore. Confirmed or suspected cases of infectious years, renting avoids the high initial expenses of buying, such as closing disease are then immediately transferred to a hospital isolation ward. SIU Welfare Plan. costs, lawyer's fee, fixing up the house, etc. Depending on the area, If typhoid or smallpox is detected on a ship the vessel is thoroughly the price of the house, and the lender's demands, closing costs usually fumigated to prevent the spread of the disease ashore by vermin. Such ered chair ran low on tires and are $250 to $450 even on moderate-price houses. This includes title needed a new battery. The cost of fumigation involves not only the ship, to kill any rats aboard, but insurance, which alone may be $150-$175, and the lender's "origination Includes such things as bedding and clothing which might harbor two new tires and a battery was fee" for the appraisal and arranging the mortgage. covered in a trustee action at the disease-carrying vermin. Too, many families prefer the convenience of living in town or near August meeting. In addition to these functions the Health Authority also works to Fouche currently makes his home work, and also-want to keep down commuting expenses. prevent the importation of unwholesome food. Its job is to see to it It is true that some families who bought homes have gotten over in Dawson, Ga., and is 48 years old. that the six million tons of foodstuffs which enter London every year He sailed with the SIU in the en­ their heads, especially in Florida and Southern California. For example, do not include meat from diseased animals, grain contaminated by rats gine department from January, one of the big California savings and loan associations, the Great or other vermin, canned food damaged by shifting cai go or, over-ripe 1942, until the time he became dis­ Western, reports that it has taken over a number of tract houses built fruit not fit for human consumption. in 1960 and early '61, especially in San Diego, Sacramento and Palmabled. This is the same type of role filled by the US Public Health Service Over the years, the Welfare. dale. In Florida, the Federal Housing Agency now is the unwilling In American ports to protect the population ashore and to keep disease Plan has underwritten the cost of owner of. some 7.,000 houses in .the $7,OOG-$15,000 bracket on which it end contamination of any kind from spreading various types of special equiphient had insured mortgages. ' (CJomments-and mgyestions are invited hy ihis Department .and can for Seafarers in their recovery -But on-balaaeei Ownership'Still does seem to have'an edge over he submitied'io-ihia column fb; care of the SEAFARERS LOG,) from disabling -'injuries • or illness.' renting if the house is'reaiisfically'chosen and conservatively financed. Housing Dilemma: To Buy Or Rent? Special Equipment Plan Again Aids SIU (Ndtimer Ship Sanitation Fights Disease • .f'' �Pac» Seiw: SEAfAH^nS, >^00 Seafarers To Crew Another Cable Ship WASHINGTON—A Maritime Administration recommen­ dation to charter the Grovemment-owned cable ship Arthur M. Huddell to SlU-contracted Isthmian Lines has been apr proved by Commerce Secre--*fleet and was chartered to Bull tary Luther H. Hodges. The former Liberty ship, Lines. Manned by Seafarers, she now in lay-up, has been converted by the installation of tanks in her holds for the storage of flexible pipe line. She is the only ship un­ der the US-flag fitted in this man­ Soon to be taken over by Isthmian as warehouse ship for the cable vessel Long LineSt the ner. The Huddell is to be used to Arthur M. Huddell (above) is pictured when she was operating for Bull Lines in 1956 on assist the new SlU-manned cable ship Long Lines in laying a Pacific West Coast cable-laying job. The Huddell, a modified Liberty with special tanks for han­ telephone cable next year linking dling cable, has been in US reserve fleet since then. .f Hawaii with Japan by way of the islands of Midway, Wake and Guam. She will act as a floating ware­ house to keep the Long Lines sup­ HARRISBUBG, Pa.—Some 500 trade unionists who rushed here from all parts of plied with cable. Isthmian also is operator of the Long Lines, Pennsylvania have succeeded—at least temporarily—in blocking a "ripper" unemployment the which is owned by a subsidiary of compensation bill. the American Telephone & Tele­ The proposal was with­ the unionists at the capital city. do this, it proposed to reduce the graph Company. drawn by the administration The intent of the administra­ tax for the more stable (and more The Huddell saw action in 1956 prosperous) businesses, while intro­ when she came out at the reserve of Gov. William W. Scranton tion was to save the compensa­ ducing features which would re­ just 24 hours after the arrival of tion fund $55 miiilon a year. To duced benefits for many thousands. It would have made other thou­ sands ineligible altogether and dangled the carrot of higher max­ imum benefits to induce labor support. House Bill 1697 was dropped in the hopper on July 15, and the Joe Alrina, Safety Director Labor Committee cooperated by WASHINGTON—The Venezuelan reporting it out with slight amendments within a day so that Confederation of Labor (CTV) has Gasoline is one of the most flammable substances most of us will the bill passed first reading. As announced that it will cooperate ever get to handle and gasoline vapors are some of the most explosive. soon as printed copies were avail­ with a private tourist agency lo­ Yet because of the widespread use of the automobile, most people feel able, the Pennsylvania AFL-CIO cated here in sponsoring special so at home with gasoline that it is seldom treated with the respect it rushed an analysis to its thousands labor tours of Venezuela. The first tour in the new pro­ of affiliates and at the same time requires. gram is being planned for this fail. issued a call for coordinated mass This becomes clear every summer in the list of those painfully and It will be conducted by CIRsometimes fatally burned while using gasoline to light barbeques or lobbying. The mobility of the labor move­ CLEVEN, the agency sponsored by clean paint brushes. In the small, tight, hot compartments of a ship, ment paid off when the Scranton the CTV and the Venezuelan gov­ careless handling of gasoline is even more dangerous. One of the most dangerous aspects of gasoline is the speed with administration withdrew the bill ernment, which recently conducted which it will vaporize and the volatility of these vapors. Under certain and referred it to the Joint State a delegation of 21 AFL-CIO repre­ conditions, one quart of gasoline left in an open container in a small Government Commission for study, sentatives on an initial tour of the closed compartment will in time make an explosive mixture throughout with the intent of considering the country. Cost of a two-week chartered the entire compartment. Walk into such a space with a cigarette in Commission's report at a special your mouth and you'll get a new respect for gasoline in a hurry, if session of the General Assembly tour, including transportation, ho­ in the fall. Informed sources ex­ tel and meals, will be approximate­ you live. Although gasoline vapors will spread throughout a compartment, pect the matter to be brought up ly $562. It will leave New York by they are relatively heavy and will concentrate near the bottom of any following state election results in air, spend two days in Caracas, and then go on by air to visit six enclosed space. From an open container the vapor will spread and fill November. The bill comes at a time when different cities. the bilges of a boat or the area of a compartment near the deck like The American delegation that any gas. It will also travel along with a current of air, and even if a trail Pennsylvania is suffering mass un­ visited Venezuela last January in­ employment, with many wage of vapor is ignited at some point far from the container or leak from cluded representatives of a num­ earners the unwilling victims of which it originated, it will flash back to the source. This means an ber of AFL-CIO unions and organi­ iongterm joblessness because of added fire hazard a long way from the point of Ignition. Ignition of gasoline vapors can occur in many ways. Minute sparks the withdrawal or collapse of zations named by AFL-CIO Presi­ dent George Meany. large segments of industry. from a wrench striking metal, the sparking of brushes in a motor or generator, a ground or any minor arcing in an electrical circuit, the sparking of any ordinary electric switch, a rapidly-moving belt or even a nail in the sole of a shoe scraping on a steel deck can spark a disaster. Even the friction of the gasoline itself moving inside a hose can induce an electrical charge which can accumulate and set off an explosion. That is why hoses carrying gasoline should be grounded to the tank and why metallic contact should be maintained between the tank and the filling container. For handling large quantities of gasoline special hoses are available with electrical bonding wire fabricated within the hose to permit grounding of the hose, hose terminals and connections. Gasoline is also poisonous to the human body even in small amounts. Its methods of getting inside the body are many. It can be swallowed and absorbed by the skin as well as breathed. Inhaling a concentration of gasoline vapor 3 or 4 percent by volume will prove fatal. The toxocity of heavy concentrations of fumes is increased if the gasoline contains tetraethyl lead, added for anti-knock purposes. The best warning-of dangerous concentrations of gasoline vapors comes from your nose. The odor of the vapor can be detected at a level far below the lower explosive limit. But persons working with gasoline become quite accustomed to the odor and may not be abjle to detect fumes until they reach a dangerous concentration. In such a situation get plenty of fresh air to clear the respiratory system of fumes before using your nose as a gauge. Remember also that if you are standing up and detect a strong odor of gasoline fumes, the concentration is even stronger around your Labor efForts to promote tours of Venezuela by US trade ankles near the deck, so proceed with caution. unionists is discussed in Washington (l-rj by Lester P. The answer to gasoline vapors is ven-tllation, and plenty of it. This Zosel, Railway Clerics; Rep. Barrett O'Hara (D-lll.) of ventilation must be from the bottom of a compartment. Withdrawing House Latin American Affairs Subcommittee; Milton Plumb air from the top of an engineroom, for example, only spreads the vapors of Railway Labor Executives Association, and Mrs. Teresa collected in the bilges. And when working with gasoline remove all, repeat ALL, sources Sanchez, representative of labor-backed tourist agency. of ignition. They are pictured in front of special exhibit in Railway Labor Building showing activities of labor representatives (Comments and suggestions are invited by this Department and can on tour of Venezuela earlier this year. be submitted to this column in care of the SEAFARERS LOG.) PA. LABOR HALTS JOBLESS $ CUTS I'^SJ;. , ^ Venezuelan Labor Asks US Visits A Built-in Gas Vapor Detector served as a "warehouse ship" for the building of a submarine tele­ phone cable system between Seat­ tle and Ketchikan, Alaska. The present charter of the vessel to Isthmian was based on national defense considerations after the Department of Defense advised the MA that maintenance and improve^ ment of cable communications is necessary for the national defense; During World War II the Hud­ dell loaded and discharged a flex­ ible pipeline across the English Channel to supply fuel to the Al­ lied forces which invaded the continent. The Long Lines, with which the Huddell will be teamed, is one of the most modern cable ships afloat. The 511-foot, $19 million vessel has a cargo capacity of 2,000 nau­ tical miles of undersea cable which she can lay at eight knots an hour. In addition to her modern cablelaying machinery, she has som® novel features, including a special five-bladed propeller to cut vibra­ tion, a helicopter landing deck and an underwater bow propeller to force a stream of water through a tunnel in either direction, at right angles to the direction of travel, for super-fine maneuverability. Sh» can be steered from the bow and. stern as well as from the bridge. , Post Office Trying Out " ZIP' Mail Seafarers scattered all over the world should be able to get their mail to SIU Headquarters in a hurry with the aid of the new "ZIP Code" system introduced re­ cently by the Post Office Depart­ ment. The ZIP Code is an extension of the old system of zone numbers used to speed up mail delivery in the past. A letter bearing the proper "ZIP" number will get to the delivery station nearest head­ quarters in the shortest possible time, with the least amount of handling. This is the Bush Terminal Post Office, on 29th Street, where mem­ bership maii is already handled by the Seamen's Maii Unit set up at that station two years ago. The proper ZIP code number for the SIU headquarters address is 11232. This number should be placed after the city and state in the address. "112" in the five-digit number means Brooklyn, and the "32" rep­ resents the zone. Thus, a letter to headquarters can be addressed to: Seafarers International Union, 675 Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, 11232. Ultimately, a machine-scanning system will be introduced in most post offices that will then be able to route the mail automatically for Brooklyn zone 32, and then for delivery to headquarters. If you are writing from any-^ where in the US, the Post Office urges you to include your own ZIP number in the return ad­ dress, so that an answer can be forwarded without delay. Changes of address for the LOG should also Include your ZIP num­ ber for faster handling in the future. �»K *: •• . . •. • m t -, .*s-...«.. i I; •c:-^ i • . t, •.» • t < ' -* t, i'-f' J » « 1 XSpjj fM'if'is: ITS: E 0 wT. Uv.. „'^:,-";.':\.L:' "N if 'f. x.:-:' :-t \fv ••••'•• 'X 8«ptciaber M, IMl SHIPPING RULES Thes« rule '» . ^v- •. •.'• -?;•-*'. • X- Every seaman shipped through the hiring halls of the Seafarers International Union of North America—Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District, hereinafter called the "Union," shall be shipped pursuant to the following rules: 1. Seniority A. Without prejudice to such other legal conditions and restrictions on employment as are contained in the agreements between the Union and the Employers, seamen shall be shipped out on jobs offered through the hiring halls of the Union in accordance with the class of seniority rating they possess, subject, nevertheless, to the other rules contained herein. B. Seniority shall be determined in the following manner: A class A seniority rating, the highest, shall be possessed by all unlicensed personnel who have shipped regularly, up to December 31, 1954, with one or more of the companies listed in Appendix A, since before January 1, 1951. On and after October 1, 1956, a class A seniority rating shall be possessed by all seamen with ratings above ordinary seaman, wiper, or messman, who have shipped regularly, up to December 31, 1954, with one or more of the companies listed in Appendix A, since before January 1, 1952, subject, how­ ever, to rule 9. On and after September 1, 1958, a class A seniority rating shall also be possessed by all seamen who have shipped regularly with one or more of the companies listed in Appendix A, either (1) up to December 31, 1955, since before January 1, 1953, or (2) up to December 31, 1956, since before January 1, 1954, subject, however, to rule 9. On and after June 15, 1961, a Class A seniority rating shall be possessed by all seamen who have shipped regularly with one or more of the companies listed in Appendix A, either, (1) up to December 31, 1957, since before January 1, 1955; or, (2) up to December 31, 1958, since before January 1, 1956; or, (3) up to December 31, 1959, since before January 1, 1957. A Class B seniority rating shall be possessed by all seamen who have shipped regularly up to December 31, 1957 with one or more of the com­ panies listed in Appendix A, since before January 1, 1958, and who do not have a Class A seniority rating, subject, however, to Rule 9. On and after September 1, 1958, Class C personnel who possess a Certificate of Satisfactory Completion of the Andrew Furuseth Training School course, and who, after obtaining such a certificate of satisfactory completion, have completed 60 days of seatime with any of the companies set forth in Appendix A, shall be entitled to class B seniority rating. A class C seniority rating shall be possessed by all seamen who do not have a class A or class B seniority rating, subject, however, to rule 9. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, no seaman shall be deprived of the seniority to which he would be otherwise entitled by virtue of service with the armed forces of the United States. C. A seaman will be deemed to have shipped regularly with one or more of the companies listed in Appendix A if he has been employed as an un­ licensed seaman no less than ninety days (90) per calendar year on one or more American-flag vessels owned or operated by the said companies, subject, how­ ever, to rule 3(A). This fatter provision shall not operate so as to reduce any seaman's seniority if the requirements therein were not met during the first calendar year in which the seaman commenced to ship but, if not met, the said calendar year shall not be counted insofar as seniority upgrading is concerned. D. Employment with, or election to any office or job in the Union, or any employment taken at the behest of the Union, shaH be deemed to be the same as employment with any of the companies listed in Appendix A, and seniority shall accrue accordingly during the period such employment, office, or job is retained. E. A class A seniority rating shall be the highest, class B, the next highest, and so on, and priority as to jobs shall be granted accordingly, subject, never­ theless, to the rules contained herein. F. Within each class of seniority, a seaman shall be shipped in accordance with the length of time he has been unemployed, the one unemployed the longest to be shipped the first, subject, nevertheless, to the rules contained herein. G. It shall be the responsibility of each seaman to furnish proof of seniority and length of the period of his unemployment. Notwithstanding any other provisions herein, the failure to produce adequate proof of seniority or length of unemployment shall be grounds for denial of the job sought. An appropriate seniority rating card duly issued by the Union shall be deemed sufFicient proof of seniority, for the purposes of shipping, without prejudice to the right of any seaman to furnish different proof of his seniority in reasonably legible and easily ascertainable form, such as ofTicial Coast Guard discharges. Unemploy­ ment periods shall be ascertained solely from shipping cards issued by the Union. H. Seniority rating cards will be issued by the Union only upon written and personal application made and accepted. These will be valid only for the calen­ dar year in which issued. No seniority rating card will be issued after October in each calendar year, unless the remaining time is not needed to preserve the seniority rating of the applicant, or is mathematically sufficient to enable him to retain his seniority. Each seniority rating card shall be based upon entitlement as of the date applied for. Shipping cards issued by the Union shall be valid for a period of 90 days from the date of issue subject tathe other rules contained herein. If the 90th day falls on a Sunday or a holiday, national or state, or if the hall in which registration has been made is closed on that day for any reason, the card shall be deemed valid until the next succeeding business day on which the hall is open. The period of validity of shipping cards shall be extended by the number of days shipping in a port has been materially affected as a result of a strike affecting the industry generally, or other similar circumstances. Shipping cards shall be issued to all those requesting the same, provided the seaman has all the necessary documents and papers required by law and is otherwise eligible. I. Seniority shall be calculated on the basis of employment without regard to department (deck, engine, or steward), without prejudice, however, to the application of any other rule contained herein. A seaman may not change the department in which he usually ships without permission of the Seafarers Appeals Board, which permission shall be granted only upon proof, deemed satisfactory by the Board, that medical reasons, insufficient to prohibit sailing altogether, warrant the change. J. Seamen with a class^B.or class C seniority rating may be shipped on a vessel for one round trip, or sixty (60) days, whichever is longer; in th^ latter case, the sixty (60) day period may be extended, where necessary to insure practicability insofar as leaving the ship is concerned. This rule shall not be applied so as to cause a vessel to sail shorthanded. No transportation shall be due by virtue of the application of this rule. The words "round trip" shall have the usual and customary meaning attributed to it by seamen, whether It be coastwise, intercoastal or foreign. On coastwise voyages, if the schedule of the vessel is such that it is to return to the area of original engagement, a seaman shall not be required to leave the vessel until the vessel reaches the said port or area. On intercoastal and foreign voyages, where the vessel pays off at a port in the continental United States other than in the area of engage­ ment, if the vessel is scheduled to depart from the said port of payoff within ten days after arrival, to return to the port or area of original engagement, a seaman with a seniority rating of less than class A shall not be required to leave the vessel until it arrives in the said port or area of original engagement. 2. Shipping Procedure A. No seaman shall be shipped unless registered for shipping. No seaman shall, register for shipping in more than one port of the Union at one time. No shipping card issued in one port shall be^ honored in another. B. No seaman may register for another, or use another's shipping card or seniority rating card. All registration must be in person, and seamen must be present, in person, when a job is offered them. C. No seaman may register for a job so long as he is employed on any vessel. D. No seaman shall have the right to reject more than two jobs, after throw­ ing in for them, within the period of validity of his shipping card. Rejection of more than two jobs during this period will require re-registration end the taking out of a new. shipping card. E. Every seaman who accepts a job, and who quits or it fired after one day, shall not be permitted to retain the original shipping card on which he received his job, but must re-register to ship, if ho quits or is fired within one day, he must report back to the dispatcher .on the next succeeding business day or else give up the original shipping card on which he received his job. F. No seaman shall be allowed to register on rhore than one list (department), and in not more-than one group, as hereinafter set forth. No seaman shall be shipped out on a job off a list (department) other than that on which he is registered, except under emergency circumstances, such as insuring against a vessel sailing short in a department. No seaman shall be shipped'out on a job outside the group in which he is registered, except as specifically set forth herein. The following are the groups within the lists (departments), in which classi­ fied seamen may register. Within one list (department), those possessing a higher seniority rating may take priority in the obtaining of jobs over those with lesser seniority rating even when not registered in the same group, sub­ ject, however, to the provisions of rule 4 (C). The following is a breakdown of the list (department) group: DECK DEPARTMENT Group I—Day Workers Deck Maintenance Watchman—Day Work Storekeeper Bosun Bosun's Mate Carpenter Quartermaster Able Seaman. Group 11—Rated Watch Standers Car Deckman Watchman—Standing Watches Group III >\ • Group I Chief Ref. Eng'r. Chief Storekeeper Evap. Maintenance Man Pumpman, 1 and 2 Engine Maintenance Chief Electrician 1 St, 2nd, 3rd Ref. Eng,V. 2nd Electrician Unlic. Jr. Eng'r.—Day Work Unlic. Jr. Eng'r.—Watch Plumber-Machinist Group 11 Deck Engineer Engine Utility Oiler—Diesel Oiler—Steam -.v Watertender Fireman-Waterterider, Firemars -/'/J Group III Wiper " I Group I (S)—I Chief Steward—Passenger Steward Group I—R| Chef Night Cook and Baker (I Groujl 2nd Cook and 3rd Cook Groupl Utility Messmen /\| G. No seaman shall be tendered any accordance with law and can furnish, evidencing this qualification. H. No man shall be shipped while unj I. All seamen shipped through the l| cards. One of these cards shall be giv department aboard ship, the other to J. Subject to the other rules contain shall give up the shipping card on whii 3. Hospital Cases A. Notwithstanding anything to this cc employment required during each year I the maintenance of class B or class C sen| pro rata, in accordance with the pre time to each calendar year. Example: ifj out-patient for four (4) months in one required for seniority purposes shall be I B. A seaman who enters a bona fide there for thirty (30) days or more, shall I receive a thirty (30) day back-dated sh| in-patient for less than thirty (30) days, fied, to a shipping card back-dated to This rule shall not apply unless the sea forty-eight (48) hours after his discharge! holidays, and produces his hospital pap| 4. Business Hours and Job Ci A. AH Union halls shall.be open from I the halls shall be open from 8:00 AM to| Sundays, and holidays, the hours of bus! agent, upon proper notice posted on thJ B. Jobs shall be announced durinc Saturday mornings, on the hour, excei] On Saturday afternoons, Sundays, and stances, the job may be called out at a| shall a job be called out unless it Is firl C. There shall be a limit of eight (l| class A and class B personnel may be e| If the eighth job call does not produce class A or class B seniority rating (in thel with a class C seniority rating, otherwis selected for the job. This rule shall not sail shorthanded or late. D. The four maj^or ports are declared tj New Orleans. In halls other than those job do not produce a qualified seaman I the job shall be placed in suspense, but { B personnel who are registered for ship personneh The nearest major port shall pended job offered there for the next seaman in the major port so notified sha but only within the said two (2) job call bid for, the major port shall so immedi/ after that seaman with a class A or B serf these rules and registered in the notifyir rule shall not be applied so as to cause and shall not be deemed to require ar virtue of the transfer of the job call, subordinate hereto. 5. Special Preferences Ordinaries on Watch ENGINE DEPARTMENT STEWARD DEI •y- -rn A. Within each class of seniority ratinJ shall be preferred in obtaining jobs off B. A seaman shipped on a regular (15) days after the original employmentl shipping card on which he was shippecj C. If a ship lays up and then calls for < the same crewmembers shall have prefl on the shipping list. Such preference aha| of layup resulting from strikes affecting circumstances. D. A seaman with a class A seniority I in for a job on the tame vessel after firij he has not been discharged for cause E. Class C personnel with a certificatl Andrew Furuseth Training School sha] personnel. �iWlwifcer H, im • -•••/. -^•' -• ^ •" • - - • ./• -• • . • 8E AWARE Ra LOG t- '.-^'^>-,T';.--r, . ,-< /- . r,. - »r-.7,'-'., V• •K- '.' • , "' "''*"•••.""•-ri Pare Nine ;* v'^ " --• ;• ' '•-. i •' * •- • i ,. - A'; nclude the rules previously printed and distributed, together with amendments thereto, decided upon by the Seafarers Appeals Board, up to and including September 1, 1963. .. -J {TMENT d Man iteward—Passenger Man 'Cook book and Baker iTien unlait ha li qualified therefor In mandy tha appropriate documents the Influence of alcohol or drugs. shall be given two assignment / the seaman to the head of his .lepartment delegate aboard ship. Iierein, a seaman receiving a job v/as shipped. ry herein contained, the period of onstifute regular shipping, or for / without break, shall be reduced, of bona fide in- and out-patient lan has been a bona fide in- and dar year, the yearly employment iced by one-third for that year, sital as an in-patient and remains sntitled, if otfierwise qualified, to ig card. If he has been such an all be entitled, if otherwise qualiJay ha first entered the hospital, reports to the dispatcher within llusive of Saturdays, Sundays, and J AM until 5:00 PM. On Saturdays, |)0 Noon. On Saturday afternoons, shall be determined by the port lletin board the day before. >n-holiday week days, including T the 8:00 AM and Noon calls, ays, or under exceptional circumme after it comes in. "In no case isted on the shipping board, b calls In which the priority of sed In obtaining a particular job. slified seaman possessing either • sr prescribed herein), that seaman titled under these rules, shall be pplied so as to cause a vessel to New York, Baltimore, Mobile and in located. If three (3) calls for a .essing a class A seniority rating, with respect to class A and class , and not with respect, to class C mmediately notified, and the sus(2) job calls. A qualified class A ve the right to bid for these jobs 1 the event these jobs are not so advise the notifying port. Therey rating, otherwise entitled under irt, shall be assigned the job. This essel to sail shorthanded or late, nployer to pay transportation by provisions of rule 4(C) shall be I amen over fifty (50) years of age watchmen. lose ship lays up less than fifteen ;, shall have restored to him tha ovided the card has not expired. V within ten (10) days after layup, :e, providing they are registered extended by the number of days sdustry generally, or other similar g shall not be required to throw taining a job thereon, so long as IS quit. satisfactory completion from the preferred over other class C F. (1) Within each class of seniority, preference for the job of Bosun shall be given to those seamen who possess a Certificate of Recertification as Bosun from the Deck Department Recertification Program, or in the event there are no such recertified Bosuns available, then preference shall be given those Bosuns who either have actually sailed as AB for at least 36 months in the Deck Department, or have actually sailed in any capacity in the Deck Department for at least 72 months, or, have actually sailed as Bosun for 12 months, in all cases with one or more of the companies listed in the aforementioned Appendix A. (2) Within each class of seniority, preference for the job of chief electrician shall be given those seamen who have actually sailed for at least 36 months in the engine department, including at least 12 months as second electrician, with one or more of the companies listed in the aforementioned Appendix A. (3) Within each class of seniority, preference shall be given to those Stewards and Third Cooks who possess a Certificate of Recertification as Steward or Third Cook from the Stewards Department Recertification Program, or, in the case of a Steward, in the event there are no such recertified Stewards available, then preference shall be given to those Stewards who have actually sailed at least 36 months in the Stewards Department in the rating above that of 3rd Cook, or who have actually sailed as Steward for at least 12 months,in all cases, with one or more of the companies listed in the aforementioned Appendix. (4) Within each class of seniority in the Deck Department, the Engine Department and the Steward Department, preference shall be given to all Entry Ratings who are indorsed as Lifeboatman in the United States Merchant Marine by the United States Coast Guard. The provisions of this rule may be waived by the Seafarers Appeals Board in those cases where, in its judgment, undue hardship will result, or where other extenuating circumstances warrant such waiver. G. If an applicant for the Steward Department Recertification Progr'am or the Deck Department Recertification Program for. Bosuns is employed on a vessel in any capacity when he is called to attend such program, such appli­ cant, after his successful completion of the respective Recertification Program, shall have the right to rejoin his vessel in the same capacity on its first arrival In a port of payoff within the continental limits of the United States. H. The contracting companies recognize that the aforementioned preferences shall obtain notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary contained in these rules. 6. Standby. Jobs Standby jobs shall be shipped in rotation, within each class rating. No standby shall be permitted to take a regular job on the unless he returns tp the hall and throws in for the regular job. shipping card shall be returned to the standby when he reports dispatcher unless it has expired in the interim. of seniority same vessel His original back to the 7. Relief (1) Except for Recertification, when an employed seaman wants time off and secures permission to do so, he shall call the hall and secure a relief. No reliefs shall be furnished for less than four (4) hours or more than three (3). days. The one asking for time off shall be responsible for paying the relief at the regular overtime rate. Reliefs shall be shipped in the same manner as a standby. This rule shall not apply when replacements are not required by the head of the department concerned. (2) • Any employed seaman who has been called to attend the Steward Department Recertification Program or the Deck Department Recertification Program for Bosuns may be temporarily replaced by a relief man until his successful completion of the respective Recertification Program. The registra­ tion card of any such relief man shall remain valid during such relief assign­ ment unless it expires because of the passage of time. 8. Promotions or Transfers Aboard Ship No seaman shipped under these rules shall accept a promotion or transfer aboard ship unless there is no time or opportunity to dispatch the required man from the Union hall. 9. Change in Seniority A. Unless otherwise specifically entitled thereto by these rules, all those who possess a class B seniority rating shall be entitled to a class A seniorityrating eight (8) years after they commenced to ship regularly with the com­ panies set forth in Appendix A, provided they maintain their class B seniority without break. B. All those who possess a class C seniority rating shall be entitled to a class B seniority rating two (2) years after they commenced to ship regularly with the companies set forth in Appendix A, provided they maintain their class C seniority rating without break. C. Shipping with one or more of the companies set forth in Appendix A for at least ninety (90) days each calendar year is necessary to maintain without break, a class B or class C seniority, rating, subject, however, to rule 3(A). This latter provision shall not operate so as to reduce any seaman's seniority If the requirements therein were not met during the first calendar year in which the seaman commenced to ship but, if not met, the said calendar year shall not be counted insofar as seniority upgrading is concerned. D. The same provisions as to military service as are contained in rule 1 (B) shall be analogously applicable here. E. In cases where a seaman's shipping employment has been interrupted because of circumstances beyond his control, thereby preventing the accumu­ lation of sufficient seatime to attain eligibility for a higher seniority rating, the Seafarers Appeals Board may, in its sole discretion, grant him such total or partial seniority credit for the time lost, as, again in its sole discretion, it considers warranted in order to prevent undue hardship. For purposes of Board procedures, whether a matter presented to the Seafarers Appeals Board is an appeal as a result of a dispute over shipping or seniority rights, or is an appeal for the exercise of the Board's discretion, shall be initially determined by the Chairman, who shall thereupon take such administrative steps as are appropriate in connection with this determination, subject, however, to overruling by the body hearing the matter. If the Chair­ man is overruled, the matter shall, be deemed to be a dispute appeal, or a discretionary matter, in accordance with the determination of the said body, and it shall thereupon be subject to disposition under the rules corresponding to the type of case it has thus been determined to be. The applicant shall, at his election, have a right to be heard in person, but only at the place where the Seafarers Appeals Board is meeting to consider the same. The Chairman shall insure that the applicant shall receive fair notice thereof. .10. Discipline A. The Union, although under no indemnity obligation, will not ship drunks, dope addicts, and others whose presence aboard ship would constitute a menace or nuisance to the safety and health of the crew. Anyone claiming a wrongful refusal to ship may appeal to the Seafarers Appeals Board, which shall be a board of four (4), two (2) to be selected by the Union, and two (2) by that negotiating committee, representing Employers, known and commonly referred to as the Management Negotiating Committee. This Board shall name a Hearing Committee of two (2) to sit in the port where the refusal to ship takes place, if practicable, and, if not, at the nearest available port where it is practicable. This latter Committee shall arrange for a prompt and fair hearing with proper notice, and shall arrive at a decision, unanimously, to be binding and final. If a unanimous-decision'cannot be reached, an appeal shall be taken to the Seafarers Appeals Board. Where a specific company is involved in the dispute, a representative thereof must be appointed to the Committee by the Board unless waived by the said company. B. Where a seaman deliberately fails or refuses to join his ship, or is guilty of misconduct or neglect of duty aboard ship, he may lose his shipping card for up to thirty (30) days, For a second offense, he may lose his card up to sixty (60) days. In especially severe cases, or in case of a third offense, he may lose his shipping card permanently. Before a seaman may lose his ship­ ping card under this sub-paragraph B, a complaint shall be filed, by either the Union or an Employer, with the Chairman of the Board, who shall thereupon name a Hearing Committee, which Committee shall arrange for a prompt and fair hearing thereon, with proper notice. The manner of appointment of the Hearing Committee, and the procedures to be followed by it, shall be those specified, in the last paragraph of section 9(E) and section 10 of these rules and, without limiting the effect of any other provision in these rules, hearings may be conducted, and decisions reached, whether or not the seaman is present. Pending the hearing and decision, the seaman may register and ship in accordance with his appropriate seniority and registration status. Appeals from decisions of the Hearing Committee may be taken to the Board, and shall be mailed by the seaman to the Board within fifteen (15) days after written notification of the Committee's decision. The Board shall have the power to extend this time for good cause. Such appeals shall be heard by the Board at the next regular meeting after receipt thereof, provided the appeal has been received in sufficient time for the Board to give five (5) days' notice of the meeting to the seaman of the time and place of the meeting. Pending any appeal or.decision theron by the Board, the decision of the Hearing Committee shall be effective. C. The Board of four (4) shall be a permanent body, and each member shall have an alternate. The selection of the alternates, and the removal of members or alternates shall be set forth in the agreements signed by the Union and the Employers. Members of the Board may serve on a Hearing Committee, subject to sub-paragraph A. The Board shall act only if there participates at least one Union member and one Employer member, while the collective strength of each group shall be the same, regardless of the actual number in attendance. The decisions of the Board shall be by unanimous -vote, and shall be final and binding, except that, in the event of a tie, the Board shall select an impartial fifth member to resolve the particular issue involved, in which case, a majority vote shall then be final and binding. Where no agreement can be reached as to the identity of the fifth member, application therefor shall be made to the American Arbitration Association, and its rules shall then be followed in reaching a decision. D. All disputes over seniority, and transportation disputes arising out of seniority rule applications, shall be dealt with in the same manner as disputes over shipping rights. F, It is the obligation of the one aggrieved to initiate action. No particular form is necessary, except that the complaint must be in writing, set out the facts in sufficient detail to properly identify the condition complained of, and be addressed to the Seafarers Appeals Board, >7 Battery Place, Suite 1930, New York 4, N. Y. 11. Amendments These rules, including seniority classifications and requirements, may be amended at any time, in accordance with law, contracts between the Union and the employers, and to the extent permitted by jaw and contract, as afore­ said, by the Seafarers Appeals Board. �cr 9,EjiFMKKHSi '.MtQ.G V--' Pact Reopener Ups Hotpoint Strike Gains Qualified for SiU disability pension last month, Seafarer Al Arnold (left) draws first $150 benefits check from SIU Welfare Rep. John Dwyer at headquarters. Arnold used to ship in the deck department. Four SIU Oldtimers Join Pension Ranks ' "2i Olson Cruz Peloyo Harirawoy Another four veteran Seafarers can now look forward to a secure retirement as a result of a recent trustee action. The new pensioners represent a combined total of over a century at sea in the engine and stew-tard departments and bring will spend his retirement years In the total number of SIU old- Brooklyn. NY. timers put on pension this year to 81. The new pensioners are: Carl M. Olson, 71; Juan Cruz, 52; William C. Hathaway, 67, and Jose Pelayo, 68. All qualified for lifetime re­ tirement benehts of $150 per month. All but Olson are on dis­ ability pensions. Born in Sparta, Wisconsin, Ol­ son is the lone member of the steward department in this latest group of retirees. A veteran of 21 years at sea, Olson became an SIU member in 1948 at New York and presently makes his home in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He last sailed on the John C. (Atlantic Carriers). A native of Puerto Rico, Cruz sailed in the engine department since joining the Union at San Juan in 1944. After a sea career of over 20 years, he signed off his last ship, the Claiborne (Sea-Land). He'll spend his retirement years at his home in Puerto Rico with his wife Regina. Born in Massachusetts, Hathaway has been a member of the SIU since 1944 when he joined at New York. A member of the engine de­ partment, he has heen making his living at sea for 19 years. His last ship was the Alcoa Pilgrim (Alcoa). With his wife Mary, he With a grand total of 45 years of sailing time under his belt, Pelayo's last ship was the Losmar (Calmar). A native of the Phillipines, he joined the SIU back in 1938 at Baltimore and also sailed in the engine department. His per­ manent address will be in Balti­ more, where he has a cousin who is listed as next of kin. CHICAGO—Some 2,700 main­ tenance and production workers of the Hotpoint division of General Electric have received an addition­ al wage increase, Increased vaca­ tions, holiday pay and other fringe benefits under a contract reopener just negotiated by Local 571 of the Sheet Metal Workers. The three-year contract calU for another pay boost in April, 1969. The contract was negotiated un­ der a reopener clause of the agreement signed by Hotpoint and the Sheet Metal Workers last March. The pact followed a threeweek strike backed by the SIU and other AFL-CIO unions. This marked the first union agreement in the firm's 56-year history. Local 571 won a National Labor Relations Board election in May, 1962, but for eight months Hotpoint refused to budge from its original proposals. Faced with this attitude, the union went out on strike in February. A whirlwind boycott campaign against Hotpoint-GE products and an effective three-week picketline helped dent the company's historic "no concession" policy. Hundreds of members of other AFL-CIO unions, including members of SIU affiliates in this area, joined the picketline or gave their time on Saturdays to distribute "Don't Buy" leaflets to over 500 retail stores in 28 major US cities. Agreement was finally reached after Federal mediators brought company and union officials to­ gether for three days of bargaining and after strikers had begun re­ ceiving strike benefits from the Sheet Metal Workers International Association. Benefits were paid to non-members as well as to mem­ bers by waiver of a clause in the international's constitution. Fever Hits Islands —Watch Mosquitoes SAN JUAN—Seafarers stopping at Puerto Rican ports are advised to be on the lookout for mosquitos and to stay away from them if possible. An outbreak of dengue fever is sweep­ ing the island, with over-* 3,000 cases officially reported quitos -which transmit the disease last week, and is produced by is to sleep under a mosquito net, a virus transmitted by mosquitos. Dr. Joseph B. Logue, Seafarers Medical Director, reported to the LOG in New York that the dis­ ease, with symptoms similar to rheumatism, is seldom fatal. These symptoms include fever and an aching all over the body, and led to the ailment's former name of "breakbone fever." The best way to avoid the mos­ if possible, and to use an Insect repellent and an aerosol insecti­ cide to spray living quarters. There is no vaccination effective against dengue feyer. The only way to fight the dis­ ease is to eliminate the Aedesegypti mosquito which transmits it. Spraying is presently under way throughout the island. The same mosquito is also a carrier of yel­ low fever, so the US Public Health Service is urging all shipping and airlines operating to and from tlie island to take necessary precau­ tions. The first cases of dengue fever appeared during August in Manati, a town on the north coast. More than 2,000 cases were re­ ported there during the first two weeks of the outbreak. The epi­ demic then spread to the towns of Ponce and Guayama on the southern coast. Although only about 3,000 cases have been reported officially, un­ official reports put the number of cases at more than 10,000. The fever has also been re­ ported in Jamaica and in the sur­ rounding Caribbean area. Joseph VolplaD, Social Security Director Social insurance For The Aged ; The cries of "todallaed medieiae" are still heiag ralsei by the organ­ ised medical profession against the Kenndy Administration's proposal to finance hospital insurance for the aged under the Social Security System. The words imply something like the system adopted several years, ago, and still In effect. In Great Britain—government ownership of hospitals, government employment of physicians and surgeons on a standardized fee-and-salary basis, etc. But the bill proposed by Sen. Clinton P. Anderson (D-NM) and Rep. CecH R. King (D-Calif.) contains none of these things, the Administra­ tion points out. It suggests that "social insurance," not "socialized medicine," is the proper description. Briefly, the bill would cover the hospital bills of persons over 65, when such bills are likely to be most frequent and most expensive, under one of these three options available to the individual depending on his circumstances. • Up to 90 days of hospitalization for each illness, with the patient paying the first $10 a day for at least the first two days but no more than the first nine, or • Up to 45 days in each illness, at no cost at all to the patient, or • Up to 180 days of hospitalization in each illness, with the patient paying a total sum equal to 2.5 times the average of one day's confine­ ment cost (estimated at an average * total per illness of $92.50 during addition, the amount of annual 1965-66, . the first two years the earnings against which the con­ program would be in effect). tributions are calculated would b« In addition, after a prolonged increased from the present $4,800 hospitalization, the patient would ceiling to $5,200. be eligible for up to 180 days of The Government estimates that care per illness in a recognized 15.6 million persons over 65 will nursing home affiliated with a be eligible for these benefits under hospital. Social Security or Railroad Retire­ Since elderly persons who suf­ ment if the plan takes effect fer from ehrmiie conditions do not Jan. 1, 1965. Another 2.4 million always require hospitaiizatlon, the aged individuals would have their King - Anderson bill also would benefits paid for during a transi­ provide up to 240 home visits a tional period directly out of Fed­ year by visiting nurses or physical eral revenues. That would leave therapists, and would pay the cost, out about 200,000 elderly persons, in excess of the first $20, of out­ but almost all of these are Federal patient diagnostic services pro­ employees or retired Federal em­ vided by hospitals. ployees protected under their own As he has under any insurance systems. Because workers would be mak­ program, the patient would have complete freedom of choice of ing Social Security contributions hospital and doctor—in fact, the on the first $5,200 a year of earn­ services of a physician or surgeon ings, instead of $4,800 as now, cash are in no way affected or com­ retirement benefits also would be pensated for under the program, Increased for many of them. The which Is directed primarily at re­ maximum benefit levels would in­ lieving the chief health cost bur­ crease to $134 a month for an in­ den of the aged, hospitalization. dividual and to $268 a month for-« To finance the program, King- family, up from the present limits Anderson calls for an increase of of $127 and $254. The principle of pre-payment by one-fourth of 1 percent! for both an individual during his working the worker and his employer In the contribution rates under the life for health insurance he will Social Security and Railroad Re­ need when he is no longer work­ tirement Systeme. The increase ing and is less able to bear the would be four-tenths of 1 percent burden of sickness and accident for self-employed individuals. In expenses has won growing support ampng even conservative groups, but not from-the American Medi­ cal Association. The AMA stiU lnsists that the Kerr-Mills Act of 1960 is all that is needed, even though half the states did not have (Continued from page 2) Medical Assistance for the Aged ship construction through tax re­ programs in effect under KeiXr lief, beneficial amortization, and Mills by mid-1963. {Comments and suggestions are all other possible methods to "re­ store and retain US supremacy on invited by ' this Department and can be submitted to this column the high seas." in care oi the SEAFARERS LOG.) The MTD noted an "ever-In­ creasing" ratio of construction in foreign shipyards by American in­ dustry and pointed out that, at the present rate, the Soviet mer­ chant fleet will be twice as large Seafarers and SIU families as the US fleet by 1971. who apply for maternity, hos­ Tn regard to the state of the pital or surgical benefits from nation's economy, the board called the Welfare Plan are urged to for "Government leadership" and keep the Union or the Wel­ bold action in meeting the crisis fare Plan advised of any of unemployment, for a cut in the changes of address while their work week, tax reduction, upping applications are being proc­ of the minimum wage and other essed. Although payments aro measures which have been ad­ often made by return mail, vanced in the AFL-CIO legislative changes of address (of illegible program. return addresses) delay them when checks or "baby bonds" The MTD board also expressed opposition to a pending "quaiity are returned. Those ,wbo at* moving are advised to notify stabilization" bill as a price-fixing measure, and urged the defeat of SIU headquarters or tlie Wel­ a number of bills presently before fare Plan, at 17 Battery Pl^ce, Congress as harmful to domestic New York 4. NY. shipping. Shipbuilding Moving? Notify SIU, Welfare �mwm jUti# 'La4 Page £lef«i Still Lf/e../ COPS itmntT .'J -•| m NAM GIVES BIPAC ALL-OUT SUPPORT. Any doubt that the National Association of Manufacturers is behind the newly-organized Business-Industry Political Action Committee (BIPAC) has been -dis­ pelled by the NAM itself. Speaking before the Rotary Club of New York, NAM President W. P. Gullander put his organization definitely on record as intending "to give BIPAC every support and help we legitimately can." Gullander said that as a first step in its support of BIPAC, ttie NAM is sending to all its members copies of BIPAC literature. The letter urges them to join BIPAC as individuals and to help enroll other individuals in the companies. He directed that all NAM offices main­ tain a supply of BIPAC literature and membership application forms and support a nationwide campaign of the NAM Public Affairs Depart­ ment to support BIPAC. A spokesnun for organized labor at the same time took strong exception to editorials which expressed the view that while labor has long been in politics, business is just now starting to engage in political activity. In a letter to "The New York Times," Louis Hollander, secretarytreasurer of the New York State AFL-CIO and New York State COPE, called such a view "naive and mistaken" and said that it "does not coincide with the easily ascertainable fact . . . organized industry and business have always been in politics." Hollander pointed out that "through individual executives and by other channels, big business has made tremendous money contributions to the campaign chest of political candidates, often of both major parties. These contributions have far exceeded the relatively small amounts which COPE has been able to raise." BOOST, BLAST ON TEST BAN. The AFL-CIO Executive Council has hailed the nuclear test ban treaty as "a first step towards the possible limitation or reduction of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction" and has urged treaty ratification by the Senate. The Council said the treaty "provides mankind with an opportunity to end the danger of radioactive contamination of the atmosphere by halting those blasts which endanger health and produce genetic damage." It further stated the treaty can strengthen American efforts "to remove the causes of world tension, to provide a firm foundation for world peace, and to achieve disarmament through strict international inspection and effective control." Meanwhile, right-wing forces unleashed a multi-megaton barrage against the test ban treaty, trying to frighten the country out of its wits. A full-page ad in a recent edition of the "Washington Post" warned in bold headlines: "National Disaster Impending! Senate Ratification of the Test Ban Treaty Will Destroy Our Country." The ad was sponsored by the Manion Forum, an outfit which habitu­ ally drops its own bombs on the labor movement It was under the signature of Rear Adm. Chester Ward (Ret.), an old Navy hand who sails out of drydock regularly to deliver a salty word or two at rightwing rallies. Ward views the test ban—as do other rightists—as some­ thing subversive, "engineered by a Washington inner circle of pseudosophisticated, pseudo-intellectuals . . ." He ignores the fact that the Joint Chiefs of Staff, our top military leaders, have endorsed the treaty. •ss? Strikes at two plants of the Hat Corporation of America have been settled with substantial wage in­ creases and other improvements by the United Hatters, Cap and Mil­ linery Workers Union, The chief objective of the three-week strike, which sought general upgrading of wages, was met by an increase of 40 cents an hour over 3 years for 700 workers at the Winchester, Tertn., plant and a 25-cent boost at Sunbury, Pa., where 400 are em­ ployed. Vacation, holiday and pen­ sion program improvements were also gained. a- Three newspapers in the Flor­ ence, Ala., area have been struck by the Memphis Tri-Cities unit of the American Newspaper Guild after eight months of fruitless ne­ gotiations. The papers are the "Florence Times" and "Trl-Cities Daily" plants in Florence and the weekly "Standard and Times" in nearby Sheffield. In all three cases, the Guild is seeking a new contract but has met with stub­ born ownership resistance. At times there have been as many as 150 pickets on duty representing the Guild unit and other, unions. i i The Bank of Montreal has made an out-of-court settlement of $24,794 to M. W. Bluck, aii official of the bank for 27 years prior'to his dismissal in October, 1961, during a union organizing drive at the branch in Vancouver. Bluck was president of the Bank Employees Association Local 387, a unit of the Office Employees, when he was discharged. In addition to the settlement, he received $1,850 in severance pay. 4i t A week-long strike by Local 588 of the United Automobile Workers at Ford's stamping plant in Chi­ cago Heights, Hi., has been settled. The strike, involving some 3,800 workers, for a time threatened a shutdown in other Ford plants. The settlement finally reached in­ cluded satisfactory disposition of a number of health and safety grievances and appointment by the union of a full-time health and safety representative to help assure proper conditions in the plant. 4. t i New Jersey's first experiment In Industry-wide bargaining in the food Industry has been launched by Retail Store Employees Union Local 1262 in Newark with three of the state's largest independent supermarket chains. Shop-Rite, Food Town and Good Deal chains, comprising 191 individually-owned stores with some 5,000" workers, have agreed to participate in joint negotiations. ' - '9' V% 1 Debate is a healthy and desirable means in a democracy to legislate the people's needs, but it is not an end in itself. When important programs get stymied or shunted aside as a matter of expediency, the public has a right to holler. Tax legislation, job programs, civil rights and medical care for the aged are but a few of the pending bills awaiting the pleasure of Congress. Since this has already been a long session in what is considered an "offyear," the future of these measures is much in doubt. This applies also to a long-range Federal program of aid for domestic and offshore shipping, which is a desperate need in the maritime industry. Curiously, the only legislation tagged a "must" and rushed through this Congress was the bill passed last month imposing compulsory arbitration on the unions in the railroad work rules dispute. Yet the arbitra­ tion panel set by law will not hold its first public hearings until late next week. The arbitration legislation is thus nothing more than a strike stall, and points up how Congress can be stampeded — but only on this type of issue. 4 4. 4> 'Doctor Shortage The American Medical Association and the US Public Health Service are presently en­ gaged in a debate over the number of phy­ sicians in the US and whether the rate of increase is adequate. AMA contends there has been "a dramatic increase" and says there are now 146.7 doctors for every 100,000 Americans. From figures on infant mortality, which is considered a good gauge of the quality of a nation's medical care, it would seem that the USPHS view is more nearly correct and that there actually is a "doctor, shortage." Citing US infant mortality rates, an AFLCIO represenative told a Senate subcommittee recently that in 1962 the US slipped from 10th to 11th place in infant mortality rates among countries with populations of more than 300,000i He pointed out that since 1950, five countries with infant death rates lower than the US cut these rates another 20 to 40 percent, while the reduction in the US has only been about 13 percent. "When we in the United States, with the ability to provide a quality of medical care that is surpassed nowhere in the world, lag behind ten other nations in this .way, it is perfectly clear that not all Americans are receiving the benefits of the excellent care that the medical proTession of this country is able to provide," he added. The statistical debate on this issue will not solve the problem, but it does highlight a serious national issue. And while Congress has not moved forward on many other ques­ tions, it should be noted that it has just adopted a medical education bill. Approved by the Senate last week, this is at long last a step in the right direction. New Shell Game' Most rackets traditionally prey on the poor and uneducated, who can least afford to be the victims of such illegal schemes. However, an interesting twi':t is reported in New York, where a new racket is proving that tough, hard-headed business executives are easier to take than anyone, providing you have the right come-on. The New York City Better Business Bu­ reau has found that top business executives are being victimized bv what might be termed an "award mill." These rigged awards are given to businessmen who find that receiving an award, any award, is an ego-boosting victory proving their worth, importance and superiority over their fel­ lows. In most cases the award is strictly phony, with no competition at all. Our man next finds that he and his friends are paying $500a-table for an "award" banquet. In one case the BBB reported, there actually were judges—a housewife, a plumber and a taxi driver. All of them were probably "ex­ perts" in their own specialties though it's likely that the business exec whom they tagged, for an award didn't know who they -were, and cared even less. The criteria on whiph they based their decision was not in­ dicated. <7,1 -I �StAPA^UW The deaths of the followiiig Seafarers have been reported to the Seafarer* Welfare USPH8 HOSPITAI, plan and a total of $22,000 in benefits was paid (any apparent delay in payment of claim STATEN ISLAND. Naw York CornaU AmaUnokl Gutt Llakoa is normally due to late filing, lack of a beneficiary card or necessary Utigatlon for the Benny CaUlorlana Frank Uro disposition of estates): Anthony Caramaa Antonio Longualrs Camlal Caui Harry MacDonald Arthur R. Swanton, 42: Brother to Brother Thaxon August 9,1968 Edward Conway Jamea MacCras Swanton drowned In an accident Carloa Matt ton on Decem­ at the USPHS Joia Cortei WUbur Ntcklaua H. L. Crabtraa in India on. No­ ber 18, 1962 at Hospital, Seattle, Serga Dauitian Georga O'Rourke vember 26, 1962. the USPHS Hos­ Georga PUarla Wash. He had WeU Denny Philip Pron Eapanol He had shipped pital, New Or­ •ailed in the en­ Joaa Alexandro Euaeblo Tomaa Ramlrai with the SIU in leans, La. He gine department Richard Feddem Pedro Reyes the steward de­ Joa Scully Charlea Fertal had shipped with the SIU Dan Gemelner Jamea Sherlock partment since with the SIU in slnca 1956. Sur­ John Glbbona Jamea Shiber 1961. Surviving the deck depart­ Morrlf Slegel Robert Godwin viving is his sis­ Walter SUcoraU Juan Gonzalez is his wife, Mrs. ment from 1939 ter, Mrs. Cath­ Edwin Harrlmaa ^Manual Sllva Yvonne Swan­ until he went on John Sovlch erine M. Blom, Richard Haakln Thomaa Stratford ton, of New Or­ pension in 1958. His wife, Meta Seattle. Burial was at Calvary Thomaa Hlckey Lester Sturtevant Calvin Jones leans, La. Burial Thaxton, of Arima, Trinidad, sur­ Cemetery, Seattle. Total benefits: Carl KendaU Lea Summers was at Kharirohar Christian Cem­ vives. Burial was at Metairie $4,000. John Szczepanaki William Kins Miguel Tlrado PhUlp Korol etery, Kandia, India. Total bene­ Cemetery, New Orleans. Total it if it Julian Wilson. Jeaui Landron fits: $4,000. benefits: $4,000. William A. Kemmerer, 88: A B. Lerwjick $> USPHS HOSPITAL heart condition caused the death ISf NEW ORLEANS, LOUISANA Ernest L. Waters, 65: Brother of Brother Kem­ Richard Barnes Placldo Lopez Charles O. Lynsky, 43: Brother merer at his Waters died of natural causes on Wil. Barrilleaun Ken. MacKenzla Lynsky was lost at sea while home in Balti­ August 18, 1963 Daniel Bishop Leon Mara aboard the SS Wilbert Burka Alexander Martin at St. Vincent's more, Md., on Anthony Maxwell Mallory Coffey San Marino on Hospital, New August 14, 1963. E. Constantino Charles Parmar November 2 4, William E. Roberts Gordon Dalman York, NY. He He began ship­ Rafael Diirnn Allen Sehriels 1962. He bad began shipping ping with the SIU Alonzo Slatrunk Julius Ekman sailed with the John Brady Carloa Spina with the SIU in in the steward Jimmy Sprinkle Anton Evensen SIU in the the engine de­ department in Adolph Swenson v. Fredricksen deck department partment in 1944 Eugene GaUaspy Clarence Tobias 1939 and had Ruffln Ray Thomas since 1945. SurStanley Grooms and had been on been on pension Julius Thompson Frank Halem V i V i n g is his pension since Robert Trlppa since 1953. Siuvivlng is a friend, Selfert Hamilton mother, Mrs. WlUlam Wads Fredrick Hauser October, 19 6 2. Mrs. J. Harps, of Baltimore. ParkJames Walker Vincenzo lacono Surviving is a friend, J. Parten. Harriet Lynsky, Billy Ward wood Cemetery, Baltimore, was Walter Johnson of North Hollywood, Calif. Total Burial was at Cypress Hills Ceme­ Robert White Johnson the place of burial. Total benefits: Walter August WllUams Robert Kennedy tery, Brooklyn, NY. Total bene­ benefits: $4,000. William Williams $1,000. Gordon Long fits: $1,000. t t USPHS HOSPITAL i i i if 'X> ICt NORFOLK, VIRGINIA Octave S. Bourgeois, 65: Brother Charles M. Deemer, 59: Brother Gerald L. Thaxton, 55: A lung Blankenshlp Jose Kammlngn Bourgeois passed away due to a I. Joseph Feak William Mason ailment was the cause of death Deemer died of a cardiac ailment heart condition Herbert Fentress Robert Staplln on July 15, 1963 Richard Gray, Jr. Isadora Topal All of the following SIU families have received a $200 Charles Hurlburt Prua Vaughn at the USPHS Jamea Jarvls maternity benefit, plus a $25 bond from the Union in the Hospital, New USPHS HOSPITAL baby's name, representing a total of $2,400 in maternity SEATTLE. WASHINGTON Orleans, La. He benefits and a maturity value of $300 in bonds. Geoffney Johnson had been ship­ Joseph BaUey Chandler George Yeager, Jr. ping since 1947 Malvln Jean Elizabeth Coxwell, bom 1963, to Seafarer and Mrs. JaekIa Edward Clchorek with the SIU in July 17, 1963, to Seafarer and Mrs. Peterson, River Rouge, Mich. USPHS HOSPITAL the steward de­ GALVESTON. TEXAS Rex E. Coxwell, Mobile, Ala. 4i 3» 3^ Calvin Atkinson King partment. A Thomas Barracllfl James WUllam Lawless 4i 3i 4i Ronald Bullard, born July 12, brother, Richard Eric Berg Joseph LaCorta Michael P. Whalen, bom July 1963, to Seafarer and Mrs. Warren Bourgeois, of New Orleans, sur­ Robert Cooper John Maher WiUlam Scruggs Leslie Dean 18, 1963, to Seafarer and Mrs. Paul Bullard, Philadelphia, Pa. vives. Burial was at Greenwood Ray. Elsenman Jack Strachan Whalen, Huntington, Beach, Calif. 3^ 3« Robert Sheppard Cemetery, New Orleans. Total ben­ Thomaa Heaton Pete TrlantaflUos James Hodges Terrle Lynn Veillon, born July efits: $4,000. it if if Andera Johansen Renee Marie Nelson, bom July 9, 1963, to Seafarer and Mrs. Her­ 8, 1963, to Seafarer and Mrs. James man Veillon, Lake Charles, La. and believe his propaganda? I R. Nelson, Frankfort, Mich. 3!' 4" 4" remember how the NMU presi­ Rufino Garray, born August 24, 4< 4> 41 dent relieved alien seamen of 1963, to Seafarer and Mrs. Rufino Marciel Ranies Townsend, bom their union books pfter the August 8, 1963, to Seafarer and Garray. Sr., Brooklyn, NY. To the Editor: general strike in 1946. Now he 4" 4' 4« Mrs. Joseph E. Townsend, PennsWhile reading an editorial in has the nerve to preach unity. Clarence Horchlns, Jr., bom vllle, NJ. the LOG (July 12) pertaining August 12, 1963, to Seafarer and The action of relieving alien it if to the president of the National seamen of their books and jobs Mrs. Clarence Horchins, Axton, Va. Eileen O. Kuchnlckl, born July Maritime Union and his pro­ will never happen in the SIU. t> if 81, 1963, to Seafarer and Mrs. gram of unity for the US mer­ I was one of the aliens and William and Wade Freeman, bom James Kuchnicki, Alpena, Mich. chant marine, I sure had a good have not lost my job or book July 16, 1963, to Seafarer and Mrs. if it it laugh. under any program in the SIU. Benjamin Freeman, Brockton, David Peterson, bom August 8, Mass. When the president of the For the past 18 years the NMU president has never done NMU is ready for his program anything about a unity pro­ gram. But from the time the president of the SIU was first elected as secretary-treasurer and head of the SIU, he has showed Interest in seamen of the universe. He proved It by organizing' the Canadian sea­ All letters to the Editor for men at a very high cost. publication in the SEAFARERS So far as we know, the NMU LOG must be signed by the president tried to invade and writer. Names will be withheld take over the Robin Line and upon request. deprive our union of jobs and ships. of unity for seamen, he should Does the president of the let us know. I can tell him how NMU want to use the tactics of to unite, the American seamen Joseph Stalin in his unity pro- and I'm sure that anyone will pram, as Stalin did in organiz­ agree with me except the NMU If any SIU ship has no ing the Baltic and central Eu­ president. library or needs a new ropean nations? As Stalin Frank Szwestka supply of books, contact annexed 30,000 square miles of i i i Poland, so does the NMU want any SIU hall. to annex the Robin Line and put SIU seamen on the side­ walk. Does the president of the 'Co the Editor: I wish to take this time to ex­ NMU think that SIU seamen are a bunch of fools to read press my deepest thanks and NiVIU's Unity Isn't For Him ISSBlSi®®IKi EVERY THREE MONTHS It-.,.' YOUR SIU SHIR'S LIBRARY .'w-- Welfare Plan Help Praised USPHf HOSPITAL BRIGHTON. MASS. VlB. Chamberlain William Powarf John Fortune Joseph Thomas Raymond Parry USPHS HOSPITAL SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA Colon BoutwaU Daniel Hutto RUay Carey Georga RIchudSM William Chadbum Irlnes Robla C. T. Connell H. Shellenbergar Slxto Escobar WUllam Walton USPHS HOSPITAL SAVANNAH, GEORGIA Anderson Charles TaUmaa Robert Chrlstensen C. W. Thompson B. S. Stockman' USPHS HOSPITAL FORT WORTH, TEXAS Gerald Algernon Thomaa Lehay Benjamin Deibler George McKnew Adrian Duracher Max Olson Aba Gordon SAILORS' SNUG HARBOR STATEN ISLAND, NEW YORK Daniel Gorman Thomaa Isaksea Alberto Gutlerres William Kenny MOUNT WILSON STATE HOSPXTAl, MOUNT WILSON. MARYLAND Charles Ackerman VA HOSPITAL JACKSON. MISSISSIPPI Harry Luzader USPHS HOSPITAL MEMPHIS. TENNESSEE James McGee PINE CREST HAVEN COVINGTON. LOUISIANA Frank Martin VA HOSPITAL NORTHAMPTON, MASS. Maurice Roberts US SOLDIERS' HOME WASHINGTON. DC WU. H. Thomson USPHS HOSPITAL BALTIMORE, MARYLAND Benlgno Abad William Lane Robert Adams Gustaua Loeffer Rendley Beaven Stanley Lowery Joseph Bush Max Marcus Clifford Brlssett Robert Moylan Sidney Day Hoy Newbury CarroU Flcketi \ Chester Rakowskt Joseph Gibbons Jack Sanders Eugene Greaux John Shannon Wllbert Hughes Carl Smith Carl Jupitz James StanseU Vernon Keena Opls WaU Ira RUgora Get Certificate Before Leaving Seafarers are advised to se­ cure a master's certificate at all times when they become ill or injured aboard ship. Ths right to demand a master's cer­ tificate verifying ilinesi or in­ jury aboard a vessel is guaran­ teed by law. appreciation to the Seafaren Welfare Plan and the SIU for the ail-out efforts and coopera­ tion received during my unfor­ tunate Illness here in San Fran­ cisco. I paid off the Penn Exporter (Penn Export) at Pascagoula, Miss., on March 27 and was stricken with a severe sore throat on March 29. I checked Into the hospital at Galveston, and was told they no longer had a throat clinic there, but I would have to go to another hospital that did. I had to have a iaryiigeat pathology and my records were at the San Francisco hospital. When I went there, they found I had a cancer of the vocal cord and had to have treatment of a prolonged' nature and x-ray therapy. While I was there the SIU Welfare Plan took care of everything right through to August 7. I have since shipped out on the Diana B. (Conestoga Carriers).. I especially want to thank our SIU officials at the San Francis-'' CO hall for their fine and un­ selfish attitude in helping me. I'm mighty glad I belong to such a union as the Seafarers International Union that really goes all-out in its efforts to give its members the best that can be obtained. . / , Willlain T. Langford �^ ®^ 0/ 4fiP , FMg^.'B^rteen !^l 'Sea Life' — By Jim Mates Safety practices are one of the subjects of the moment aboard the Yaka (Waterman). Both L. A. Forgeron, bosun, and Steve Krkovich, engineroom safety delegate, have called attention to a practice in port that spells danger both for crewmembers and for dock work­ ers handling ship's cargo. The bosim reported that the when the guy lines get heated up stevedores, after trimming on the steam pipes. cargo gear, leave the guy-lines all over the deck Instead of making them up, and this is causing a haz­ ard for the oilers who have to grease winches. Forgeron said the midship guy-llnes had also been burned by steam lines, although he and the deck gang make up the guys three or four times a day. He suggested that the stevedores be advised about this practice, since it also represents problems for them ^ A report from the Overseas Eva (Maritime Overseas), where Paul L. Whitlow is ship's delegate, notes that there's no shortage of food aboard and plenty of stores to get home with except for fresh provi­ sions. However, a word of cau­ Krkovieh tion is offered to the anglers on Birmingham the ship, who apparently have been dipping into the night lunch of other forms of bait. The fish­ now and then when they run out ermen are reminded that the night lunch is put out for the crew to eat —not for the fish. t> t> The crew on the Lncile Bloomfield (Bloomfield) forwards the re­ newed suggestion that each Seafar­ er's blood type be noted on his clinic card as a possible means of saving a life some time in the fu­ ture. The discussion at the ship's meeting, with Nils C. Beck as chair­ man and William Birmingham serving as secretary, centered on the point that the extra notation would take very little time when each man renews his card but getting the information could be time-consuming in an emergency, t Overhaul time for the Josefina (Liberty Navigation) on an India run finds some of the deck gang all dressed up for the job under a hot sun. Pictured (l-r) are Bill Clement, AB and deck delegate; G. M. Hetcher, OS; B. C. Jordan, AB; T. L Browning, OS, and J. B. Dixon, bosun. The crew says the Josefina is an "okay" ship—slow, but. a good feeder. Photo submitted by G. Mosterson. "There, that ought to be Seaweed's last complaint about not enough hot sauce in the chile. . 4 Where and when is the best time to show movies on the ship was a featured topic at the last meeting on the Steel Worker (Isthmian), and no solution to the dilemma has come forth yet. The way things work now, there are always a few hands who miss the movie, so the gang is still trying to figure out a way to keep the "no-shows" to a minimum. i Hi' i Ashore now. Seafarer John W. Kelsoe sends a note of thanks to the captain and SIU crewmembers on the Jean Lafitte (Waterman) wherever they happen to be. Kelsoe said he would like to ex­ press his appreciation to all hands "for the kindness shown me in my time of trouble." Thank you all, he adds, "from the bottom on of my heart for the generosity ex­ pressed in financial support and other aid when I was in need." fore they were set to pay off in Seattle last month. The skipper sent down a note of thanks to the steward department for doing a good job on the feeding, and all hands at the ship's meeting on the eve of payoff voted themselves a round of "thank-you's" for "mak­ ing the trip a pleasure." Even the niailing service on the LOG was good this trip, they added. R. 4" 4" i On the Coeur D'Alene Victory Sirois was chairman of the festive (Victory), life was just one big bed gathering and G. Lathrop served of roses for all hands the day be­ as secretary. SEATRAIN NEW JERSEY (Seatrain). Aug. 17—Chairman, J. Aey; Secretary. Fred B. Kritzler. All re­ pairs are being taken care of except some minor ones. S27.94 in ship's fund. Checker champion F. Kritzler reports that he is ready to face the best talent on his scheduled checker championship for the Gulf Coast over the Labor Day weekend. HASTINGS (Waterman). August 7— Chairman. Robert Wurzier; Secretary. John Weiis. Ship's delegate reported that several matters of concern re­ garding the 1st assistant engineer will be taken up with the patrolman. Some disputed OT in the deck and engine departments. $13.06 in ship's fund. Crewmembers requested to SIU Youngster Helps Win Title Some of the major league teams may still be fighting it out for the top spots in the 1963 baseball standings, but in the Bath (Maine) Little League, the issue is all settled. The lat­ est sporting news out of the shipbuilding city, Seafarer Allan E. (Honest Al) Whitmer proudly reports, Is that the-* — South End PTA nine has taken pictured below In a group photo Young "Tex" occupied an infield slot in the championship team and the championship hands marking the championship. down, The South End squad is com­ prised of youngsters coached by fathers from the local parentteachers group and includes young Alan Whitmer II, better known as "Tex," who is a seasoned diamond veteran at the ripe old age of 0. "Tex" and his team-mates are Easily winning the title, the team piled up a regular season record of 15 straight wins, and then took two out of three games in a post­ season playoff. As a result, the South End PTA'ers compiled a win score of 17 games out of 18. That's a lot of baseball In anybody's league. easily gained his nickname from the time the family lived in the Port of Galveston, where he was born on June 9, 1954. Whitmer also has a daughter, Alana, 10, and has been shipping with the SIU in the deck gang since 1944. His last ship was the Penn Carrier (Penntrans). clean waihing machine and turn It off after use. WACOSTA (Waterman). August 1$ —Chairman. Ramon Ferrera; Secre­ tary. Ramon Irizarry. Harvey L. Graham was elected to serve as ship's delegate. Some disputed cargo OT la engine department. Discussion on having cluster light Installed in the after house so that the crew can see better going aft when there is cargo on deck. Request that door in crew's toilet be removed to make more room. WALTER RICE (Reynolds Metals). Aug. II—Chairman. H. Huston; Sec­ retary, R. Runner. Brother Bunner resigned as ship's delegate after serv­ ing for six months, and a vote of thanks was extended to him for a lob well done. J. Jellette was elected to serve In his place. A vote of thanks by the steward department to 12-4 and 4-8 deck watches for cleaning messroom and lounge in the mornings. Suggestion that when negotiating new contracts for the various types of ships, a uniform manning scale be adopted for all three departments. COTTONWOOD CREEK— (Bulk Transport). July IS—Chairman. J. E. Collins; Secretary. A. T. Cerber. One man left in hospital in Calcutta, India. Matter of no mall being received will be taken up with patrolman. $15.00 In ship's fund. Motion that new crew not sign on until all repairs are taken care of. Water is rusty. Ship to be fumigated. Young Alan (T®x) Whitmer, son of Seafarer Al Wbltiiiar, is shown In foreground (3rd from • left) with team-mates and coaches of the winning team. .1-1! J-.H ROBIN LOCKSLEY (Robin), Sept. 1 ^Chairmen. Paul McNabb; Secretary. Sidney Garner. $11.00 in ship's fund. Some disputed OT in deck and engine departments. Some beefs about food having no taste and meats being overcooked most of the time. This ship has a fresh milk pool at $3.00 a chance. Milk put aboard Is never used, as fresh milk Is available in all ports Including Africa. Vote of thanks given to messmen for good service. TRANSHATTERAS (Hudson Water­ ways). Aug. 14—Chairm.n, E. Linch; Secretary. P. S. Holt. Ship's delegate read communication from headquar­ ters regarding men not receiving medical attention at Suez Canal. No clarification given on men not being able to have shore leave at Chittigong and Bahrein. Di.sputed OT in deck and engine departments. Discussion on repairs especially on messhall chairs. Vote of thanks to the steward department. ALCOA MASTER (Alcoa), Aug. 11— Chairman. E. C. Bell; Secretary. L. F. Drew. Ship's delegate reported that most of the repairs have been taken care of. Some disputed OT in deck and engine departments. !)I-tion to scrap milk plan or get fresh milk. Motion to ask for awning < vcr poop deck. Washing machine for crew is not repairable and should be re­ placed. Men going to doctor asked to pay their own transportation and the.v will be reimbursed later. Ship's fund to be started. ANTINOUS (Waterman), Aug. 11— Chairman, William O'Connor; Secre­ tary, J. P. Baliday. One man hospital­ ized In Korea and one in Okinawa. Both men doing fairly well. Ship's delegate reported that men who did not get their transportation money to San Francisco will get it at payoff of this voyage. $10.00 In ship's fund. Motion to change 60-day shipping rule to a 90-day rule in order for these men to collect vacation checks. Sug­ gestion made to order an automatic clothes dryer. Suggestion made to have patrolman check the slopchest before sign-on. PRODUCER (Marine Bulk Carriers), June 8—Chairman, E. B. Hardcastle; Secretary. C. R. West. Ship's delegate reported that he contacted the cap­ tain regarding draws in foreign ports. Captain said he will give as much money as he can. One man left ship at sailing time and his name will be given to patrolman on arriving in States. No repairs made in engine department that appeared on repair list. Everything running smoothly with no beefs. All departments work­ ing together. COUNCIL GROVE (Waterman), Aug. IS—Chairman. Ted Weems; Secretary. C. O. Lee. No beefs reported by de­ partment delegates. Discussion re­ garding retirement plan for men with 20 years SIU time. C. O. Lee was elected to serve as ship's delegate, crew asked to bring cups back to pantry. STEEL EXECUTIVE (Isthmian), Aug. 11—Chairman. C. Lawson; Secretary, Bill Stark. Ship sailed short one oiler from New Orleans. Letter received from oiler with instructions for dis­ posal of gear. Messman hospitalized in Panama Canal. Engineer is work­ ing on movie projector rnd will try to put it in working condition. $25.03 In ship's fund. No beefs reported by department delegates. Motion to con­ tact port steward asking tlirt ship be supplied with 2.5-pound sacks of sugar instead of lOO-pound sacks. Crew requested to dress properly coming into messroom. Vote of th.ank<to ship's delegate for good job. Stew­ ard thanks brothers for fine coooe>tlon on linen, l.ssues. �^ 4f S{, ^ t " * J S^teniller M. g^AFAktiki Vo o Pa«e FocurieMi Kandia High-Spots —Camels 'n' Bikes JT Ten days in the Indian port of Kandia are not exactly a tourist's dream, writes Seafarer Henry W. Abel from the Santore (Marven), but the boys are making the most of the meager entertainments availtended to Capt. Victor Ryan and able. He said the wonderful chief officer Edwards for trying weather and seas on the way over from the US were balanced by windy and stormy weather on the Arabian Sea during the bomebound trip, but at least this made for some excitement. "Not too much can be said for the Port of Kandia," ship's delegate Abel re­ ports, "as it is a new and small port, located in the salt flats of India on the Gulf of Cutch." The location is about midway between Bombay, India, and Kara­ chi, Pakistan. "You cannot get a decent drink of water there, much less anything else to drink or eat. No seaman's club, no movies and, in fact, no means of entertainment or recrea­ tion whatsoever other than bicycle riding and camel riding." Abel tried the camel ride (photo right), but he didn't say whether he gave the bikes a whirl too. The Santore was heading back to the Gulf oh August 29 at the time he wrote to the LOG and mailed his travelogue from Port Said. The ship originally loaded grain at Destrahan, La., on July 23, and ar­ rived there August 19. "Just to keep the record straight, I wish to state that this is a good ship, good crew and there's plenty of overtime for all departments. Special commendation can be ex­ their best to keep the crew happy in Kandia," he added. A vote of thanks also goes to James Ahem, bosun, for his ef­ forts, Abel said. Entering Port Said and the Suez Canal on the way south to Aden, SlU-manned Santore (Mar­ ven) eventually wound up in Kandia, India, to discharge US grain for ten days. She's home­ ward-bound now, and is due back in the Gulf soon to take on another cargo of grain. The vessel in the background is an unidentified tanker that was in Port Said at the time. MANKATO VICTORY (Victory Carrieri), July ai—Chairman, J. Flower; Secretary, R. Hernandez. Captain promised to try and fix gaUey range as soon as ship gets to an AmeHcan port. $6.89 in ship's fund. Motion to suggest to negotiating committee a plan to eliminate present pay system and to have wages based on a dayby-day system Instead of the 30-calendar day, plus a substantial pay in­ crease across the board. Crew wants to discontinue the practice of back­ dating articles. A time limit of about two or three days should be set and these rules should be effective In every American port. Vote of thanks to the steward department for a job well done. Ship's delegate Henry W. Abel gives camel a whirl in Kandia, India. Or was it the other way around? Praise For Stewards, Cooks 'Yes, She's A Feeder!' Letters, ship's minutes and other reports keep coming to the LOG regularly on ships that rank tops in the culinary department—where the rest of the gang expresses special appreciation for extra efforts in feeding and service by the for good chow . . . Crew pantry steward department in the and. messhall is much cleaner this trip and service is much better course of a voyage. . . . Morning Light (Waterman): Comments about some of the Vote of thanks for job done by ships cited in the past few weeks steward department . , . Steel Age include the following, without (Isthmian): A rising vote of thanks quotes: to the steward department moved Seatrain Georgia (Seatrain): by J. Arnold and adopted. Arnold Steward department doing a won­ is deck delegate . . . Alcoa Roamer derful job . . . Plenty of drinks (Alcoa); Thanks voted to steward available at mealtime . . . Del department on food and service. Kio (Delta): Everything running Marine (US Shipping): Job well smooth; no beefs in any depart­ ment. Thanks to galley crew and done by stewards. Special vote messmen for job well done . . . of thanks was unanimous . . . Bienville (Sea-Land): Vote of Josefiiia (Liberty Navigation): Job thanks to stewards for well-pre­ well done by chief steward, who is handling night cook and baker's pared food and good service. Zephyrhills (Pan American): duties plus his own. Thanks to all Steward department doing an ex­ for good food, menus and service cellent job . . . Taddel Victory . . . Short Hills (Waterman): Crew (Consolidated Mariners): Baker in good shape . . . Vote of thanks given vote of thanks for good to steward department. Potomac (Empire Transport), job as flour was not up to par . . . Steel Vendor (Isthmian): Chief Steel Designer (Isthmian), San baker doing a fine job on here. Francisco (Sea-Land), and many Elizabethport (Sea-Land): Vote more: VOTE OF THANKS FOR of thanks to stewards and cooks 1 THE STEWARD DEPARTMENT. JOSEFINA (Liberty Navigation), April 24—Chairman, Herb Knowlei; Secretary. D. Simmons. No beefs re­ ported. Everything running smoothly. Vote of thanks to steward depart­ ment. Chief steward doing night cook and baker's duties along with his regular duties. Job Is well done. SEATRAIN SAVANNAH (Seatrain), Aug. 18—Chairman, M. Santiago; Sec­ retary, F. M. Jennings. No beefs re­ ported by department delegates. Dis­ cussion about seeing the patrolman regarding discussion favoring raise In pay, pension and welfare benefits. ROBIN GOODFELLOW (Robin), July 24—Chairman, none; Secretary, none. 815.00 in ship's fund. No beefs re- ALMENA (Marine Carriers), July 14—Chairman, E. S. Riviere; Secre­ tary, L. P. Hagmann. $9.00 in ship's fund. G. T. Bacon was elected to serve as ship's delegate. Request for new washing machine since the pres­ ent one is not the heavy-duty type. Steward to order same. Ship's dele­ gate to see' the chief engineer about rusty condition of wash water. HUDSON (Victory Transport), July 28—Chairman, James Lee; Secretary, R. Vllorla. No beefs reported by de­ partment delegates. E. L. Thompson was elected to servo as ship's dele­ gate. Vote of thanks to the steward department for good food. AFOUNDRIA (Waterman), Aug. 4— Chairman, R. Ransome; Secretary, H. Ridgaway. Motion to have negotiat­ ing committee take up the matter of a reduction In travel fares for Sea­ farers and their families. Other trans­ portation companies move their em­ ployees free or for half fare. Vote of thanks given to steward depart­ ment for a job weU done. Crew asked to turn In all keys at payoff and^to leave rooms clean. LOS ANGELES (Sea-Land), Aug. 11 —Chairman, Jasper Anderson; Secre­ tary, Eddie Bonafont. Ship's delegate reported everything running fine. Some disputed OT In deck depart­ ment to be taken up with boarding patrolman. BEAUREGARD (Sea-Land), Aug. 11 —Chairman, Recco Matarangolo; Sec­ retary. Jon Smith. All men requested to be back at ship one hour before sailing time. No beefs reported by department delegates. Contribution requested for TV fund. Crew asked to keep messhaU clean when watch­ ing TV. Men going to pantry must be properly dressed. OCEAN DINNY (Maritime Overseas), July 27—Chairman, Bill Home; Secrotary, W. J. Stephens. $20.00 In ship's fund. Suggestion that something bo done about securing a new washing machine and to see about providing ship with sufficient amount of Ice. Suggestion that SIU Food Committee board ship to investigate feeding sys­ tem and food. Motion that at the next headquarters meeting, a committee of rank-and-file - bookmembers with 90. days shipping time this year be elected to study for two weeks ways and means to pay a pension based on 20 years SIU membership at rata of $300.00 per month. Its recommendatluus should be published In the LOG, and the negoUatipg committee should act on them during the foUowIng 00 days. Ing a new washing machine as the one on board Is not working. Ship's delegate to see captain regarding same. FLORIDA ^TATE (Everglades), Aug, 14—Chairman, Raymond Kaduck; Sec­ retary, AntonI Gonzalez. $15.28 in ship's fund. Motion made that any ^ SIU member be entitled to retire with pension after 20 years Union time,/ regardless of age. Suggestion made that crew bo paid In full at payoff, including wages and OT. STEEL AGE (Isthmian), Aug. 11— Chairman, J. Arnold; Secretary, B. W. Gouldlng. Everything running smooth­ ly. $11.32 In ship's fund. Crewmembers requested not to wear shorts or briefs In messroom or pantry. Vote of thanks to the steward department. CITIES SERVICE NORFOLK (Cities Service), Sept. 3—Chairman, N. San­ chez; Secretary, P. T. Gaiic. No beefs reported. Motion made that Food Plan check on the feeding condition of Cities Service ships. Donation of $306.(X) was taken up by crew and officers for the widow of Harry East who was killed In an explosion aboard the Cities Service Norfolk. ported. Discussion on food plan and request that fresh vegetables be pur­ chased In next port. SEATRAIN GEORGIA (Seatrain), Aug. 19—Chairman, Sven Stockmsr; Secretary, Joseph Shibllkl. Messroom and gaUey were painted. New Ice box received. $16.40 In ship's fund. No beefs reported. Steward department doing a wonderful job. FAIRLAND (Sea-Land), Aug. 18— Chairman, Lawrence Contlcello; Sec­ retary, Pedro Del Valle. Everything Is running smoothly. 'WiUiam Briggs elected to serve as ship's delegate. Suggestion that fresh bread be pur­ chased In ports of call instead of storing for the whole trip In one port. COEUR D'ALENE VICTORY (Vielory Carriers), Aug. 18—Chairman, R. SIroli; Secretary,. G. Lethrop. Ship's delegate reported that the mail sit­ uation will be taken up with the company. Captain extended vote of thanks to the steward department for a job well done. $5.16 In ship's fund. Vote of thanks to entire crew for making the trip a pleasure. Very good cooperation from officers. Cap­ tain regrets the vessel Is laying up as ho wished to have this crew again. Resolution sent to headquarters re­ garding Increase In OT rates. OLGA (Marine Managers), 'Aug. 2S —Chairman, Quinllvan; Secretary, A. H. Rsasko. Jack Hall was elected to serve as ship's delegate. $13.00 In ship's fund. Deck department having trouble with the chief mate who Is not cooperating with the bosun and the deck department. Beef about washing machine that Is always break­ ing down. Motion made to get a new washing machine before sailing from Montreal. Contact Union haU or sea­ men's home for a ship's library. PENN VANGUARD (Penn Shipping). Aug. 25—Chairman, Billy Lynn; ieeretary, Robert McNeil. James B, Klrchner was elected to serve at ship's delegate. Nothing done regard- SHORT HILLS (Waterman), Aug. 11 —Chairman, Joseph B. Arcio; Secre­ tary, none. No beefs reported by de­ partment delegates. Joseph Arcio was elected to serve as ship's delegate. Vote of thanks to steward department. All hands agree that fresh vegetables should not be obtained in Pakistan because of the poor quality. Natives should be prevented from entering crew's quarters and house. Sugges­ tion made that headquarters Inquire In the matter of crcwmembers forced to pay Alabama tax (which is de­ ducted from payofO, even though they are not residents of that state. ELIZABETHPORT (Sea-Land), Aug. 25—Chairman, R. Hennlnger; Secre­ tary, W. W. BIckford. AU repairs and painting taken care of. Captain to divide passenger OT five ways. $2.08 In ship's fund. Discussion about ven­ tilators for crew quarters. Vote of thanks to steward and cooks for good chow. SAN FRANCISCO (Sea-Land), Sept. 9—Chairman, P. M. Rivero; Secretary. J. Henault. $11.60 In ship's fund. No beefs reported. Requested men to stop coming Into messhall In their underwear. Vote of thanks to the steward department. This is a good ship. It seems that this ship Is one of the best In the fleet. MORNING LIGHT (Waterman), Aug. 25—Chairman, C. Oglesby; Secretary, W. E. Morse. Ship's delegate reported everything Is okay. All repairs were taken care of except new coffee um which was to be put aboard In Balti­ more. $9.80 In ship's fund. L. Hopkina elected to serve as new ship's dele­ gate. C. Lee, previous ship's delegate, was commended with a vote of thanks. ROBIN LOCKSLEY (Robin), June 27 —Chairman, Paul McNabb; Secretary, Sidney Garner. Wilson Torres was elected to serve as ship's delegate. 813.00 In ship's fund. No beefs re­ ported by department delegates. Crew asked to return all books to library. �iteiiaAMP iiu IMft SEAFARERS Howard K. Pierce, P-287 The above-named or anyone knowing hia whereabouta la aaked to contact bia wife, Helen M. Pierce, 4216 Magee Ave., Philadel­ phia 88, Pa. it t 4« Leslie J. Brilfaart The above-named or anyone knowing his whereabouts ia asked to get in touch with his mother, Mrs. J. H. Riley, 342 Montclair Ave., San Antonio, Texas. i. t, t. wltJi tliB 4-6 rWT tnm PUlnd^lpiilB who wa« on Dio aboro TOMOI from January l-Mareh 14, 1865. Writ* him c/o SIU Hall, 605 Ma­ rino Avenue, Wilmington, Calif., Naw Orleans 12, La., or telephone and give a forwarding addreea. 622-9924. » » ^ » ^ » Rudolph R. Cefarattl Ex-SS Coe Victory Your sister Rita says it is iHgent Viggo (Tex) Sorensen would like to get in touch as soon as possible SECRETARY-TREASURER AI Kerr HEADQUAR'ERS REPRESENTATIVES Bill HaU Ed Hooney Fred Stewart BALTIMORE 1216 B. Baltimore St. He* Dickey. AKent EAstern 7-4900 BOSTON 276 State St John Fay. Asent Richmond 2-0140 DETROIT 10229 W Jcflcrson Ave VInewood 3-4741 HEADQUARTERS .. 679 4th Ave.. Bkiyn HYacinth 9-6600 HOUSTON 9004 Canal St. Paul Drozak, Agent WAInut 8-3207 JACKSONVILLE 2608 Pearl St.. SE., Jax William Morris. Agem BLgin 3-0987 MIAMI 744 W. Flagler St Ben Oonzaies, Agent FRanklin 7-3564 MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St touts Neira Agent HEmlock 2-1754 NEW ORLEANS .... 630 Jackson Ave. Buck Stephens, Agent Tel 529-7546 NEW YORK 679 4tb Ave., Brooklyn HYacinth 9-6600 NORFOLK 416 Colley Ave. Gordon Spencer, Acting Agent 629-6505 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4th St Frank Drorak. Agent DEwey 6-3818 SAN FRANCISCO 450 Harrison St. Frank Boyne. Agent DOuglas 2-4401 E. B. McAuley. West Coast Rep. SANTURCE. PR 1313 Fernandez Juncoa, Stop 20 Keith Terpe. Hq. Rep. Phone 724-2848 SEAITLE 2509 1st Ave. Ted Babkowskl, Agent MAin 3-43.34 TAMPA 312 Harrison St. Jeff Gillette, Agent 229-2788 WILMINGTON CaUf S09 N. Marine Ave CSeorss HcCartney. Agent TErminal 4-2528 1 Schedule Of SIU Meetings SIU membership meetings are held regularly once a month on days indicated by the SIU Constitution, at 2:30 PM in the listed SIU ports below. All Seafarers are expected to attend. Those who wish to be excused should request permission by telegram (be sure to include registration number). The next SIU meetings will be; New York October 7 Detroit October 11 Philadelphia October 8 Houston October 14 Baltimore October 9 New Orleans October 15 Mobile October 16 West Coast SIU Meetings SIU headquarters has issued an advance schedule through Novem­ ber, 1963, for the monthly informational meetings to be held in West Coast ports for the benefit of Seafarers shipping from Wil­ mington, San Francisco and Seattle, or who are due to return from the Far East. All Seafarers are expected to attend these meetings. In accord with an Executive Board resolution adopted in December, 1961. Meetings in Wilmington are on Monday, San Francisco on Wednesday and Seattle on Friday, starting at 2 PM local time. The schedule la as follows: Wilmingfon ban Francisco Seattle Uctober 21 October 23 Sepietuber 20 November 18 November 20 October 25 November 22 . for pea to eontaet her to maU er ph<me as aoon as possible. The addresi la 81 Clinton St. New Britain, Conn., telephone BAldwin 8-8862. 801. SW BuUdlng, 450 Harrison St., San Francisco 8, Calif.: Joseph A. .Alves; Julian B. Arzaga (2); Louis Baer; Margarito Borja; Roy C. Bru; Eugene L. Castano, Jr.; John J. Doyle; Fortunate Drilon; Steve Krkovich; James Lear; JorIncome Tax Refnnds gen G. Pedersen; William Saltarez; CheckB for tha following are Henry R. Smith (2); Bernardo Tonabeing held by Jack Lynch, Room bocon; Raymond A, Triche. e FINARCIAL REPORTS. Tha constitution of tho SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and In­ land Waters District makes specific provlaion for SBfesuarding the nenbershlp's money and Unlom finances. The constitution requires a detailed CPA audit evary three.montha by a rank and file auditing committee elected by the mem­ bership. "Ail Union records are available at SIU headquarters In Brooklyn. Should any member, for"any reason, be refused his constitutional right to In­ spect these records, notify SIU President Paul Hall by certified mail, return receipt requested. m e im TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are sdainistered in accordance with the provisions of varloua trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall consist equally of union and management representmiives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursemants of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of tho trustees. All trust fund financial records are avsilable at the headquarters of tha various trust funds. If, St any time, you are denied information about any SIU trust fund, notify SIU President Paul Hall at SIU hsadqnarters by cairtlfied mail, return receipt requested. SNTPPmG RIGHTS. Your shipping rights and seniority are protected exclus­ ively hy the contracts between the Union and the shipowners. Get to know your shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available In all.Ukiloa balla. If you feel there has been any violation of your ship­ ping or seniority rights as contained In the contracts between the Union and the ahlpownera, first notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified nail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this la; Max Harrison,' Chairman, Seafarers Appeals Board 17 Battery Place, Suite I63O, Hew York If, NY Also notify SIU President Paul Hall at Union headquarters hy certified aiall, return receipt requested. Full copies of contracts as referred to ere available to you at all tines, either hy writing directly to the Unlpa or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. Siii iii if Policy Shift (Continued from page 3) competitive bidding by carriers of any nation." He pointed out that 10 percent was "reserved for shipment in American vessels," and that this was necessary to insure the US access to its own tonnage "in the event of international emergency" when foreign fleets might be cut off. Actually, the 10 percent figure is higher than the present share of US trade carried by American-flag vessels, which is just below 9 per­ cent. In putting forward the 90-10 breakdown, the Vice-President in­ dicated that this was a minimum base being set by the Government for the American-flag fleet. However, his hosts even took exception to the 10 percent figure. They cited the amount of US for­ eign trade that moves on Ameri­ can owned runaway-flag vessels, calling this "unfair" competitiim to foreign-flag shipping seeking US cargoes. Fare Fifteea 1 Lloyds Still Going Strong Juan Colon, Z-133876 The above - named or anyone LONDON — Despite the de­ knowing his present whereabouts is asked to contact his wife, Mer­ pressed state of British and world cedes Colon, Apt. lA, 425 East shipping, the venerable old firm of marine insurers, Lloyde of Lon­ 102 St., New York 29, NY. don, continues to show expanding t t t profits. Jerome Smith For the three years beginning You are asked to get in touch with the "Gooli Boosie" at Hous­ in 1960 until the end of 1962, total premium and other income from ton, Texas. Uncle Milt. all types of insurance transactions t t t" amounted to 351.6 million pounds, Jay C. Steele Get in touch with David D. Pla­ an increase of almost 25 million ter, 420 Hibernia Bank Building, pounds over the previous high in 1959, the company reports. As usual marine, aviation and transit insurance led the way," pro­ viding an extra 9.7 million pounds toward the overall expansion in total income. In general, the report shows that the world's most famous In­ SIU Atlantic, Gulf surance company, which first start­ Lakes & Inland Waters ed transacting a marine insurance business in a London coffee house District over 200 years ago, is still going PRESIDENT strong, playing the averages and Paul HaU winning steadily. EXECUTIVE VICE-PRESIDENT Cal Tanner VICE PRESIDENTS Earl Shepard Lindaey Williama A1 Tanner Robert Matthewi X o a-U .i fi. r I®; ii ii; CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are svailsbis in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which you work and live aboard ship. Know your contract rights, as well as your obligations, such as filing for or on tho proper sheet# and in the proper manner. If, at any time, any SIU patrolman or other Union official, in your opinion, fails to protect your contract rights properly, contact tho nearest SIU port agent. Iij addition, notify SIU President Paul Hall by certified mail, return receipt requested. ". •v-r^ EDITORIAL POLICY—SEAFARERS LOG. The LOG has traditionally refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the Union, officer or member. It has also refrained from ptihllshing articles deem­ ed 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 LOG policy is vested in an edi­ torial board which consists of the Executive Board of the Union. The Exec­ utive Board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. O jfiSi Siig -- PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies'are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official Union receipt is given for same. Under no cir­ cumstance should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. If 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 ferls that he should not have been re­ quired to make such payment, this should immediately be called to the attention of SIU President Paul Hall by certified mail, return receipt requested. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND (mi.IOATIONS. The SIU publishes every six months in the SEAFARERS LOG a verbatim copy of Its constitution. In addition, copies are available in all Union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familisrire themselves with its contents. Any time you feel any member or officer is attempting to deprive you of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods such as dealing with charges, trials, stc., as wall as all other details, then the member.so affected should immediately notify SIU President Paul Hall by certified mail, return receipt requested. RETIRED SEAFARERS. Old-time SIU members drawing disability-pension benefits have always been encouraged to continue their union activities, in­ cluding attendance at membership meetings.. And like all other SIU members at these Union meetings, they are encouraged to take an active role in all rank-and-file functions, including service on rank-and-file committees. Because these oldtimers cannot take shipboard employment, the membership has reaffirmed the long-standing union policy of allowing them to retain their good standing through the waiving of their dues. EQUAL RIGHTS. All Seafarers are guaran-teed equal rights in employment and as memhers of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts vhich the Union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no Seafarer may he discriminated against because of race, creed, color, national or geographic origin. If any memher feels that ha is denied the equal rights to vhich ho is entitled, ho should notify SIU President Paul Hall at headquarters by certified mall, return receipt requested. •1 lii - ^ liiili �> f Vol. XXV No. 19 9r r " SEAFARERS«LOG OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS DISTRICT • AFL-CIO I SlU Link Sparks Trinidad Workers First Hotel Pact PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad—The SIU of Trinidad and Tobago, an interim organization that has received the support of the SITJNA in its fight to bring hotel workers here a decent standard of living, has signed a three-year contract with amount of labor legislation on the the Trinidad Hilton Hotel. books of the new country slowed The agreement's provisions will make the more than 300 employ­ ees at the Trinidad Hilton the bestpaid hotel workers in the entire West Indies. Retroactive to December 1, 1962, the new contract was signed on June 14, 1963. Under its provisions, the SIU of Trinidad and Tobago has been granted sole and exclusive recognition to represent the 309 weekly-paid workers who are pre­ sently employed by the hotel. Nego­ tiations for the coverage of other employees is continuing. Included in the new contract are immediate wage Increases in all job classifications. Additional Increases are provided for each year of the contract. In addition, the new pact includes provisions for seniority rights and re-employ­ ment rights after a layoff, a griev­ ance procedure and a dues check­ off system. Provisions for a reduction of the probationary period, two weeks annual vacation, sick leave, over­ time pay, free medical attention and free medicine are also estab­ lished. Active since mid-1962, the Trini­ dad and Tobago union recently held its elections and set up ad­ ministrative and financial proce­ dures for a full-scale union opera­ tion. An application for registration before the Registrar of Trade Un­ ions was pending until just a year ago on September 20. Thereafter, a claim for recognition was before the Commissioner of Labour for several months. Trinidad became an independent nation last August and the limited 'Average Man' On Same Job For 5.5 Years WASHINGTON — If you've worked for the same employer for the last 5.5 years you're considered an average American man, accord­ ing to a report released by the United States Department of Labor. The report said that about 20 million of the 66 million workers employed last January, or 30 per­ cent, had held the same jobs for more than 10 years, with 6.5 mil­ lion in the same jobs since before World War II. The survey showed that in gen­ eral men had more job seniority than women, and that both sexes' tenure generally increased with age. Men 25 to 34 years old averaged 3.5 years in their cur­ rent jobs, the report showed, com­ pared to 8 years at age 55 to 64. For women, the averages were 2 years in the younger group and 8 years in the older. On the average the job tenure for women waa 8 years. up the recognition process until the fall. Negotiations on the new pact were therefore not able to get underway until November. The link with the hotel workers is the ^second of its kind for the SIUNA in the Caribbean. The In­ ternational chartered the 6,000member Seamen's and Waterfront Workers Trade Union of Trinidad here almost two years ago. 'Case-Chasers' Are At It Again The SIU has traditionally op-' posed the activities of "ambu­ lance-chasing" attorneys and their representatives at various marine hospitals. These activi­ ties have periodically been a problem at the US Public Health Service facilities in dif­ ferent ports. Now they are again being reported as a growing nuisance to patients and hospital officials alike in several locations, although hospital administrators have been making vigorous efforts to stamp out the practice. Seafarers in the hospitals are again warned by the Union to steer clear of any person or persons soliciting business for an attorney. If these practices continue. Seafarers are urged to notify headquarters so that approp­ riate action can be taken. Aided by SIU support, workers at swank Trinidad Hilton Hotel in Port-of-Spain (above) have won first-time contract with pay hikes and other major gains. Joseph B. Logue, MD, Medical Director Alcohol And its Effect On You There are widespread misconceptions about the effect of alcohol on the human body. Some people have the idea that they are exempt or not susceptible to the adverse reactions which are produced by the use of alcohol. According to "Fly," a Naval Air Training Command publication, in the "Medical News Letter," the use and especially over-indulgence in alcohol is of primary concern to the aviator. His life depends on his knowledge of body chemistry as it applies to alcohol. The same deduc­ tion applies to the driver of a motor vehicle, or any others whose consumate .skills must be acute to react quickly to their jobs. Dr. Ross A. McFarland in his book listed several facts about the ef­ fect of alcohol on the body. Alcohol is absorbed rapidly, and appears in the blood stream shortly after being consumed, especially on an empty stomach, and within slightly more time it appears in the tissues and organs of the body. • The total amount of alcohol in a drink has a direct relationship to the concentration in the blood. • The dilution of the drink directly influences the rate of absorption. • The rate of absorption is retarded by the presence of fatty sub­ stances such as cream, milk, butter or vegetable oils. • The variety of beverages has a marked influence. A brewed bev­ erage such as beer is absorbed more slowly than distilled spirits, be­ cause the carbohydrates and other materials In beer act like food, thua slowing the absorption. • Drinking slowly and allowing time between drinks gives the body an opportunity to rid itself of some of the alcohol before more is added. Alcohol is not a stimulant but is rather a depressant. It affects muscular skills, sensory acuity, memory and other psychological functions. Movements of the eye show significant variations in efficiency averaging 21 percent normal values after IVi pints of beer or one or two ordinary cocktails. Judgement, reasoning and memory are definitely affected. This may vary from person to person, but the direction is never reversed. The primary effect seems to be that attention and concentration is less susceptible to the receipt of new stimuli. The ability of a person who is under the influence of alcohol to drive a car, fly a plane or operate any equipment that requires acuity of co-ordination and quick response to stimuli is directly lessened in proportion to the degree of alcoholic influence. (Comments and suggestions are invited by this Department and can be submitted to this column in care of the SEAFARERS LOG.) PELORUS JACK-THE PORPOISE PILOT The intelligence of the porpoise has recently been acknowledged by scientists. They have now begun to study this seagoing mammal for clues to its high intelligence and fantastic swimming abilities. They hope, through their studies, to design vessels which are safer and swifter both on the water and beneath its surface. There was once a porpoise, fully recovered. Learning that h« however, who did not wait Some men in the crew mistook the large porpoise for a young was still alive, the town at Wel­ for any scientific studies but lington passed an ordinance pro­ took seamen's safety into its own hands (or fins). He worked all alone, ceaselessly for 40 years, to guide seamen and their ships safely through the dangerous French Pass near the D'Urville Islands off New Zealand. His abilities were considerable, and his name was "Pelorus Jack." For 40 years he was a porpoise with a single purpose. French Pass extends from Pe­ lorus Sound to Tasman Bay. It is a tempting shortcut but a dan­ gerous one. Swift, treacherous cur­ rents run over jagged underwater rocks. Only by staying strictly in the deep water could a vessel make it through safely. Over the years the Pass had gotten a bad reputa­ tion among seafaring men and many ships were lost there. Then Pelorus Jack changed all that in one day. Qn a stormy morning in 1871, the schooner Brindle, bound for Sydney out of Boston, was gingerly making her way through the Pass. This was always an anxious time for the sailors. On this morning the members straining their eyes through the mist and rain for the ever-present rocks, found iheir at­ tention caught by an unusually large blue-gray creature which played along in front of the bow. He leaped out of, the water and raced around the ship like a puppy joyfully welcoming Its master. whale and wanted to harpoon it But fortunately for them and for countless other seamen after them, the captain's wife prevented it. The Brindle then continued its dangerous way, groping along be­ hind the playful porpoise and had deep water beneath its keel all the way through the Pass. The passage of the Brindle marked the reported official begin­ ning of Pelorus Jack's career as self - appointed guide througli French Pass. He became famous all over the world among seafar­ ing men who credited him with their safe passage through the risky channel. His home was Pe­ lorus Sound and he soon became known affectionately to the sailors as Pelorus Jack. With Jack on the job the French Pass was no longer dangerous. He would meet, all incoming ships and greet them by leaping gracefully out of the water. Usually, he was greeted himself by a rousing cheer from the passengers and crew, who knew that with Jack on the job their passage would be a safe one. The porpoise would play around the ship for miles, racing far ahead and then back, diving under the ship and then reappearing on the other side. One of the swiftest of marine creatures, he could outrun any ship and enjoyed his games. But as the ship approached the foaming waters of the Pass, Jack became all business. Ho raced ahead of the ship and stayed there, in plain sight, his games done. He remained the ship's guide until the danger of French Pass was well behind. Gratitude is not a trait of all human beings. Jack learned one day in 1903. A drunken passenger on the Penguin, which Jack was guiding through the Pass, took a shot at him with a pistol and wounded him. Beside itself with fury, the crew had to be forcibly prevented from lynching the drunk on the spot. Their fury turned to general fear and alarm among all sailors when Jack didn't reap­ pear for two weeks. It was be­ lieved that he was dead. Then, one morning, he was back. tecting Pelorus Jack from molesta­ tion of any kind. Enforcement of the law protecting Jack was given to the sailors whom he had pro­ tected for so long. It was a duty they did not shirk. Pelorus Jack remained on the job day and night from 1871 to April 1912. He was getting old by this time and one day, as suddenly as he. had appeared, he vanished. He was probably the victim of old age. Maritime historians estimated that Jack had been instrumental in saving countless thousands of lives during his years of faithful duty. But one ship never got any help from him, it's said. That was the Penguin, from whose deck he had been shot in 1903. It was the only vessel he re­ fused to accompany. When the news got out, sailors refused to sign on the Penguin. Without Jack, they said, the ship was jinxed. One day in 1909, in the swirling waters of French Pass, the Penguin was smashed on the rocks with heavy loss of life. Pelorus Jack was nowhere to be seen. The story of Pelorus Jack's de­ votion to duty and his unequalled safety record are engraved on a statue erected in his memory in Wellington by the ^grateful sailors and shipowners he served so well for 40 years, without pay. �;n;-,' ^?•- T«5i5, -•^i!-» 'jk'i ' r 1I ^••' Iji <» N July 15, 1963, a one-man Incfustrio! Inquiry Com­ mission in Canada issued a Report, following lengthy Commission hearings into the Great Lakes ship­ ping situation. This 3T8-poge Report of Commissioner T.G. Norrb represents one of the gravest threats ever made to the free trade union movement. Because of the Implications of this Report for free trade union members everywhere, the Seafarers Log is herewith reprinting in full a Statement issued this week by the Seafarers International Union of Canado. O •i^: • . • '"i.. :'j. -. *•• •'' f «-,•.-• •> •- !»• :'•' 1 •' • -.• •' -• • - ll« �racB Tw* 'SEjiFAimRS LOG^PECIAL SUPPLEMENT fROLOGUe without even a modic^jim of evidence. The commencement of this pattern was when the Commissioner, addressing Mr. Ahearn, counsel for the SIU, with regard to these alleged tele­ phone calls, said at On July 15,1963, Commissioner Norris issued a Report, the recommendations of which repre•ent one of the gravest threats ever made to the free trade union movement. The following doc­ ument is the first analysis by the Seafarers In­ ternational Union of Canada of this Report and its implications, not only for free trade union , members but for all the people of Canada. We wish at this time to express our gratitude to the scores of trade union leaders throughout the free world who have indicated their disap­ proval over the arbitrary and dictatorial recom­ mendations of this Report and their support of the SIU of Canada, and whose illuminating comments and insights have proved invaluable to us in the preparation of this commentary. We wish also at this time to express our pride in the manner in which the members of this Union, and their families, have expressed their solidarity with respect to their Union, their dedication to the principles and concepts of free trade unionism, and their unyielding opposition to the recommendations of this Re­ port, which would deprive them of their right to pursue the practice of free trade unionism. INTRODUCTION "Not only must justice he done—It must seem to he done." * * * The hearings conducted by Justice T. G. Nor­ ris, as Commissioner of an Industrial Inquiry Commission, together with his Report issued after the hearing, represent a flagrant disre­ gard of the basic principles of fair play and natural justice. Basic concepts of justice and the rules applicable have been repeatedly violated, ignored or distorted. The Commissioner dis­ played apparent predisposition, bias and pre­ judged the issues. In connection with the In­ quiry and his Report, substantive matters have been omitted, particularly when not in accord with the Commissioner's preconceived notions; double standards have been applied; basic es­ tablished rules of law have been wantonly violated; injudicious conduct was openly en­ gaged in by the Commissioner; rules of the hearing were changed at the Commissioner's whim, and objectivity was flagrantly disre­ garded. The bias, the opinionated views and the dis­ position to reach judgments and draw conclu­ sions based on preconceived attitudes, which the Commissioner manifested overtly through­ out the hearings, are reflected in equal measure in his Report. In the Report, as in the hearings themselves, there is graphic and overwhelming evidence to support the conclusion that the Commissioner was not, from the moment of his appointment, concerned with a dispassionate and objective evaluation of the subjects he was named to in­ vestigate, but rather was intent upon utilizing the hearings as a platform from which to launch an attack, not only upon the Seafarers International Union of Canada, but on funda­ mental trade union concepts which are con­ trary to his way of thinking. It is significant to note that although the bulk of the Report is devoted to an attack on the SIU and its officials, the Commissioner does not stop here. Instead, despite pious pronounce­ ments about "good" unions, he displays his antipathy toward the concept of unionism by attacking principles and procedures which are recognized as basic to trade union operation and administration. The conduct of the hearings and the Report subsequently made by the Commissioner was prophecied almost at the beginning of the hearings, when, at the third sitting, the Com­ missioner, without any evidence in support, arbitrarily placed responsibility upon the offi­ cers of the SIU for alleged irresponsible, anony­ mous telephone calls. Guilt was determined •cptoBber M, im ^ • V - A. Well, I bearded the Federal Vagageur, and ihroagh this attack en these two boys ashore most of them quit and •ook off for parte unknown and the ehip left Uvie OOl New Year's Eve, or New Year's Day, I am not quite suro^ and went over to Baio Comeau. Q. Yes? A. With no crew aboard, just engineers and officers. Transcript, Volume 3, Page 314: Q. Just a skeleton crew. Is that right? "New, oil I em seying to you, thot you convoy te your client my view* (he it apparently at the hearing and will hear me) that if he it the ttrong man that he it reputed to be. then he will ute all hit efforit to tee that thete incidentt do not occur." This is the method that the Commissioner has repeatedly employed. A. A skeleton crew. Notwithstanding this testimony of Sheehan, documents over his own signature as to th# version of what transpired were subsequently Introduced into evidence and completely refute Sheehan, as follows: CREDIBILITY The Commissioner has created a case which in the annals of administrative hearings has no parallel. He has found credible, almost without exception, the witnesses who testified against the SIU, and conversely has discredited virtu­ ally all those who testified favourably toward the SIU. Witnesses who had an admitted bias or prej­ udice against the SIU, who had pecuniary in­ terests to gain, who had an admitted history of vacillation and opportunism, who acted in the past consistently for purposes of expediency, were nevertheless totally credited. Similarly, he credited, almost again without exception, individuals who participated in discussions, conferences, plans and the implementation thereof, which did violence to basic tenets of trade unionism; persons who were prepared and who did sacrifice the purpose and objec­ tives of a movement for their own interests. In the same vein, representatives of management who expressed anti-union sentiments were again credited without exception. The classic example of this grievous error by the Commissioner is demonstrated by his substantial crediting of Michael Sheehan, a self-confessed liar. This witness is a disgruntled former officer of the SIU. He is an individual who, upon his own statements, participated in improper acts and committed violations of basic trade union philosophies and practices. He is an individual who has in substance hurled against the Canadian Labour Congress and Canadian Maritime Union allegations of the same nature and vein as he has hurled against the SIU. The Commissioner fails to mention this in his Report, but instead has tucked them away without comment in a voluminous Sched­ ule to the Report, at Pages 517-519. The following are illustrations where Shee­ han on material issues was shown conclusively to be a liar and unworthy of any belief. Sheehan testified in the significant area of alleged violence during his examination in chief by by Mr. Wright, his counsel, at Transcript, Volume 17, Pages 2545-2547: Q. I tee. I woufd like to ask you some questions about the Federal Commerce. What is the name of that company? Transcript, Volume 45, Pages 6837-6839, where reference is made to Exhibit M-136 during the examination of Mr. McLaughlin hy Mr. Nussi Q. I show you a document bearing date December 31, 1959, and bearing the signature "Mike Sheehan." Would you take communication of this document and Identify It and describe how it come into your possession? MR. WRIGHT: I think we should set the groundwork for lt| I think it would be proper If I may suggest. My lord, that my friend should hove the witness indicate that this was the type of report which normally would be submitted to Mr. McLaughlin in the ordinary course of business. THE COMMISSIONER: Q. Is that correct? This is the sort of report you normolly would get in the course of your business? A. That Is right. My Lord. THE COMMISSIONER; All right. BY MR. NUSS; Q. Will you describe this document, Mr. Mclaughlin? A. This is a report doted December 31, 1959, and signed by Mike Sheehan, advising us as to the progress and as ta the status of the crew of the Federal Vogageur. It commencesi "This is the names of people aboard the FEDERAL VOYAGUER after the Captain had paid off the Engine Room gong who had signed SIU. HANSEN, W. J. Captain COTE R. 2nd Mate SHEPHERD Lee Bosun" YATES R. Mate, POMERILL, E. 3rd Mate, and there is a notation in capitals; "FINK" and another notation Then, "COFFIN, J. AB" and then there is the notation: "FINK" "PICKERGILL, M. AB" and there is a notation in capitals; "FINK" and another notntion capitalizing the first letter: "Rat" "BALL, D. AB" and another notation in capitals: "FINK" and then the words in small letters "just doesn't know any belter." Then the name: "HARVEY Seaman Signed S.l'u. off the Federal Express." Then: "MARCEAU Seaman Signed S.I.U. 19278 Permit x, LADANCE. F. Seaman Signed S.I.U. off the Federal Express, RICHARD, B. Seaman signed S.I.U." and them Meaning off the Federal Express. "MARTIN M. Seaman Signed S.I.U." and the same diHa marks indicating that he was off the Federal Express. Then: "SMITH D. Chief Engineer, HUTTON R.N. 2nd Engineer, Stephens, 3rd Engineer L.D. to check I think that he signed S.I.U., HEALY, J. 4th" and then a ditto mark indicating that he was an engineer. "C.B.R.T. RECKAVICK. Sth" and ditto marks Indicating be was an engineer. C.B.R.T. FINK., HUDSON, Oiler Dockyard worker. A. The Federal Commerce Steamship Navigation. All A. F. Chief Steward, Q. Did you ever hove any discussions with Raymond Doucet about any matter pertaining to the Federal Voyageur BOGTIN G., Second Cook-signed S.I.U. A. I did in the TORO T. M.M. signed S.I.U., PLAn MM." And then the notation: "this bum wouldn't sign with me. I know him from old ex Chief Steward. From Soguenay," Q. My question to you, Mr. Sheehan Is, did you ever hovo any discussion with Mr. Doucet about any matter pertaining to the Federal Voyageur? Q. And whose signature appears on the document? A. I did around Christmas. or New Year's Eve, 1959. The Federai Vogageur at one time had been under the Cana­ dian Flag and she transferred to the British Flog away back in 1955 or 1956. Why they over come to the Cana­ dian Flag, I did know at that time but my job woe organizer and patrolman, and I was sent down to a place called Levis. Q. I refer you to the minutes of Wednesday, January 27, to the patrolman's report appearing on page 3—would yo« take communication of the document and identify—it already has been identified, Mr. McLaughlin. -* Q. I see. * * * Tell us, what did Doucet tell you? A. Well, I was sent down to organize the Federal Voyageur. A. This is the minutes of the meeting of January 27, 1960, I guess. Yes, these are the minutes of the meeting of January 27, 1960. I am looking at the patrolman's report at the foot of page 3. Q. By whom was the patrolman's report given? A. "Brother M. Sheehan, S. 34." Q. Yes? A. As I got down there, Doucet had told me that the crew aboard had signed or were going to sign with C.B. of R.T. and that he had two boys worked over off the ship in a hotel in Levis. Q. Doucet told you this? A. Definitely told me that. I called him a stupid so-and-so, and I said: "How in hell con you organize men by beating them up?" Q. Now, what Voyageur? A. Mike Sheehan. There is also a dole stomp "M-11 JAN 41959" and it is initialled by Hal Banks. about the other peopio on the Federal Q. You ore now reading from the minutes? A. That is correct. Q. Yes? A. Brother M. Sheehan, S, 34, reported en his activities over the lost three weeks, which included the beef with regard to the Federal Navigation Company Limited. He stated that he worked over the New Year's holidays with Ray Doucet and it turned out to a 24-hour a day job. He said that the opposition that was thrown at us in the early part of this campaign was terrific and the situation at one point looked as grim as it could be. However, where �M, im SEAFARERS LOG—SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT Ihara li • wHI th»r* h • way. And lha way wa« found, the CMT fought te hold the shiii right ap te the time that •he left the dock." rm COMMISSIONER! Are thoM mlnuletf TNI WITNESS! Thaco are mlnulac, my Lard. at Quabat CHy for Balo Comaau. Thay avan cuccaadad In firing thraa gf our guys just bafora the ship pulled out for Bala Comaau. Previously wo hod locked the skipper up for Intimidating eur guys and had succatdsd. in obtaining an injunction which had tho offset of making the company take back ever a dozsn of our people that thsy had fired because thay would not join the C.B.R.T. The CBRT gat her as far as Bale Comeau and they they stopped and we mean stopped. With the help of our friends in the unions in Bale Comeau, the Federal Vogageur hung outside on the hook for two days, and when she moved In a load and sailed, •ho sailed with an SlU crew and an SlU agreement. This was Important because It Is a sign of good things, ahead in the deep sea field. At the same time, one hell of a kick In the- face for the CBRT. As for the CBRT rats, they dis•appeared shortly after wo took over, and as far as wo know, they are still looking for higher ground to nest In." Q. This was Bheehan? the patrolmen's report submitted by Mr. A. That is iha minute of the patrolman's report. The foregoing demonstrates conclusively that not only was Sheehan lying when he charged Doucet with responsibility for violence against members of the crew, but that the rea­ son for the men leaving the vessel was the un­ lawful activity of the employer in firing the individuals. The change of. violence was a fab­ rication. In fact, an injunction was granted by a Jus­ tice of the Superior Court for the District of Quebec and is exhibit No. M-137 (Volume 45, Page 6850) enjoining the company from acts of coercion or intimidation. A further error committed, by the Commis­ sioner on this issue of credibility, and upon which the Commissioner improperly relied to establish his unwarranted thesis that the SHI President dominated the Union, is demon­ strated in the following examples of Sheehan's testimony. Sheehan attempted to establish the Illusion of the domination referred to above when he testified with respect to a former of­ ficial, named Cunningham, the then Assistant Secretary-Treasurer (Western) upon examina­ tion in chief by Mr. Wright, his counsel, at Transcript, Volume 16, Page 2348: .Q. Who was respontibis for ths Vancouver operation? A. At one time most of us knew him as Cunningham. Q. Is he there now? A. No, he got pressured. Q. He got what? A. Ho was fired, or he was eased out. His wages get •• low he couldn't work any longer. The complete refutation of Sheehan, the proof of his fabrication, is set forth in the rec­ ord by documentary evidence. The proof is Exhibit M-77 contained in Volume 42, Pagt 6477. It is a letter from Mr. Cunningham, ad­ dressed to the Union, and reads as follows: "Seafarers International Union of North America, April 9th, 1960 PERSONAL ft CONFIDENTIAL Mr. Hal C. Banks, Socrolary-Treasurer, Seafarers International Union of North America, District 634 St. James Steet West, Montreal 3, Province of Quebec. Dear Hal; Effective April 15th or thereabouts would you please accept resignation of the writer from any official position of Assistant Secretary-Treasurer (Western). My reason for this request Is that due to what might be called mental fatigue I do not believe I am capable of carry­ ing out the duties required by my office with the efficiency necessary at this time. There are no underlying reasons for my request and I will moke myself available to render any assistance possible ta my successor. I will probably rest up for a couple of weeks find then ship out on the Coast. With best wishes and warm personal regards. Fraternally, M. G. Cunningham Assistant Secretary-Treasurer (Western)" It must also be pointed out that Sheehan's further fabrication that Cunningham was fired or eased out because "his wages got so low" is established by documentary evidence to the contrary and is set forth in Exhibit M-79, Vol­ ume 42, Page 6488, of the record. Another example of how the Commissioner has erred in accepting Sheehan's testimony to substantiate his erroneous finding that "Banks M th# Chief Executive Officer had complete domination and control of the union and its finances" is shown in his acceptance of Shee­ han's testimony that in 1957 the monies raised for strike funds for the CNS members on strike " "were not disbursed for their benefit but were used for other) purposes. Sheehan further tes­ tified under his examination in chief by his counsel, Mr. Wright at Transcript, Volume 17, Page 2544: MR. WRIGHT Q. Did any money svsr go lo tho strikors fund? A. Not to my knowledge. There might hove been one or two cases without my knowledge but I didn't know anything about." An ugly impression was intended to be cre­ ated, that some irregularity was engaged in and that the Union and its officials has engaged in either impropriety or had not used the funds for the purposes for which they were intended, and further that the SlU President thereby demonstrated his arbitrary control over the Union. An examination of the subsequent testimony contained in the record and, more significant, the uncontested documentary proof, demon­ strates, beyond a question of doubt, the fabri­ cation of the incredible Sheehan, the same in­ dividual whose testimony the Commissioner so strongly relies on in making his ultimate find­ ings and conclusions. Exhibits Nos. N-105, N-130, Volume 44, Pages 6728-6785, demonstrates that not only were these funds for the strikers, their benefit, their meals, their lodgings, and for their families, but most significantly Sheehan himself partic­ ipated in the disbursement of substantial amounts of these monies for those purposes. He also authorized the same in writing and had receipts signed therefor, all this over a period of many months. A further area and an extremely important one on this issue of credibility of the incredible Sheehan, upon whom the Commissioner has relied for findings and conclusions, is demon­ strated by a significant Exhibit contained in the record. To place this issue in its proper perspec­ tive, it must be remembered that the Upper Lakes Shipping Company in early 1962 en­ tered into a collective bargaining agreement with the CMU and Sheehan was the President of the CMU. Sheehan testified at Volume 18, Page 2703, that he had received from Upper Lakes, in the fall of 1961, the sum of "about 200 odd dollars" for recruiting seamen for a subsidi­ ary company of Upper Lakes. However, the sub­ sequent documentary evidence pinpoints his incredibility. In the course of the cross-examination of Mr. Leitch, the chief officer of Upper Lakes, by SIU counsel, there was secured an Exhibit, which is Exhibit 0-383 and is so marked at Volume 98, Page 14,663. It shows that Sheehan did not receive "200 some odd dollars" but, on the contrary, received the sum of $1,900. It is ap­ parent why Sheehan lied, for we submit it shows that even Sheehan recognizes that the receipt of such substantial monies by him must, at the very least, make him a most suspect witness. We submit further that this demon­ strates the nature and character of events which were occurring at the time of the dis­ pute between the SIU and Upper Lakes and the levels to which Upper Lakes was prepared to go to accomplish its nefarious purpose. We believe it is appropriate to note at this time the interesting fact that although the Com­ missioner finds Sheehan a witness to be cred­ ited for many of the Commissioner's findings and conclusions, which testimony, however, is adverse to the interests of the SIU, the Commissioner takes a different tack when such testimony may be favourable to the SIU. The Commissioner in his Report implies, most strongly, that the SIU was dominated by its Executive Officers and that with respect to negotiations the usual practice of having nego­ tiating committees was not present. Sheehan in his testimony, however, and particularly at Volume 16, Page 2476, indicates quite to con­ trary—that there were In fact such negotiating committees. As we have stated before, the Commissioner, time and again, credits testi­ ' r • f Pare Three mony which is unfavourable to the SIU and discredits testimony which is favourable to the SIU. The Commissioner in his Report makes find­ ings, conclusions and comments about the han­ dling of the finances of the union. It is clear that he relies in substance on the testimony of Sheehan. At Volume 16, Pages 2437-2438, Shee­ han testified in substance that during the period ending June 1960, when the SIU President was in Puerto Rico, it was the practice to send him blank cheques, signed by only one officer, and that as a result, the general funds were reduced to approximately $40,000. Once again the docu­ mentary evidence conclusively contradicts Sheehan. For at Volume 53, Page 7929, it is shown that the June 30th balance was approxi­ mately $116,000. There was no such drop in the general funds as Sheehan attempted to estab­ lish for his malicious purpose on this issue of finances. There are many similar examples of the in­ credibility of the witness Sheehan spread throughout this record. Suffice it to say that the foregoing are typical of the substance of Sheehan's testimony, upon which the Commis­ sioner so strongly relied in making his unwar­ ranted findings and conclusions and from which spring his alien recommendations. The Commissioner's error when dealing with the credibility of Sheehan with respect to fi­ nances was compounded by the Commissioner. When dealing with the testimony of almost every SIU witness he characterized their testi­ mony with a repetitious expression that it was "a tissue of untruthfulness, evasion and equi­ vocation." Thus he used constant repetition to establish his opinion rather than a detailed analysis to establish the facts. In any court of law the entire evidence of Sheehan would have been discredited and de­ clared unacceptable due to the contradiction between his testimony and the facts as proved. The instances of his falsehoods contained above show that he cannot be relied upon to establish facts or findings. Therefore, the Commissioner in substance has not weighed the scales of justice but, on the contrary, has weighted them. He has placed upon them, almost without exception, the tes­ timony of witnesses adverse to the SIU, even to the point of accepting apparent and ultimately established incorrect testimony, but again has almost without exception refused to place upon the same scales of justice properly credited testimony of witnesses favourable to the SIU. Such conduct is so unusual and extraordinary that it impels one to conclude, notwithstanding other factors hereinafter set forth, that the Commissioner has failed and refused to prop­ erly weigh, evaluate and ultimately credit the testimony of witnesses. Credence to Allegations The Commissioner's intent and purpose was made clear by his credibility findings which are exemplified by the illustrations set forth above. Having laid this basis, the format which he was to utilize, he then proceeded carefully and insidiously to build a case against the SIU, its officials and trade unionism by the application of various techniques. The Principle of Natural Justice Was Violated The Commissioner engaged in injudicious conduct, discriminately applied established rules of evidence, applied double standards, changed the rules consistently, refused counsel an opportunity to present evidence in refuta­ tion, and prejudged matters. Such error was carried over into his Report by obvious omis­ sions of material and substantive matter, his impropriety in making findings upon matters not in evidence and not before the hearing, his shading and twisting of testimony, his making of findings on post-hearing matters and news­ paper reports, and his comments and findings on pending litigation. �September 29, 196S SE4rARmS WC^FMCiAL SVPELEMENT Similarly, In the conduct of the hearing and ^ in his Report, the Commissioner's pre-disposilion, bias and personal venom against SIU is jmanifest. Furthermore, his antipathy and hos•tility toward basic trade union principles is weaved throughout. THE CONDUCT OF THE INQUIRY Throughout the course of the Inquiry, the i Commissioner engaged in a course of conduct f which did violence to fair play and natural justice and to long accepted principles which control the administration of justice. The SIU was restricted and precluded from a complete opportunity to present its evidence; double standards were applied to the detri­ ment of the SIU and, in this connection, the rules of evidence and the rules of the hearing were changed from time to time. SIU counsel was harassed and subjected to scurillous per­ sonal attacks. The Commissioner made com­ ments prejudging the issues, most prejudicial to the interest of the SIU, and permitted the hearings to be used as a platform for obvious propaganda to create a public attitude of hos­ tility toward the SIU. This conduct of impro­ priety indicated the bias and predisposition of the Commissioner. At the outset of the hearings, it was the Commissioner's opinion that the hearings should be held at various points in the provinces of Ontario and Quebec, in order to afford an opportunity to persons to be present who might have had evidence to contribute. It is funda­ mental that in hearings of this nature, substan­ tial records and documents are required and must be taken into consideration in determining the site of the hearings. In fact, the Commis­ sioner stated in Transcript, Volume 1, Page 14, with respect to the site of the hearings: "\ would think it would bo hotter to be held outside of Ottawa" and gave as his reason that the Inquiry is not by the government and should be independent of government direction or influence. Notwithstanding these foregoing statements and sentiments, the record demonstrates that what occurred was to the contrary. Most of the hearings, in fact, were held at Ottawa. There was total of 73 sittings at Ottawa out of 108, this despite the fact that the SIU headquarters, where most of its records and witnesses are, is located at Montreal. The SIU commenced pre­ senting witnesses at Montreal and shortly there­ after, the Commissioner arbitrarily determined to move the hearings to Ottawa. A total of 14 days of hearings was held at Montreal. The SIU protested this action of the Commissioner, es­ tablishing most clearly that this was prejudicial to the conduct of the SIU case, that its records and most of its witnesses were not in Ottawa, • that this Inquiry was going back over many years and that the SIU would be at a severe handicap in being unable to have all records and witnesses available. Furthermore, this, of neces­ sity, would preclude SIU counsel from fully preparing their case and, of equal significance, it would have serious and adverse effects upon the SIU which, as it was then maintained and ultimately established, was the target of the Commissioner. The Commissioner took this ac­ tion notwithstanding his earlier statement as to the locations of the hearing which appears in Transcript, Volume 9, Page 1369: "i proposa to hold sittings for the convenience of people who wont to testify, or who should testify, whether they wont to or not." In the presentation of its case, a party to any proceedings, of necessity, must be able to call and present witnesses who will adduce evidence and establish facts. This principle is most nec­ essary in an Inquiry where public interest is of such paramount importance; To preclude a party from having such control over the presen­ tation of its case is to deny such party natural justice. , The record is replete with the fact that time and again the SIU requested opportunity to have certain witnesses brought before the Commis­ sion to give testimony. Most of such requesia were refused. Similarly, request for production of vital documents was refused. Time and again, SIU counsel in the examination and cross-ex­ amination of witnesses inquired of matters which, if permitted, would have adduced reler vant and probative evidence. Unfortimately, they were denied that opportunity. A typical example of this denial occurred when SIU coun­ sel sought to show the background as to the dis­ ruption of shipping on the Great Lakes. At more important, in hearings of national inter­ est, that the public have the opportunity to evaluate the issues and contentions. This obli­ gation of counsel, which must be observed, was succinctly stated by an American court,, ihe Court of Appeals in the State of Ohio, wherein the court, in commenting upon a lawyer's con­ duct, said that the lawyer would be a cur and poltroon who had an opinion about a question of law and did not voice his opinion because he was afraid to do so. Such sentiments have been fundamental in our courts. Transcript, Volume 49, Page 7295, Mr. Nuss, one of the SIU counsel, stated: Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Commis­ sioner throughout the hearings engaged in a course of conduct of harassing SIU counsel to the point of personal and disgraceful attacks upon them. The consequence of this impro­ priety was to deny the SIU of its rights to a fair hearing. MR. NUSS: "If I could adduce the evidence you would lee the relevoncy." COMMISSIONER: "You may not." We repeat, this was typical of the manner in which this Inquiry, which was supposed to elicit the facts for the public, was conducted. Throughout the conduct of the hearing, it became apparent, and is now a matter of public knowledge, that the Upper Lakes Shipping Company had various meetings with represen­ tatives of the CLC, the CBRT, and the CMU, and that this was one of the underlying rea­ sons for the disruption of shipping, which was the subject of the Inquiry. The SIU charged and was prepared to establish that Upper Lakes and the above labor organizations had acted in concert to destroy another trade union and that this improper activity was the genesis of the disruption of shipping. Clearly, imder objective standards, this should have been per­ mitted and the facts made known to the pub­ lic. Instead the attempt to present such impor­ tant evidence was halted by the arbitrary statement of the Commissioner which appears at Transcript, Volume 48, Page 7205: COMMISSIONER: "I om not interested in thot." Nothwithstanding the foregoing, the Com­ missioner in his Report states that a full and fair hearing was presented to the SIU with opportunity to present its evidence. In what appears to be an attempt to substantiate this latter expression, the Commissioner has set forth a Schedule on Page 292 of his Report. A reading of this Schedule would make it appear that the SIU presented more witnesses, who occupied more days than any other party to the proceeding. However a close examination of the facts and the Commissioner's own state­ ments set forth his error. The Commissioner in the Schedule recites that SIU witnesses oc­ cupied 52^/4 days. However at Volume 104, Page 15,730, the last day in which witnesses were heard the Commissioner states that only 40 days of hearings were occupied by the SIU. In this area the Commissioner has increased the figures in excess of 30%. The Commis­ sioner's error is further demonstrated when he has it appear on the same Schedule that the SIU called 61 witnesses. The obvious impres­ sion intended to be created is that the SIU called more witnesses than any other party. The Commissioner, however, contradicts him­ self, for on Page 290 of his Report he recites that after November 28th, 1962, the SIU called 49 witnesses and the record shows that prior to such date only four other witnesses had been called by the SIU, for a total of 53. The Commissioner, in this apparent juggling of numbers, has further conveniently failed to mention that although Upper Lakes Shipping and CLC and its affiliates are treated by him as separate parties, the record demonstrates conclusively that they were joint parties ver­ sus the SIU in this proceeding and collectively presented the majority of witnesses. It is fundamental, an integral part of natural justice, that a party to any proceeding is en­ titled to have counsel represent him. Any at­ tempt to limit this right, whether directly or by a course of conduct of interference, harass­ ment, ridicule and invective, the totality of which is to preclude counsel from discharging his obligation to represent his client, is a denial of such principle of natural justice. It is unquestion^ that counsel in representing a client has the obligation to make known his opini<»is as to legal issues before the court or hearing officer so that the record will be complete—and. The record is replete with the Commis­ sioner's constant badgering of SIU counsel and the restrictions imposed on counsel's attempt to elicit evidence. The fundamental right of coun­ sel to make objections to questions and testi­ mony was wantonly violate by the Commis­ sioner. Attempts to make objections were met by the Commissioner's retorts such as: "Just a minute." "Sit down." "This is no time to in­ terrupt." "Go on." In fact, throughout the rec­ ord, on scores of occasions, when counsel aros^ to make objections, he was met with the Com­ missioner's statement of "Sit down," without being permitted to even set forth the basis of his objection. On numerous occasions the Com­ missioner, upon observing SIU counsel rising to make an objection, gestulated, waving his arms for SIU counsel to sit down Without even expressing the common courtesy of per­ mitting counsel to speak. The Commissioner repeatedly interrupted SIU counsel in the course of examination and cross-examination, precluding counsel from ef­ fectively presenting his case and eliciting im­ portant material from witnesses on cross-ex­ amination. SIU counsel were harassed to the point where they were not even afforded a modicum of an opportunity to reply to repre­ sentations made by opposing counsel. Typical of this conduct is an example which appears at Transcript, Volume 49, Pages 7253 and 7254: MR. NUSS: My leorned friendi hove spoken ot length en mollers which went outside the representations which I mode to the Commission. They hove sold mony things with which I disogree. They hove sold mony things which I did not think counsel would soy. I am tempted to reply at this time. I feel, however, that it would be best if I replied with regord to these statements which went outside my representotions to move to Montreol crfter i hove hod time to look over the matter. THE COMMISSIONER: Mr. Nuse, you will reply now or not ot ell. The mutter must be disposed of as for os you ore con­ cerned now. I am. met going to proloftg representations te me any further. MR. NUSS: Moy I hove a few minutes. My Lord? THE COMMISSIONER: No, you get along now. Let us close this matter up, cmd 1 refsir, of course, to the represontCH lions. The record of' this hearing demonstrates a course of conduct of personal attack and vituperativeness toward counsel which we believe has not and could not ever be duplicated. This disgraceful conduct is exemplified throughout the hearing. Typical examples of this conduct of the Commissioner ridiculing counsel are as follows: "You will nover moke a lot of money as counsel doing that sort of thing—you will never hove a lot of clients." That counsel is: "dishonest, unfoir, is not acting properly as counsel, totally irresponsible, inept, inexperienced" culminating with the vicious statement: "do not be cheeky, just like a liHle boy. Grow up." The Commissioner also said that counsel Is in a mess; that counsel's remarks are obnoxi­ ous; that his manners are atrocious and that he is facetious; that he is nervous, upset, worri­ some; that he will not live very long if he keeps worrying, and further criticized coun­ sel's intelligence. A most poignant example of this injudicious conduct by the Commissioner, without even affording counsel opportunity to reply to an attack by the Commissioner, Is contained at �• • '-•=••K.^ T 7_j'V -.-Ct.- ill,:-. •aptember W, 19«t Transcript, Volume 100, Page 15,071: THI COMMISSIONEKt Th*r« b n« avldanc*. I am going ta koog yo« right down to tho ruloi, Mr. Nun, bocauto yo« doliboralaly try and—you havo dollboratoiy triod to avoid thom. You havo doliboratoly triod to avoid my ruling*, and you aro gonig to act as rotponiiblo counsel from now on. You havon't dono It boforo. MR. NUSli 1 obfoct to that. 1 havo dono It bofo"*. I Intond to stay within tho rulings you havo mado. THI COMMISSIONER. You havo not. Carry on with your croti-sxamination. MR. NUSS: As a maltsr of fact, tho basis of— THE COMMISSIONER: Carry on with your cross-examination. I will not hear it. MR. NUSS: I would appreciato It if you would not mako remarks about me in that regard and then not allow mo to answer them. THE COMMISSIONER: I will not allow you to answer it. The foregoing is part of the fabric of the Commissioner's manner in which he conducted the hearing. Part of the same fabric is the man­ ner or method in which the Commissioner util­ ized double standards and discriminately ap­ plied the rules of evidence. Time and again, the Commissioner, in reply­ ing to objections made by SIU counsel, that the testimony or the documents submitted Were in admissable, stated; "This is not a court of law, this is an Inquiry." However, when SIU counsel sought to submit, or elicit evidence on cross-examination, he was met with the strict application of the rules of evidence, applicable in a court of law. For example, testimony rela­ tive to conversations, was excluded on the ground that it was hearsay, and there were subsequent statements to SIU counsel such as: "I am going to keep you right down to the rules." Contrast the above with the Commissioner's inconsistency and double standards when one of the SIU counsel objected to the introducing of hearsay evidence. The Commissioner per­ mitted the evidence to be introduced, stating at Transcript, Volume 8, Page 1107: 'THE COMMISSIONER This it all vsry inlerstting Mr. Ahsrn. I am letting it go along becaui* I find the account of it interesting." The consequence of such "interesting," al­ though inadmissable evidence, was highly pre­ judicial to the SIU as it created an atmosphere of unlawful conduct and was used to condition to the general public. It did not contain any probative value, but rather breached the safeguards the law has established to protect parties in a proceeding. Examples of such inconsistency in the rulings of the Commissioner that favour the other parties while restricting and hampering the SIU occur time and again throughout the Transcript. The" Commissioner's utilization of the irre­ sponsible technique of applying double stand­ ards, adverse to the SIU, is further demon­ strated in the following area. When SIU offi­ cers were testifying, the Commissioner required that they have knowledge of all events or arm themselves with such knowledge. For exam­ ple, McLaughlin, the Executive Vice President of the SIU, was told by the Commissioner that he did know certain information, notwith­ standing the fact that the witness, under oath, stated that he did not. (Volume 50, Page 7495). When the SIU President was being cross-ex­ amined by counsel for Upper Lakes, and the question of his knowledge of a particular sub­ ject was being inquired into, the Commissioner made this statement in describing what he con­ sidered to be the duty of witnesses about to testify: , Transcript, Volume 77, Page 11,583: "If is for you to inform yourself before you com* here, or If is for any witness to inform himself before he tomes here, on the matters which are going to be the subject of the Hearing." He stated that as they were the heads of their organization, they were responsible for all that went on in it and therefore that they must testify about facts even though they had no personal knowledge of them. Contrast the foregoing with the conduct en­ gaged in by the Commissioner when witnesses SEAFAmm 4X)G---SPEClAL SVPPlMElNt Page Flvii hostile to the SIU were being-cross examined. CBRT witness Robson, an executive officer, was not required to comply with the above require­ ment as to informing himself as a witness prior to^his appearance. In fact, the Commissioner volunteered that the witness stated that "he did not know the matter inquired of" and therefore SIU counsel should not make inquiry (Volume 86, Page 12,980). Again Robson, on cross-exami­ nation, was not required to meet the foregoing standard as to knowledge imposed upon SIU officers. (Volume 84, Page 12,652). With respect to the witness Jodoin, President of CLC, when he was being cross-examined by SIU counsel, the Commissioner then applied a different standard for his knowledge at him in the most vicious terms, culminating in an accusation of dishonesty (Volume 85, Paget 12728-30). The record demonstrates that within two days after this latter incident a Commis­ sion counsel, in his examination of an SIU wit­ ness, engaged in identical conduct and the Com­ missioner permitted it. (Volume 88, Page 13,169). A further application of the principle of double standards is in the area where the Com­ missioner permitted material prejudicial and irrelevant to be read into evidence and re­ fused SIU counsel an opportunity to read similar matter into evidence to clear the damage done by such prejudicial matter. This is the area of newspaper articles. So that this subject will be in proper perspective, we are setting forth the Commissioner's comments as to matters contained in newspapers. The Com­ missioner stated at „ Transpcript, Volume 33, Page 5264: Transcript, Volume 90, Page 13,533: THE COMMISSIONER: This witness is the head of the CLC and I imagine he does not hire a lot of dogs and do the barking. He has all these people. If he did it all himself it would drive him crazy. If you wont some details, get your friend to supply it; he will supply it I am sure, if it is there. This same conduct of protecting this witness was repeated by the Commissoner at Volume 90, Page 13,592. A further example of the application of double standards was demonstrated while CBRT President Smith was being crossexamined by SIU counsel. At that time the Commissioner limited the SIU counsel in the examination of the witness as to certain facts by stating that "at this stage he might not remem­ ber." (Volume 100, Page 14,997). The height of the Commissioner's application of double stand­ ards is demonstrated when SIU counsel at­ tempted to cross-examine witness Leitch, the President of Upper Lakes at Transcript, Volume 98, Page 14,632: THE COMMISSIONER; What do you waM.{him) to toy? MR. NUSS: I want (him) to say what happened. THE COMMISSIONER: He i> going to say "I took the recom­ mendations of my operating manager." Go ahead; let us not waste a lot of time. I have told you before that these people who are in the top echelons leave matters to subordinates. When they receive a recommenda­ tion, if they are wise people, they follow it. They get their experts to advise them. Go along. Do not waste time. To summarize, under the application of these double standards, SIU officials, including its two top officials, were required to know the facts and to inform themselves as to all facts prior to their appearing as witnesses, whereas comparable witnesses for Upper Lakes, CBRT and CLC were not So required, when confronted with questions by SIU counsel, and were per­ mitted to escape cross-examination under the Commissioner's rationalization that they had subordinates to do the work for them and there­ fore could not conceivably answer the questions. The impropriety of double standards is con­ tinued into the area of cross-examination. When Messrs. Wright and Geller, counsel for CLC, CRT and Upper Lakes respectively, crossexamined SIU witnesses they were given full lattitude. For example, at Volume 53, Pages 7866A-67, Mr. Wright stated that in connection with his cross-examination he intended to be de­ vious, and the Commissioner agreed with such proposition. Time and again, the Commissioner stated that the above-mentioned counsel could deal with their cross-examination in the most circuitous way and that is what they were do­ ing, for they could be as circuitous as they thought necessary. When you contrast the fore­ going right of cross-examination with the rules which were imposed upon SILT counsel in their cross-examination, there is a very clear demon­ stration of double standards. SIU counsel were constantly, harassed and interrupted in their questioning of hostile witnesses. This is par­ ticularly demonstrated in their attempt to crossexamine witnesses Jodoin, Robson and Leitch, where SIU counsel were denied this lattitude in the presentation of their questions. A further example of this unequal treatment is demonstrated at Volume 51, Page 7614, when counsel for Upper Lakes, in cross-examining an SIU officer, held in his hand a document frottn which he was questioning the witness. Upon objection by counsel, the Commissioner advised that counsel was not required in cross-examina­ tion to show the witness the document. How­ ever, when counsel for the SIU followed the same procedure^ the Commissioner castigated "I am not interested in what a newspaper said. If I were interested in what a newspaper says, or has said during all of this inquiry, then we would have all of those gentle­ men sitting down there as witnesses here and give Counsel a wonderful opportunity to cross examine them." Volume 72, Page 10,577, the Commissioner stated: "Well, n cannot be responsible for what is contained in the newspapers. It may be correct or may not. It may be correct as far as they are able to moke it so but I am not re­ sponsible for them." Notwithstanding the above comments of the Commissioner, time and again he permitted op­ posing counsel to read into the record, from newspapers and other periodicals, inflammatory stories and items highly prejudicial to the in­ terest of the SIU and over the objections of SIU counsel. The obvious purpose and design of this action on the part of the Commissioner was to permit the propagandizing and creation of an atmosphere most detrimental to the interests of the SIU. Another typical example was when Mr. Wright, counsel for the CLC, read into the record a newspaper article highly prejudicial to the SIU and containing the most extreme hear­ say matter. (Volume 14, Pages 2029-2034). When SIU counsel attempted to introduce similar material to rebut and refute the news­ paper articles introduced by opposing counsel, they were regularly and consistently denied such opportunity. A typical example of this is contained in Volume 33, Pages 5261 and 5262. The Commissioner, on an occasion addressing himself to SIU counsel, expressed the colloqui­ alism that "what is sauce for the goose, is sauce for the gander." (Volume 51, Page 7555). Ob­ viously however, the SIU was neither goose nor gander, but a different kind of fowl to be roasted by the Commissioner. A further demonstration of double standards is the manner in which the Commissioner regulated cross-examination. On the one hand, when opposing counsel were cross-examining witnesses, SIU counsel was admonished time and again not to object to the cross-examina­ tion. However, when SIU counsel crossexamined witnesses, particularly Jodoin, the President of CLC, Robson, an official of CBRT, and Leitch, President of Upper Lakes, the record demonstrates the scores of times that opposing counsel were permitted to object, break in, interfere and obstruct SIU counsel in cross-examination. With respect to this area of cross-examina­ tion, the Commissioner demonstrated a most unique and unusual philosophy in the applica­ tion of rules of evidence, the function of the court and the function of counsel. This occurred when the SIU chief official was being crossexamined and SIU counsel, in the discharge of his obligations, objected to a question as follows: MR. NUSS: My Lord, I objecl to this question. THE WITNESS: That is far fetched. COMMISSIONER: That is a proper question. He has put It to him now you sit down. MR. NUSS: He said that he did not .say that because— COMMISSIONER: This witness is quite capable of taking care of himself without your assisting, Mr. Nuss. MR. NUSS: I am not assisting the witness, I am here as' counsel and if I feel a question is— COMMISSIONER: You are here as counsel but you hove na ' right to interrupt cross-examination. MR. NUSS: My position here is to object when I thing a que*tior; :s not legal. COMMISSIONER: Well, sit down right now. �• !.:'-''-r5-- m»maa we-^snsctM stmmitmiT I ime 9tt* MR. NUSS: Since my friend raited the quettien— The height of the CommisBioner's improper and injudicious conduct is exemplified by his remariu concerning George Meany, President of the APL-CIO. Mr. Meany, beyond question of doubt, enjoys the confidence of his govern­ ment, and of the world, and has an outstanding reputation for integrity and reliability. Not* withstanding this, the Commissioner, on the basis of testimony during the early stages of the hearings, and without receiving or attemptto obtain all relevant and complete informa­ tion had the aflhrontery to conclude, with re-* spect to the dispute, which the Commissioner was investigating, at Transcript, Volume 34, Page 5395: COMMISSIONER: Jutt o moment, til down. The- wHnatt it Itmliina after himtelf and I will interfere if neeettory. MR. NUSS: He it doing hit function at a witnett and' I with to do my function ot on attorney end I have an objection. COMMISSIONER: Wo would not bo In tho protont moit, tho mott wo oro In ptotonfly, with rogord to thli wholo thing and thit ditputo would not bo in tho potition it it in now if . Mr. Moony hod Rvod up to hit rotpontibiUtiot. ^ MR. NMIi I nifM 4m Hwl, wy Uni aftMr I km* tNrt^ aiy ablKfiem. ij M, OUIIN; In •lli«r wotdi- j I ''' CCMNMBSIONfiR: Yen behav* yeumlf. Mr. Nut*. At yMinf cayintl y«w art n«t bthaving yourtalf now «n4 that it alL Wkon yov oro a littlo oMtr you will loom how countol thooM bohove. You do not toom to hovo loomed during lilt course of this Inquiry. Now, sit down. i This further strange conduct of the Commis­ sioner is demonstrated when STU counsel again Mobiected to a que.stion being nut to the same •witness and the following ensued: I ) COMMISSIONER: Don't tpeak when I am tpeohina. 6et a loap box outtide if you wont to moke o tpeech. There ore plenty of peoole who will probably crowd around and liiten to you but do net talk when I am talking. The wit* neit it looking after himtelf and I will ttop Mr. Wright, at I already have, if neceiiqry. MR. WRIGHT: Let ut tee what wot dene on June lit, 1959. : COMMISSIONER: You tit down, Mr. Nutt. MR. NUSS: No, My Lord, the witnett ontwered the ques­ tion, but my objection doet not go to what he taid. COMMISSIONER: You tit'down. Mr. Wright it crott-examinlng. I will attend to it promptly if I think there it on unfoirnett being placed on the witnett and I do not think the witnett thinkt there it onything unfair and I will watch ft: don't worry. Under the above rationale of the Commis­ sioner, his philosoohy is that no counsel is necessary and all that is required in the hearI ing is the Commissioner. The presumntuousness of the Commissioner's position contains its own refutation. Further examples of double standards ap­ plied by the Commissioner are contained in matters involving opinion evidence and the use of SIU minutes of meetings. Time and again witnesses Robson, Jodoin and Smith were per­ mitted to give opinion evidence. However, when comparable officers of the SIU were requested by their counsel to furnish similar opinion evi­ dence, the Commissioner denied them this op­ portunity. Similarly, with respect to the min­ utes of SIU meetings, opposing counsel were permitted to refer to these minutes and to mat­ ters contained therein as facts upon which to premise their questions and conclusions. How­ ever, when SIU counsel sought to do the same, the Commissioner demonstrated his incon­ sistency, applied strict rules of evidence, and held that such minutes were not evidence of facts set forth therein. Once again, if it was adverse to the SIU. it was acceptable; if it was favourable to the SIU, it was not. Even in areas where credibility of a wit­ ness was the most crucial factor, the Commis­ sioner refused to permit SIU counsel to inquire as to previous conversations the witness had with others concerning the very testimony I which he had giyen in his examination in chief. This is an area which a cross-examiner has a fundamental right to inquire into. This treatI ment is demonstrated in the cross-examination I of witness Vallieres by SIU counsel at Transcript, Volume 96, Page 14,392: BY MR. NUSS: Q. And did you diicuti your evidenco with anybody boforo. tottifying? THE COMMISSIONER: Novor mind antworing that quottion. The Commissioner permitted the hearings to be used as a sounding board for propaganda by witnesses adverse to the SIU, to expound in­ flammatory and prejudicial matters, not as facts but as conjecture. Notwithstanding objec­ tions of SIU counsel, the Commissioner per­ mitted witness Dodge, an official of the CLC, I,under the guise of giving testimony, to relate a conjectural narrative as to events and circum­ stances (Volume 33, Page 5151). This was then publicized in the press as if these were facts given under oath at the hearings. To the basic concept of natural justice, this was most rapa­ cious and certainly this Commissioner, with his years of experience, knew or should have known that such propaganda would cause ir­ reparable- harm to the party against whom it was made. We conclude, as we have charged, that this was the Commissioner's predisposi­ tion and exemplified his bias and prejudice. The foregoing examples of injudicious con­ duct demonstrate clearly that the Commis­ sioner was not fit to conduct this Inquiry in the manner in which it should have been con­ ducted. As a matter of fact, the Commissioner, from the outset, violated an accepted principle of conduct by accepting appointment to his post despite the fact that he was at one time coun­ sel to the SIU. Because of this the SIU asked the Commissioner to disqualify himself, but he rejected the SIU motion. THE COMMISSIONER'S REPORT The Commissioner's attitude as demonstrated in the conduct of the hearing is further mani­ fested and compounded in his Report. He has attempted to have it appear that relations be­ tween labor organizations are something sinis­ ter and evil. He has transgressed upon basic judicial concepts by engaging in reporting post" earing matters and thereafter making findings on them; has made findings on the basis of newspaper reports, matters not testified to be­ fore the hearing, and has violated the sacred principle prohibiting him from commenting upon and making findings on cases currently pending before courts for determinations. Adopting an improper and a unique proce­ dure, the Commissioner, in making his findings, has relied upon post-hearing material and mat­ ters that were never presented during the hear­ ings. Parties were not afforded the opportunity to examine and present material in rebuttal or to comment upon the same. The Commissioner attempts to have it appear that the substance of these matters is adverse to the SIU. At Page 87 of his Report, he cites an alleged statement ap­ pearing in a newspaper long after the hearing, attributed to an official of the MTD, and then concludes that it demonstrates the lawlessness of such organization and its official. The same error is compounded on Page 203 of his Report. Commencing on Page 91 of his Report he cites further instances of what he refers to as harass­ ment, which are all subsequent to the hearings. An examination reveals that the source of this "material" is the self-serving letters of Upper Lakes and its counsel which are conveniently tucked away in Schedule 5. This material was never subjected to the light of an adversary proceeding. Nevertheless the Commissioner, on material secured en camera, makes findings and conclusions. He compounds this again at Pages 42 through 46 and Page 51 of his Report, making findings not based upon any testimony given before the hearings. It is most interesting to note that he fails to set forth a significant post-hearing matter, ^ the effect that an official of the SIU was am­ bushed and shot. To have acknowledged this incident would have been inconsistent with his thesis by which he sought to fix responsibility ' for violence upon the SIU. In our discussions of the Commissioner's con­ duct of the inquiry, we have set forth his com­ ments as to what relevance should be placed upon newspaper reports. The Commissioner stated that "I am not interested in what a news­ paper said" and "I cannot be responsible for what is contained in the newspaper. It may be correct or it may not." >Notwithstanding the foregoing expressions and the established principle of law, that news­ paper reports are hot- evidence and that no findings or conclusions should be based on such reports, the Commissioner nevertheless violated his own admonitions. On Page 51 of his Report he relies upon newspaper reports to make find­ i' ings and conclusions «• to whsit oeeunrcd in maritime/in previous years. We have set foi^th in our discui^on of post-hearing matters that the Commissioner reUed on newspaj^ reports to make findings of lawlessness and irresponsibility concerning outstanding trade union officials, and at Page 105 in his Report he again, relying on newspaper reports, concludes that they indicate an individual's propensity for violence. Under the standards pursued and ob­ served by this Commissioner, rules observed in a kangaroo court are more protective of witnesses. It is a fundamental principle in our judicial system that under no circumstances shall a member of the judiciary comment upon, let alone make findings and conclusions on any matter pending before another member of the judiciary for a decision. The Commissioner in his Report, at Page 132, chastised the SIU for displaying a lack of respect for constituted au­ thority when it discussed an issue which was then pending before the judiciary on appeal. In a democratic form of gove to a proceeding, is entitled tp express its dis­ agreement with a court's decision, discuss and debate it. This is a matter which directly affects the party. It is undisputed that during the hearings and at the time the Commissioner issued his Report, there were pending a number of actions includ­ ing an action brought by the SIU against Upper Lakes, the Canadian Maritime Union, Michael Starr and members of a Conciliation Board. The action is to have the court declare a report issued by the then Minister of Labour, as well as a subsequent collective agreement, illegal, null and void. This case is to come to trial in two months. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Commis­ sioner at Page 79 concluded that in his opinion the SIU "is not, at law, on sovmd ground in attacking the validity of the collective agree­ ment." At the time mentioned above, during the hearings, and when the Commissioner issued his Report, there was an action pending against the President of the SIU for contempt of an order of a court of the Province of Quebec charging that the SIU President caused mem­ bers of the SIU not to perform certain services in violations of the court order. Notwithstand­ ing the foregoing, the Commissioner at Page 89 of his Report, in a display of the highest degree of impropriety, made the following statement: "Bankt in hit, lottimony on thit intidont wot loloUy ovotivo, and took rofugo behind a purported deiire to abide by tho conititutien of tho Union—their "legiilalion" at he called it. There it no' doubt in my mind that tho action of the crew in refuting to move the Red Wing wot In contravention of the ordert of the courtt of the Province of Quebec and woe inttigoted by Bankt." The Commissioner has now made a judgment upon a serious matter involving a person's liberty while such issue is before a member of the judiciary who must determine the guilt or innoncence of the SIU President. The prejudice, the impropriety of this con­ duct, screams out. It is the strongest indication of this Commissioner's predisposition, bias, pre­ judice and animus against the SIU and its President. The Commissioner's report is re­ plete with repetition of his injudicious conduct with regard to other pending litigation involv­ ing the SIU and its officers. The SlU-Upper Lakes Dispute The hearings, and the Commissioner's Report which emanated from them, arose out of a con­ tractual dispute between Upper Lakes Shipping "Ltd. and the Seafarers International Union of Canada. This union—the SIU of Canada—has, since the early part of 1961, been the target of one of the most vicious and unscrupulous union-bust­ ing campaigns carried on against a trade union since the brutal, bloody anti-labour era of the pre-1930's. This union-busting campaign has been spear­ headed by the Upper Lakes company, a Cana­ dian shipping arm of the notoriously anti-union American industrial dynasty dominated by the financial interests of the Norris family, and has had as its objective the destruction of the SIU �«<'g0pteiiilwr^,,lfSt '.-r •> i of Canada as a militant force for the betterment of Canadian seamen's wages^ working condi­ tions and welfare benefits. This union- busting attempt, however, despite the enormous wealth and power of the Norris empire, could never have reached its present proportions without the aid and assistance of the Canadian Labour Congress and a number of Labour imions, Canadian and American, which seized the opportunity to settle long-standing jurisdictional scores with the SIU by abetting the employer in his campaign of destruction, in violation of the basic principle of trade unionism. It should be noted at the outset that while the immediate root of the Inquiry was the SIUUpper Lakes contractual dispute which broke out in 1961, this dispute had its real genesis more than a decade ago. In conjunction with the overall attack upon the SIU manifested throughout the Report, the Commissioner, in his Report, attributes the cur­ rent contractual dispute between the SIU and Upper Lakes to "discriminatory" contract de­ mands by the Union upon this company. This assertion completely ignores the history of the bargaining relationship between the SIU and Upper Lakes'and the fact that the current dispute is the calculated culmination of the anti-SIU policy which this company has pur­ sued from the moment it signed its first SIU agreement in 1951. The organization presently known as the Sea­ farers International Union of Canada appeared upon the Canadian .scene in 1949. The historical facts show that whereas virtually all other Canadian shipping companies signed with the SIU in 1949-50, Upper Lakes continued to put up stiff resistance to the SIU's organizing pro­ gram for nearly two years and that, when it agreed to an SIU contract in 1951, it was the last major Canadian-flag operator on the Great Lakes to do so. Following this. Upper Lakes not only con­ tinued its policy of stiff resistance to the SIU, T)ut, in fact, almost immediately embarked upon an attempt to break its contractual relationship with the SIU and to supplant the SIU with an­ other union, one which woujd be more amen­ able to the company's wishes. This was estab­ lished during the hearings when testimony was adduced that in the summer of 1952, a few months after James Todd had been fired by the SIU from his job as an SIU port agent in Fort William, the personnel manager of Upper Lakes, "Thomas Houtman, offered to cooperate with "Todd in a plan to get rid of the SIU and supplant it with another union. The testimony, in fact, showed that Houtman was the moving force behind the offer of $25,000 to Todd to bring about the creation of such a union. The plan which Houtman, acting for Upper Lakes, attempted to implement as early as 1952, shortly after the company signed its initial SIU contract, failed to materialize because Todd, at the time, was unable to obtain support for a union to rival the SIU or to obtain a "trade union label" or the sanction of the organized labour movement in Canada to give this union the appearance of legitmacy which Upper Lakes wished it to have. By the beginning of 1961, however, the pic­ ture was different. As a result of jurisdictional differences between the SIU and various powerful affiliates of the Canadian Labour Congress, arising out of the SIU's, efforts to ex­ tend the wages, working conditions and welfare benefits it had won for its members to other seamen in the Canadian maritime industry, the relationship between, the SIU and GLC had been severed and Upper Lakes saw in this situation an opportunity to carry through the unison-busting plan which had lain dormant for nine years, but which had never been forgotten. The history of the SlU-Upper Lakes relation­ ship makes it clear that here is a company which, from the moment it signed its first con­ tract with the SIU, was anxious to break its contractual relationship with the SIU and to bring about the creation of a union more amen­ able to its wishes, and that the overt anti-SIU campaign upon which this company embarked in 1961 was merely an extension of this long­ Lis- SEAFARERS LOG-SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT standing desire. Any attempt to attribute the action which this company took, beginning in 1961, to "discriminatory" contract demands is based either upon refusal to recognize the his­ torical facts involved here or else upon a wish to divert attention from the company's real ob­ jective and to camouflage the company's real motives. The continuing pattern of the company's at­ tempts to oust the SIU and have it replaced with another union was shown also during the Commission hearings in the testimony of Michael Sheehan. Sheehan was an SIU of Canada patrolman with a long history as a malcontent. In Novem­ ber of 1960, Sheehan's refusal to work in har­ mony with other SIU officials culminated in a heated dispute, at the end of which Sheehan's relationship as an officer with the SIU was severed. Shortly after that, he turned up in Ottawa where he not only began to regale of­ ficials of the CLC, as well as other Canadian labour leaders, with tales of alleged SIU vio­ lence and dictatorial tactics, but also discussed with them the creation of a new seamen's union to rival the SIU. It should be noted that these discussions bdtween Sheehan and leaders of the CLC, CERT and other groups took place just as the Upper Lakes company was taking the first steps in its union-busting campaign against the SIU by preparing to add two new ships—the Wheat King and the Northern Venture—and to man the first of these ships with a complement smaller than the one normally required for such vessels. During the Commission hearings, Sheehan conceded from the witness box that while he was talking to CLC and CERT leaders in Ot­ tawa, he was also talking to shipping industry people, and that he talked to Houtman, the personnel manager of Upper Lakes, about manning two new ships the company was bringing out. Sheehan's testimony during the hearings further showed that he and Houtman made ar­ rangements for manning at least one of these ships prior to the time the Canadian Maritime Union was established with Sheehan as its first president, and that Sheehan did, in fact, recruit scab crewmen for the Northern Venture—an activity for which he was compensated by the company. It is interesting to note that in August or September of 1961, at a time Todd had been absent from the waterfront for approximately nine years, and had been working in shore side jobs, Sheehan met with Todd in Toronto and asked him to "do some organizing." A month later, in October of 1961, the CMU was formally established with Sheehan as its first president and Todd as secretary-treasurer. The parallel between the Sheehan and Todd cases cannot be ignored and lends credence beyond doubt to the assertion that attempts to attribute the dispute in which the SIU of Can­ ada is still engaged with this company to "dis­ criminatory" contract demands or unreason­ able actions on the part of the Union are with­ out substance or validity, but on the contrary are attempts to mask the real nature of what can only be characterized as a conspiracy be­ tween Upper Lakes, the CLC and the CERT in which Sheehan, in effect,, was the catalyst. The scab crewmen which Sheehan recruited for the Northern Venture, as well as'the alien Greeks which the company recruited to man the Wheat King, were drummed into the CERT as a prelude to putting them into the CMU. In fact, during the hearings, Maurice Wright—the counsel for the CLC, CERT and CMU — con­ ceded that the intention, throughout this entire first phase of Upper Lakes' anti-SIU campaign, was to turn these scab seamen, who were drummed into the CERT, over to the CMU when it was set up. The formal establishment of the CMU, as previously noted, took place in October, 1961, at just the time that the SIU was preparing to reopen the Upper Lakes contract. , The company thus, at this precise moment, had at hand a ready vehicle (CMU) to which to transfer its contractual relationship and thus r*f« Seym was in a position to launch the second phasi of its union-busting program, which was t( break its SIU contract completely, lock sonu 300 SIU members out of their jobs aboard al Upper Lakes vessels, and replace these SIl members through Sheehan and the puppe CMU. / Sheehan, in fact, testified during the hear ings that, during the winter of 1961-62, whih | the SIU and Upper Lakes were still in contrac negotiations, he started to round up crews foil the Upper Lakes ships, even though these ship: | were not then under CMU contract. Meanwhile, from the moment that the Sill had notified the company that it wished to re open the Upper Lakes contract, the company refused even to meet with the Union. As < result, the SIU, in accordance with Canadiai practice, requested that the Minister of Labou: appoint a Conciliation Officer to bring the par [ ties into negotiations. In February of 1962 the Labour Minister ap| pointed a Conciliation Board and at the firs I meeting of the Board, on March 5th, the com! pany not only flatly rejected the SIU's requestj for contract improvements, but proposed down! grading the Welfare Plan and eliminating thij Vacation Plan and the hiring and promotioil clauses. Unless these conditions were met, thJ company said, its dispute with the SIU woul(| be impossible to resolve. Significantly, the company, at this initij meeting, presented a brief which gave statu! to the newly-formed CMU and expressed thf hope that this puppet union would grow. It should be noted that at this same time while the SlU-Upper Lakes contract dispitl was going through the conciliation process there was a meeting in Toronto at which i| was announced that the CMU expected to ol tain the Upper Lakes contract. At this mee^ ing, the Steelworkers gave the CMU $10,00(! During this same month, CLC officials Jodoiij and Dodge also met in Ottawa with Leitch anJ Houtman, to discuss the manning of Uppej Lakes' vessels. Dodge was later asked, durini the Inquiry, if there had been any decision bi CLC to crew Upper Lakes vessels before th| conciliation proceedings ended. Dodge replie "We were convinced that there wasn't goin| to be a settlement of the issues before the Cor ciliation Board." Dodge further testified thj he was not familiar with the SIU's contrac demands at this time, but was going by whs the Upper Lakes people had told him. SiniJ there was no communication between the SIl and Dodge during this period, it seems obvioi that Dodge was assured by Upper Lakes tl there would be no contract settlement. On March 14, 1962, the Superior Court fc the District of Montreal issued an order pre hibiting the Conciliation Board from takin! any further proceedings because of the allege! failure of the chairman of the Board to compll with the law in convening a meeting of thl Board—a failure which prevented the Unio| nominee from being present at the meeting. On March 26, 1962, Conciliation Chairmaj Laviolette, whose appointment the SIU haj protested on the grounds that he was a pre fessional advisor to management, together witi the company's nominee on the Board, informej the Labour Minister that "no useful purpose could be served by the Board's proceeding^ The SIU nominee on the Board was not cor sijlted. Despite the court order, the Laboi Minister accepted the letters as the report the Board, and Upper Lakes immediately wer into negotiations with Sheehan and a repi sentative of the CLC regarding a contract fc the Upper Lakes fleet. The action of the Mir ister of Labour in considering private corres pondence from the chairman and company rej resentative on the Board as a Report, gav| Upper Lakes a pretext for looking out over 3C seamen in its employ. This action by a gover ment official, in the face of an order of th| court, was in nart the subject of a Quebec Lav Review article (April 1963, Page 197) by prominent Quebec attorney, Philip Cutler, wh| said at Page 218:-"The practical effect was the the court was ignored and left high and dry.. .1 The contract with CMU was signed on Apri] 5, 1962. The SIU commenced an action contenc ing that the contract was illegal, since the Lj hour Minister, Michael Starr, had certified al �ige Xfslit Report two letters which stated on their face jiat a Report could not be given, and further I Contended there had been no disposition of the b .:sues between the SIU and Upper Lakes as |r:rovided for by the Industrial Relations Act. 'he action is presently pending before the burt. r •' As soon as this agreement .with CMU was I gned, Upper Lakes began to lock out of their lbs its approximately 300 SIU crewmembers,' I iany of whom had been employees of the comI Iany for periods upwards to the 10-year con]•-actual relationship with the SIU, and to re|- lace these people with scab crews recruited I y Sheehan. Sheehan later conceded, under cross-examlation at the hearings, that the CMU-Upper akes contract was negotiated before the new pper Lakes crewmen were hired, and that no pper Lakes employees helped to negotiate le contract "because we did not have the peole in the union at that time." This, then, is classic example of a typical "sweetheart" greement. Despite the revelation of all of these facts, le Commissioner steadfastly refused to acnowledge the Upper Lakes-^LC-CBRT conairacy, with its attendant formation of the MU and the lockout of some 300 SIU members •om their jobs, and refused to permit SIU aunsel to inquire fully into that area but nevrthele'^s flatly asserted that there was "no conairacy" and "no lockout." Of equal significance is the fact that the Com­ missioner refused even to assign to the jdustrial dispute, from which the hearings rose, the stature assigned to this same dispute y the Rosenman Commission, appointed by ae U.S. government at the request of the Canaian government. !• Moreover, although the SIU several times uring the hearings formally urged the Com­ missioner to meet with the parties in order to jsolve the dispute, the Commissioner refused a do so and, instead, conducted the hearings [i a manner which could not help but drive le parties involved further apart. Rather than [iaking an attempt to find ways of solving this ibour-management dispute which the RosenJian Commission recognized, the Commissioner Ijstead complimented Upper Lakes and the jiLC for creating it and chastised other shipling companies who have had good and stable [jlations with the SIU in the development of [le Canadian maritime industry. Once having relegated the dispute to an inJgnificant position, the Commissioner then oncentrated most of his time on an investigaon of the internal operations of the SIU. I) [he Seaway Boycott The event leading to the institution of this lommission was the premeditated and unlaw[il boycott of the Seaway carried out by the J LC and the CBRT. The first term of reference [f the Commission was to investigate the dis[iption of shipping on the Great Lakes. It must je remembered in this connection that the real [nd only disruption to shipping was caused, jot by a labour dispute involving a small per[sntage of Canadian vessels, but by the prejveditated and unlawful boycott of the Seaway, [he Commissioner recognized the importance [E the Seaway by making the following preJminary remarks before the evidence on the jctuai boycott was introduced when he said: I Transcript, Volume 28, Page 4402: I '*Y«u win reiMmbar that at the opening of this Commission I stressed the fact that the subject matter of the Inquiry affects the welfare of all the people of Canada and is not a mere matter of jurisdictional differences between con­ flicting unions nor merely a difference between employers end employees. I pointed out that it was unthinkable that the vsefulneos of our magnificent international Seaway— natural and man-made—including the great port of Mont­ real and the other ports on the Lakes ond Seaway, should impaired by any such differences." He recognizes in this statement the imporce of the Seaway to Canada and the fact lhat, as he states, it-is "unthinkable that a mere natter of jurisdictional differences between [miflicting unions or merely a difference beIween employers and employees" should be Hlowed to impair the usefulness of the magnifi(ent Seaway. SteiirARl^ IjOCi-SlM^idt SVfPLteJtlENr The Commissioner then proceeded, during the hearing, to divert the real nature of the Seaway boycott and to absolve from almost all responsibility the conspiring parties that un­ lawfully organized it. In his Report, he at­ tempts to minimize the responsibility of the CLC and the CBRT with the fact that, although a boycott was called by them, it was the act of one ship, which, in exercising its rights to use the Seaway, caused the actual blockage. It must be remembered that 90% of the Great Lakes ships using the Seaway were manned by SIU crews and that any such boycott effec­ tively blocked the Seaway to Canadian ship­ ping. He is forced to admit, but grudgingly, that the CBRT was guilty of lawlessness, but he limits that lawlessness to a breach of their collective agreement with the Seaway Author­ ity. If one compares this finding with the Com­ missioner's statement as quoted above, one can see to what length this man would go in order to protect those parties that he favored before the Commission, even though such protection meant that he was required to resort to a dis­ tortion of the evidence and to divert the real purpose of his Inquiry. Evidence shows that the Commissioner failed to set forth the full story which demon­ strates the magnitude of the offense which was committed by the CBRT and the CLC and others who assisted them, including representatives of the Seaway Authority. It is uncontradicted that as early as 1961, CBRT, with representa­ tives of the CLC, were threatening illegal ac­ tivities that would constitute the tie-up of the Seaway and that the Seaway Authority had knowledge of this plan. This plot was continued into 1962 when it was actually brought into fruition. It repre­ sented the pinnacle of unbridled, immoral and illegal conduct. This incident further demon­ strated that although the Seaway Authority had knowledge of the contemplate boycott it took no action to prevent its occurrence but, on the contrary, its supervisors participated in and aided this illegal boycott. In fact the Re­ port, at Page 13, specifically sets forth that on June 26th, 1962, less than 10 days prior to the actual boycott on July 5th, Nicoll, the CBRT representative, advised Rankin, the President of the Authority, that the CBRT had decided to participate in a boycott of SIU ships in transit through the St. Lawrence Seaway. William O'Neil, the Regional Manager of the Seaway Authority, testified with respect to knowl^ge as to the commencement of this boy­ cott at Transcript, Uo'time 28, Page 4449: Q. When wer« you adviMd that tho boycott wooM actually take place? A. I wai advned by Mr. Rankin, President of the Seaway Authority, on July 3rd that the boycott wot to commence on July 5th. Notwith.standing this knowledge by the Pres­ ident of the Seaway Authority at least two days prior to the boycott, no action was taken by the Authority to prevent this boycott. On the contrary, only after the boycott had been commenced and, coineidentally, on or about the same time that Federal authorities deter­ mined to convene this Inquiry at the request of the CLC, did the Seaway Authority seek injunctive relief. Interestingly enough, as set forth in the Re­ port at Pages 15 and 16, during the course of the boycott there were employees M the Sea­ way Authority, not members of the CBRT, who, together with their supervisor, participated dirMtly in the mechanics of the boycott. A Mr. Dion was the dispatcher and his superior was Mr. Ellis. As the Report further shows, both Dion and his superior, Ellis, were in the dis­ patchers' station. Ellis, the supervisor, had a list of ships from which it-could be ascertained which were SlU-manned ships. Dion testified as follows at It is crystal clear ironi tiie foregoing undifl-' puted facts that there was certainly ^'oooperation" between the CBRT, CLC, Seaway Au­ thority representatives and others. To conclude otherwise~is to ignore realities and engage in fantasy. Notwithstanding this factual situation,' the Commissioner chastized SIU counsel upon his submission that the Seaway Authority failed to discharge its responsibility but, on the contrary, participated in this illegal activity of the CBRT and CLC. We think it appropriate to further point out that, notwithstanding CBRT and CLC's attempt to have it appear that this boycott activity was the voluntary democratic action of its members, the record shows to the contrary. The evidence clearly demonstrates that the Seaway boycott was instituted by the union executives alone, that the members of the locals never approved it {Pages 4313, 12,741-42, 12,779-80, 12,948). It was prearranged that a resolution would be submitted to these locals authorizing the boy­ cott. The resolution was prepared in advance by Mr. Wright, coimsel for the CBRT {Page 12,743). The resolution itself did not authorize a boycott but only asked for membership sup­ port for the Canadian Maritime Union {Page 12,785). Even this resolution was not pass^ by all the locals. In fact, many of the locals did not even vote upon the issue, nor was it made known to them (Page 12,746). The Commissioner has failed to comment on this and to state, that not only was the action illegal, but that it was effected without the approval of the union involved and was an arbitrary and dictatorial expression of the power of the executive of the unions involved. Why has the Commissioner hidden these facts from the Canadian people? Is this not positive proof of his double standards; of his obvious and injudicious attempt to hide the real facts —facts which are favourable to the SIU and which would demonstrate that the irresponsi­ bility is not that of the SIU but that of the CBRT, CLC and all those who participated with them in this action? Is this not proof of the partiality of the Commissioner, of the at­ tempt by him to blacken the SIU during the course of these hearings and to protect the other bodies before him from any statements or impartial conclusions that might show them in a bad light to the Canadian people? As shown above, these facts represent a most sordid picture of the unfettered use of power by certain irresponsible union leaders free from the control and wishes of their member­ ship, a picture of blackmail upon the Canadian people and its representatives from those who profess to be the champions of right and the enemies of wrong. Even today, we are faced with continuation of the same blackmail. Jodoin. President of the CLC, said, while testify­ ing, that if he considered that circumstances warranted it, he would not hesitate, to tie up the Seaway again {Page 12,954). The President of the CMU has made threats since determina­ tion of the Inquiry that unless he had his way he would resort to another tie-up of the Sea­ way. We submit that the Commissioner's failure to expose this sordid plot has given aid and comfort, if not protection, to the continuation of these blackmail activities engaged in by the CBRT and the CLC and now being threatened by Staples of the CMU. We have shown the circumstances surround­ ing the alleged justification for the Commis­ sioner's entry into the issues which were the subject of the hearing. It objectively displays that, at the very outset, not only was justice not being done, but an attempt was never made even to have justice seem to be done. Violence Transcript, Volume 29, Page 4632: MR. DION; "Th« lid actually wot not handod to mo. Mr. ElBo bod It. Ho lot alongtido of mo. Ho hod ihit on tho dook, or on tho radio, that ho won writing on, and «o thooo -votcola oaDod in, iomo of thorn { know m boing SJ.U., bocauoo 1 know Jho tamponio*. Ofhort I wao In doubt ohout, co ho .wduSd look at tho -Rot and thoi. bo would toll, mo." fimtaOierlBB, \ One of the foundations, if not the main one, used by the Commissioner to justify his strange recommendations are his conclusions as to the . topic "violence and lawlesness." In this area the Commissioner has done violence to the basic concepts of judicial propriety, fair play and natural justice, and has further deiponr • strated beyond a doubt his bias and predisposi•tioii.At, th« early stages of his proceeding, it be-. ...v' v, s ;Cam€ . apparent e 4hat . the Commissioner, was , ijt r,»ii - <• •: �SEM4fl^nS WC-^SPECfM SVPPMME^T V ereating, straw by strawy the prevert>ial straw . maa for its eventual destruction^ He permitted . indaimnatory and prejudicial testimony to be admitted in evidence without connection or casual reUtionship and, notwithstanding the . failure to connect or relate such testimony with . the SlU and/or its officers, he nevertheless concluded, while destroying his straw man, that the SiU and its officers were responsible for such conduct. :..i - :"'• Of equal import and significance is the effect ' this has had upon the general public. The pro­ verbial air of terror was allowed to be created, with widespread publicity given to the allega­ tions contained in the inftammatory and pre­ judicial testimony, notwithstanding that it has not connected or related to the SIIJ or its offi­ cers. The SIU, its officers and the entire trade . union movement have been severely damaged ; by the tactics of the Commissioner, as, more important, have been the principles upon which the administration of justice are based. One of the earliest illustrations of the fore­ going conduct is set fcu-th when such improper testimony was introduced intu the hearing over the violent objections of SIU counsel. Thewitness te;jtified as to a vicious assault being committed upon a person without any connec­ tion or casual relation to any party in the proceeding. Such testimony even prompted Commission counsel to point out the unfairness and the prejudice which, this type of evidence invites, at Transcript, Volume 5, Pages 717-720: MR. DUBIN: Mr. CommiHionar, I understand tkat charge* are pending, apparently as a result of this Incident. THE COMMISSIONER: Yet: MR. DUBIN: The evidence af Mrs. Scavarelli, left in its present status is ret:,cr unfartunaia la that H is left there. At tha moment it d?et net oppeor to hovo any significonca. It might have, or it might not havo. THE COMMISSIONER: Thoro ie no rooton, Mr. Dutun, why thie inquiry connot go into tho whola question, as long as it dooe not prejudice the matter of tha hearing of the charges, and I am gaing to be very careful about that. But I assuma that in due course evidence may be adduced which will be added to the evidence of Mrs. Scavarelli. MR. DUBIN: i think it is rather unsatisfactory, Mr. Commis­ sioner, to leova it in tho way it is. • y '-»•' v" THE COMMISSIONER: Yes. MR. DUBIN: It has obviously boon led to bo of rolovenco to tho Inquiry, and at first same blush it lis a dis­ closure of a very terriWo beating. MR. DUBIN: My lord, perhope I might make this respectful •uggestion to my leamed friend, Mr. Gelicr, that perhaps evi­ dence of this nature, merely putting on the record avidonco of a vary terrible beating, which of course everyone would regret, i do not think it very helpful to us. It may or may not be on unfair inference to draw, that people— -.^-. Tijrj v*. THE COMMISSIONER: WeH, 1 assume that evidence is gaing to bo adduced later to htealify these men. MR. DUBIN: It should be tied in, in foirnets to oil parties bore, with something we are inquiring into. At the moment h is merely a statement. MR. DUBIN: i suggest that,ha stands down and wo consider it further. But I would point out to my leorned friend in on endeavor to be of help to everybody that It is my respect­ ful submission that this type of ovidsnce, left in the bold way that it is, is not particularly helpful, and that it might bo unfair. MR. GEUER: May I moko a submission on this question. My lord? MR. DUBIN: My lord, I am not trying to toko anyone's position, but I do wont to help keep this matter on an orderly basis, and I am rather concerned that; ovidenco of this nature has boon load really without inquiring into it and finding out whether it i* or is not related to the matters under inquiry ... It < . 1} /,v" Vv» "• - , -:i-' ' -- With the above inception of the breach of fair conduct, rules of evidence and the prin­ ciples of natural justice, the fliow of this im­ propriety increased throughout the hearing. Over the objections of SIU cotmsel, witnesses testified about events, assaults and threats without connecting or reieating them ta the SIU and its officers. The inflammatory and pre­ judicial effect was reflected daily in news re­ ports. Guilt was determined without proof — merdy upon a recitation of a reprehensible act. We submit that a witch hunt was the con­ sequence. Every time the Commissioner per­ mitted this clearly improper testimony into evidence, he was adding a further straw to his proverbial straw man. The sacrosanct principal of trial by law and not by mob hysteria was wantonly violated. In this manner, straw by straw, the Commissioner completed his straw man. He then proceeded to demolish him and and his Report openly demonstrates his tech­ nique. He premises this technique by first using as a mental peg the report that the SIU Presi­ dent gave to the 1&51 Convention of the parent union, taking out of context statements that physical help had been furnished by other af­ filiates of the International in 1949 and 1950. The Commissioner then concluded that the SIU President was an instigator and an exponent of the use of violence. However, an examination of the record exposes these improper tactics. It shows conclusively that with respect to what transpired in 1949 and 1950, as established by the British "White Paper" at that time and the findings of the International Transportworkers Federation, the Communist movement was engaged in overt acts to restrict the im­ plementation of the Marshall Plan and this meant the harassing, the delaying and the pre­ venting of the movement of the Canadian merchant marine as well as that of other coun­ tries of the free world. The SIU and its mem­ bers were manning and moving such vessels, as a result of which Communist elements in maritime labour, opposed to the Marshall Plan and the SIU, were committing repeated physi­ cal attacks, beatings and assaults upon the members of the SIU. The SIU in Canada re­ ceived the physical support of its affiliates to defend itself against these vicious attacks. The Commissioner has taken acts where a person seeks to defend himself and has twisted them to have it appear that an unlawful act has been committed by the person attacked. Apparently recognizing that his technique required an ap­ pearance of substance, the Commissioner stated that most of the outstanding trade unionists in Canada who supported the SIU President have suffered "a change of heart," implying thereby that this is a fact and there was substance to their change of position. He again conveniently fails to mention that a substantial number of outstanding trade unionists had given written evidence of their support of the SIU, its mem­ bers and officers, but such evidence was not permitted to be made part of the record by the Commissioner. With the foregoing background, the Com­ missioner in his Report then proceeded in the demolishing of his straw man to make conclu­ sions and findings unsupported by facts and, at times, apparently realizing this, resorted to the techniques of castigating the SIU President by inference and inuendo. Examples of this are as follows: The Commissioner states that the SIU Presi­ dent's history in Canada from the early begin­ nings has been a history of union strife marked by acts of violence. The record is devoid of any cogent evidence to even create an inference to support that conclusion, let alone to make such a conclusion. We may assume that the Com­ missioner p'aced reliance upon witness Sheehan relative to this alleged "history of vio­ lence." If such is the case, the absolute refutation, is coritained in Sheehan's own words We refer to the incident involving the Federal Voyageur mentioned above, where Sheehan on the issue of violence created a fabrication that an SIU official was responsible for violence and yet, on his own statements, written at that time, established that such allegation was purely his fabrication. In the same vein, the Commissioner concludesi that the SIU has been guilty of unlawful acts,against persons and properties of individ­ uals opposed to it, particularly in 1961 and 1963. Once again, he makes this finding and conclusion notwithstanding the fact that the record is devoid of evid«ice to establish or demonstrate that the SIU was either connected F«««iNUi/ • I > •- •/• with such incidents or that there existed : causal relationship. Again, demonstrating hi purpose to create an atmosphere prejudicial h. the SIU and its officers, the Commissione stated that persons were afraid to give evidenct before the Conunission because of the threa of violence. The record does not support sucl a statement and it is reprehensible that th Commissioner saw fit to resort to these tactics I The culmination of the Commissioner's conduc j is best demonstrated when he concludes that th' SIU President's violence is compulsive. Withou j any evidence in the record to establish th President's violence, he then compounds hi | error by concluding that it is "compulsive." W' find it difficult to understand this last conclusioil for the record contains no medical testimony upon which such conclusion could be arrived at As we stated before, the Commissioner, ap parently realizing that the record would no support his conclusions on this issue of vio lence, then resorted to the utilization of influl ence and innuendos and the employment o| similar techniques. Examples of this impropej conduct are as fallows: The Commissioner states that the evidencJ "indicates" that lawlessness was instigated ancl supported by the SIU President. He furthel states that persons allegedly committing as| saults made remarks indicating that they wer| members of the SIU, or acting on its behalf. These are illustrations of creating a preji licial atmosphere of unlawfulness without fine ing any unlawfulness. On this issue of violence, there is an arej which history again teaches us is an integrs part, indivisible from acts of violence. It is subject which the Commissioner clearly playe down and almost totally ignored because itj exposure and explanation deal a lethal blow tl the Commissioner's thesis. It is the area and subject of private detectives. Contained in thij record is the uncontradicted testimony of JacI Leitch, the President of Upper Lakes Shippinl Ltd., that a small fortune was paid to privatj detectives; that to one detective agency alone the Citadel Detective Agency, the sum of $36lJ 000.00 was paid, and approximately $330,000.( of that amount was paid to that private detec tive agency in 1952. The "explanation" given fc the expenditure of this inordinate amount wa that the police authorities. Municipal, Provii cial and Federal, were unable or unwilling enforce the law. Consequently, this companj "employed" these private detectives. This the illusion or pretext which Upper Lakes a1| tempted to create to justify its "employment of what the company itself referred to as it "private army." "To repeat a phrase constantlj utilized by the Commissioner, the people i| Canada weren't "born yesterday." The history of the working man's struggle tl secure social and economic justice, in the manj bitter struggles with anti-union employers, replete with instances where those employe utilized private detectives, armed guards an! labour spies. These persons constituted thj private armies thrown against the workin| man. An outstanding authority on the history this struggle is Lloyd G. Reynolds, Professc of Economics, Yale University, and he discusse this subject in his book entitled Labor Econc ics and Labor Relations (Prentice-Hall Inc.]| His comments are most illuminating in dis cussing the policy of anti-union manageme as follows: (Pago 151) The euttamary policy of managemont, wriioa confronted with a threat of unionixotion hot boon to reud unionism by any and all means. Tha methods used hov* ranged from economic coercion through physical vialenca against individuals to full-scolo military assault. Spios woro ompioyad to infHtrate into tho union orgonizotioil and to report union plane ond th* identity of union mem­ bers. Unioit organizers and leaders woro ossouhod by com­ pany guards, arrested for invasion of local ordinanca*b ridden out of town by- vigirontes, orgonizod and armed | by Ibn employer, and occasionally murdered. * * « * Tha union woe forced eithor to abandon its campaign or, I if H had coneiderabl* straagth in Iho ptoot, to call a strika for union recogniKon. The employer then nsuolty eot out to break tho siriko. Striking worker*, wero encouraged to lotuM �September SEAFARERS LOGr^SPECIAL SVPPLEMEN'F to work M IniUviilualt mrf fraquantly thr«al«Md with dltchorga if Ihay did net raturn by a cartoin tima. Strike braekara wara imperlad frem ethar eraei. Additienel cempeny peliea wara hirad, armed with get bembt, block* fecks, end smell arms end used to break up picket lines end keep strikers ewey from the plant. Where local police wara "cooperative," as they Usually wara, they wara also used for these purposes; in soma coses, company police were armed with public authority by swearing them in as Special Deputy Sheriffs. * Another outstanding authority on the his­ tory of the working man's struggle is Sidney Coe Howard. In his book entitled The Labour Spy (Republic Publishing Co., N.Y.) in chap|j ter X, titled "Violence," he sets forth the fol­ lowing: At Page 179— "... the figurehead of the employers' opposition to labor has been the extra-legal detective spy. In all his various emSodiments of himself, as thug, cunman, agent provocateur and armed guard, he has always been, if not the cause, at least the heart, of labor violence." At Page 180— "The official records of the labor detective are almost wholly the records of his violence. The violence of the detective is fundamentally the violence of the employer who retains him. Since the employer defends the detective in the courts, he may reasonably be supposed to have commanded him to the field." With this background, this history, SIU coun­ sel, time and again, requested the opportunity to examine Upper Lakes' records of payments for these private detectives, this private army. Every request was rebuffed by the Commis­ sioner. Later the Commissioner admitted that Commission auditors examined Upper Lakes' records relative- to these payments but never­ theless refused to make the results of such in­ vestigation public. More important, he refused SIU counsel the opportunity to examine these records. This, in our opinion, was most im­ proper when the record reveals that the inci­ dents of assaults and property damage occurred almost exclusively during the same period when Upper Lakes spent in excess of $300,000.00 for its private "army. Under these cir­ cumstances, the failure of the Commissioner to make available these records to SIU counsel, and to the public at large, is a further example of his failure to conduct an open and fair hearing. There is a further aspect involving this area of Upper Lakes' utilization of this private army which the Commissioner conveniently fails to mention, but which ,we believe is of crucial significance. The record indicates that in its dispute with Upper Lakes, the SIU had established picket lines and thus had engaged in lawful, economic action. These picket lines were mpst effective. It is academic that when I a union has an effective picket line, only the e'mployer can gain from any action which would result in the removal of that picket line, such as an act of violence. The record shows that at various places the Union had such ef­ fective picket lines. Nevertheless, the alleged acts of violence never connctd to th Union, resulted in removal of picket lines, permitting the company to break the successful economic action of the Union. Under these circumstances, clearly it was the obligation of the Commis­ sioner to make available to the public and SIU counsel the records of this private army so that an objective evaluation could be made. The Commissioner, again apparently realiz­ ing that his case to establish SIU responsibility for acts of violence is really in effect built upon : shifting sands, attempts to shore up his case by the reliance upon writings of outstanding American legal and judicial authorities. In do: ing this, he reveals the absence of merit to his position and exposes his bias, prejudice and injudicious conduct. The Commissioner recognized that nowhere ' in the record is there any evidence to connect the SIU with the acts of violence. He is there­ fore, reduced to using inferences based upon circumstances, a theory untenuous and, abso­ lutely unwarranted in the light of this record. In doing this, he does extreme violence to the rules of evidence and natural justice. In at­ tempting to, nevertheless, give substance to the "circumstantial evidence" to substantiate a finding against the SIU, he cites Professor Julius Stone, a distinguished American profes­ sor of law, and states that Professor Stone has put the proposition (treatment of circumstan­ tial evidence) succinctly in an article in the 1946 Harvard Law Review as follows: "Thar# Is a point in Iho aicoiHling tenia of probalMllty whon it it to noar to cortalnty, that It h ahturd to thy at tho Odmlttion of tho projudicial ovidtnco." The above citation arid the Commissioner's treatment of the same exposes his injudicious conduct and conclusions. To commence with, the Commissioner is in error as to the source of his citation. The cita­ tion is contained in the Harvard Law Review published in April, 1933, not in the 1946 Harvard Law Review. Most important, it is improper and a substantial breach of ethical conduct to cite one sentence out of a document which sup­ ports your proposition when the document as a whole conveys a meaning contrary to that ex­ pressed in the one sentence, or does not support the thought expressed in that one sentnce. This is what th Commissioner has done. Here is the entire quotation, in its proper context, of Pro­ fessor Stone's article, from which the Commis­ sioner has cited only the one sentence set forth above: "there if a human paradox here which logical formulation cannot resolve. In a trial for an unpleasant crime, evidence must be excluded which indicates that the prisoner is more likely than most men to hove committed it, but evidence must be admitted to show that na man but the prisoner, who is known to have done these things before, could have committed it. There is a point in the ascending scale of probability when it is so near to certainty, that it it absurd to shy at the admission of the prejudicial evidence." The above citation shows that the rules of evidence require: 1. Evidence must be excluded which in­ dicates that the accused is more likely than most persons to have committed the offense. 2. Evidence is admissable to show that no individual hut the accused, and who is known (this means personal knowl­ edge) to have done these things before, could have committed it. It is only when the above tests have been met that the prejudicial evidence may be ad­ mitted. The application of the above principles to the facts in this record completely demon­ strates the Commissioner's error in accepting and permitting to remain in evidence testimony as to acts of violence unconnected to the SIU or its officers, and his ultimate findings prem­ ised on such inadmissable and prejudicial tes­ timony, for the testimony as to the alleged acts of violence, unconnected to the SIU or its offi­ cers, unquestionably fails to show that no one but the SIU and its officers could have commit­ ted it. On the contrary, the record shows that the private detectives or the private army could have committed it, and, furthermore, that it would have been solely to the advantage of the employer for them to have committed it. We further submit that had the Commissioner af­ forded us the opportunity of examining the rec­ ords of Upper Lakes on these private detec­ tives, it might have been conclusively estab­ lished. Furthermore, the second test pronounced by Professor Stone is not met, which test is that it must be shown that the person accused is known to have done these things before. "Known" in this context is equated with "un­ disputed." The Commissioner has engaged in further error in his citation of part of an opinion of the renowned American jurist. Justice Holmes. The Commissioner would have it appear that the principle recited by Justice Holmes is a gen­ eral principle of law, applicable to each and every factual situation. Principles enunciated in certain cases are applicable only to the facts present in that case. The principle cited by the Commissioner is as follows: "But the action does not appear to have been arbitrary except in the tenie in which many honest and sensible judgments are so. They express an intuition of experience which outruns analysis and sums up many unnamed and tangled impressions; impressions which may lie beneath consciousness without losing their worth." (Mr, Justice Holmes in Chicago, Burlington and Ouincy By. Co, v. Babcock 1907 204 U.S. 585 at 598.) The Commissioner attempts to accept this statement as a guide-line for judicial conduct. From an examination of the case, it is shown that Mr. Justice Holmes considered this method appropriate to the functions of a Tax Board of Assessors, persons reqiiired to use an ex­ pertise in a limited field of an administrative 1919. agency. There is no justification to enlarge tht area of the type of function to which this dio« tum applies and it is improper to use this dic­ tum as a justification for arbitrary conduct in the course of a hearing or trial. It would ^ have been more apropos if the Commissioner had heeded the fundamental principles and ad­ monitions of Mr. Justice Holmes relative to the function of hearing officers ahd members of the judiciary whicb are set forth in the pub­ lication Law and the Court from Speeches by, Mr. Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes (Little, Brown and Co., Boston, 1934) at (101). "It It a mitfortuna if a judg* rtadt hit contciout or uncontciout tympalhy with an« tid* or tho ethor promaturoly Into tho low and forgott that what toomt to him to bo jutt principlot aro bolioved by half hit follow mon to bo wrong." . ,.U • ' ""-v Rather than engaging in semantics, the quot­ ing out of context to justify his improper ration­ ale, the Commissioner should have exemplified -judicious conduct and abided by the accepted judgment of Canadian courts on this issue of suspicion .as proof—as exemplified in the case of Rex V. McDonald, British Columbia Court of Appeal, 101 C.C.C. Page 78 at 82, where the court stated: "But Iheia tuspiciout circumdoncei uven regarded cumulalively cannot itrengthen the identification evidence since they cannot give any certainly to it. As Mr. Justice Darling is reported to have told the jury in the Morrison case (Lord Darling and hit Famous Trials, by Graham, p. 101); "You must not convict a man one one suspicion, you must not con­ vict him on a thousand suspicions; you must not add a thou­ sand suspicious circumstances and say 'that is proof. No, you must find somewhere a solid anchorage upon which you can say: "I am secure of this basis'." ) Union Democracy The full measure of the Commissioner's hos­ tility toward the basic concept of democratic trade unionism can be guaged by the nature of his attack on the internal operations of the SIU, wherein he also seizes the opportunity to insidiously undermine basic trade union prac­ tices and procedures which the labour move­ ment has long accepted and extensively util­ ized. A study of this secliqn of the Report by any objective and dispassionate reader, makes it clear that this Report reflects not only a funda­ mental antipathy to the concept of democratic trade unionism, but also to basic concepts upon which the institutions of our democratic soci­ ety are founded. The Commissioner, in short, makes it mani­ fest in this area — despite the fact that he righteously gives lip service to the contrary— that he believes that the people, the citizens of a nation or the rank and file members of a union, have neither the intelligence, initiative nor desire to determine for themselves what is best for themselves, and that this determination must therefore be made by some superior in­ tellect, or authoritarian power, and then im­ posed upon the masses. This anti-union, and anti-democratic philos­ ophy which the Commissioner harbors reaches its full flower in his attacks upon the internal operations of the SIU, as evidenced not only by the nature of his attack upon its institutions, but by the very language he employs in this attack and by his continuous caustic and sneer­ ing comments relative to all democratic pro­ cedures developed and approved by the mem­ bership to assure their full participation in the affairs of their Union and the protection of their rights. Thus, the Union constitution, the base upon which the democratic structure rests, becomes, in-the Commissioner's peculiar view, merely a conglomeration of what he calls "intricate pro­ visions"—a "rigmarole" designed not to safe­ guard the membership of the Union, and to spell put their basic rights within the society in which they live, but simply to confuse them as a means of enabling the officers, and partic­ ularly the SIU President, to institute and per­ petuate control. In this connection, it is most interesting to note the application of a technique which the Commissioner has employed throughout his Report—that is, the creation of a two-horned , dilemma, of a situation in which the person or group that the Commissioner has ' chosen as the object of his attack is damned if he does and damned if he doesn't. " .•'-..-sat: : : I �U. IMS Thus, with respect to the Union constitution, the Commissioner has placed j^rticular em­ phasis on any action by the Union or its offi­ cers which he thought could convey, through innuendo or allegation, the impression that such action was not taken in accordance with the constitution. Yet, when it has been clearly established by the record that actions taken by the Union members and their officers were completely in accord with the constitution, the Commissioner has reverted to form by declaring, in effect, that such adherence to the constitution was meaningless, inasmuch as the constitution it­ self is nothing but a "rigmarole" and further­ more that the members, in approving this con­ stitution, did not know what they were doing. This disdain for the intelligence and the abil­ ity of men to set up their own democratic in­ stitutions for the government of their own affairs, in the manner that they themselves see fit, is again reflected in. the Commissioner's comments relative to other aspects of the SIU's internal operations — membership meetings, membership committees, elections and trial procedures. Again exposing the true nature of his atti­ tudes relative to the operation of democratic procedures, the Commissioner resorts to pur­ ple prose in deprecating the intrinsic worth of these union institutions. Thus, just as he has called the constitution a "rigmarole," he sneeringly and contemptu­ ously refers to Union membership meetings as "facades" for democracy, and Union trial pro­ cedures as the "trappings of democracy." With respect to membership meetings spe­ cifically, the Commissioner displays his disdain for the concept that free men have the right to conduct their own affairs by alleging, with­ out substance, that even though constitutional procedures were adhered to, these meetings were forums for making "pious statements as to the importance of democracy" and says that "all this was a mere facade of righteousness." In this connection, the Commissioner bases much of his contention on the fact that only a percentage of the Union membership attends Union meetings, despite the fact that only a percentage of the population of democratic countries normally participates in the processes of democracy, in spite of the opportunity given to every citizen to, do so. Municipal elections, for example, generally are participated in by less than 50% of the electorate, and Federal elections by only a slightly higher percentage. With respect to elections, the Commissioner here again distorts and perverts the purposes of the Union's election procedures by deprecat­ ing the constitutional provisions governing cre­ dentials committees, nominations committees, etc. In addition, as he has done in other areas, the Commissioner twists his interpretation of the election procedures in an attempt to make it appear that the purposes of these democratic procedures are being perverted for sinister ends. Thus he says that the names of Union officers were placed on the ballot when there was no contest for their office, merely to enhance their prestige, notwithstanding the fact that this practice is widely utilized, not only in union elections, but in government elections in many democratic countries. It is perhaps in the area of trial procedures that the Commissioner's acid reaches its highwater mark, particularly in his references to what he calls the trial of James Todd in Mon­ treal in 1952—a trial which, again carried away by his own rhetoric, the Commissioner de­ scribes as a "travesty of justice." In these references, the Commissioner paints a picture of "a mild and easily confused indi­ vidual . . . beaten down by the browbeating tactics of (the then-SIUNA Vice President) Hall" Most significantly, however, the Commission­ er takes no note of the fact that the testimopy adduced at the hearings established that To^, prior to the 1952 trial, had met with Houtman, the personnel mapager of Upper Lakes, relar tive to a plan to replace the SIU with another SEAfARteRS hOG^PECIAVSVPPlEHEm^ Pace .EiereK union, and that Houtman had, in fact, been the moving force behind the offer of $25,000 to "Todd to create such a union. comments by the Commissions: are but anoth» example of his wish to impose his will, his standards, his criteria, on the will of the Uni<Hi members. ^ When one considers the numerous allegations and assertions which the Commissioner has made concerning not only the SIU's trial pro­ cedures, but also the credibility of witnesses, and the factor of the current Upper Lakes, CLC, CBRT conspiracy against the SIU, which this Commissioner flatly asserts is "no conspiracy," it is not surprising that the Commissioner has failed to make mention of this most significant aspect of the Todd "trial" of 1952, as this aspect was exposed in its true proportions during the hearings upon which the Report is based. Another example of the Commissioner's per­ version of a trade union function, to make it appear that this function is being improperly jerformed for a sinister end, can be seen in lis references to literature published by the Jnion, particularly the Canadian Sailor, which he chastises for circulating "false and scurrilous statements." Here again, we see the application of the technique of the two-horned dilemma, whereby the Commissioner, in various places throughout the Report, has attempted to convey the im­ pression that the democratic procedures, estab­ lished by the members and embodied in their constitution, are ineffectual in practice because of the absence of an informed membership, and yet upbraids the Union for the publication of material which presents the Union position with respect to the many vital issues with which the membership is intimately concerned, as was shown in exhibits filed by the Union during the hearings. Again, the Commissioner perverts and distorts legitimate purposes and objectives, and twists his interpretations to con­ vey the impression that this Union apparatus, too, is being used for a sinister purpose—to "brainwash" the membership. In an attempt to support this thesis, the Commissioner cites from a report to the mem­ bership by the SIU President regarding the dismissal of a former editor of the Canadian Sailor—a report which, upon its reading, notes only that this editor was dismissed for his op­ position to the presentation of the Union's posi­ tion in relation to ship owners. In another attempt to buttress his premise, the Commissioner, in a derogatory manner, re­ fers to the Canadian Sailor's choice of language, commenting on the use of such words as "fink," "scab," "phoney," ^tc., notwithstanding his own extensive use of purple prose and cliches, not­ withstanding the fact that certain words are an integral and historical part of the vocabu­ lary of seamen or other trade union members, and notwithstanding the democratic right of free editorial choice. We submit that the proper function of a trade union publication, or other house organ, is to present the point of view or position of the organization or union for which it speaks, and the members thereof, on issues in which the members are involved—which, with respect to union publications specifically, are frequently of a controversal nature allowing for wide differences of interpretation with respect to the facts involved. Certainly, management retains this prerogative in its literature. The one other area which we feel should be commented upon is that concerning the expen­ diture of Union funds for membership facilities, particularly at the Montreal headquarters, which the Commissioner again distorts into an allegation that the SIU President spent money "lavishly" at the Montreal headc^uarters in or­ der to enhance his "personal prestige." In this connection it is most interesting to note the criteria which the Commissioner has utilized in his evaluation of the proper func­ tioning of a trade union. He, in effect, commends the CBRT because it has spent only $150,000 on its headquarters building and invested nearly one million dollars in government and other securities, while at the same time he chastises the SIU for having spent some $700,000 on buildings for its membership and for having no investment in securities. These are strange standards to apply to a trade union when pen­ ury is commended and the provision of mem­ bership facilities is rebuked with words such as "lavish" and "grandiose." Obviously, these The Rights of Seamen The Commissioner's philosophy of benevolent despotism is exemplified in his treatment and comments pertaining to attempts to establish democratic procedures to guarantee the protec­ tion of the seaman's rights and his economic well-being. Associations of free peonies have historically established their own rules to regulate their conduct. These rules are voluntarilv amended bv them from time to time, in accordance with the changing needs of their societies. It is uncontroverted that in the earlv 1950's there were present in the maritime industry in Canada ele­ ments which constituted a threat, not onlv to that industry hut. more important, to the nation as a whole. Tn addition, within the industry, because of the nature of the calling and the fact that a vessel constitutes the home of the people who work aboard it, rules of necessity have to he established to regulate the conduct of what is comparable to a familv. As society progresses, so do the rules of conduct change. Paramount, however, is the fact that in any democratic society it is the oeonle who are the source of the establishment and the change of these rules. Tt has been no diffeT-ent with the seaman in the regulation of his industrial society. All of the foregoing must be borne in mind to have the nroper perspective as to what oc­ curred and what has been changed and recom­ mended. Within their industrial society the .seamen had established their rules to protect their well-being, and to maintain discipline in those instances where to do otherwise would destroy the industrial societv. The Commissioner, we believe. reco<^nizes this but, neve'-theiess. has attempted to have it appear that the di'c^cipHne which vras imposed in the earlv IQiiO's had been, end w^s being, remilarlv and consistently applied at the time of his hearing. It is most interesting to note that the thrust of tho Commissioner'.s critioism is not directed to the im­ posing of discipline per se but to the absence, in his opinion, of prooer safeguards and the arbitrary mann'^r in which such dl'scipline has been anpliod. The STU during the hearing at­ tempted. time and again, to bring this issue into proper focus, but was met in \rarious ways with a wall of predisposition and bias. Toward the end of the hearing, recognizing that under the format in which the hearings were being conducted, this issue couM never be made known to the general nublic and. once and for all. to lay to rest the distorted picture j which had been portrayed of the manner in which di.scinline had been imposed, the SIU voluntarilv proposed rules of procedure which' would establish, bevond a doubt, that there would be proper safeguards in the imposition of any discipline. Most significant in this proposal was the fact that this constituted voluntary action and re-1 peated assurances of democratic protection for the exercise of rights by union members un-1 equalled bv any other labour organization in Canada, with perhaps one exception. This mo-1 tivated the Commissioner to make some un- ] usual comments in his Report, for the Commis­ sioner obviously recognized that this suggested program and its implementation contain^ the | instrument which would expose and demolish the Commissioner's critical comments. We pro- j pose, therefore, to examine the Commissioner's | statements in his Report and lay bare to the public his presumptuous and improper com-1 ments. In the early part of this year there was estab­ lished, as a result of membership action of the | seamen, a Maritime Appeals Board. Thereafter, the renowned Commodore O. C. S. Robertson, R.C.N., retired, accepted the appointment as the Judicial Officer, the head of this tribunal, the individual to whom any member could ap­ peal. Recognizing that the presence of such a man would demolish his thesis, tne Commis­ sioner has attempted to sow the seeds of doubt as to his possible effectivene^. The Commis- �Pare Twelve V ^ t. » . 4 4 sioner on Page 203 of his Report admits that j on its face the Maritime Appeals Board bears I lome resemblance to what has been generally j held to be an institution demonstrating an ad­ vanced form of union democracy. Nevertheless, he then levies his attack upon the Board, al­ leging that the Board has no law to apply except the SIU constitution and rules and that such are inadequate to protect the rights of the mem­ bers. It is most interesting to note that he fails to set forth the terms of reference of the Mari­ time Appeals Board but instead has tucked them away in an involved Schedule which is physically separated from the Report itself. He further fails to set forth the applicable pro­ visions of the SIU constitution and rules. We submit that he pursued this conduct because the presentation of these items would refute his contention, as we will shortly demonstrate. He reaches the pinnacle of his presumptuous conduct when he makes this irresponsible com­ ment on Page 203 of his Report, as follows: "Allowing to Commodore Robertson oil the good Intention In the world, he has no real freedom of action to give proper protection to the seamen, whether he recognizes It or not." What are the terms of reference and the rules and laws to be applied? How valid is the Commissioner's conclusion that Commodore Robertson has "no real freedom of action"? The terms of reference of this Board encom­ pass the following: 1. The terms of reference have been es­ tablished by democratic action of the mem­ bership of the SIU at the membership meetings. " li 2. The Board has been created to guar­ antee "high moral and ethical standards" in the administration and operation of the Union and is to encompass the rights and privileges of individual members. 3. The Board shall consist of an impartial person of good public repute. 4. The Board has the power and duty to make final and binding decisions of any alleged violations of the inalienable rights of the seaman to employment. 5. The Board shall establish its own rules of procedures and practices to carry out its objective and endeavor to expedite the disposition of all cases. 6. The Union is to pay the full cost to insure the proper functioning of the Board, including, hut not limited to, the mainten­ ance of an office and staff. 7. The Board shall carry out its functions separately and apart from any Union ac­ tivity or installation. 8. All monies spent by the Board for its operation shall he audited by a chartered accountant and publicly made known. 9. Appeals may he heard on alleged vio­ lations occurring as long as three (3) years prior to the date of the appeal. 10. The seaman's right to designate a rep­ resentative to appear with him is unfet­ tered, and he is guaranteed a full oppor­ tunity to present all matters before the Board. Appeals are not made to the Union hut directly to the Board. 11. The Union is required to furnish to the Board any and all records in its pos­ session in the processing of the appeal. 12. All copies of the Board's decisions are sent to the appellant and required to he published in the Union's regular publica­ tion—The Canadian Sailor—a. complete and absolute disclosure. 13. The Board has complete authority to engage such professional and technical per­ sonnel as may he required. 14. To accommodate and assure the exer­ cise of the right of appeal, hearings are to be held at such locations as to minimize any expense and inconvenience to the seaman appealing, and the Commodore is em­ powered to travel to any location to con­ duct such hearing. 15. The extent and scope of the hearing shall he such that, in the discretion of the SEAFARERS WG—SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT •eptember t9, IMI Board, it will bring to light all facts and issues involved. 16. All matters pertaining to an appeal are to he considered only at a public hear­ ing. There may he no in camera proceed­ ings. The Board makes an annual report of its activities which shall he published in the Canadian Sailor and furnished to the public press upon their request. The foregoing are the terms of reference and we have no hesitation in stating that to any ob­ jective person, the "terms of reference" refute the Commissioner's conclusions. However, these are only part of what the Commissioner refers to as "the law to apply." The balance of the law to apply are the provisions of the SIU con­ stitution. They provide as follows: 1. Inalienable rights have been created for members of the Union. 2. No member shall he deprived of any such rights or privileges. 3. Every member shall have the right to nominate himself for office and, if elected, to hold such office. 4. No member shall he deprived of his membership without due process of the law of the Union. 5. No member may he tried by other than his equals. missioner's comments and accusations relative to union finances and trust funds. This section of the Report clearly delineates a major technique to which the Commissioner has resorted. Having once, established his ob­ jectives, which is the destruction of the SIU, the Commissioner then attempts to achieve his urpose by first attacking the officers of the nion. Unable, however, to substantiate by the rec­ ord any illegality — any misappropriation or malfeasance — the Commissioner has insidious­ ly resorted, by the use of such phrases as "reasonable assumption," to imply impropriety, when, in fact, there has been no impropriety. On the contrary, the record establishes that the expenditures of union funds, in the areas which the Commissioner cites in this section of the Report, were made in accordance with the procedures established by the membership, as set forth in their constitution, and that these expenditures were approved by the member­ ship in accordance wiih the provisions for mem­ bership control of finances, as also embodied in the constitution. With respect to the trust funds, a reading of the Report makes it clear that in this area, too, the Commissioner has been unable to sub­ stantiate by the record any charge of illegality, and thus has been obliged to resort to inference, assumption, and innuendo. The matters commented on by the Com­ missioner are as follows: A. Cash advances to the SIU president; auditing committee. B. Officers' salaries. C. Salary in advance. D. Hotel hills. E. Vacation pay. 6. No member shall he compelled to he a witness against himself. 7. Every Union official shall he hound to uphold and protect the rights of every member. 8. Every member charged with violating the laws of the Union shall he confronted with his accuser and guaranteed a fair and speedy trial by an impartial tribunal of his peers. 9. No member shall he denied the right to express himself jreely on the floor of any Union meeting or a Union committee meeting. 10. There shall he no discrimination against a member's nationality, race or re­ ligion. 11. Members have the right to he given copies of the constitution, by-laws, rules, shipping rules, contracts and other litera­ ture pertaining to their interests. 12. Members are guaranteed that their officers shall he elected by secret ballot. 13. Any member may bring charges agaihst any other member or officer. 14. No general strike may he called un­ less approved by a majority vote of the membership. 15. Regular bi-monthly meetings shall he held at Headquarters and at all branches of the Union. An examination of the terms of reference, with their express provision that the Mari­ time Appeals Board has been created to guaran­ tee high moral and ethical standards in the administration and operation of the Union, coupled with the brief statement of the prin­ ciples of the Union and the rights of its mem­ bers, constitute a total refutation of the Com­ missioner's conclusions that there is no "rule of law" for Commodore Robertson to apply "whether he recognize it or not." In conclusion, we ask how many other unions in Canada have voluntarily proposed and im­ plemented such a program to protect Union democracy within an industrial society? We believe it appropriate to inquire why the Com­ missioner, when he engaged in the impropriety of setting forth post-hearing matters, did not set forth the fact that Commodore Robertson has heard cases, has made rulings contrary to the initial determination of the Union, and such rulings have been complied with by the Union. Union Finances and Trust Funds The biased, injudicious and anti-union atti­ tudes of the Commissioner, which are mani­ fested so blatantly in other areas of his Report, are expressed in equal measure in the Com­ e F. Blank cheques; air travel for Union officials; Puerto Rico and Cadillacs; Drummond Street apartment; 1959 In­ ternational Convention. G. Non-officials' air travel; 1952 U.S. funds; personal invoices; additions to Banks' house; auditors. H. Vacation Plan and Welfare benefits. We will deal with each of these matters. It is an historical fact that those who seek to destroy or restrict trade unions, seek first to destroy their officers. Many techniques are employed. Attacks are made on their integrity, stewardship, handling of funds and other mat­ ters of a similar nature. The Commissioner has utilized many of these techniques, as we shall now demonstrate, with respect to Union and trust funds. It is fundamental that in any association of peoples, the rules which are to determine their conduct, the operation of their affairs, are those which are enacted by the members of the asso­ ciation, be this a constitution, by-laws, rules or regulations or long accepted and approved customs and practices. To keep this issue in perspective, we must examine the rules established by the members, which are embodied in their constitution. The President constitutionally is the Execu­ tive Officer of the union. Union jurisdiction and operations are nationwide, with installations throughout Canada. Many of the Union's opera­ tions also touch various parts of the United States, if not the entire world. The SIU Presi­ dent is required, among other things, to "strive to enhance the strength, position and prestige of the Union," and to carry out the purposes and objects which are, among other things, to promote, protect, improve and maintain the lot of the seaman in the legislative field, in relations with the industry and employers, and in relations with other trade unions, national, international and foreign. In furtherance of these objects and purposes, the record clearly establishes that the Presi­ dent is required to travel extensively and spend extraordinary time in discharging these respon­ sibilities. Meetings and conferences requiring his attendance are held at various times and places. As the Chief Executive Officer, it is the, • f-3r '• �•tptcnbcr M, MM SEAFARERS LOG—SPECIAL SVPPLEMENT President who must make and incur substantial expenses to accomplish the purposes and ob­ jects of the Union/Like any Chief Executive Officer, whether of a business enterprise, an association or a government agency, it is he who must enhance the prestige of the entity and thus is required to make expenditures which lesser officials could not j): are not re­ quired to make. Furthermore, the re.,urd shows that the foregoing requirement to travel ex­ tensively is for sustained periods; to meet and confer with officials who are representatives of other entities, which are of assistance and which have aided the membership in the ad­ vancement of' their purposes and objects. It is in this light that the expenditures made by a Chief Executive such as the SlU President must be evaluated. rules and regulations which he, the Commis­ sioner, believes is best for them. Of equal significance is the factor as to whether or not expenditures made are reason­ able. The accepted and usual test is the work to be performed, or services rendered, and the results secured. We therefore examine the ex­ penditures with the foregoing background — the requirements, the work performed and services rendered and the results secured, bear­ ing in mind, however, that at all times such expenditures are pursuant to the rules and reg­ ulations of the Union—in this case, the consti­ tution. B. In discussing officers' salaries, the Com­ missioner does not find any illegality in the fixing or payment of the sums, since these have been approved by the members as constitu­ tionally required. Instead, he again resorts to the inference that there was some impropriety because the members approved net salaries, after taxes, as distinguished from gross salaries. Any objective person knows that there is no impropriety here, since this method of pay­ ment was approved by the membership, A. The Commissioner finds over a period of four years that there was approximately $20,000.00 a year spent by the SIU President for traveling and other expenses, and inferentially suggests that such sums are exhorbitant, and that the President's accounting for them was loose. This is the typical technique of an attack of antiunionists. There is not a charge that there has been misappropriation, but the snide infer­ ence based on utilization of the phrase that such is a "reasonable assumption." In a feeble at­ tempt to support such an assumption, the Com­ missioner relies upon the paper pillar of finding fault with the manner in which such expendi­ tures were accounted for. The Commissioner knows full well that by this technique he is blatantly ignoring the constitutional require­ ments as to how the expenses are to be ac­ counted for, and instead is seeking to impose upon the Union what he believes should be the accounting procedure. The Commissioner knows very well that the members of this society of trade-unionists have determined the policy to be pursued—to wit, the election at regular membership meetings of rank and file members to constitute a finan­ cial or auditing committee to examine, approve or reject the expenditures made by the officers, including the Chief Executive Officer, the Pres­ ident. This constitutional procedure demonstrates that the ultimate power, the checks and bal­ ances on expenditures, as well as other mat­ ters affecting their Union and its operations, remains in the hands of the membership. We cannot help but comment that such protective devices are not contained within the constitu­ tion or rules and regulations of most other unions. On the contrary, in such other unions, the authority is reserved to a small select group to the exclusion of the general mem­ bership. The record further shows that with respect to such expenditures, the auditing or financial committee, duly elected by the membership, time and again has approved and authorized them and the committee reports have regu­ larly and consistently been read and made known to the members, who have further ap­ proved and authorized such expenditures. Frankly, we aie not surprised at the tech­ nique engaged in by the Cornmissioner, for at the very outset we maintained that the Com­ missioner lacked objectivity and was intent upon the destruction of this union. His anti­ union animus and totalitarian expressions and recommendations are established conclusively by his expressions in this area. For what he is seeking to do, and proposes, is that the ideas, expre.ssion, beliefs and self-determinations of the membership, as reflected in their constitu­ tion, procedures, customs and practices, in the case of expenditures, which are handled by the financial committee as described above, as well as in other areas of self-rule, be forcefully brushed aside and instead impose upon them This technique which we have described, utilized time and again by anti-unionists, is used by the Commissioner in this area dealing with union finances. He does not—because, we submit, the record will not justify this—make the unqualified charge of misappropriation of any funds. Instead, he utilizes such inferences or colloquialisms as "reasonable assumptions," to imply impropriety. This is most significant because he cannot establish by the record that there has been any misappropriation. Obviously, however, to con­ cede this would destroy his patent motive— the destruction of the Union by first destroying its officers. C. The Commissioner's conduct is again dem­ onstrated by his inference that there was some impropriety in the fact that the Union advanced the President's salary. Again, he makes no finding of illegality, because he cannot estab­ lish this by the record. It is appropriate to note at this time the in­ consistent position taken by the Commissioner. On the one hand, he states that the President was apparently in constant need of money, thus the salary advances. On the other hand, he concludes that the President had unrestricted access to Union funds, and in the guise of ex­ penses could draw funds at will. Clearly the Commissioner's bias and prejudice have so blinded him as to bring him to this anomalous position. D. Pursuing his technique, the Commissioner creates an atmosphere of criticism because the Union President, while on Union business, stayed at quality hotels, although such accom­ modations are consistent with his executive po­ sition. The Commissioner then proceeds to set forth that the registration at some of these hotels reflected a stay of Mr. and Mrs., and then sets forth that the SIU president was not mar­ ried during this period. He omits the facts that no representative of the hotels ever testified as to these registrations; that the Commission­ er's premise is solely that of unsigned registra­ tion cards; that the SIU President under oath, unequivocally denied any such registration, and notwithstanding the fact that he offered in com­ plete refutation, and in support of his testimony similar documents from a subject hotel showing registration error. Nevertheless, the Commis­ sioner refused to admit such documentary evi­ dence. E. Another area where the Commissioner again engages in an obvious plan to prejudice and more clearly to influence a conditioning of mind against the SIU is demonstrated in his treatment of the SIU chief executive's vacation pay. The record demonstrates beyond contra­ diction that the chief executive of the SIU had but one holiday in approximately ten years; that, in fact, he was continuously engaged in the iDUsiness of his organization and that, there­ fore, he subsequently received this accrued vacation. The Commissioner, without making such a finding, for obviously he himself recog­ nizes that such a finding would be without sub­ stance, then implies that the SIU President, in effect, had received his vacations or holidays by saying that Banks was supposedly attending to business in Puerto Rico and Florida and these areas are also resort areas, so that con­ sequently Banks must have had a holiday at those periods. This is a display of mental gym­ nastics. The fact remains and the record clearly establishes that the SIU President at every one of these occasions was engaged in Union busi­ ness. In the same vein, the Commissioner implies that there is something improper in the fact that the SIU President obtained his accrued vacation after ten years and received payment of the same at the current rate of pay. It is the Page Tbirteei. time the vacation is taken which is the control­ ling factor. The conditions have changed, coste of necessity have changed. Encompassed in this area also is the fact that the SIU President did not have the use of the money during this ten-year period. F. The Commissioner again repeats his en­ tire purpose of attempting to destroy the trade union, by first destroying its officers, by set­ ting forth under this issue of finances a group of subjects without making any charge of ille­ gality or violation of the constitution, but nev­ ertheless uses them in an attempt to weave a pattern or create a climate that there has been some impropriety. He editorializes in connection with those items although never making any finding of such illegality or constitutional vio­ lation. Examples of this are as follows: In an attempt to create an atmosphere of impropriety without making such finding, the Commis­ sioner recites the fact that the SIU President, while on business in Puerto Rico, had with him blank cheques signed by another officer of the Union, and that the same were used for ex­ penses at that time. The Commissioner makes no further comment leaving this matter dan­ gling—an obvious attempt to create an aura of impropriety without substance. Again with respect to air travel for Union officials, the Commissioner makes the state­ ment that Union officials have travelled in style. This is another example where there is no charge of impropriety nor a violation of con­ stitutional provisions — the Commissioner merely again attempting to create a climate of impropriety without substance. The height of the Commissioner's unfair con­ duct is reached with respect to his comments as to the fact that the SIU President had his auto­ mobile transported to Puerto Rico during his stay on Union business. The Commissioner at­ tempts to create the impression that the cost for this transportation was paid for by the Union. The fact remains, however, that the Commissioner was fully informed of the fact that his auditors examined the books and rec­ ords of the Union and ascertained conclusively that the cost for the same was paid for person­ ally by the chief executive and cancelled cheques evidencing the payment were pre­ sented. The Commissioner does not reveal this fact and his concealment of the same demon­ strates his improper conduct in the treatment of this issue. Time and again the Commissioner has dem­ onstrated his philosophy that it is he who knows what is best for the members, com­ pletely disregarding the rules set up by them for the regulation of their own affairs, includ­ ing the manner in which funds are to be dis­ bursed. Further examples of this are provided by his gratuitous statements to the effect that the Union furnished its President with a Cad­ illac. He does not find any illegality or violation of the constitution but substitutes his judgment in determining that it is unreasonable, disre­ garding the members' determination to the con­ trary. In the same vein is his treatment of the Drummond Street apartment utilized by the Union for its business to implement its objects and purposes. The Commissioner substitutes his judgment for that of the members, finding nothing illegal but, in his opinion, unreason­ able, again disregarding the members' determi­ nation to the contrary. A further example is the Commissioner's treatment of monies expended for the 1959 In­ ternational Convention. It is undisputed that pursuant to custom and practice, the host af­ filiate assumes substantial obligations of the expenditures for the Convention. The amount thereof is determined by the host union. Here again, the Commissioner does not find any illegality but, in his judgment, the amount expended is unreasonable. Once more, he sub­ stitutes his judgment for that of the Union and its members. The above demonstrates the Commissioner's philosophy that the seamen do not know what is best for them or how to expend their money. He therefore usurps their prerogatives and ar­ bitrarily sets the standards. "This concept is alien in any free association of peoples. G. The Commissioner, although charged with finding facts on the basis of the evidence, has taken over the role of a prosecutor anxious to �Pa«« ^ourtim convict and for this purpose selects evidence and chooses words which do not reflect the whola truth. As an example, in his Report the Commis­ sioner states that there were seven occasions during the past three years when T.C.A. air travel tickets were purchased for other than Un­ ion officials. He calls them "examples," implying that there are substantially more instances. The fact that these are the only instances and that with respect to those the record indicates that the membership gave its express ap­ proval for those expenditures not reimburse because it judged that its chief executive re­ quired the services for which these expendi­ tures were made while he was disabled. The viciousness and unfairness of the Commis­ sioner's conduct in this area of finances is most aptly shown by his comments relative to what he refers to as 1952 U.S. funds and personal invoices. With respect to the former, although no charge was levied during the hearing, nor request made of the Union or its officials to present evidence or explanation thereof, the Commissioner, upon the writing of his Report, then converts it into a charge without even an opportunity for reply. This long after the hear­ ings have terminated. Not only does this do violence to the basic concept that there should be no post-hearing matters, but we have a com­ pounding of the error by post-hearing charges and conviction. One can only assume, and prop­ erly so, that the reason for this conduct by the Commissioner was solely to inflame and pre­ judice. In the same vein is the Commissioner's treatment relative to a personal invoice almost ten years old which never was a subject of the matter of the hearing, nor was any charge lev­ ied concerning the same or proof submitted, or any question raised. Nevertheless, long after the close of the hearing, the Commissioner first raises the question that some evidence should have been produced to the Commission even though it clearly appears from the record that it was never requested. What could be a more vicious example of the denial of the principle of ncitural justice? The reason for this conduct is apparent. This is further step in the Commis­ sioner's plan to prejudice and destroy. It is an accepted fact that in many areas, that which is not reported is more significant than material which is reported. It is a technique of utilizing either half-truths or failing to report or set forth the full story. A classic example of this technique is demonstrated by the Com­ missioner in reference to alleged additions to the President's house. His recitation would have it appear that certain individuals on the payroll of the Union were in fact engaged in performing personal services of construction upon the home of the chief executive of the Union. This recitation is based upon only one side of the testimony. However, when the full testimony is presented it establishes, by docu­ mentary evidence, that such individuals could not have been performing this alleged work because the same was being performed and had been done by an outside contractor whose con­ tract and the payment for such services pro­ vided therein totally refutes the one side of the testimony presented by the Commissioner. The nature of the Commissioner's position on this matter is premised substantially upon the testimony of Sheehan, the person who, upon any objective standards, has been completely discredited as previously demonstrated. A further measure of the absence of merit to the Commissioner's evaluation of these pro­ ceedings is clearly demonstrated in his com­ ments to the auditors employed by the Union. Not only is he unable to find impropriety, he cannot even find a suspicion of the same and is relegated to employing the tactics of utilizing inference upon inference. This is demonstrated when he employs the language that "it would appear" that the auditors were discharged be­ cause of an attempt to correct irregularities. This is violation of every basic principle of fair play to demean, prejudice and inflame. It is particularly objectionable because in the rec­ ord is the uncontradicted testimony that the auditors for the Union were not discharged but, on the contrary, the relationship was mu­ tually terminated for reasons wholly unrelated to the purpose the Commissioner intended to imply. In fact, these auditors, in their reports, reporting on the Union's finances, accounting, books and records, states as follows; "Abkowgli riMr* hav* bfn qiiit* a Hw diangai in riia •ccaMiting part•IHMI riwrinf th* yaar, lh« boaks af occovnla •IMI racorda «ra baing avail ba|rt mmd ava bava aa racanw mandorion for improvamanla at thla^tima." This is contained in Exhibit 0-162. H. As a result of the efforts of the SIU, vacati<m plan and welfare benefits were negotiated. It is unquestioned and the Commissioner so recognized that there was not a scintilla of evi­ dence in the record to find t r even imply that there had been any misappropriation or diver­ sion of any of the funds. Clearly recognizing that in this area he could not make any find­ ings detrimental to the SIU or its officers, the Commissioner then adopts the technique of at­ tempting to deprecate the plans themselves and the manner in which they were being adminis­ tered, exemplifying once again his determina­ tion to substitute his judgment, his opinion, his rules for those enacted by the membership. With respect to the vacation plan, the Com­ missioner attempts to create the impression that the establishment of this vacation plan was not in accordance with prior practices in indus­ trial relations but was a device solely for the purpose of enabling the executive officers of the Union to control the membership and the Union. The record, however, establishes to the contrary for the correspondence from the Di­ rector of Industrial Relations to the Union, par­ ticularly the Director's letter of March 13, 1961 specifically states that the Minister of Labour has already approved vacation plans jointly administered by trade unions and employers. This letter is a complete refutation to the im­ plication sought to be established by the Com­ missioner, to wit, the officers of the Union at­ tempting to contral the members, but on the contrary, establishes that this is a normal func­ tion of trade unions The foregoing is a further example of the Commissioner's lack of objec­ tivity and his expressed animus agamst the SIU and its officers. The Commissioner then states with respect to this plan that by its terms it was required to be jointly administered by he Union and the employers, and the union and its executive officers were to be severely criti­ cized and held responsible for the fact that the employer trustees had not been appointed, once again implying that it was the Union's motive and purpose to control the membership. The Commissioner, however, completely fails to mention that the record shows that time and again the Union requested the employers to appoint trustees and that they failed to so do, and that in the interim the Union was provid­ ing the administration of this vacation plan at its own cost to protect and make sure that its members received their proper vacation pay. Under the Commissioner's inference, the Union should not have taken any action. "This would have permitted the employers to avoid their contractual obligations and to frustrate the method of vacation payments. Again, most sig­ nificant is the fact that at no time was there any finding or even suggestion that any of these funds were diverted for any purpose other than for the seamen's vacation pay. We have referred before to the fact that the Commissioner has, from time to time, in his Report relied upon post-hearing matters based upon self-serving correspondence, in camera proceedings and newspaper reports, exclu­ sively, however, to the detriment and only where he could criticize the Union and its ex­ ecutive officers. However, it is most interesting to note that the Commissioner has failed to set forth in his Report the post-hearing fact that employer trustees have been appointed for this vacation plan and the reason is obvious. Such admission would demolish the Commissioner's entire case which he attempted to make against the Union and its officers on this vacation plan. We shall turn to the matter of the welfare plan which will demonstrate a repetition of the same t-ict'cs engaged in by the Commis­ sioner. Again the Commissioner makes no find­ ing nor even implies that there has been any misappropriation of any monies from the wel­ fare fund. Once again recognizing that the rec­ ord under no circumstances could justify any finding of misappropriation, the Commissioner then criticizes the administration of the fund and seeks to fix such criticism solely upon the Union and its officers notwithstanding' the fact that this fund is jointly administered by the Union and management. To accomplish this objective, he resorts to his technique of seek­ ing to "impose his rules and his opinions ujwn the welfare fund, instead of the determination and decisions of Union-management represen­ tatives who have established appropriate rulea. We intend later in this analysis to set forth in detail our comments on other criticisms mad* by the Commissioner. However, there is one area relative to the Commissioner's criticisms on this welfare plan which requires immediate refutation. The Commissioner has deliberately withheld in his Report crucial matter^ concern­ ing the welfare fund and instead has tucked it away in a Schedule. The Commissioner in his Report at Page 224 refers to certain findings made by the Chief Actuary of the Department of Insurance of Canada. It is most interesting to note that in referring to that document, the Commissioner sets forth certain shortcomings of the plan pointed out by the Chief Actuary. The Commissioner, however, has deceived the public by failing to mention that the items listed by him as criticisms are only incidental to the general conclusions made by the Chief Actuary relative to this plan. As in any plan, there is always room for some measure of criticism or improvement. What is important is the basic structure. The Chief Actuary's con­ clusions relative to the welfare plan are found in Schedule 46, Pages 577-587 at Page 586: "Th« ganaral caiKlatim MiMrgint fr*m o«r h that ih« bailc ilructura of tho Plao may bo coniidaro«l ai (olUfactory. Tho bonofiti oppoor to bo welt-choion and adoquata, tha aligibility provUiont raflact tha condition* of amploymant in tha chipping industry and tha iagal and financial itructura taam* suitad ta tha iomawhat anuuial character of tha Plan." The foregoing demonstrates the conduct of this Commissioner not only in the manner in which he carried out his Inquiry, but in the techniques he employecT in making his Report. His failure to set forth this most important fac­ tor relative to the general conclusionis is evi­ dence of his bias and lack of objectivity. Union-Management Relations Manifest throughout the Report is the Com­ missioner's philosophy which is contrary to ex­ isting law and which society has expressly re­ jected. He seeks to turn back the clock. He refuses to accept the conclusion of society that collective bargaining it is necessary that a union be recognized and represent the interest of the employees. He prefers instead the benev­ olent employer who will unilaterally and ar­ bitrarily determine the measure of the emjloyees' industrial welfare. Time and again he las expressed this thought by refusing to accept ong established trade union practices. He has criticized the normal and usual implementation by a union of these established practices. He objects to a union impinging upon matters which he maintains are solely the province of the employer. In substance he accepts the prin­ ciple that workers in a society speak through and are represented by their union as a collec­ tive bargaining representative, but he openly refuses to accept the functions of a trade imion and to accomplish his purpose has distorted and attempted to make it appear that the dayto-day operations of a trade union are sinister and something adverse to the betterment of an industrial society. No industrial society could accept this philosophy. It would signify the eventual erosion, if not destruction, of the trade union movement. The thrust of the Commissioner's objection to basic trade unionism is contained in his com­ ments that the seaman is dependent upon the hiring hall for his job and this results in the deterioration of the employer-employee rela­ tionship. Using this premise, he then condemns the function of the hiring hall by distorting it to have it appear that the union officials, in im­ plementing the functions of the hiring hall, have unwarranted power. He apparently rec­ ognizes the fact that appropriate safeguards have been established for the proper exercise of these functions, but rather than permit such recognition to be known, he arbitrarily depre­ cates such safeguards and criticizes those re­ sponsible for their effectuation. We do not think it is necessary, at this time, to go into a detailed historic review of the genesis, of the hiring hall and the need for it in the maritime industry. Suffice it to say that the abuses which existed concerning crimp halls, the shanghaiing of seamen and other sim­ ilar abuses have all been eradicated since the establishment and implementation of the hiring hall. This has been recognized not only on this �H. jm-Mmtintnt, but Jn in •fleet, throughout the world. itinent, bu^ eflect, throughouMhe in feet, the SITTf opponent, &• CLC, recog* nized this In its brief, submitted to th« the Com­ missioner, maintaining that hiring halls are a - "must." An integral part of the concept of hir­ ing halls are shipping rules adopted by the sea­ men setting forth the manner in which seamen •re to be Mred. The Commissioner attacks the hiring hall when he says that an employer can­ not promote a seaman. Of necessity, the opera­ tion of the hiring hall by the Union as a collec­ tive bargaining representative, which is its proper function, limits an employer's control over his employees, in the same manner that under accepted practices, seniority established in collective bargaining agreements limits an employer's control. The Commissioner's hostil­ ity to the SIU interposing itself between the employer and its employees is manifested when he takes strong exception to the provision pre­ venting the employer from promoting his em­ ployees. Of course, we must repeat that this is no different than the seniority and collective bargaining agreements which also preclude such promotions. It is this accepted practice, this interposition, in which the Commissioner has demonstrated his thinking, which thinking is adverse to the accepted and proven rules of industrial society. Apparently recognizing that an all-out as­ sault upon the hiring hall would turn back the clock, he therefore engages in a progressive assault upon the hiring hall looking for its ul­ timate demise. Such technique is embodied in his recommendations when he proposes; 1. Abolition of the hiring hall for the time being. 2. Establishment of a bureaucratic hiring hall by the trustees. 3. Creation and operation of a hiring hall by the government through legislative action. These proposals would lead to the ultimate destruction of the hiring hall as a function and " expression of trade unionism because the gov­ ernment would, in effect, impose its decisions and its conduct of the hall upon the member­ ship of the Union. In essence, the hiring hall is the result of the joint action of the membership of a union in a particular industry. Surely the government does not have the right to elimin­ ate and to deprive an association of workers of the right to an essential institution in their self-government. If the workers are denied control of their hiring hall and are prohibited from making decisions with regard to its opera­ tion, they are deprived of the right to exercise control of their internal matters. The freedom of association and its results become illusory. If the government operates and maintains the hiring hall, irrespective of the action of the membership, it can eliminate and use it for purposes contrary to the wishes of the mem­ bership, and no other aspect of membership de­ cision-making would then remain inviolate. The next step would be for the government to make decisions, irrespective of membership decision, as regards terms of collective agreements, wages and conditions, management and direc­ tion, and indeed the entire administration of the Union. Freedom of association means the right of a group to make decisions for self-con­ trol. The decision-making should not come from an outside source. This would substitute government fiat for the exercise of democratic rights. It would im­ pose dictatorial control at the price of free trade unionism. It would destroy the principle of self-deter­ mination. As Baron Stowell, a British AttorneyGeneral of long ago stated: "a precedent em­ balms a principle." An integral part of the hiring hall system is the number of seamen seeking employment through this system under rules which they themselves have established. Historically, cer­ tain criteria have developed relevant to this matter. The Commissioner has distorted historical facts and accepted practices in an effort to make it appear that the officers, in their administra­ tion of the hiring hall have utilized it for sin­ ister or improper purposes. It is significant to note that the Commissioner has not leveled one charge regarding the improper payment of monies to an officer of the Union or to any per­ son to secure employment through the hiring SE4F4fiEm lOGrTrSPEfJAL SVPPLEMENT hall, since the record is completely devoid of any basis for such charge, but on the contrary has concentrated his attack on other aspects, further demonstrating his opposition to the Un­ ion interposing itself in the employee's rela­ tionship with the employer notwithstanding the fact that the Union is the collective bargain­ ing representative and is comprised of all the employees. In pursuing his objective, the Commissioner has condemned as improper the ratio of men registered at the hiring hall to jobs available in the industry. He has criticized, and improp­ erly so, the amount which newcomers are re­ quired to pay as their share for dues and'the fact that such new people entering the industry are required to wait a period of 18 months prior to becoming full book members of the Union. The record reveals that there are approxi­ mately 7,700 jobs available in the industry and that there are approximately 15,000 persons, including both probationary membfers (the newcomer) and full book members. This repre­ sents a ratio of a little less than two to one. The Commissioner condemns this and in doing so has blinded himself to the historical factors, the accepted authorities and facts relevant to this issue of the appropriate ratio in the mari­ time industry. The most recent pronouncement by one of the outstanding authorities in the maritime industry on this continent, Mr. George Home, Maritime Editor of the New York Times, was made on August 17, 1963 where he stated, in commenting upon the ratio of seamen to available jobs in the mari­ time industry in the United States, which is comparable if not identical with that of Canada: "The country'* entire total merchant marine hat about 50,000 job* in oil categories, and there are about 100,000 union member*." One of the most exhaustive surveys on this continent with respect to the maritime industry was last conducted in 1958 by the United States Department of Labor in cooperation with the Federal Maritime Board and the Maritime Ad­ ministration of the United States Department of Commerce. This survey is further historical evidence of the customs, practices and condi­ tions in the maritime industry. With respect to unlicensed seamen, the number available for employment and the incidence of employment, this survey found that 25% of the unlicensed seamen were not even considered industry-con­ nected, the definition of "industry-connected" beir^ that a seaman had to appear at least once during a six-month period within the one year period surveyed. The oil tanker industry operating tankers in the intercoastal and coastal trades between the United States and Canada maintains a ratio of at least two men available for every job. The foregoing does not even take into consideration the number of replacements necessary for illness, injury and the important factor that so many people seek employment in this industry for a few trips to satisfy their lore for the sea. The foregoing are accepted factors by any knowledgable person in the maritime industry. With respect to the Commissioner's criticism relative to the monies which probationary book members are required tq pay, his statement that the amount is altogether out of proportion to any services they are receiving is totally unwarranted and inserted clearly for prejudicial purposes. It is uncontested that the Union main­ tains substantial facilities for aU its members, both probationary and book. These premises provide facilities not only for the operation of the hiring halls, but of equal importance facili­ ties where the seamen can gather, be at ease and comfort, partake in recreational facilities, eat well and cheaply, utilize the facilities for their personal needs and comfort, in effect, using this headquarters as an ancillary home. It must be remembered that seamen by their calling are required to and are, in most in­ stances, far removed from their usual resi­ dences. Of equal importance, in addition to the requirement for the maintenance of these es­ tablishments, is that they have been paid for by the members throughout the years and that cer­ tainly any individual who utilize.s the.se facili­ ties must pay for his proportionate share. Once again in this area the Commissioner evidences his philosophy of dictating to union members as to what represents a fair and reasonable amount for dues, initiation fees and assessments. Ttige FUten He again does violence to the principle that it is the union members who determine the rules under which their society is to be regulated and the cost for maintaining their facilities. It is not the function of any Commissioner. It must further be pointed out that the amount re­ quired to be paid by these probationary mem­ bers is the sum of $240.00 which includes six months Union dues which all other members pay monthly, but that contained within this sum of $240.00 are amounts representing ^dl past assessments which have been paid by the members. This is only a demonstration and a proper one of equality; of requiring each mem­ ber to bear his proportionate share for the capitalization which was required for the con­ struction of the buildings and their mainte­ nance. Concerning the third area of the Com­ missioner's criticism, that there is no justifica­ tion for a probationary man having to wait 18 months before becoming a full book man, and that there are no differences in skills between the two classes, we again submit that the Com­ missioner is not cognizant of accepted, proven practices in the trade union movement and has deliberately concealed facts. As demonstrated before, and as a matter of common knowledge to anyone conversant with maritime, there are substantial groups of individuals who seek em­ ployment with the intent of never remaining in the industry. There are others who are not sure they want to remain in the industry but nevertheless, pending other opportunities, con­ tinue to sail. There are those who come into the industry for the deliberate purpose of sailing infrequently, occasionally to supplement their income. Similarly other industries, particularly construction, as well as other seasonal indus­ tries have a period of probationary time which an individual must fulfill before he is eligible for full book membership. The purpose is to ascertain whether or not a person intends to make that industry his regular and usual occu­ pation or whether he is just temporarily in the industry. It is fundamental that concerning is­ sues which are to affect the internal operation of the union, in all fairness, only those who in­ tend to remain in the industry should have the say. It would be ironic indeed, if not in viola­ tion of basic concepts of democracy, to permit an outsider who has no intention or desire to remain in the industry to vote upon and be in­ strumental in establishing rules under which those in the industry are to operate and control their organization. This rationale is not unique to the trade union movement. It is demonstrated in the most ad­ vanced societies. Certainly immigrants to Canada are not given the right to vote, yet they are required to pay their taxes which help maintain the government and the society. It is only when these immigrants demonstrate their intent after a period of time of residency, that they secure the right to vote and set the rules under which the citizens are to operate and control their government. The foregoing rationale is so fundamental, so easily recognized by any fair-minded person that ordinarily it would be difficult to conceive why the Commissioner in this matter did not perceive it and make it known. Another area in which the Commissioner manifests his antipathy toward legitimate at­ tempts by the union to promote the interests of the membership may be seen in certain of his comments regarding the welfare and vaca­ tion plans. As noted in the section on Finances, the Com­ missioner has tried very hard to convey the impression that there has been some impro­ priety in the administration of the funds of these plans, but has been unable to establish any case on the basis of the record. The Com­ missioner has therefore concentrated much of his attack on these plans by devoting himself to an effort to show that the purposes of the plans have been twisted to make them instruments by which the Union could unfairly interpose itself between the employer and the employee. With respect to the vacation plans specifically, the Commissioner has criticized the fact that Union members obtain their vacation monies from the Union. On the other hand, he has cited as examples of the proper administration of vacation plans, those plans under which vacation benefits are paid directly by the em­ ployer to the employee. Once again he refuses �wwM«Mtec SRtFJMEiia Ut€---^S^tAL SVF]^i^MSP^ to accept the natural ri^t oi the emidoyeee to protect themselves through their unioii. We have set forth before some of our comments as to the Commissioner's treatment of the subject of the welfare funds under our title Finances. The Commissioner's animus to the union inter­ posing itself in the relationship between _the employer and employees is again demonstrated in his criticism of the fact that the welfare fund is self-administered. It is not an insured plan, under which the employer has the highest degree of unilateral control over the benefits. It is he who retains the insurance company, makes the appropriate arrangements and re­ ceives the appropriate dividends, whereas under a self-funded plan it is the union and manage­ ment who, without the necessity for payment of certain commissions and fees, administer the plan, and any savings such as dividends re­ main in the fund. The significant factor is that the employee under the latter plan is not de­ pendent upon the employer for his benefits. This, to the Commissioner, is dependency by the member upon the union and therefore con­ trary to his thinking. Consequently, he con­ demns it. Pattern Bargaining The Commissioner has devoted a significant part of his Report to the collective bargaining history between the SIU and its contracted companies on the Great Lakes, and has made further comments relative to the economic position of the industry. In treating these sub­ jects, he has again manifested his lack of ob­ jectivity and his bias. He has failed to set forth salient facts which the public was entitled to know and, by doing so, has demonstrated hos­ tility to accepted trade union practices. His initial attack upon trade Unionism is contained in his treatment of what is commonly referred to as pattern bargaining. The Commissioner condemn-; the fact that a labor organization, in this instance, the SIU, first makes a contract with one employer and then other employers in the industry are requested to execute similar contracts. He concludes that this is improper because it precludes competition between em­ ployers and vests monopolistic power in the hands of union officials to be imposed upon the rest of an industry. The history of collective bargaining, not only in maritime, but other industries as well, demonsirates that the establishment of uniform wages and conditions of employment within any given industry best promotes the interests, not only of the workers in that industry, but of the industry itself and of the general pub­ lic as well. The principal of pattern bargaining has been accepted in almost every organized in­ dustry in the Western Hemisphere. With respect to the maritime industry spe­ cifically, it is necessary that uniform wages and working conditions be established in view of the nature of the industry wherein employees, both historically and of necessity, move from company to company, ship to ship, as con­ trasted with shore-side industries. "The regular and consistent practice has been, not only in maritime but even in short-side industries, for the union to negotiate with a segment of an industry or one of the larger employers in the industry, and after the terms of the agreement have been arrived at, similar agreements are then signed with the other employers. This is commonly referred to in industry relations as "pattern bargaining." There is nothing evil in this, there is nothing improper. On the contrary it is salutory. It assures the employees of con­ sistent and equal wages, working conditions and fringe benefits. It assures to the industry equal labor costs. It precludes any employer from having cost advantage over any other employer. The Commissioner has erroneously concluded that such bargaining leans to a monopoly, to the public detriment. History, however, in­ dicates the contrary, because such bargaining in assuring equal labour costs necessitates the exercise of an employer's ingenuity and initia­ tive leading to beneficial results to the em­ ployer and, most important, to the public. We can only submit that a measure of the Com­ missioner's criticism is his resorting to attacks upon -such accepted and proven bargaining pro­ cedures. The Commissioner again demonstrates his predisposition and bias against the SIU when ne ignores the facts and history relative to bargaining in this industry. Thn Commissioner attempts to have it appear that the SIU, as a matter of practice and procedure, first makes its collective bargaining agreement with Canada Steamship Lines (CSL) and then all other companies are required to observe and be bound by that pattern. This, the Commissioner says, is wrong. Implicit in his accusation is his condemnation of pattern bargaining. However, with respect to who has established the pattern in this industry throughout the years, the fact is that CSL has not been the pattern-maker for collective bargaining agreements, as the Commissioner attempts to have it appear. In such attempt is contained the innuendo that a consistent pattern between the same employer and union indicats a "deal." The history of collective bargaining in this industry, for the past ten years, is as follows: A. In 1953, agreement was first reached with the Association of Lake Carriers which consisted of approximately ten steamship companies including- Upper Lakes and CSL. B. In 1956 again it was the Association, then consisting of 15 companies, which first came to agreement with the Union. C. In 1958, at which time companies were no longer members of the above Associa­ tion, it was the Upper Lakes Shipping Company which first came to agree­ ment with the Union. D. In 1969, it was the Association again that first came to agreement with the Union. E. In 1962 it was the CSL which first came to agreement with the SIU. To summarize, in the last ten years there were five contracts applicable to the entire industry and in only the last agreement was the con­ tract first agreed to between the CSL and the Union. These facts are complete refutation of the Commissioner's conclusions and innuendos. In this same area of negotiations and bar­ gaining, the Commissioner expresses a strange philosophy,, concerning the negotiations be­ tween the SIU and Upper Lakes in early 1962 which led to the lockout by this company of some three hundred seamen. The Commissioner, setting himself up as the sole authority, concludes that the demands which the SIU presented to Upper Lakes were unreasonable and, therefore, the company was justified in turning to the CMU to man its ships. Contained in such conclusions is a philos­ ophy which ignores^the facts of industrial life and violates basic trade union practices and fair play. This is a philosophy which could only result in industrial warfare and instability. It is academic that in collective bargaining negotiations, both parties generally start at extreme ends. This is the fact whether we like it or not. In the course of bargaining, there is a gradual narrowing of the gap with an ulti­ mate resolution of the issues. The Commis­ sioner, however, has characterized the initial demands as "unreasonable" thus refusing to recognize the realities of industrial life. Even Mr. Leitch, the- present of Upper Lakes, ac­ knowledged in his testimony that the foregoing was accepted practice and procedure. Never­ theless the Commissioner concludes" that the initial demands made on Upper Lakes in 1962 were "unreasonable" and then uses that premise to justify the disgraceful conduct thereafter en­ gaged in by Upper Lakes, CBRT, CLC and its puppet, CMU. Under the Commissioner's rationale, the existence of what he considers to, be unreason­ able demands justifies employers to make prepa­ rations to bring another union in to supplant the established collective bargaining represen­ tative, notwithstanding the fact that such new organization does not represent the employees. That is normally referred to in trade union parlance as a "sweetheart agreement." The implementation of this philosophy would be contrary to trade union practices, and would create industrial instability. The Commissioner, recognizing the fact that it would be impossible to make any finding which would indicate that the SIU and- its ofiicers were not responsible for substantial improvements in ,the wages, hours and work­ un ing condHkma of the Canadian seamen^ovec the .past decade, concedes that there -was at least a semblance of success in that area. However, intent upon deprecating the SIU and its officers, the Gommissdoner instead at­ tempts to have it appear that the industry has suffered. He finds that the shipping in­ dustry is in a "parlous" condition and has need' ed and received government and legislative as­ sistance. From that he implies that the SIU is responsible and must be removed or de­ stroyed. The Commissioner in this instance is setting the test: damage to the industry re­ quires destruction of the union. Conversely, using his reasoning, growth and stability of the _ industry calls for the preservation and en­ couragement of the Union. Let's look at the record: GROWTH AND PRESENT STATUS OF CANADIAN GREAT LAKES FLEET The gross tonnage of Canadian Shipping, Canallers and Upper Lakers, on the Great Lakes has risen from 721,139 tons in 1952 to 1,063,593 tons in 1963. NUMBERS Upper Canallmrt taken t952.. 176 64 t953.. 176 72 1954., 176 74 1955.. 76 1956.. IS9 76 1957.. 194 76 1959. 193 7B 1959.. 193 80 — — I960.. — — 1961.. — — 1967.. — 1963.. — SOURCE: Tolat 240 34$ 230 257 265 270 271 273 261 244 2T7 208 GROSS TONNAGE Upper CanaUen taken 341,139 380,000 340.079 449,329 347,730 479,326 353,504 502.123 371,901 595,787 384,123 505,787 382,538 520,278 383,062 542,587 — — — — — — — Total 721,139 789.498 822.056 855,637 P'7 688 • -910 VJ2.SI6 925,649 927,748 967,731 1,017,389 1,063,593 Canadian Marilim* Commiision Report*. It is unquestioned that since the opening of the Seaway there has been a substantial de­ crease in the need for Canallers and a greater need for Upper Lakers. It is for that reason that the number of vessels has decreased, with the Canallers being disposed of and Upper Lakers, with greater carrying capacity, being increased. According to the reports of an employers as­ sociation of Great Lakes carriers, known as "The Lake Carriers Association," the following has occurred: A. From 1945 to 1961 the carrying capacity of Canadian shipping on the Great Lakes has increased 194%. B. In 1961 Canadian shipping companies ac­ counted for 18.8% of the 154,200,000 tons of bulk materials carried on the Great Lakes, This percentage was up from 17% in 1960 and 15.1% in 1957. A noted authority in this field, Kenneth F. White, commenting on the above statistics in the Wall Street Journal on July 20,1962, stated: "from all indications the share (referring to bulk materials carried by Canadian shipping companies) is likely to continue rising." In substance, his projection is for increased pros­ perity for Canadian shipping on the Great Lakes. OPERATING SUBSIDIES The Commissioner's inference that in the operation of ships it has been necessary to ex­ tend government assistance is not in accord­ ance with the facts. The annual reports to Parliament by the Canadian Maritime Commission reflect that operating subsidies are substantially confined to ferry operations. The subsidized services are generally maintained by railway companies, the Department of Transport, and various municipalities. In 1963, there are 32 subsidized services. Only 3 of these services are main­ tained by SIU contracted Companies. Of a total subsidy payment amounting to $8,264,740.00 for the current year, the participation by SIU con­ tracted companies amounted to less than 6% of the total. The substantial portion of the total amount is given to railway companies which are under contract to the CBRT. Following is a chart for the period 1958''1963, prepared from the Canadian Maritime Cornmission's annual reports, showing the amounts of subsidies paid to various steamship opera­ tions: �^ : » ;i ¥>1 rfiliftaitir ti; tm SEAfUkiks Pafc tteiMitef SUBSIDIZED STEAMSHIP SERVICES mBWROVINCIAL SEKVICBS jRETWEENf 1958 1959 I960 I96I 1962 1963 Ooobac, Princa EJwonS klaiid o«d Nova Scotia.. 174;«00 174AIOO 174000 174400 298400 298400 Nova Scolia and Peine* Edward Idand 175,800 535,748 558,784 557,523.99 560429 617,000 33,000 33JOOO 33000 33,000 38400 38,000 JW.S50 77,393 67,500 62,500 86;250 27400 BOAWO 97,305 72,000 72400 72,000 72,000 6467 30,000 23,000 — — — — 42,500 42,500 400,000 ..... Nova Scotia and N*w Bruntwick Prineo Edwond Itlaod and Newfevndland. Qoakoc and Neva Seeda s, — - PriiM* Edward Icland and Quebec •— nOVINCIAl SERVICES Brillih Columbia .. ... 331,567 257,166 277,736 282,500 388,000 New Brunewick TU--.. ... 103dOO 103^90 104.600 104,600 104,600 107,450 . ... 2,740,997 8,990,878 3,707,654 4469,002 4,830,178 4,901,988 215,900 194,944 196,900 184,900 180,250 Newfoundland Quebec TOTAL - . ... 197485.54 140,822 142500 164,000 183,134 180,352 1,055,500 1,12^350 1,225,200 1,080,200 1,196,145 1,376700 5,109,486 5,728,884 6481,374 6,793,236.03 8,014,336 8,264740 153,557.50 SOURCE: Canadian Maritim* Commiition Report!. PERCENTAGE OF CANADIAN GREAT LAKES SHIPPING OPERATED BY UPPER LAKES LTD. AND SUBSIDIAIHES The dispute between Upper Lakes Shipping Ltd. and the Seafarers International Union of Canada has been portrayed by the Commis­ sioner as a dispute of major proportions, a dis­ pute placing in extreme jeopardy the Great Lakes commerce of Canada—a dispute which could adversely affect the economy of Canada, and damage the national interest. In reality the dispute affects only the private profit of a U.S.-dominated corporate enterprise and does not, to any appreciable degree, ad­ versely affect the carriage of Canadian com­ merce. The Upper Lakes Ltd. fleet with its wholly owned subsidiaries represents a mere 15% of the Canadian flag gross tonnage avail­ able for service on the Great Lakes. Shown below is the total gross tonnage of Upper Lakes Shipping Ltd. and subsidiary com­ pany vessels affected by this dispute, as ob­ tained from Lloyds Shipping Register, 1963-64. In comparison is shown the available Great Lakes Canadian gross tonnage, as reported in 19^ by the Canadian Maritime Commission: The foregoing is the record. It exposes this Commissioner and is imcon trover ted evidence of the SIU's charge that this Commissioner, at the very outset of the hearing, had a pre-disposition, bias and animus against the SIU, by reason of whkh he should have disqualified himself. Labor Alliances A favourite technique employed by the Com­ missioner, in his campaign of vilification of the SIU, is that of creating straw men and then attempting to place responsibility for the crea­ tion of these straw men upon those whom he wishes to destroy—the SIU and its officers. Such a technique the Commissioner employs in his comments relative to his allegations of an alliance or possible alliance between the SIU, the Teamsters Union and the International Longshoremen's Association. Such a combina­ tion, the Commissioner charges, is a "con­ stantly r^urring theme with Banks and in­ dicates his dream of power." Moreover, the Commissioner asserts, the possibility of such a combination should concern all the people of Canada "in view of the situation in the United States with regard to the Teamsters and the ILA." UPPER LAKES SHIPPING IW. AND SUBSHHAHieS Ship Douglo! Houghton Frank A. Sherman Gordon C. Uitch Howard L. Show :.. . . Hilda Marjanna . Jomet B. Eadt Jamo! Norrit John Erictton I. A. M(Cot«)u«dale .... Mounalca 11 ... .'. Northern Venture '. R. 8. Angu! ....r*.... Red Wing .. Seoway Queen .. .... ................ Victoriou! IMieot King Ibtol Upper loket Oreti Tonnage Total Great Lake! Trade Canadian GroM-Tonniage Fercentoge Reprctentcd Jby Upper Lake! Shipping Ltd .> Grot! Tonnagm S,I07 15,157 12,460 4,769 16,628 3,865 12,464 3,650 4,537 4,678 16,628 ~ 11,816 17,813 . 16,053 4,676 12,339 162,640 1,063,593 15% The above statistics conclusively demonstrate that the Canadian shipping industry is not in a "parlous" condition but instead is prospering and the projection is for continuing prosperity. The foregoing figures illustrate conclusively the Commissioner's distortion of the facts. The gen­ eral public should be made aware that the in­ dustry is in a healthy condition. The Commissioner also takes exception to the fact that on two occasions in the last ten years, when brief strikes were necessary in order for the seamen to receive fair earnings, the Union, instead of striking all the employers, merely struck one or two of the companies. This the Commissioner condemns and attempts to place the Union upon the horns of a dilemma. Tlie Union is criticized for not striking all the com­ panies. Had the Union struck all tee companies, it would have been castigated for being irre­ sponsible. The fact remains that it is the SIU which demonstrated responsibility. It followed a time-honoured trade union procedure of, on tee one hand, seeking, to secure the legitirnate objectives of its members,, and on the other .limiting the. instability . which, of .necessity, flbws from a strikei . ..r , .. The simple fact is, of course, that there is no basis for the Commissioner's allegation of a possible combination, of the SIU, Teamsters and ILA. This is another "straw man," created by the Commissioner in an attempt to force, through utilization of the "scare" technique, action against that which he wishes to destroy —the SIU which, the Commissioner would like us to believe, is responsible for this "terrifying" possibility. The Commissioner has seen fit to introduce in this section of his Report the factor of the relationship between various unions in the United States. The fact is, and there is no question as to the-record on this, that the SIU has been among the leaders in the fight against the HofIa union, and that it was the SIU, in fact, which kept Hoffa off the Great Lakes, when he attempted to move into this area, by decisively defeating him in his attempt to represent the seamen of a major Great Lakes shipping company. The SIU's record with respect to Hoflfa in Puerto Rico, in Chicago and elsewhere is so firmly established that it needs no additional comment here. The Commissioner has seen fit to question the sincerity of the SIUNA Presi­ dent in this respect, but the record speaks for itself. With re.spect to the ILA, also, ther? is no sub­ stance to the Commissioner's allegation. The fact is that the ILA, as a member in good stand­ ing of both the AFL-CIO and the CLC, has resisted efforts by Hoffa aimed at increasing his powers of control in various areas of trans­ portation. The instrument which Hoffa had hoped to utilize for this purpose was the so-called Na­ tional Conference on Transportation Unity. But while the idea of thus proposed cornbine of un­ ions in the . transportation field has been staunchly supported by the National Maritime Union, it .has failed, of fruition due to tee re-, fusal .of both the SIU and ILA. to join or sup^ port such an alliance. The Commission, in this section of his Report, refers to a "situation" be­ tween the Teamsters and ILA in the States. There is no "situation." This is another "straw man." . >Vf Reference may also be made here to the fact that testimony adduced during the hearings showed that both the Steelworkers Union and the National Maritime Union contributed mon­ ies toward the CMU and participated in meet­ ings relative to assistance for the CMU whose creation, as already noted, arose out of the Upper Lakes-CLC-CBRT conspiracy. The possible effects on Great Lakes shipping of such a powerful combine as could be effec­ tuated by the Steelworkers, NMU, CLC, CBRT and the puppet CMU—particularly when lead­ ers of some of these unions have demonstrated their; irresponsibility by virtue of their roles in the Seaway boycott—has not been weighed by the Commissioner, certainly a sin of omis­ sion if not the clear application of double stand­ ards. • ' Summary In a section entitled "Conclusions" the Com­ missioner makes certain observations and state­ ments relative to issues raised during the hear­ ings and based on material set forth in the previous sections of his Report. We submit that, because of bias and predis­ position, and through use of inference, allega­ tion and innuendo, the Commissioner has ar­ rived at conclusions which are not based on fact and which cannot be substantiated by the rec­ ord, and that the premises on which the Commissioner has based his conclusions have been refuted in the previous sections of this document. We submit also that, on the basis of the ma­ terial we have set forth, the following conclu­ sions are warranted: 1. The real and only issue to be dealt with is the contractual issue between the SIU of Canada and Upper Lakes Shipping Ltd. This company, as the testimony adduced at the hear­ ings clearly shows, has been engaged in an effort to oust the SIU as the representative of its crewmembers almost from the moment it signed its first SIU agreement in 1951. In 196162 this effort by the company reached a climax when it arbitrarily broke its contractual rela­ tionship with the SIU in the midst of concilia­ tion proceedings, and signed a contract with the CMU. The SIU now has a court action pend­ ing to declare this CMU contract illegal. Ths action by the company has resulted in the lockout of some 300 SIU members from the Upper Lakes fleet and their replacement by the scab crews recruited by Sheehan during the winter lay-up, while the conciliation pro­ ceedings were in progress. This is the "real" issue—the issue the Commissioner has attempt­ ed to relegate to the background. 2. In the hearings which arose out of this issue, and the Report which emanated from them, the Commissioner displayed bias, pre­ disposition, and a flagrant disregard for the basic tenets of fair play and natural justice. 3. The Commissioner created a virtually unparalled case in which he found credible almost without exception, each and every one of the witnesses who testified against the SIU, and conversely discredited virtually all those who testified favourably toward the SIU. 4. With respect to his conclusions regarding the handling of finances of the Union, it is clear that the Commissioner has relied in sub­ stance on the testimony of Michael Sheehan, a self-confessed liar. 5. With respect further to the handling of Union finances, and the many allegations made thereto, the Commissioner has been unable to cite a single instance of illegality or violation of the Union constitution, and thus has been obliged to resort to inferences to suggest that Union funds have been used for improper pur­ poses or expended in "unreasonable" amounts. In all of these instances he seeks to impose his own criteria on those of the union membership. 6.. With respect to vacation and welfare funds,. the Commissioner, was again unable to '•V. f [ 1 �SEAFARERS MX^PECI'AL SVPPLEMENT find an iota of evidence in the record to support even an inference of misappropriation or diver­ sion of any these funds. Instead, he has had to resort to deprecating the plans themselves and the manner in which they were adminis­ tered, again substituting his judgments and opinions for those of the Union members. 7. With respect to the question of violence, the Commissioner has grossly violated basic concepts of judicial propriety and fair play by permitting into evidence prejudicial testimony having no causal relationship to the SIU, and then attributing responsibility, in his conclu­ sions, to the Union and its officers. h 8. The Commissioner improperly refused SIU counsel the opportunity to examine com­ pany records relative to the payment of hun­ dreds of thousands of dollars to private detec­ tives, despite the fact that incidences of assault and property damage occurred almost exclu­ sively during the period when the bulk of this money was being spent. 9. The terms of reference pertaining to the Maritime Appeals Board, voluntarily estab­ lished by the SIU, together with a statement as to the principles of the Union and the rights of its members, constitute a total refutation of the Commissioner's contention that the Mari­ time Appeals Board is ineffectual. 10. The Commissioner's comments with re­ spect to the SIU's internal operations, and his application to the Union constitution and the implementation thereof of such terms as "rig­ marole," "facades for democracy" and "traves­ ties of justice," reveal his basic disdain for the ability of free men to govern themselves and promulgate their own rules for their own con­ duct, and are made solely to set the stage for the Commissioner's arbitrary and dictatorial recommendations. COMMISSIONER'S RECOMMENDATIONS "No matter how firmly it may be guaranteed, freedom of association may nevertheless be endangered if governments can, under pretext of 'public policy,' forbid the formation of or­ ganisations, control their activities or order their dissolution." Freedom of Association International Labour Office Geneva, 1959—page 112 Canada is a member of the International La­ bour Organisation, therefore it is interesting to examine the recommendations of the Com­ missioner in the light of the principles enunci­ ated by that body. In particular, the reader should keep in mind Article 3 of the Conven­ tion regarding the Freedom of Association adopted on July 9, 1948 which reads as follows: "I. Workeri' and employers' organizations shall have the right to draw up their constitutions and rules, to elect their representatives in full freedom, to organize their admin­ istration and activities and to formulate their programmes. 2. The public authorities shall refrain from any interference which would restrict this right or impede the lawful exer­ cise thereof." The recommendations of the Commissioner are a natural consequence of the manner in which he conducted the Inquiry and the tech­ niques employed by him in the presentation of his Report. He has attempted to build upon a base of a pretended emergency and an al­ leged state of lawlessness. The proposals are so alien to our system of government that, even if the emergency situation existed, which it does not, it would be unthinkable to carry into effect the substance of his main recommendations. m-. I • •' m'J The Commissioner's principal proposal is that the government set up a trusteeship to govern the maritime unions. The trustees are, according to the Commissioner, to be given the widest powers. As he put it: "... the trustees should not be fettered in any way in their de­ cisions." They are to perform all the functions normally carried out by the elected officials; they are to make all the decisions normally made by the membership; they are to be the arbitrary rulers of an association of workers. The Commissioner would like to see the trusteed take over all the assets of our Union, and to dismiss our officers. What is the significaace of these proposals? It is basic to our democratic system that any group of persons acting together has the right to determine who amongst them will be tha officers charged with carrying out their deci­ sions. The right to self-determination is illusory if this is taken away. The decision of the mem­ bership or the association with regard to who shall be its officers should not be interfered with, although it may displease the Commis­ sioner and/or the government authorities. The members of this Union have elected their of­ ficials; they have through the years accumu­ lated assets which they enjoy and which are administered through the elected officials. They have the right to decide what are to be the conditions of work which are to be sought and, if necessary, to strike or take other economic action in pursuit of their demands. They have the right to operate the hiring halls which they have supported and built up and the regulation of which they have determined. What right has the government to usurp our decision-making powers, to replace the voice of the worker by the rule of the trustee? The maritime workers, or any other workers, are not so stupid as to be unable to make their own decisions with reMrd to the persons they de­ cide to have in office, the conditions of work in their collective agreements, and the manage­ ment of their own affairs. To impose trustees is to disregard the right to self-determination of a group of workers. It carries with it the denial of self-expression. Most dangerous of aT, it is based upon a contempt for the ability of the members of the Union to make proper decisions. In effect, the government is asked to say "we cannot trust you to decide what is best for your advancement. We have no faith in your ability to govern yourselves; we know what is best for you, and you will do as we say whether you like it or not." In a democratic society, the people's decisions with regard to its leaders, with regard to its assets, must be respected. It is absurd to think that the very same group of people who are deemed too stupid to elect proper union offi'cials, are nonetheless considered fit to elect their Members of Parliament. It is beyond com­ prehension that the very people who were elected to the Parliament of Canada are now being asked to decide that part of the elec­ torate which put them into office is incapable of making proper decisions with regard to the management of their trade union. It is the height of folly to say that although we can entrust the union man with the responsibility of electing leaders to manage the affairs of the nation, we cannot allow him the right to de­ termine the manner in which his trade union is to be managed. It is important to note that the Commissioner nowhere suggests that the officials of the union are holding office illegally or that they do not have the support of the membership; what he is saying, in effect, is that he doesn't like the officials of the union, that he does not approve of the decision of the membership reflected in the vote. He pro­ poses to annul the will of the sailor and to impose upon him the rule of a trustee. Free­ dom of association is meaningless if the .actions carried out by associations of workers must meet with the approval of the government or its officials. If the decisions of the members are annulled, and are replaced by those of the government, then we have nothing less than a totalitarian rule. Where are the liberties of any'group of persons, of any type of associa­ tion, if they cannot be secure in the knowledge that their decisions for self-control will be respected by the authorities? One of the items in the recommendations is that the trustees "take all steps possible to bring about integration of the unions under a trusteeship." In this suggestion we have the seeds of a system where differences of opinions are discouraged or even disallowed, where per­ sons who have decided to be associated together are being told that they should associate with another group or that they should disband their particular organization. The Commission­ er could not ignore that there are instances where we are before the courts in actions against the other maritime unions. That we are in competition with the other maritime unions. What he is suggesting is that the same persons who are to look after the interest of our competitor, of the persons out to destroy us, should be entrusted to look after our own interest and welfare. We -know very well, la view of the tenor of his Report, and the mani ner in which he conducted the Inquiry,- that this is but a guise to destroy the SIU and to sell out its membership and its assets to those who have attacked it and sought its destruction. The undemocratic nature of the recommenda­ tions is best illustrated by the words of the Commissioner found on pages 305 and 306 of the Report, when with regard to the trustees, he states: "i (uggait thai lh« chairman thould b« a parton with wld* Ugal axparianca and that an affort b* mad* to hava a* a m*mb*r of th* Board on •eenomltt with ipaclal knowUdga of lobdur probUmi. Tho third m*mb*r of th* Board could vary wall ba a parson with axparianca in transport. Tha trustaas should hava tha widast powars. Among othara, thes* should Include the power: (a) to take over all the assets of tha unions and of all holding companies and building companies in tha nomas of which any such assets are vested, and th* assets used by welfare plans of tha unions; (b) to Investigate tha financial affairs of th* unions includ­ ing their bonk accounts; (c) to provide for tha operation of tha unions in such man­ ner OS they consider in tha bast interests of tha seaman and tha public; (d) to dismiss officers and amployaat of tha union and to appoint others. In this connection, in view of my conclusions In this Report, tha President and other senior officers of tho SIU of Canada, including the present administrator of tho SIU Welfqre Plan should not be continued in office or em­ ployment in the union; (a) to effect proper economies in the operation of tho unions." This is the clearest expression of contempt for the seamen. Three outsiders are to decide what is best for them and these three are not subject to the seamen's control. Where there is "unfettered control" and "widest powers", there is absolute dictatorship. To the extent that the government is asked to impose a trusteeship on a union—^to that extent it is asked to impose a dictatorship on the nation. The formation of new maritime unions, the Commissioner suggests, should be prohibited. Another blow at the freedom of association— another violation of basic principles. If the government can do this to seamen, it can pre­ vent the forrnation of new political groups, commercial associations and cultural bodies. It can, for all effective purposes, make a sham of our fundamental liberties. It would make a mockery of the provisions of our Bill of Rights which guarantee "the freedom of assembly and association." The officials of this union have committed no offense. They have done no act which would exclude them, in law, from holding office in this union. The members of this union have committed no crime. They have done no act which renders them liable to having taken away from them their elected officials, their Union assets, the control of their own affairs. It has been, we thought, a cherished principle in our system of law that no punishment shall be inflicted where there is no offense committed. This prin­ ciple, if it applies, applies to all persons living in this country and to all institutions operating within its boundaries. If it does not apply to all, it applies to none. The punishment is proposed to be inflicted on the members by taking away their rights of self determination, by annulling their deci­ sions where they elected their officials, by taking over their buildings and assets accumu­ lated through the years, by destroying their constitution, by taking out of their hands the administration of affairs until now conducted by them, by attempting to drown them and destroy their identity through the pretense of amalgamation with the enemies sworn to destroy them. What have we done to deserve this punishment? Nothing. What law have we broken? None. With what offense, have we been charged? None. There is no justification to in­ flict this punishment upon us. It can be done only by violating fundamental principles of justice. In a society where the end justifies the means, the anxiety of a Commissioner to rid himself of a group he does not like, is motive enough for violating the traditional liberties of an in- �;-.Ai«"^", rSKiFAMBItS l/OQi-^^EaAii mEPUOtm/T < cMrndtul, and dwr^arding caMntial prmeiples of~a democratic i^stem. Ours is not a sodetjr where the end justifies, the means, and we cwnot stand by where our liberties are thrown to the winds and the concepts whereby a so­ ciety.-of free men is governed are abandoned The Commissioner's recommendation with re­ gard to the hiring hall sets out clearly his dis­ criminatory attitude towards the SIU. The Com­ missioner states that the provisions ot the Can­ ada Shipping Act are anachronistic as regards the hiring hall and should be changed. In spite of this, he recommends that as far as the SIU is concerned the provisions prohibiting the operation of the hiring hall should be rigidly enforced. It seems that any way of attacking the SIU is justified in the eyes of the Com­ missioner, even the rigid enforcement of bad laws which he himself recommends should be changed. Under the heading "Legislation" the Com­ missioner has attempted to give to his recom­ mendations the colour of constitutionality, part­ ly by alleging that it is an emergency measure. Of course his characterization of -"emergency" is a facile way of attempting to justify recom­ mendations which may not fall within the com­ petency of Parliament, and which, in any case, eliminate the very liberties which Parliament has seen fit to guarantee. The Canadian Bill of Rights, in the very first paragraph, states that the "Canadian nation is founded upon principles that acknowledge . . . a society of free men and free institutions... Section 1 of jtke Acts reads; "I. It h hereby recoBnnetl end declared that In Canada there hove existed end shall continue to exist without dis­ crimination by reason of roce, national origin, colour, re­ ligion or sex, the follewing human rights and fundcunentol freedoms, namely: (o) the right of the individual to life, liberty, security of the person and onjoyment of property, and the right not to be deprived thereof except by due process of low; (b) the right of the individual to equality before the low ond the prelection of the low; equality M man can be punished (mly for a breach of the law and nothing else. The Commissioner, in his Report, has adopted techniques and has made findings with regard to matters which are be­ fore the courts and which it is the court's duty to decide. He has attempted to deprive us of our day in court. He has proposed imusual treat­ ment with regard to our organization, singling us put for special and discriminatory considera­ tion. The Commissioner has disregarded the Rule of Law and is asking Parliament to do the same in that: a. he is suggesting^ unusual treatment by proposing that we be punished when we have not breached the law: h. he has asked Parliament to remove, the questions affecting the rights of our union and our officials from the juris­ diction of the ordinary tribunals. In a^ tempting to remove the adjucation OT our rights frmn the courts, he is deny. ing us equality before the law. In a government of law, not of men, the vio­ lation of basic principles and fundamental lib­ erties with regard to any individual or asso­ ciation of persons affects the whole country. No matter how much displeasure an associa­ tion or individual may incur in the mind of a Commissioner or a government, the subjuga­ tion of the individual or association by means of "special discriminatory" legislation is far more abhorrent than the alleged wrong sought to he corrected. It is a confession that the gov­ ernment or the Commissioner has no trust or faith in the ordinary laws and ordinary courts of the land. Individuals and associations come and go. To abrogate fundamental liberties for the purpose of controlling an association, in 4his case a trade union, and to suspend basic principles is to undermine the way of life a democratic system is obligated to preserve. CONCLUSIONS (c) freedom of ossembly and ossociotion;" It is ironical that the Commissioner has pro­ posed to a Parliament the adoption of a law which would sweep away so many of the guar­ antees which were reduced to writing but three years ago. The recommendation prohibiting one union from representing both licensed and unlicensed personnel is another clear violation of the in­ dividual's right to associate with whomever he pleases. It is evidently based on the Commis­ sioner's fear that a union will become powerful and be in a position of strength when dealing with an employer. In effect, the Commissioner is telling Parliament and the ship owners that with respect to trade unions the best way to handle them and control them is to divide and conquer. The guarantee of freedom of associa­ tion becomes illusory if this recommendation is put ihto effect. The Commissioner recommends that consid. f?ration he given to prosecuting certain officials of this Union. In a sense, he has already acted as a prosecutor zealous in attempting to obtain conviction. He recommends that counsel he api pointed to examine the feasibility of pressing ' charges. However, we suggest that he is more than overzealous when he recommends that certain officials should he charged with having committed offenses under Sections 409-411 of the Criminal Code. The last two. Sections were • repealed in 1960 and the first does not set out s an offense. Perhaps the Commissioner is sug­ gesting that they he reenacted to apply only < to the officials of the SIU. I .. In his Report, the Comtnissioner writes about . respect for the "Rule of Law." We cannot help but point out that the recommendations and the attitude of the Commissioner adopted in the Report disregard the Rule of Law. -1 . • • - ' . ' If any person has committed an offense against the law, it is his basic and inalienable right to he judged before a court of law where he is protected by the procedures developed over the years, and where he has his day in court, where he has knowledge, of the charges On July 17, 1962, Commissioner Norris was named by the then Minister of Labour to con­ duct an industrial Inquiry into the circum­ stances leading to the disruption of shipping in the Great Lakes system; into the activities of employee organizations involved in Great Lakes shipping, and into the relationship between these employee organizations and the employ­ ers. The Norris hearings were conducted from August 7, 1962 through March 15, 1963, and on July 15, 1963, the Commissioner submitted his Report. , The Commissioner's actions throughout the hearings, coupled with the views and attitudes expressed in his Report, make it clear to any dispassionate and objective observer that the Commissioner perverted the purpose of the In­ quiry he was assigned to conduct,.,and that, rather than attempt a fair appraisal and im­ partial evaluation of the industrial dispute which should have been the major area of con­ sideration, he instead relegated this industrial dispute to an insignificant position and utilized both the hearings and his Report as platforms from which to launch an attack upon the Sea­ farers International Union of Canada and its officers, and as forums in which to express his pre-conceived attitudes and opinions concern^ ing riot only the SIU, hut the trade union move­ ment and the institutions of our democratic society as well. Certainly,' the one fact that emerges with clarity is the fact of the Commissioner's deeprooted and fundamental hostility to basic con­ cepts of democracy which the people of Canada have adopted not only in their trade union or­ ganizations hut in their political and social structures as well. The opinions and attitudes which this Com­ missioner has expressed concerning the opera­ tion of democratic procedures—views directed specifically toward the SIU hut applied inferentially to broader areas — could come only from a mari with an unyielding antipathy to basic concepts of democracy and a deep-seated disdain for the ability of men to govern them­ selves in their own way. »•;, rT7^---•;'*•. PacrrNtecteea Certainly:, one can reach no other conclusioa when one ccmsidera not only tiie ccmunents in tiie Conunissioxier's Report, but the very lan­ guage of the Report and the sneering and con­ temptuous manner in which he has treated every apparatus and procedure instituted and implemented by the members of the SIU to as­ sure the operation of their Union in accordance with the same democratic concepts they have embraced in the political and other institutions of their society. Thus, as noted in the sections of this docu­ ment relative to the internal operations of the SIU, the Commissioner has time and again, expressed his fundamental distrust and disdain for self-government by the people. The SIU's membership meetings, this Commissioner caus­ tically comments, are merely "facades" of de­ mocracy. The SIU's trial procedures are "trav­ esties of justice," and the SIU constitution, the cornerstone upon which the Union structure rests, is merely a "rigmarole" designed to con­ fuse the members. It is true, the Commissioner concedes, that "the vote was overwhelmingly in favor of the constitution. But." the Com­ missioner goes on, "it would appear doubtful that the ordinary seamen fullv appreciated the -effect of the provisions of the constitution." Similariv. the Commissioner, in another sec­ tion of his Renort, contends that unlicensed per­ sonnel on +ho Great had no right to be represented hv the SIU, even though these men ^.Trprwhelmingly chose renresentation by the STU in an election conducted by an agency of thp Canadian government—^an election in which fhe conduct of the voting and the valid­ ity of the results were never questioned. In this manner, and bv the expression of such viewnoints. the Commissioner sets the stage for the contention later embodied in his recommendations — the contention that men have neither +he rifht nor the abili+v to ex­ press their will, to decide bv themselves what is best for themselves, and that therefore deci.•sions must be made for them and imnnsed upon them bv some superior intellect or authority. The nature of the Commis'^inner'c attack UPon the- internal onerations of the STU is in­ dicative not only of his inherent distrust of democratie nrocesses and disdain for the intelhVence of the rank-and-file. It is indicative also of the manner in which this Commissioner has twisted and perverted virtually everv legiti­ mate and accepted trade union practice, on which he has commented, in an attempt to make it annear that such a practice has been perverted for some ulterior or sinister end. Thus, in the Commissioner's peculiar view, the fact that the SIU—^like many other labor, political and social entities—reouires a proba­ tionary period before full franchise is allowed, becomes merekr an "instrument of control" for the union's officers, despite the many valid reasons for the exi'*tence of such a system which have earlier been cited in this docu­ ment. Similarlv. the winning of welfare benefits from the shin owners, another legitirnate nurpose of a trade union, becomes, in this Com­ missioner's estimation, merely another tool by which the STU president can enhance his adula­ tion by bestowing "largesse" upon the mem­ bership. The provision of membership facilities—meet­ ing facilities, recreational facilities, and others —is condemned as another techniaue for the SIU officers to increase their "nrestige," while, on the other hand, unions which do not provide similar necessary facilities are praised for their frugality and their prudent investments in gov­ ernment securities. Similar condemnation, in which the Commis­ sioner perverts legitimate and traditional trade union purposes, in an attempt to make it appear that these have some sinister end, are apparent in his opinions relative to SIU activities in the economic sphere. Thus, in this Commissioner's view, the fact that the SIU has pursued accepted practices of pattern bargaining,, is to he condemned as hav­ ing an ulterior purpose, despite the valid rea­ sons for the pursuit of such a policy which have already been pointed out. ^•m ' V' �mm - •a-'is- , VXV--. t'»"4> ^ •'.U'.'i SEAFARERS tOG^PEChAh SVPPLEMENT -f'.' Pase Twenty Similarly, an attempt by the union to increas* ob opportunities for its members is castigated >y the Commissioner as, in essence, another "deal," although the instance the Commissioner cites, relative to the deep sea vessel, the MV Eskimo shows only that the union was attempt­ ing to increase job opportunities for its mem­ bers in a trade in which there are virtually no job opportunities for Canadian seamen. { In all of his expressions, relative to activities of the Union in the economic sphere, the Com­ missioner manifests the true nature of his feel­ ings by the position he takes with respect to relations between the union and management. Thus, contract demands made by the SIU upon the Upper Lakes Company are branded as "arbitrary" and "discriminatory" without any reference to the counter-proposals niade by this company or to the fact that the gap be­ tween proposals and counter-proposals is tradi­ tionally narrowed in collective bargaining. Similarly, the Commissioner notes that Up­ per Lakes was "required" to employ private detectives to "protect its investment" without reference to the right of employees to protect their vested interests in their jobs or to the fact that historically private detectives have been used by employers to constitute private armies for the purpose of enabling these em­ ployers to resist and oppose the legitimate aims and aspirations of their employees. fe'. On page 299 of his Report, this Commissioner says: Certainly such views ignore or repudiate basic concepts of econoipic democracy, which recognize that bothr labour and management have the right to vie with each other freely, and without coercion, within the structure of our free society, and could have come only from a man deeply and basically opposed to the concepts of democracy whether in the political, economic or other spheres—a man whose disdain for the members of a democratic society is so graphically illustrated by his rec­ ommendations that decisions must be made for them and authority imposed upon them from the top—a recommendation made on the heels of the Commissioner's contention that the SIU president is a "strong man" intent only upon maintaining iron-fisted control over the union members. - "II it III* Rill*^mlnd*cl man In our mMtt who or* ihoti lo bo faorad—nol only Hiota In labour who hova baan ao badly brainwathad, bul paopla In induilry and labour, powarful bul liltla-mlndad navarthalaia—who ara willing lo compromlto princlplai and lo turrandar lha fulura for a praiani gain, ragardlau of lha walfara of othara and ragardlati of Iho whirlwind of notional calodropho which could follow riio wind thay hova town." We submit that the Commissioner, who, for the ostensible purpose of resolving a single industrial dispute which, at the most. Involves only a negligible percentage of Canadian ship­ ping, would strike at the very foundations of our democratic institutions, would abridge the basic rights and personal liberties of the work­ ing people of Canada, and impose upon them dictatorial and authoritarian control—this Com­ missioner would "surrender the future for a present gain, regardless of the welfare, of others." We submit that the acceptance of such pro­ posals, as this Commissioner has made, would reap the "whirlwind of national catastrophe." We submit that the author of such proposals, which must of necessity be so unacceptable to the people of Canada is the "little-minded man" —the little-minded man who, as this Commis­ sioner himself points out, is "most to be feared." Democracy is, at best, an^r imperfect system which leaves the door open to abuses. But it is preferable to the system which this Com­ missioner has proposed and which would deny to free men the right to determine their own destinies in their own manner, without coercion or compulsion. In the final analysis, the issue here is be­ tween retention of the democratic system, with all its imperfections, and the abandonment of democratic"processes for purposes of doubtful expediency. This is the issue with which the people of Canada must deal. Without reference at this point to the gravity of the dispute, out of which the Norris hear­ ings arose, it is evident that such drastic recom­ mendations as the Conunissioner has made, which would strike at the core of all our demo­ cratic institutions, for the ostensible purpose of resolving what is—at the most—a single indus­ trial dispute, cannot be accepted by the people of Canada. The companies are advised, in effect, that if they want to promote stability, and foster their best interests, they must gang up on itn, the SIU, or, failing that, the government will have to step into the picture. In this connection it is significant to note the recent situation in British Guiana where the to'talitarian Jagan government attempted to in­ stitute governmental control over the free trade union movement of that country. This attempt resulted in an 80-day general strike of British Guiana workers which commanded the support of the democratic world labour movement, which exposed the danger to free people inher­ ent in such governmental control, and which resulted in a major victory for democratic trade unionism when the Jagan government with­ drew its proposed legislation. In the same vein, the Commissioner com­ mends Upper Lakes for its opposition to the SIU and condemns those companies which have had stable relations with the SIU, while at the same time attempting to place on the SIU the onus for "instability" in the Canadian ship­ ping industry. I r" .-iiV ••ptemter - . w• / •t : . ; -V-. - .'S - -V • \, -.i , -J'!-.: i;- y "J*?-'' "i •" J*. • "if ,5' .yy^ /- • J : •' • ,i '' •'s ' • i- • • ''' " _ f y'r'' v.: ".y.u-< •y- 1'^ i.. i-'.. • =•- •• . - -^v; • . ? •'>•*'• '•M . I "T. V , rv' V "-o r-'lfXipj-i vi;V-^ ^ -T " y -,.4 -.S.i}.'' --."i /; ' y- / r"-y;y'y>',y- • y'y-V rp. r,, I'y f: •wr«r*' ...iiy •'iwtswy • 'My. ij fji' j:. • .,'L? w. ^i>»; - �'"M" A' ^ SEAFARERS MJOG-^EUAL SVPFLEMENT F«f• Twenly-OM -r-T- TT" 'No Lockout,' Comniissioner Says In His Report, But All Of These People Were Ousted From Their Johs JOHN HANNAH RtdWing CERALD RANSOM Rtd Wing NaUE CANTON Red Wing VERNASHAKUL Seaway Queen ALLAN HAROIMAN Seaway Queen LLOYD WIPP Howard L, Shaw CLINTON BROUGH Howard L. Shaw HAROLD McKENZIC Seaway Queen PETER MEIER Red Wing FRANCIS MURPHY Red Wing JACQUES CADOTTI Red Wing SYLVESTER LAAMERl' Red Wing THERESA VALLEI Red Wing IRENE MARTINEAU Seawoy Queen WILLIAM TAYLOR McCorquodale JEAN PICHETTE Howard L. Shew JOHN DCHERTY Howard L SiMV LEONARD PAHtV Seaway Qoeeii ROSS EDWARDS RedWiot CURENCEPEARO RedWnig AXELLINOCUEN . R^YFiag JAMES LEWIS RedYFIng MARIE LARKIN MewordLShaw LEO CROSSO Seaway Queen ALFRED WHITE McCorquodale ROY MelNNIS Jamee B. lode B.McLENNAN sftss? •iifflfsss' "asBSjr HARVEY MAYNARD JooMt S. Sedi MURRAY FOX James i.Eodi "SISL'ST "JTrJSir' EDWARD lEm James i. Ml •CTK? {Tffl. «nM SnCIMIB oa'saPiSsai. JOHN 6. JEANNOTTI John Erictten CE0R6E SUUlVANi John Eriufea FRANK BERG John Ericsson ERNIE ROAEANO Douglae Houghten HERVIO THALER •Victofiom DONALD LOCKE Victorious TOM O'CONNELL VictorloM RENE KINGSBURY Frank A. Sherman KARL JAGEMAN Victorious BART HAGGARTY Frank A. Sherman JACK LAPOINTE Frank A. Sherman IrvHQ" HfVflllWW WW ^-ssssr , 'MST" HERMAN MARTENS ' • —• JOHN MOORE Vkterieue COWER DINHAM Victorious ALBEV GUITAR Frank A. Sherman JAMES CHILDS Gordon C. Llitch i j:.'..f-.: ARTHUR ROMARO toordon C. Leitdi MURRAYWARK Gordon & Ltitdl FRED LESTEK Geidoa C. Lcitcl _ TEDRYBKA Diugtos Heughtta AMBROSE SHEPPARD Oeualot Heuahton Cordon C. Uitch DANNY RHODES Gordon C. Ltitch iLAUS BARGHSORN Gordon C. Lcitcb DANIEL QUESNEUI Oouglos Houshten ' DONALD ASHLEY Douglot Hougbtoa �$EAFARER$ lOMPECIAIi 9VPPIBMKNT HIINZ SHROIOER -rraflkA.$h(niiaa JOHN BARR R. Bnict Angus EDWARD MATERICK R.Bnics Angus GASTON AUZER R. Brues Angus ROBERT WELLS R. Bruct Angus GERALD CHASSI R. Bruci Angus ROBERT NEWBURN R. Brues Angus UUR. KOWALCHUK ' SIDNEY lOUTIUI Jomtsi. Eods JamHl.Eo* GAETAN NOLET Efonk A. Shtrmaa ERNEST BELURO Frank A. Sksnnaa ALLAN COOK Howard L Shaw ,, ANN CRESS Frank A. Shtrmaa rrTER MARANCHUK Frank A. Shfrman WILLIAM MILLS Howard L. Shaw ERNEST O'BRIEN Howard L. Show HENRY UPPERTON Seaway Quota ' MARTIN AALTO ANTHONY BOND Red Winn UURENCJ DIXOM JOSHUA WEELt Jsmss B. Eads HENRY R. BRAKI JaRissf.iads JOHN ROBSON Jamsi.B. Eads PETER BOYECHKO Maunaloo WELBURN CLYBURN McCorquodule ROBERT ALLAN ' Mounoloo HAROLD CURRii Maunaloa MARY FORGET Jomei Norris KEN KRISTIENSEM Ergnk A. Shtrmoa ALBERT HARRAND Jamn B. Eads WILFRED AUSTIN Maunaloa DAVID SHERK Brown Beover ALBERT McCAVISH ^NDY WUSCHENNY Jomss^fadl Victoriuus M..LEMAN50RIER WIUIAM ROONEY McCorquoduls HUBERT WHIFFEN' Jdmet Norrii PETER GREEN Maunaloa SEATON GREAVES James Norris MdNTAGGART RUDOLPH GALUSKA Howard L. Shaw JAMES CURKI JolM Erksssa "rax'"' '"'wsttr" •m'S"' ""jaiwS" James Norris WIUIAM i;<cDONAU> Howard L. Show NORMAN SALICHUK' Howard L.Shaw lARraT rny Gordonc! Wtch DAVID THOMPSON Red Wing "iMiF' HAROLD STEAD Vklarleus nM'" rWffls, "iittajr JOSEPH OAG'NON McCorguodali I ANDRE BEAUCHSMINi Red Wing Stowoy Quna RICHARD O'BRIEN Victsrlsiis t ALLAN BUNTING HewardUSbow "Sifcii? *"S!5y;s?ss?"' jRIC PIDDLE R. Bruce Angus ; mmm /J WILFRED BROWN R. Brues Angus ALEX REDMAN Jomss 6. Eads JOSEPH WALKER James B. Eads CARL ECCMIRE Jomes B. Ends �• ' '' « 8ept«nb«r M, If 6S fHfft TweBtr-nrM SEAFARERS LOG^PECiAL SUPPLEMENT Victims Of Upper Lakes Lockout And CLC Sellout •ENOITMICHAUO •rown Bcovir JOS BOUDREAU Brown Btovir JIM KENNEDY Brown BNVir ALEXSlMONSON R. BrucoAngut ISABELLA BOND Brown Boovtr NIKOLAS CHIORU Brown Beovor JIM O'BRIEN Brown Bcevor REAL FARENTEAU R.ROBERTS Brswn Boovar JOSARSENAULT Brown Boovtr S.KABATH Brown Btovcr MARYMOZGA R. Bruco Angus JOHNMocEACHERN McCorquodolo JOHN DOHERTY Stowoy Qutin iSSsEisSSS: GRAHAM RICHARDS Douglas Houghton R. Bnico Angus ISABELU THOMPSON Douglas Houghton lERHARD WALKER Cordgn C. Uitch CLIEFORD DOCGETT .fi»nl»nC.Uitdi rmRCURISTAN Gordon C.Liilck MARLINE WOLFI Gordon & Loitch ALFRED GOODING Oougloi Houghton "jJViWotri?' Jomosnorno KATHY BOURKI Joffloi Norrit DOUGLAS FENTOH Jomti Norrii STAN KULACZKOUSKI Jomts Norrii EMILE HOUDE McCorquodoln THOMAS DE YOUNG ®^?o™ Nor^ri"* lEONA CULLEN Jomti Norris MARY KALLOS Gordon C. Loitch DONALD MCDONALD McCorquodolo WALTER JEANS McCorquodoio WILBERT BRAGG Brown Boovtr DONALD URQUART Jomti Norrit MAX STRICKLAND McCorquodolo HAROLD CORMIER McCorquodolo AUSTIN HILLIER R.Bruco Angus R. Bruco Angus JOS PORTER R. Bruco Angus ROY BOUDREAU Gordon C.Lsltcii JAMES ASCAH Jgmti Norris IDGAR HARRIS Rtd Wing JEAN LAIN6 Rtd Wing VERONICA MCDONALD Howard L. Show SYLVIO LALIBERTE Seowoy Queen JAMES O'BRIEM Howard L. Show 1BMililipi Ttus'.ST' 'jasaiOT FINLEYHILL McCorquodolo ID.MeCHARLES fmigtas HsMhton MARIE SA6IMA Douglas Houghton RONALD BOND Oordon C.l«itdi RUTH DOUGLAS DouolonHoughton VICTOR MARQUIS Gordon C. Loitch CHESLEY HOGAN McCorquodolo m^»!s ROBERT HUMPAGI MiCoiquodalg iililii CARMELCAMILIER Stowav Quitn PRANK MENARY Douglas Houghton NAPOLEON DUSOill Douglas Houghton GERALD KEHOI Sonwoy QuRtn WILLIAM WAY DaugluHgiGhtgB KSMSsii! .J EMILY LEWIS -Jomes Norris WON WILLIAMS Maunalon GARYMcVANNEL Mounoloa BERTMOUTON. Douglas Houghton GEORGE DUNCAN Mounsloo ' WILLIAM HANEY Mounoloo FRANK SABEAN Mounoloo ANDRE AGARANDE Mounoloa EVE GAGNON Mounoloo ERNEST GURNET Mounoloo BRIAN RIPPENPAl Jomts Norris �... , y.- •"•;• -. '• t. r= ,xi- ^ -,' I' V"- V' '' ^ • 'V s ,.; (• I •". ' ' y'S S.. - y.." ' . - - •• ' " t '• .y !•; 'T n 'i • I S-'-S I \'i' -5 ' \r;9fi "• "••' • . i- A .>'V| ij t2..; ^ " J ., • -i' ' -/». I '-y . if-'.i'., .«• , 'A\ • ' y\ •'•'•- ' k\ -v ,l lir-.;* ,''•=> ^ ' r3il ..•' • •) •••. v.-.A., : "I, .It I 15,:-..I -;| '.^ :\ ••. ; 'M •^•'•. '• • -, '' •- ,-, it'.'—.; aI ' '•; !«(;. :^ • "! . • -A. ly I •; •••<«•.. ^I . - » "-•.' • .. — .-• -^--1 r' • f. ,'• ",1^ I y \yyLyT-*:, - .-.iV.f ', " •>'.- - . • ,> •'•-'^1 " r:' • :• »» •#•-,, ^ V .1 : ->11 •• , ?• • ^ • • '•• . ^ . •! ' -iJi- .,--3 - • ^ .- I -t • f"v, -• 'i-y^ •, • ' ••' •"•J" "-"3 •••» W ••*>.•• tff^i ..•« "« *f| ,,.'Y %•. ,n-pvvr-:?-j"r.rT.";| ' . ;." •.,'>•>••• fTrf^rl qi' . ,,.•> . •'-. »•, .i.i.„- I,»-,1. I .„ • • , f.-. ,, -,-j, . : f- :• * i ..J • -r^ \ - _ .'T^ .•.•liis-r: : ..,};--*?/•> • "T .•;?•* •t,l :,/''.i - ^I li'.' •'• •• T ., l-.i.-':,'!!'.- •>„ f-tr '•' •' .f'A" ' 'l ji' Y' ^•-.1.- •• • I, ~ r-if.A • ;-iiS-.T -i'VeiV^ J-", 1 .1 • « » :• •- ttu' •;.' ^li." '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 1960-1969 Description An account of the resource Volumes XXII-XXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource September 20, 1963 Description An account of the resource Headlines: NEW 50-50 RULE BOOSTS US SHIPPING MTD OKS SHIP PROGRAM, BACKS CANADIAN BEEF CANADA SIU RAPS HEARING REPORT’S ANTI-UNION BIAS UNION OPPOSITION RIPS BONNER BILL NORFOLK SIU DRIVE WINS 5TH NLRB VOTE IN ROW SIU MAPS PUERTO RICO PARADE ROLE SPECIAL EQUIPMENT PLAN AGAIN AIDS SIU OLDTIMER SEAFARERS TO CREW ANOTHER CABLE SHIP PA. LABOR HALTS JOBLESS $ CUTS SHIPPING RULES SIU LINK SPARKS TRINIDAD WORKERS FIRST HOTEL PACT SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT 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 09/20/1963 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. XXV, No. 19 1963 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/c47c38b74da9372259a1cb5cd25a186f.pdf d850bc00f48c1bd94e3a5794ede89e15 PDF Text Text Volume 62, Number 9 September 2000 New T-AGOS P ct Yields Major Gains In Wages, Benetits I' Maersk Line Ltd. Wins 5-Year Contract SIU members aboard the USNS Stalwart as well as 12 other T-AGOS ships operated by Maersk Line Ltd. will receive substantial wage and benefits increases as part of a new five-year contract awarded by the U.S. Military Sealift Command. Page 3. SIU Backs CWA, IBEW Seafarers last month demonstrated with striking members of the Communications Workers of America and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers near Washington, D.C. By Aug. 24, the 87,000 striking workers had returned to their jobs at Bell AtlanticNerizon after reaching tentative accords. Page 2. 10 Years Alter Persian Gulf War, MarAd Reflects on Sealift El fort Page5 Signaling new jobs for the SIU, the USNS Watkins (above and inset) was launched July 28 at NASSCO. Seafarers are crewing the U.S. Military Sealift Command's newest prepositioning ship, which tentatively is slated to sail in October. Page 3. Wilmington Union Hall's Renovation Nearly Done Page3 �I President's Report Heeding Strong Words During the last few months, many authoritative figures from throughout our industry have emphasized this country,s need for a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. Their comments are powerful and not to be taken lightly. Some examples: Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Henry H. Shelton stated, "Our national security and strategy depends on a vital merchant marine, and the Joint Chiefs and I know it and so do our leaders in Washington.'' Navy Admiral Al Herberger, former U.S. Maritime Administrator, said, "The commercial merchant marine represents a cost-effective way of providing logistics supplies. Ifs a bargain.', Rear Admiral John R. Fisher, president of the U.S. Navy League, observed, "In all future wars threatening U.S. interests overseas, 95 percent or more of the supplies and equipment needed by our air and ground forces in the combat zone will have to come by sea. We cannot depend on foreign-flag ships to carry that cargo." Those are not isolated remarks. U.S. Rep. Herb Bateman, chairman of the House Merchant Marine Panel, called for the extension and expansion of the Maritime Security Program and the prepositioned ship program. Admiral James B. Perkins, former commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, pointed out, "The history of the merchant marine in military service is characterized by high heroism and noble sacrifice .... As former commander of the Navy's Military Sealift Command1 I saw it every day, up dose and personal: The U.S. Merchant Marine is absolutely vital to sustain U.S. troops overseas." Most recently. in a 10th anniversary reflection on the Persian Gulf War, Maritime Administrator John Graykowski declared, .. Sealift is absolutely essential to protect freedom and project America's interests anywhere, anytime in an imperfect world. Crewing those ships will be America's citizen mariners, ready and willing to answer their nation's call as they have since 1775." Brothers and sisters, we in the SIU should feel proud that our industry enjoys that kind of support from such well-respected, knowledgeable people. But we also must not miss the urgency in their statements. Their common message is two-fold; America needs a U.S.-flag fleet to protect national and economic security, and we had better take steps to ensure that fleet exists! The U.S. maritime industry needs much more than a reproduction of the current 10-year Maritime Security Program. The MSP must be extended for at least 15 to 20 years, and its fleet must be expanded. Cargo preference laws must strictly be enforced. Tax reform for U.S. mariners and commercial vessels must be implemented. Additionally, our industry must capitalize on new opportunities in the coastwise trades. With a projected doubling of waterborne commercial vessel traffic in the U.S. during the next 20 years, there is great potential for expansion in the domestic fleet. As always, your union is working closely with our allies throughout the industry to achieve these goals. It's not easy. But, as we demonstrated during the long, hard fight to enact the MSP, we will commit every resource necessary to win. Of course, our greatest resource is you, the rank-and-file member. When you participate in grassroots activities, you help protect your job and your industry. And, believe me, even a fairly quick action such as writing to your senator or congressman carries a lot of weight. In the coming months, the SIU will call upon the entire membership to get involved in the next stage of our nationwide drive for the newest phase of U.S. maritime revitalization. Together, we will get the job done. Volume 62, Number 9 Unions Win Key Demands At Bell Atlantic/Verizon Some 87,000 striking members of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) returned to their jobs at Bell AtlanticNerizon Aug. 21 and 24 after hammering out tentative accords. The temporary contracts, subject to membership ratification, cover three years and provide a 12 percent wage increase plus better pension benefits to the Verizon workers, among other gains. Representatives for both unions said the agreements address key concerns that were at the heart of the strike that began Aug. 6. The contracts cover union members in New York, New Jersey, New England, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia. SIU members and officials supported CWA members on picket lines every day of the strike. The SIU donated food and also marched with fellow trade unionists at a demonstration site in Leonardtown, Md. and in Washington. CWA Growth Areas The CWA reported that the new contract package "substantially curbs forced overtime for customer service employees and technicians- a key issue in the walkout- and achieves the union's major job security goals, including sharp limits on the transfer of work as the result of the GTE-Bell Atlantic merger that created Verizon_ "Another breakthrough provision opens the door to unionization for thousands of Verizon Wireless workers in the old Bell Atlantic portion of Verizon by extending card-check recognition and neutrality rights for gaining representation." CWA President Morton Bahr Striking members of the Communications Workers of America thank SIU members for supporting them on the picket lines. stated, "This settlement secures the future for our members at this company and it also helps sharpen Verizon 's competitive edge. The men and women we represent are the human face of Verizon, the people who deal directly with the customers every day. This agreement assures Verizon the advantage of a stable workforce of the most highly skilled and experienced people, and in many ways it gives our members the ability to do their jobs even better." CWA members had sought job ~ecurity and member access to the company's growth areas- wireless, data network integration. Internet and more--as well as limits on contracting out. According to the union, Bell Atlantic's unwarranted use of contractors had jeopardlled not only the company's reputation for customer service, but also its move into high-speed Internet access. Excessive stress and forced overtime were additional concerns. Workers at call centers, CWA charges, have been subjected to continuing speedups and excessive monitoring, and were not given time for the training they need to market Verizon 's newest products. Workers also regularly had been subjected to 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, 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Eclltor!Production. Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Jim Guthrie; Art, Bill Brower, Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. 2 Seafarers LOG forced overtime, restrictions on vacations and days off. Some were denied time off the job for family emergencies, the union says. The CWA and IBEW workers "have taken a stand for justice that echoes throughout workplaces across America," said AFL-CIO President John S. Sweeney in a prepared statement August 7 after the strike began. "These workers' high-road vision for Bell Atlantic/ Verizon 's growth reflects the kind of future which working families need in the new economy. They have called for Bell Atlantic/ Verizon to make sure that the company's new jobs are good jobs-jobs that pay a family-supporting wage with benefits and a say on the job." McDermott Goes Union September 2000 Copyright© 2000 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. Recertified Stewards George Borromeo and Kathy Shaner operate a grill to help feed the striking communications workers. Joining CWA members on the picket line are Seafarers Jason Hudkins, Paul Gohs, Timothy Squire Jr., David Vaughn and Justin VanPelt. A majority of workers at J. Ray McDermott Shipyard in Amelia, La. last month voted to join the International Union of Operating Engineers. Following an intense campaign, 404 employees voted for union representation while 319 voted against it. That represented an 87 percent turnout of the 830 eligible voters. The SIU and other maritime unions assisted in the campaign. "Our ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life for these workers, while at the same time helping McDermott excel, which is also good for the entire community," said Operating Engineers Local 406 Business Manager Pete Babin. J. Ray McDermott is a subsidiary of New Orleans-based McDermott International, Inc. Its employees construct offshore oil rigs and platforms. September 2000 �Seal arers' Wages, Benefits Increase Under New Five-Year T-AGOS Pact Seafarers working aboard 13 T-AGOS ships operated by Maersk Line Limited will receive significant gains in wages and other benefits over the next five years. The increases were realized Aug. 16 after the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) awarded a new contract to the Norfolk, Va.-based company. The USNS Effective, a SWATH vessel, is one of the 13 ships whose SIU crew members are the recipients of a new five-year contract. In addition to wage increases, the agreement also provides for improved dental benefits for members and dependents, outpatient dependent care, inclusion in the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan and other gains. "The SIU not only retains our jobs on the 13 T-AGOS ships, but also achieves major improvements throughout the contract," stated SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. "This is very similar to what transpired earlier this year with the fast sealift contract and last year with a separate T-AGOS contract. Once again it proves the union's point that the hardest thing is to get that first contract and, once we're in, things will improve." The ships covered by the agreement are the USNS vessels Able, Assertive, Bold, Capable, Effective, Indomitable, Invincible, Loyal, Persistent, Prevail, Stalwart, Victorious~ Vindicator and Impeccable. The Impeccable is scheduled to join MSC's Maersk-contracted T-AGOS fleet next year. SIU Welcomes USNS Watkins New RO/RO Crewing Begins This Month Seafarers this month will crew the U.S. Military Scalift Command's (MSC's) newest prepositioning ship in San Diego. The USNS Watkins, a roll-on/rolloff (RO/RO) vessel, was launched July 28 and tentatively is slated to sail in October. Representing new jobs for SIU members, the Watkins will carry a wide range of equipment for the U.S. Army, including tanks and armored personnel carriers. It was built at NASSCO Shipyard in San Diego. A "nucleus crew" will climb the gangway this month, followed soon thereafter by the remaining members. The 950-foot Watkins is equipped with port and starboard sideport ramp systems, two single-pedestal twin cranes and cargo hatches in three holds. It has a combination of fixed and hinged RO/RO ramps. The vessel also features environmental control for its cargo September 2000 Shown at anchor in Monterey, Calif., the SIU-crewed USNS Assertive supports the U.S. Navy's surveillance capabilities. According to MSC, the 13 ships already in operation support the following U.S. Department of Defense programs: the Navy's Surveillance Towed Array Sensor System (SURTASS); Navy, Atlantic Fleet and U.S. Coast Guard counter-drug initiatives; and the Air Force Electronic Systems Command's radar missile tracking system. In announcing the $108 million contract, MSC noted that the seven ships involved in SURTASS (Able, Assertive, Bold, Effective, Loyal, Prevail and Victorious) "collect acoustic data using an array of hydrophonesunderwater listening devicesdep loyed on a tow cable. Acoustic data is gathered by civilian technicians and passed via satellite to fleet commanders to support anti-submarine warfare .... " Three of the other ships (Stalwart, Indomitable and Capable) detect and monitor drug trafficking activities in the Caribbean and northern Pacific. Two more (Vindicator and Persistent) involved in that effort sail with Coast Guard law enforcement detachments and are equipped with 38-foot deployable pursuit boats. The other vessel (Invincible) supports the Air Force by deploying a mobile surveillance and tracking radar system "that can monitor U.S. or foreign space missiles or weapons testing.H Wilmington SIU Hall's Renovation Nearly Done The SIU-contracted USNS Watkins and USNS Charlton are the newest additions to MSC's fleet of LMSRs. Seafarers this month begin crewing the Watkins and already are sailing on the Charlton. holds, foam fire fighting and dewatering system for the holds, and bow thruster units. SIU members and officials were among the thousands of people who attended the vessel's ceremonial launch. Christening the ship with ceremonial bottles of champagne were co-sponsors Dianne Watkins Branch, daughter of Master Sgt. Travis E. Watkins, for whom the ship is named, and Anne Sullivan de Leon, wife of Rudy de Leon, U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense. Master Sergeant Watkins was posthumously awarded the U.S. Army Medal of Honor for his heroic actions in Korea in September 1950. Speakers at the launch included U.S. Rep. John P. Murtha (DPa. ), ranking minority member on the U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Committee, Defense Subcommittee; Vice Admiral George P. Nanos Jr., commander, Naval Sea Systems Command; Vice Admiral Gordon S. Holder, commander of MSC; and U.S. Army Major General Mario F. Montero Jr., assistant deputy chief of staff for Army logistics. The Watkins is one of 14 new builds and six converted vessels comprising a government-mandated initiative known as the strategic sealift program. Earlier this summer, SIU members crewed another new prepositioning ship built at NASSCO, the USNS Charlton. Outside, it looks the same. Inside, the SIU hall in Wilmington, Calif. is undergoing a complete upgrade and expansion, scheduled for completion sometime this month. "It's basically a complete retrofit and a major improvement. Anyone who hasn't been here in a while won't recognize the inside of the hall, once all the work is finished," noted SIU Wilmington Port Agent John Cox. The Southern California hall is located at 510 North Broad Avenue, near the Los Angeles-Long Beach Harbor. The SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers operates a union hall in the same building, separat-· ed by a lobby. Despite the renovation's scope, all union services have remained available for Seafarers at the SIU hall. The Wilmington refurbishment, which began in late June, is the latest of several fairly recent stories involving SIU halls. Earlier this year, the union opened new halls in Baltimore and Guam, while the halls in Norfolk, Va. and Algonac, Mich. have undergone renovations. Refurbishment of the SIU's hall in Wilmington, Calif. began in late June and is scheduled for completion this month. Seafarers LOG 3 �Committee Reviews Nomination Petitions For Union Election The credentials committee, composed of six rank-and-file SIU members, has reviewed all nominating petitions of SIU members seeking office in the 2000 districtwide elections in the union's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District. After meeting last month and studying the nomination applications to ensure each candidate had complied with the criteria spelled out in the SIU's constitution, the credentials committee issued its report, which will be presented to the membership for its approval at the September meetings. Thirty-three candidates for 27 ballot positions qualified to run in the election, which takes place Nov. 1 through Dec.31, the committee reported. Members of the committee were elected at the August head- quarters membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. Voted to the committee by their fellow Seafarers were Recertified Steward John Bukowsky, Deckhand John Gallagher, OMU Decarlo Harris, Steward Bill Kelly, AB George Mazzola and Electrician Allan Rogers II. Gallagher was selected by the committee to serve as chairman. During the Aug. 7 membership meeting, Seafarers had to present their union books in order to be nominated to the committee. After the voting took place, results immediately were made known. The union constitution establishes guidelines for the credentials committee in Article XIII, Section 2. According to those rules, the committee must be elected at the port where head- quarters is located (Piney Point). The credentials committee must comprise six full-book members, including two members from each of the three shipboard departments: deck, engine and steward. Additionally, no elected official or candidate for union office is permitted to serve on the committee. Members seeking the position of president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, vice president, assistant vice president, one of two headquarters representative positions or one of 10 portagent posts had to submit nominating papers between July 15 and Aug. 15. The Seafarers who served on the credentials committee also were elected by their fellow members to serve on the constitutional committee, in accordance with Article XXV, Section 2 of the union's constitution. They issued a separate report detailing the proposed constitutional amendments that will appear on the ballot. SIU Tugs Help 'Op Sail' Succeed in Baltimore In photos above, SIU-crewed Moran tugs assisted in docking and undocking services for many of the tall ships that sailed into the port of Baltimore as part of "Op Sail 2000." Above'. Serving on the rank-andfile credentials committee as well as the constitutional committee are (from left) SIU memb~rs George Mazzola. Decarlo Harris. Bill Kelly, John Bukowsky, John Gallagher and Allan Rogers II. Left: The committee reviews applications submitted by SIU members seeking office in the upcoming AGLIWD election. "Op Sail 2000," a maritime millennium event that promoted the use of tall ships as centers of learning to ports around America, was a huge success June 23-29 during its call on the Port of Baltimore. Some 35 tall ships of various classes participated in the affair, which attracted more than one million people over seven days. Aside from the lure of the tall ships themselves, much of the event's triumph was directly attributable to the first-rate marine operation efforts of Moran Towing. The tug operations company, which has been under contract with the SIU for more than 50 years, provided free docking and undocking services for the majority of the larger tall ships that came to Baltimore for the outing. In addition to Baltimore, Moran operates vessels in Philadelphia and Texas. Paul Swenson, vice president of Moran Towing, had high praise for the tug crews who went above any beyond the call of duty prior to as well as during the tall ship event. "They put in two weeks prior to the event getting our vessels in pristine condition," he noted. "They really did a fantastic job and our boats looked great." ITF Gains $65,000 in Back /lay For Crew of Runaway-Flag Ship Once again demonstrating that runaway-flag shipowners will be held accountable, the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) recently secured $65,000 in back pay plus other assistance for the multinational crew of the cargo ship Epic. Tim Burns, one of the SIU's ITF inspectors, led the monthlong assistance that culminated in mid-July. He reported that the Greek shipowner (Success Shipping) outright threatened to abandon the crew and vessel, but eventually complied with the ITF's demands. The ITF had the ship detained near Philadelphia. The photos above reflect the lack of stores and unclean conditions found aboard the Epic. 4 Seafarers LOG Unpaid wages were not the only problem plaguing the Epic, which flies the flag of St. Vmcent and the Grenadines and is managed by the Philippine agency InterOrient Maritime Enterprises. According to Bums as well as press accounts, the Greek, Russian and Filipino crew members had no fresh water and therefore drank dirty water out of buckets. The ship was infested with roaches and mice, and crew members were malnourished because of a severe shortage of stores. "But the worst part may have been the nonpayment of wages," Burns noted. "The mariners produced letters from their spouses saying they were losing their homes to the banks, their children did not have food and milk and they were selling their children's bicycles to pay the bills." The shipowner agreed to the ITF's lawful insistence that none SIU ITF Inspector Tim Burns (fourth from right) and attorney Jack Bernstein (center, wearing jacket) helped secure $65,000 in back wages for crew members of the runaway-flag Epic. of the crew be blacklisted for contacting the federation. The company also paid the crew's legal expenses and reimbursed the ITF for other costs associated with this case. Additionally, the settlement included repatriation for the crew and properly supplying and sanitizing the Epic. Runaway-flag shipping is a scam in which the shipowner typically avoids its nation's labor, safety and tax laws (among others) by using another country's flag. This escape also often includes-as with the Epic-hiring multinational crews through an agency based in a country other than that of the shipowner or the flag state. The London-based ITF is composed of more than 500 transportation-related trade unions worldwide, including the SIU. September 2000 �Gulf War Report Lauds U.S. Mariners, Calls for Strong American-Flag Fleet 10 Years After Desert Storm, MarAd Examines Sealift Role A new report by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) examines the U.S. sealift effort during the Persian Gulf War and emphasizes the need to maintain a strong American-flag fleet. Maritime Administrator John Graykowski last month issued a detailed, three-page statement in which he praises the U.S. Merchant Marine for its role in Operation Desert Shield/ Desert Storm. The account coincides with the 1oth anniversary of Iraq's invasion of Kuwait. "During World War II, the merchant marine earned recognition as the nation's 'fourth ann of defense,"' Graykowski stated. "Their actions in delivering equipment, ordinance and supplies in Desert Shield/Desert Storm demonstrated how much the merchant marine continues to merit that badge." While the report primarily focuses on specifics of the Persian Gulf War sealift operation, Graykowski underscores that the conflict highlights the ongoing need for a powerful U.S. merchant marine. "The need to crew our reserve sealift ships during national emergencies also emphasizes the need to maintain an adequate peacetime merchant fleet and maritime workforce," he said. "As we relive the events of those troubled times ( 10 years ago), I hope that more and more of us will see the wisdom that this conflict offers those willing to grasp it. Sealift is absolutely essential to protect freedom and project America's interests anywhere, anytime in an imperfect world. Crewing those ships will be America's citizen merchant mariners, ready and willing to answer their nation's call as they have since 177 5." Excerpts from the report follow. "This is an appropriate time for Americans to pay tribute to our armed forces-the world's finest-who stood and delivered when diplomacy failed. As we marvel at their heroism and sacrifice, we would do well to remember that our fme men and women in unifonn had help from a timeproven source- the U.S. Merchant Marine and the American maritime industry .... "Did the performance of the Ready Reserve Force and U.S. merchant seafarers meet expectations? The statistics speak for themselves. Activation times at the onset were slower than anticipated; however, operational relia- bility was very good with performance rated well over 90 percent. Once ships were up and running, there were few major difficulties. "The reason for the delayspropulsion or auxiliary machinery in almost every case-could be traced to failure to fund routine maintenance. A valuable 'lesson learned' for the Maritime Administration, the Defense Department and the Congress was the critical importance of funding maintenance and systematic seatrials, followed by readiness tests through unscheduled activations .... "People are the strongest or weakest link in a crisis. In Desert Shield/Desert Storm nearly 10,000 American merchant mariners serving on RRF ships, the Military Sealift Command's Afloat Prepositioning Force and its Fast Sealift Ships, and with commercial U.S.-flagged ships, proved their value. Grizzled 'salts' worked alongside ordinary seafarers, imparting the hard wisdom of seafaring; the job is not complete when the sun goes down. In port or on the seas, workdays were long with little time left for anything but sleep. "U.S.-flagged ships (commercial and military) with civilian crews carried 79 percent of the Setting the Record Straight: Foreign-Flag Ships in Gulf War Myth Reality Cost Less Avg. $50 more per ton than U.S. ships More Efficient 150 FF carried only 21 % of dry cargo for America's military forces in the desert war. Nearly 9,800 American merchant mariners served during the Gulf War, and roughly half participated in theater. These men and women put patriotism above safety in sailing into troubled waters. Like many of those in the Armed Forces they supported, they were subject to lethal scenariosfloating mines, chemical warfare and missile attacks .... "Too few Americans outside the defense sealift community wiJI likely remember the loadouts at ports that stretched round-theclock. They may overlook the contributions of merchant seafarers working 16 hours a day to get badly needed vessels up and running after months of inactivity. Those of us who have seen close up the decidedly unglamorous yet undeniably vital work of America's merchant marine and maritime industry performed before, during and after the Gulf War will never underestimate their role in a crisis. "America's merchant mariners earned the respect of U.S. sol- Maritime Administrator John Graykowski diers, sailors, airmen and marines who recognize professionals by accomplishments under pressure. The only civilians invited to join the military in the National Victory Parade in our nation's capital after the war were those who earned the U.S. Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal for service during Desert Shield and Storm." cargo/103 U.S. carried 79% As Reliable 13 FF hesitated or refused to enter Gulf As Safe 40% of FF were from registries on USCG "blacklist" for safety Source: U.S. National Defense Transportation Association ARA 1s Steinberg /lasses Away Bill Steinberg, president emeritus of the American Radio Association, AFL-CIO, passed away Aug. 1. He was 87. Steinberg served as president of the ARA- affiliated with the International Longshoremen's Association-from 1948 until 1984. He remained active in union affairs until his death. ARA President William Schuman described Steinberg as a warrior for the maritime trade union movement. Steinberg sailed as a radio officer aboard U.S. merchant ships during World War II. He took part in the negotiations leading to the 1955 merger of the American Federation of Labor and the Congress of Industrial Organizations. In chronicling Steinberg's life, the ARA noted, "For over September 20DD ARA President Emeritus Bill Steinberg five decades, he was a man of clear principles and broad vision who was articulate in defense of all men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine. He was both a stalwart patriot and a dedicated trade unionist." ITF Takes Campaign To Nation's Capital The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) is taking a key crusade to a town that knows all about campaigns. On September 19, the ITF is conducting a rally in Washington, D.C. against runawayflag shipping. The event tentatively is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. near the Capitol. Featured speakers include John AFL-CIO President Sweeney. The SIU and other U.S. maritime unions are scheduled to take part in the demonstration, which carries the theme "Workers Against Floating Sweatshops." For more information, contact the ITF's Washington, D.C. office at (202) 955-834 7 or call the SIU at (301) 899-0675. Struck by Cyprus-Flag Ship, ITF Global Mariner Sinks The International Transport Workers' Federation last month reported that its fonner training ship ITF Global Mariner sank in the Port of Matanzas, Venezuela on the Orinocco River. No injuries resulted from the Aug. 2 incident. The Global Mariner reportedly was struck by the Cyprus-flag general cargo ship Atlantic Crusader. Northern Marine, operator of the Global Mariner, stated, "Following the collision, the Global Mariner, which was struck portside by way of No. 2 hold and then No. 3 hold, flooded and sank. All personnel were evacuated from aft by pilot boat. All personnel were accounted for and there were no injuries. At the time of the incident, the Global Mariner had three pilots on board, one tug attached forward and a further tug standing by. Initial reports from the port indicate that the Global Mariner moved off berth and turned into the channel under the con of the harbor pilot and with one tug attached, when she was struck by the Atlantic Crusader." David Cockroft, ITF GeneralSecretary, .· commented, "The Global Mariner won a place in the affections of everyone interested in the well-being and basic rights of seafarers. Although hearing this news was a little like finding out that a friend had been hurt, our overriding feeling is relief that no one was injured." The Global Mariner in February concluded a 20-month, worldwide voyage that spotlighted the ITF's campaign against runaway-flag shipping. SIU members on the East, West and Gulf Coasts participated in the ship's U.S. port calls. Overall, the vessel visited 86 ports in 51 countries and attracted nearly three-quarters of a million visitors to its shipboard exhibition. Subsequently, it served as a training vessel. When the collision occurred, the Global Mariners 22-member regular crew was comprised of British officers and predominantly British unlicensed personnel with some Polish ratings. Also on board were nine United Kingdom cadets. Seafarers LOB 5 �Credentials Approved for Candidates to 27 Union Offices Rank-and-file Seafarers, elected during the August membership meeting to serve as the credentials committee, met last month to review the credentials of SIU members seeking to run for union office. What follows is the complete text of the credentials committee report which is being submitted for approval by the sru membership during this month's meetings. Report of Cndentlals Commtttee On Candidates for 2000 Election of Officers, 2001-2004 SIUllA-A&LIWD We, the undersigned members of the Credentials Committee, were duly elected at the regular membership meeting held in Headquarters-Port of Piney Point on August 7, 2000. We have examined the credentials of candidates for elective office or job in the Seafarers International Union of North America-Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District for the years 2001-2004, in accordance with Article XI, Section I , and submit the following report. Your Committee qualified or disqualified those members who submitted for office based upon the Union Constitution, particularly those provisions contained in Articles XII and XIII. The applicable constitutional provisions are as follows : ARTICLE XII, Qualifications for Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Headquarters Representatives, Port Agents, and Other Elective Jobs. Section 1. Any member of the Union is eligible to be a candidate for, and hold, any office or the job of Assistant Vice-President, Headquarters Representative, or Port Agent provided: (a) He has at least three (3) years of seatime in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels. In computing time, time spent in the employ of the Union, its subsidiaries and its affiliates, or in any employment at the Union~ direction, shall count the same as seatime. Union records, Welfare Plan records and/or company records can be used to determine eligibility,' and (b) He has been a fall book member in continuous good standing in the Union for at least three (3) years immediately prior to his nomination" and (c) He has at least one hundred (100) days of seatime, in an unlicensed capacity, aboard an American-flag vessel or vessels covered by contract with this Union or one hundred (100) days of employment with, or in any office or job of, the Union, its subsidiaries and its affiliates. or in any employment at the Unions direction or a combination ofthese, between January 1 and the time of nomination in the election year, except if such seatime is wholly aboard such merchant vessels operaring solely upon the Great Laus or, if such seatime is wholly aboard tugboats, towboats or dredges and contractual employment thereon is for fixed days with equal amount of days off, he shall have at least sixty-five (65) days of such seatime instead of the foregoing one hundred (100) days; and {d) He is a citizen ofthe United States of America; and (e) He is not disqualified by law. He is not receiving a pension from this Unions Pension Fund, if any, or from a UnionManagement Fund to which Fund this Union is a party or from a company under contract with this Union. (/) He has not sailed in a licensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels within 24 consecutive months immediately prior to the opening of nominations. Section 2. All candidates for, and holders of, other elective jobs not specified in the preceding sections shall be fall book members of the Union. Section 3. All candidates for. and holders of elective offices and jobs, whether elected or appointed in accordance with this Constitution, shall maintain fall book membership in good standing. ARTICLE XIII, Election for Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Headquarters Representatives and Port Agents. Section 1. Nominations. Except as provided in Section 2(b) ofthis Article, any full book member may submit his name for nomination for any office, or the job of Assistant Vice-President, Headquarters Representative, or Port Agent, b)I delivering or causing to be delivered in person, to the office of the SecretaryTreasurer at Headquarters, or sending, a letter addressed to the Credentials Committee, in care of the Secretary-Treasurer. at the address of Headquarters. This letter shall be dated and shall contain the following: (a) The name of the candidate. (b) His home address and mailing address. (c) His book number. (d) The title ofthe office or other job for which he is a candidate including the name of the Pon in thl! event thll position sought is that of Port Agent. (e) Proo/of citizenship. (/) Proof ofsentime and/or employment as required for candidates. (g) In the event the member is on a vessel, he shall notify the Credentials Committee whar vessel he is on. This shall be done also if he ships subsequent to forwarding his credentials. (h) Annexing a certificate in the following form, signed and dated by the proposed nominee: "I hereby certifY that I am not now, nor, for the five (5) years Last past, have I been either a member of the Communist Party or 6 Seafarers LOG convicted of, or served any part of a prison term resulting from conviction of robbery, bribery, extortion, embezzlement, grand larceny, burglary, arson, violation of narcotics laws, murder, rape, assault with intent to kill, assault which inflicts grievous bodily injury, or violation of Title II or III of the Landrum-Griffin Act, or conspiracy to commit any such crimes. " Dated .... ..... ....... .................................... .... Signature of Member ............. ......... .... ......... . Book No..................... ........ ..... ................... .. Printed forms of the certificate shall be made available to nominees. Where a nominee cannot truthfully execute such a certificate, but is, in fact, legally eligible for an office or job by reason of the restoration of civil rights originally revoked by such conviction or a favorable determination by the Board of Parole of the United States Department ofJustice. he shall, in lieu of the foregoing certificate, furnish a complete signed statement of the facts of his case together with true copies of the documents supporting his statement. Any fall book member may nominate any other full book member in which event such full book member so nominated shall comply with the provisions of this Article as they are set forth herein, relating to the submission of credentials. By reason of the above selfnomination provision the responsibility, if any, for notifYing a nominee of his nomination to office, shall be that of the nominator. All documents required herein must reach Headquarters no earlier than July 15 and no later than August 15 of the election year. The Secretary-Treasurer is charged with safekeeping of these letters and shall tum them over to the Credentials Committee upon the latter s request. In order to ascertain the meaning of the term "member in good standing" which is used in Article XII, Subsection I (b), the Committee referred to Article XXIY, Section 9 of our Constitution which reads as follows : "Section 9. The term 'member in good standing ' shall mean a member whose monetary obligations to the Union are not in arrears for thirty days or more, or who is not under suspension or expulsion effective in accordance with this Constitution. Unless otherwise expressly indicated, the term 'member ' shall mean a member in good standing." Your Committee sought guidance from the Union's General Counsel and the Secretary-Treasurer as to whether this section would apply to a member who is unable to pay dues because of employment aboard an American flag merchant vessel as stated in Article III, Section 3(e). Your Committee was advised that, in keeping with past practice and constitutional interpretation, the same thirty (30) day grace period should be applied in these situations. Accordingly, when a member who is working on foreign articles leaves the vessel, the dues for the applicable quarter must be paid within thirty (30) days from the date of discharge in order to maintain good standing. Your Committee also referred to Article Ust of Persons Who Submitted Credentials to Ute Credentials Committee PRESIDENT Robert J.Clinton UI, C-1938 ...................... Qualified Credentials in order. Charles Burdette Collins, C- 1652 .............. Disqualified-Was not in continuous good standing for (3) years prior to time of nomination. Qualified: on basis of appeal. Michael J. Sacco, S-1288 ............................ Qualified Credentials in order. EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Joseph P. Allum, A-1275 ... ......................... Disqualified-Did not have at least (100) days of seatime or Union employment between Jan. 1 and time of nomination. John Fay, F-363 ..........................................Qualified Credentials in order. Anthony Leo, L-685 .................................... Nomination withdrawn. SECRETARY.TREASURER David Heindel, H-1443 ......... ..................... Qualified Credentials in order. Michael D. Murphy, M-2483 ......................Qualified Credentials in order. William Parker, P-1067 .............................. Qualified Credentials in order. VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT Larry Frank Phillips, P-1257 ......................Disqualified-Was not in continuou.s good standing for (3) years prior to time of nomination. Augustin Tellez, T-764 ................................ Qualified Credentials in order. VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST Jack Caffey, C-1010 .................................... Qualified Credentials in order. VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Dean E. Corgey, C-5727 ............................ Qualified Credentials in order. VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST Kevin Bertel, B-1832 .................................. Qualified Credentials in order. Nicholas J. Marrone, M-2308 .................... Qualified Credentials in order. VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS Thomas Orzechowski, Jr., 0-601 ........... ..... Qualified Credentials in order. Woodrow Shelton, S-2558 ..... ..................... Qualified Credentials in order. VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Kermett Mangram, M-2394 ........................ Qualified Credentials in order. ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT George Tricker, T-919 ................................Qualified Credentials in order. Roy W. Dunaway ........................................ Disqualified-Was not within the time frame for submission of credentials. ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST Nicholas A. Celona, C-1578 .............. ..... ..... Qualified Credentials in order. ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Ambrose Cucinotta, C-1795 ........................ Qualified Credentials in order. ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST Don Anderson, A-5244 ................................ Qualified Credentials in order. ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS James P. McGee, M-5945 .......................... Qualified Credentials in order. ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Dana Cella. C-1600 .................................... Disqualified-Was not in continuous good standing for (3) years prior to time of nomination. Did not have at least (100) days of seatime or Union employment between Jan. 1 and time of nomination. Robert Hall, H-5727 ............................ ........ Qualified Credentials in order. HEADQUARTERS REPRESENTATIVE Leo Bonser, B-1193 ............ ........................ Qualified Credentials in order. Cart Peth, P-755 ..........................................Qualified Credentials in order. PINEY POINT PORT AGENT Edward "Edd" W. Morris, M-1358 ............ Qualified Credentials in order. NEW YORK PORT AGENT Robert Selzer, S-1258 .................................. Qualified Credentials in order. PHILADELPHIA PORT AGENT Joseph Soresi, S-2658 ................................ Qualified Credentials in order. BALTIMORE PORT AGENT Dennis Metz, M-3013 ..... ...........................Qualified Credentials in order. MOBILE PORT AGENT Edward Kelly, Jr. K-5043 ...................... ...... Qualified Credentials in order. NEW ORLEANS PORT AGENT Steve Judd, J-5336 ........................... ........... Qualified Credentials in order. HOUSTON PORT AGENT Anthony McQuay, M-2735 ........................Qualified Credentials in order. SAN FRANCISCO PORT AGENT Vincent Coss, C-8138 .................................. Qualified Credentials in order. ST. LOUIS PORT AGENT Rebecca Sleeper, S-2497 ............................ Qualified Credentials in order. DETROIT-ALGONAC PORT AGENT Donald A. Thornton, T-5501 ......................Qualified Credentials in order. XXIV, Section 13 for the definition of the term "seatime". This section reads as follows: "Section 13. The term 'seatime ' shall include employment upon any navigable waters, or days of employment in a contracted employer unit represented by the Union. " We also noted in Article XXTV, Section 14, the meaning of the term "in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels. " This portion of the Constitution reads as follows : "Section 14. The term 'in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels ' shall include persons employed in an unlicensed or licensed capacity aboard dredges, tugboats, towboats and similar vessels used to tow, propel, or push barges or other conveyances or assist merchant vessels in docking or undocking, or persons otherwise employed in a contracted employer unit represented by the Union. " After full and careful deliberations, the Committee made its decisions and sent appropriate notification to candidates. The ultimate decisions of this Committee are later set forth. In arriving at these ultimate decisions, the Committee was most concerned with carrying out a stated principle of our Union which is that "every qualified member shall have the right to nominate himself for, and, if elected or appointed, to hold office in this Union. " In connection with the foregoing, we have also consulted with rhe SecretaryTreasurer who, under our Constitution, has the obligation to insure appropriate election procedures as legally required (Article XIII, Section 7). Our Secretary-Treasurer has further consulted with the Unions Counsel as to the law applicable in Union nominations and elections. The following is a complete listing of all men who submitted their credentials to the Committee. Their names and the office or job for which they submitted such credentials are listed in the order in which this Committee feels they should be placed on the general ballot, that is, in alphabetical order under the office or job for which they run, and that the Ports, following the Headquarrers offices, beginning with Piney Point, be arranged on the ba/101 geographically, as has been done in the past. After each mans name and book number is his qualification or disqualification, followed by the reason for that decision. As you will note in the foregoing sections of the Committee's Report, the provisions of the SIU Constitution governing election procedures made it mandatory that some of the nominees be disqualified. In light of these circumstances, the Committee wishes to call to the attention of all members the necessity of following all requirements and procedures which are established by our Constitution to govern eligibility to candidacy to Union office. However, at this time, the Committee particularly desires to point out the provisions of Article XIII, Section 2(c) of the Constitution, which spell out in detail the right of a disqualified candidate to appeal from the decision of the Credentials Committee and how he does it. In compliance with Article XITJ, Section 2(b) of our Constitution, and in an attempt to give every nominee every consideration and to try to prevent any disqualifications by this Committee, John Gallagher, Book No. G5475, of the Credentials Committee, remained at the entrance of the Headquarters building of the Union until midnight of Tuesday, August 15, 2000, to receive any credentials that might have been delivered either by mail or by hand after the closing of business hours by the Union. The Committee points out that in the President's Pre-Balloting Report approved by the membership as per the Constitution and published in the May Seafarers LOG the exact offices and jobs for which nominations were to be made was set forth. In passing upon the credentials for certain of the nominees, this Committee had to make six disqualifications, and the following are the details relative to each of those disqualifications: 1. Joseph P. Allum, A-1275--Candidate for Executive Vice President. Your Committee noted the receipt of a letter dated August 3, 2000, addressed to David Heindel in which Brother Allum requested his name be placed on the ballot for election to the position of Executive Vice President. Union records indicate that Brother Allum did not acquire any days of seatime or union employment in the year of 2000, whereas at least one hundred (I 00) days of seatime or one hundred ( 100) days of union employment between January I and time of nomination are needed to qualify for an elective job. Based upon the provisions of Article XII, Section I, (c) the Committee disqualified Brother Allum for the job of Executive Vice President. In accordance with the requirements of Article XIII, Section 2 (c) of our Constitution, and in order to assure adequate notice of its decision, the Committee informed Brother Allum of his disqualification by Mailgram sent on August 16, 2000 to the address stated in his letter of nomination. Moreover, the Mailgram was followed by a Certified Mail Return Receipt Requested letter dated August 16, 2000 from the Committee to Brother Allum that set forth the reason for his disqualification. A copy of the Union Constitution was enclosed with the aforementioned letter so that Brother Allum would have available the procedure to be followed in appeal from the disqualifica- ti on decision of the Committee. On August 18, 2000 at approximately 12:40 p.m., I returned a telephone call to Brother Allum as he had telephoned Dave Heindel 's office inquiring as to the reason why he was disqualified to run for the office of Executive Vice-President as per a Mailgram received on August 17, 2000. I informed Brother Allum that the records indicated that he did not acquire any seatime in the year 2000 and the Committee based his disqualification as per the provisions in the Constitution. Brother Allum informed me that he had been Unfit for Duty since July of 1999 and had been unable to ship. I reiterated to Brother Allum the basis of the Committee's decision and informed him that a letter had been mailed to him that fully detailed the reasons for his disqualification. A copy of the Constitution was enclosed in the letter and if he wished to appeal the decision of the Credentials Committee he should follow the appeal procedure listed in the Constitution. 2. Dana Cella, C-1600--Candidate for Assistant Vice President in Charge of Government Services and Fishing Industries. Your Committee noted the receipt of a letter dated August 1, 2000, addressed to the Credentials Committee in which Brother Cella requested his name be placed on the ballot for election to the position of Port Agent of Tacoma, Washington. Your Committee noted that SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel, by letter dated August 3, 2000, advised Brother Cella that the position of Port Agent of the Port of Tacoma is not a position which will appear on the ballot. Your Committee also noted that Brother Cella, by letter dated August 1, 2000, also submitted his name for the position of Assistant Vice President in Charge of Government Services and Fishing Industries. We have been advised by SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel, that, in a telephone conversation with Brother Cella, Brother Cella agreed to withdraw his nomination for Port Agent in Tacoma and instead to submit only his nomination letter for Assistant Vice President in Charge of Government Services and Fishing Industries to the Credentials Committee. Your Committee noted that Union records show that Brother Cella paid his dues for the Second Quarter of 1998 on May l l 1998, whereas they should have been paid no later than April 30, 1998. His dues for the Fourth Quarter of 1998 were paid on December 10, 1998, whereas they should have been paid no later than October 31, 1998. Brother Cella paid his dues for the Second Quarter of 1999 on June 16, 1999, whereas they should have been paid no later than April 30, 1999. Brother Cella paid his dues for the Fourth Quarter of 1999 on November 3, 1999, whereas they should have been pa.id no later than October 31, 1999. Also, his dues for the First Quarter of 2000 were paid on February 14, 2000, whereas they should have been paid no later than January 31, 2000. Your Committee agreed to waive the lateness of these dues payments due to the fact that Brother Cella was aboard the SL Developer during this time frame and the dues were paid each time within one month of his discharge. Your Committee further noted that Brother Cella paid his dues for the Third Quarter of 1997 on October 12, 1997, whereas they should have been paid on July 31, 1997. Union records indicate that Brother Cella paid his dues for the Third Quarter of 1998 on September 29, 1998, whereas they should have been paid no later than July 31, 1998. Brother Cella paid his dues for the First Quarter of 1999 on March 8, 1999 whereas they should have been paid no later than January 31, 1999. Brother Cella paid his due~ for the Third Quarter of2000 on August I, 2000, whereas they should have been paid no later than July 31, 2000. Your Committee found no grounds in the Constitution to waive these late payments. Based upon the provisions of Article XII, Section I (b ), and further supported by Article III, Section 3; Article V and Article XXIV, Section 9, previously carried herein, the Committee disqualified Brother Cella for the job of Assistant Vice President in Charge of Government Services and Fishing Industries. In addition the above Union records indicate that Brother Cella had acquired only fifty-six (56) days of seatime in the year 2000, whereas at least 100 days of seatime or Union employment between January l and time of nomination are needed to qualify for an elective job. Based upon the provisions of Article XII, Section 1, (c) the Committee further disqualified Brother Cella for the job of Assistant Vice President in Charge of Government Services and Fishing Industries. In accordance with the requirements of Article XIII, Section 2 (c) of our Constitution, and in order to assure adequate notice of its decision, the Committee informed Brother Cella of his disqualification by Mailgram sent on August 16, 2000 to the address stated in his letter of nomination. Moreover, the Mailgram was followed by a Certified Mail Return Receipt Requested letter dated August 16, 2000 from the Committee to Brother Cella that set forth the reason for his disqualification. A copy of the Union Constitution was enclosed with the aforementioned letter so that Brother Cella would have available the procedure to be followed in appeal from the disqualification decision of the Committee. Continued on page 14 September 2000 �We, the undersigned Constitutional Committee, were elected at the Headquarters membership meeting, on August 7, 2000, in accordance with Article XXV, Section 2 of our Constitution. We have had referred to us and studied, the proposed Constitutional Amendments Resolution submitted by our Executive Board. This Resolution, containing the proposed amendments, prior to its submission to us, was adopted by a majority vote of the membership at Headquarters and all ports. The provisions of the Resolution including its "WHEREAS" clauses, are attached so that all members will have available to them its full text for their review and study at the same time that they read this, our Report and Recommendation. As all individuals involved in the maritime industry are aware, the industry has changed substantially over the last several years. Legislation has been repealed and enacted affecting this industry and the trade union movement in general. We, in this Union, must seriously consider what can be done to strengthen our institutional structure to enable the Union to function more efficiently while continuing to fulfill its obligations to our membership. To this end, one of the things that our membership has already approved is the merger/consolidation of the National Maritime Union into our Union. As a result of the previously held referendum and our awareness of these changing times, certain Constitutional Amendments have been proposed to clarify and update our Constitution. It is to be noted that where feasible, this Committee recommends that the proposed constitutional changes, the new material, be underlined with the nonunderlined words representing the language of the present Constitution. A. Name Change for Union To implement and effectuate the desires of this membership, as expressed in the referendum held in November and December, 1999, it is being proposed that the name of our Union be changed to reflect the consolidation/merger of the National Maritime Union into the Seafarers International Union of North America. Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District. We concur with the Resolution and recommend the following amendments be adopted to effectuate it. Amend the following Cons1i1u1ional provisions to revise the name of the Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; 1. Title Page 2. Heading, Page 2 3. Preamble 4. Article I, Name and General Powers 5. Exhibit A Preamble, Section III, Section IV, Section V, Section VI, Section VII, Section VIll, Section IX, Section X, Section XI, Section XII and Section XIII so that the name of the Union would reflect the consolidation of these two unions in all of the above- referenced sections and headings. The above-referenced amendments would become effective at the time of, and not before, the final consolidation of these entities. A.D..gn As the Resolution states, it is proposed that the annual regular dues amount to be paid shall be four hundred dollars ($400.00) per year and that in addition the working dues to be paid by officers and members who are employed by the Union shall be increased to one hundred dollars ($100.00) per quarter. Your Committee, to carry out these changes, recommends that: Amend Article V, Dues and Initiation Fee, Sections 1 (a) and (b) to read as follows: "Section 1. All members' dues shall consist of: (a) Dues annually in the sum of .fi:rnr hundred dollars ($400.00) which shall be paid in equal amounts on a calendar year basis, no later than the first business day of each calendar quarter, and; (b) a sum equal to five percent (5%) of the gross amount received for vacation benefits for days worked for contracted employers. Dues payable under this Subsection (b) shall be payable on the days that the member receives payment for the earned vacation benefits and shall become effective as to members in the manner designated and determined by a majority vote of the membership by secret ballot. When so determined by the membership, members in the employ of the Union, its subdivisions and its affiliated organizations, or in any employment at the Union's direction as provided in Article XII, Section 1 (a) and (c), shall pay in provided for in addition to that paragraph (a) immediately above the sum September 2000 of one hundred dollars ($100.00) quarterly on a calendar year basis, no later than the first business day of each quarter while so employed." B. Vice-Presidents at Lar1:e As the Resolution states, it is also proposed that the office of"Vice-President at Large" be created and that two (2) such positions be added to the Executive Board to reflect the changing and growing needs of the Union. Your Committee, to carry out this change recommends that: Amend Article Vil, System of Organization, Section 2 to read as follows: "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 Headquarters officers shall consist of a President, an Executive Vice-President, one (1) Vice-President in Charge of Contracts and Contract Enforcement, a Secretary-Treasurer, one (1) VicePresident 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) VicePresident in Charge of the Southern Region, Great Lakes and Inland Waters, one ( 1) Vice-President in Charge of Government Services and Fishing Industries and two (2) Vice-Presidents at Large." Amend Article VIII, Officer, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Headquarters Representatives and Port Agents, Section 1 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 VicePresident, one (1) Vice-President in Charge of Contracts 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) VicePresident in Charge of the West Coast, one (1) Vice-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) VicePresidents at Lare;e." Amend Article X, Duties of Officers, Assistant Vice- Presidents, Headqu11rters Representatives, Port Agents, Other Elected Jobholders and Miscellaneous Personnel by adding a new Section to read as follows: "Section 10. Vice-Presidents at Laree. 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." Amend Article X, Duties of Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Headquarters Representalilles, Port Agents, Other Elected Jobholders and Miscellaneous Personnel by renumbering the existing Sections 10 through 15 to become 11 through 16. Amend Article X, Du/ks of Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Headquarters Representatives, Port Agents, Other Elected Jobholders and Miscellaneous Personnel existing Section 13 which when renumbered shall be Section 14, Executive Board to read as follows: Personnel existing Section 14 which when renumbered shall be Section 15, Delegates to read as follows: "Section "· Delegates. (a) 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; VicePresident 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." D.Qru!.rnm As the Resolution states, it is being proposed that the quorum for a regular meeting of a port be changed from fifty (50) to twenty-five (25) members to enable effective action to be taken at membership meetings. Your Committee, to carry out this change, recommends that: Amend Article XXII, Quorums. Section 2 to read as follows: "Section 2. The quorum for a regular meeting of a Port shall be twenty-five (25) members." E. Definitions and Miscellaneous Provisions Thereto To further effectuate all of the above, it is proposed that Section 8 be amended to read as follows: "Section 8. The terms "this Constitution" and "this amended Constitution" sh al I be deemed to have the same meaning and shall refer to the Constitution as amended which takes the place of the one adopted by the Union in 1939, as amended up through A1?rl1 2000." This Committee has been directed to fashion the procedure for a secret ballot referendum vote upon these amendments and to recommend effective dates for the proposed amendments. Your Committee concurs with the Resolution recommending that the amendments, if voted upon affirmatively in accordance with the following voting procedures, become effective upon their passage. We, further recommend that, if the position of VicePresident at Large is created by Constitutional Amendment, the President be given the authority, subject to the concurrence of the Executive Board, to determine when to fill these two (2) positions and to then so fill them for a first term of office. In addition, we recommend that the secret ballot referendum vote upon these proposed amendments, including the time, manner and procedure for voting on the amendments and the tallying and certification of the voting results, be the same as constitutionally provided for the election of officers and jobholders and be held as part of the secret ballot mail referendum for the election of officers and jobholders commencing November 1, 2000 and ending December 31, 2000. We further recommend: (a) That part of the ballot that applies to the recommended change in the regular dues payment read as follows: "Section 14. Executive Board. The Executive Board shall consist of the President, the Executive VicePresident, 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 VicePresident in Charge of Government Services and Fishing Industries, ~ Presjdents 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." (b) That the part of the ballot that applies to the recommended change in working dues payable by union officers and members read as follows: Amend Article X, Duties of Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Headquarters Representatives, Port Agents, Other Elected Jobholders and Miscellaneous "(b) a sum equal to five percent (5%) of the gross amount received for vacation benefits for days worked for contracted employers. Dues payable under this Sub- Amend Article V, Dues and Initiation Fee, Section 1. "Section 1. All members' dues shall consist of: (a) Dues annually in the sum of .fm!r hundred dollars ($400 OQ) which shall be paid in equal amounts on a calendar year basis, no later than the first business day of each calendar quarter, and;" Are you in favor of the above Constitutional Amendment? YES [ ] NO [ ] section (b) shall be payable on the days that the member receives payment for the earned vacation benefits and shall become effective as to members in the manner designated and determined by a majority vote of the membership by secret ballot. When so determined by the membership, members in the employ of the Union, its subdivisions and its affiliated organizations, or in any employment at the Union's direction as provided in Article XII, Section 1 (a) and (c), shall pay in addition to that provided for in paragraph (a) immediately above the sum of one hundred dollars ($100.00) quarterly on a calendar year basis, no later than the first business day of each quarter while so employed." Are you in favor of the above Constitutional Amendment? YES [] NO [ ] (c) That the part of the ballot that applies to the recommended name change read as follows: Amend the following Constitutional provisions to revise the name of the Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; 1. Title Page 2. Heading 3. Preamble 4. Article I, Name and General Powers 5. Exhibit A Preamble, Section III, Section IV, Section V, Section Vl, 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 the National Maritime Union in all of the above referenced sections and headings. Are you in favor of the above Constitutional Amendment? YES [ ] NO [ ] (d) that the part of the ballot that applies to the recommended creation of two (2) Vice-President at Large positions read as follows: Amend Article Organization. VII, System of "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 Headquarters officers shall consist of a President, an Executive Vice-President, one (1) Vice-President in Charge of Contracts and Contract Enforcement, a Secretary-Treasurer, one (I) VicePresident 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) VicePresident in Charge of the Southern Region, Great Lakes and Inland Waters, one (1) Vice-President in Charge of Government Services and Fishing Industries and two (2) Vice-Presidents at Large." Amend Article VIII, Officer, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Headquarters Representatilles and Port Agents, Section 1. "Section 1. The officers of the Union shall be elected as otherwise provided in this Constitution. These officers shall be the President, an Executive VicePresident, one (1) Vice-President in Charge of Contracts 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) VicePresident in Charge of the West Coast, one (1) Vice-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) VjcePresidents at Large." Amend Article X, Duties of Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Headquarters Representatives, Port Agents, Other Elected Jobholders and Miscellaneous Personnel: "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 manuer as dictated by the needs of the Union " Amend Article X, Duties of Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Headquarters Representatives, Port Agents, Other Elected Jobholders and Miscellaneous Personnel, Section 14. "Section H_. Executive Board. The Executive Board shall consist of the President, the Executive VicePresident, 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 VicePresident in Charge of Government Services and Fishing Industries, ~ 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." Amend Article X, Duties of Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Headquarters Representatives, Port Agents, Other Elected Jobholders and Miscellaneous, Personnel, Section 15, Delegates. "Section "· Delegates. (b) The term "delegates" shall mean those members of the Union and its sub· ordinate 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; VicePresident 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." Are you in favor of the above Constitutional Amendments? YES [ ] NO [] (e) that the part of the ballot that applies to the change in the number of members required to constitute a quorum at a regular meeting of a port read as follows. Amend Article XXII, Quorums, Section 1. "Section 2. The quorum for a regular meeting of a Port shall be twentv-fiye (25) members." Are you in favor of the above Constitutional Amendment? YES [ ] NO [ ] We further recommend, if it is reasonably possible, that a copy of our Committee's Report, together with a copy of the proposed Resolution and membership action taken to date, be printed in the Seafarers LOG, October 2000 issue so that the membership will be kept abreast as to all facts at this time and copies of such LOG issue, to the extent possible, be made available to the membership at all Union offices and Halls during the months of November and December 2000. Your Constitutional Committee wishes to thank the Union, its officers, representatives, members and counsel for their cooperation and assistance during our deliberations and to assure all members that we believe the adoption of the proposed Resolution will serve the needs of the Union and the membership. Fraternally submitted, Constitutional Committee August 18, 2000 Seafarers LOG 7 �Bosun Isenstadt Retires Thanks SIU for Handing Him 'the World' After a 22-year career with the SIU, Bosun Brian Isenstadt has retired his book, but not his love of the sea. The following autobiographical letter from Isenstadt and the accompanying photographs were sent to the LOG by Brandon Maeda, chief steward aboard the Global Link. I had heard stories of the sea all my life. My great, great, great, great grandfather and my great, great grandfather went to sea very early in their teens, both sailing as carpenter apprentices. My father also went to sea, giving up an education at M.LT. to do so. He came up through the hawsepipe and sailed as master for more than 24 years, only to retire a few years ago. So in the summer of 1977, off I went to see the world. I joined the NMU in New York and tried to get on any ship going anywhere. After two months and still no ship, I heard about anoth- er maritime union, the Seafarers International Union. The next morning, I was on my way to Brooklyn. I found the hall and joined up. In just a matter of weeks, I was flying down to Trinidad as an OS to join the tanker Overseas Juneau. We shuttled for months between Nigeria and Louisiana carrying crude. We were then sent to the U.S. West Coast to run North Slope crude from Valdez to Long Beach and Panama. I even got to brave a voyage 'round Cape Hom that trip. I couldn't believe I was actually getting paid to do this. As a "C" card, I got almost seven months that trip. My next ship was an old C3 containership, the Sea-Land Charleston. Again, as a "C" card, I sailed six months on her. It was an around-the-world voyage starting in New Jersey and stopping in ports, some of which I had never even heard of: Felixstowe, Bremerhaven, The farewell dessert prepared by Steward/Baker Edward Tully was a chocolate brownie cake with white cream cheese filling. It was topped with a chocolate ganache and homemade truffles shaped like shells and starfish, made with white and dark cMcolate and filled with fruit jelly_ A well-fed crew Cartagena, Genoa, Suez Canal, Jiddah, Dubai, Singapore and Kobe. Then on to Seattle, California, through the Panama Canal and ports in the Gulf of Mexico and the East Coast, finally ending up back in Port Elizabeth. It was an adventure of a lifetime, and I was still getting paid. How could I not keep doing this? My friends at home were still working at their everyday jobs completely oblivious to the world around them. I wanted more of this. I now had enough time to upgrade, so down to Piney Point I went. That was back in the days of the old motel, the Bull Shepard and before the new library. I took lifeboat, AB and LNG classes. After that, there was no stopping me. I took any and every ship I could, never turned down a ship and never met a ship I didn't like. I sailed them all: stick ships, tankers, containers, RO/ROs, bulkers and LNGs, commercial charters, military charters and tramps. I loved the work and I had a passion for traveling_ As the years went by, I fell in love, got married and started a family. It became more difficult to leave home, but leave I did. In 1987, I caught a six-week fly-out to Guam to join the Cable Ship Long Lines. I've been working with the company, Transoceanic, ever since. That ~ix-week job turned into 12 years. I was lucky enough to join the Global Link on her maiden voyage from Singapore. I've sailed on her as a splicer/joiner, bosunmate and bosun. And for the past nine years, I've called her home. When the Global Link ended up being home ported in Baltimore, I packed up the family, moved down to Maryland and bought a house. The ship spends a lot of time in port, so I was able to see my family more often. I also returned to the Paul Hall Center to complete the bosun recertification course, which was quite informative, educational and fun. Earlier this year, I retired my book after 22 years with the union. I took a job with the cable ships' parent company, Tyco, working as a cable splicer/supervisor. I am able to go home at 5 p.m. and have weekends offeven more like a normal life. I work in the office at their Baltimore depot and still get out to sea as a cable splicer/supervisor on a variety of cable projects. I do want to thank the Seafarers Union for the opportunities they've given me. They lit- Edward Tully, steward/baker aboard the Global Link, credits the bakeshop and instructors at the Paul Hall Center for giving him the inspiration to challenge himself in the culinary field. Brandon Maeda, chief steward on the Global Link, sent these photographs to the LOG to show what an accomplished craftsman Tully is, and stated, "He is a real pleasure to work with and a welcome addition to any galley gang. Tully doesn't mind going the extra few steps it takes to turn a routine meal or dessert into an extraordinary delight for the benefit of the crew." These photos show some of Tully's spectacular edible creations. crew. Register to upgrade now at the Paul Hall Center. For further At right: lsenstadt shows off the mariner's clock in a walnut casing he received as a parting gift from the crew of the cable ship. erally handed me the world. The ability to travel and have a career that you enjoy, to me, is priceless. rd also like to thank the "oldtimers" out there with whom I have sailed because they're the ones who kept me on course and steaming full ahead. How could I forget my wife, Carole? Thanks for standing by me all these years. So to all of you out there whom I've had the pleasure of working with, and to all of you out there who didn't have the pleasure of working with me, thanks for all the great yearsand smooth sailing to you. A Dessert Lover's Dream Aboard the Global Link is a happy STEWARD DEPARTMENT UPGRADING COURSES Above: Captain William Dowd (right) congratulates Bosun lsenstadt during a retirement party aboard the Global Link. . .. in honor of Father's Day, a three-tier chocolate rum cake with white buttercream frosting ... Steward/Baker Tully with a freshly-baked raspberry chocolate charlotte ... ... assorted French petits fours (bitesized cake with fruit filling and marzipan and fondant frosting) ... ... a chocolate and cream cheese cake to celebrate Maritime Day 2000 .. _ ... in celebration of spring, a golden cake with fruit filling topped with buttercream and assorted marzipan fruits ... ... French eel airs and cream puffs... ... strawberry fantasy cake with homemade truffles for those crew members with birthdays in May... B Seafarers LOG ___ ban voyage cake with spiced rum and mango fruit meringue... September 2000 �13 Recertified Stewards Become Role Models for Future Seafarers "Learning and improving ourselves-that's what the Paul Hall Center is all about," stated SIU President Michael Sacco in introducing the graduating members of the recertified steward class at the August membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. Eleven students (two additional classmates shipped out prior to the meeting) were on hand to receive certificates of graduation from the highest level of vocational education the union offers for members of the steward department. They were Manuel Basas, Jeffrey Beasley, George Borromeo, Susan Bowman, John Bukowsky, Ronald Davis, Wilfredo DeLeon, Albert Fretta, Gary Mizer, Miguel Robles and Kathy Shaner. (The two not present were Oscar Angeles and Hugh Wildermuth.) Throughout the four-week program, the recertified stewards became a close-knit group as they learned more about the union in which they now play an increased leadership role. They toured Capitol Hill together as well as the union headquarters in Camp Springs, Md., where they met with representatives of the SIU's various departments. These meetings were designed to enhance their understanding of the union's operations and provide them with the latest information from each department so they, in tum, can relay it to their fellow crew members aboard their next ship. As the new recertified stewards were called to the podium individually to accept their graduation certificates, each spoke a few words from the heart, thanking all those who helped them advance. They also encouraged Jeffrey Beasley graduated from the trainee program in Piney Point in 1981 . Now at the top of the steward department, he thanked the SIU for giving inner city kids the chance for a rewarding future. George Borromeo, along with his partner Al Fretta (not pictured), took first place in a recertified steward chili cookoff. Following an intensive four-week course, the newly graduated recertified stewards pose for a group photo. They are (from left) Wilfredo Deleon, George Borromeo, Susan Bowman, Ronald Davis, Kathy Shaner, Jeffrey Beasley, Miguel Robles, Albert Fretta, Gary Mizer, John Bukowsky and Manuel Basas. the unlicensed apprentices to study and work hard, in the hopes that one day they, too, will make it to the top. First to the podium was Susan Bowman, 42, who joined the union in Norfolk, Va. in 1988 and now sails from Guam. She extended her thanks to the staff and employees at the Paul Hall Center as well as to the membership. This is the third time Bowman has upgraded at the school, and she was extremely impressed by how the union functions "like a well-oiled machine." She also was appreciative for the time she spent with her peers, "bouncing a lot of shipboard ideas off each other." This was the third time back at Piney Point for Ronald Davis as well. The 49-year-old member sails from the port of New Orleans, where he joined the union in 1991. He thanked everyone at the school, the union and all the officials for helping fight to keep the SIU strong. He also singled out his wife, Crystal, and thanked her for sharing this time with him and for her belief in his ethic of working hard toward the attainment of high goals and standards. Davis believes the leadership skills he acquired in the past four weeks will help him do a better job aboard ship and advised the unlicensed apprentices to "work hard, for you are the future of this union." Wilfredo DeLeon, 41 , joined the SIU in 1985 in the port of Honolulu, working aboard the SS Independence. Now sailing from Wilmington, Calif., he noted that members in this union have an opportunity to advance themselves. DeLeon said that meeting with representatives from the various union departments and with his fellow Seafarers was very helpful in his training. He also thanked the union for the opportunity of bringing his family to the Paul Hall Center to enjoy the facilities while he was studying. Manuel Basas, who sails from the port of Jacksonville, gave his heartfelt thanks to everyone at the school. The 52-year-old joined the SIU in Seattle in 1980. He said he found the steward recertification program very informative and rewarding and encouraged his fellow Seafarers to upgrade their skills as well. In accepting her graduation certificate, Kathy Shaner expressed her thanks in a poem. The 50-year-old Shaner, who joined the union in San Francisco in 1991 and has returned to upgrade at the school four times, recited: 1 thought I would go out to sea, Not knowing what all that would be. At.first it was tough, Not knowing much stuff But now J 'm recertified ... see. I came to the Seafarers school To learn everything that I could. And year after year It became quite clear The Lundeberg School ... it roles. Courses at the school's fire fighting facility were a requirement for completion of the recertification program. September 2aaa Thanks to the mass of teachers and staff, The officials of SIU. Without them to help me I surely would not be Reciting this limerick to you. She also turned to the unlicensed apprentices and reminded them to make excellence their standard. Gary Mizer, 47, also sails from San Francisco. He expressed his gratitude to the staff at Piney Point and urged the unlicensed apprentices to continue to return to the school for upgrading. "It's the best thing you can do.,, Miguel Robles was pleased with some of the new and improved skills he learned that will help him in his shipboard duties. The 54-year-old Robles joined the SIU in 1968 in New York and now sails from San Juan. Robles thanked everyone at the school for their help and expertise and stated, "We have the best union in all of maritime." "Respect" was the key word in Albert Fretta's address. The 44year-old, who sails from Jacksonville, advised the unlicensed apprentices to save their money, respect themselves and their jobs and love and respect their families, also noting that the SIU "is one, big family." John Bukowsky, 46, said he has a lot to be thankful for. He singled out the Paul Hall Center staff for teaching him discipline and helping him better learn his job. This is the sixth time that Bukowsky, who sails from the port of Baltimore, has returned to the school since joining in Piney Point in 1980. He thanked the other members of the steward recertification class for "sharing the experience of their probably 120 years combined seatime," and noted that he tries to learn from everyone he sails with, from captain on down, and appreciates any chance to learn even more. After learning more about the inner workings of the SIU, Jeffrey Beasley said he is glad he is where he is- in the steward department, trying to please only about 40 crew members at a time - and that the union's leaders are where they are-trying to please all the members all the time. Beasley, 38, graduated from the trainee program in 1981 and has returned to the school three times for upgrading. He now sails from Philadelphia. He thanked the SIU for taking kids out of the inner city and giving them a chance--a future. He singled out personal thanks to Carl Peth and Ken Conk.I in for helping him through some of his early hard times and expressed appreciation to Romeo Lupinacci, Don Nolan, Ed White and the other instructors for teaching him the basics of his craft- and imparting their wisdom. He advised the unlicensed apprentices to go aboard a ship and learn by listening. "The other crew members will help you through the tough times." The last of the speakers was George Borromeo, 42, a member of trainee class 341 who joined the union in 1981. He, too, has returned to the school a number of times since his trainee days to upgrade his skills and is proud that his dedication, perseverance and commitment to hard work have paid off. Borromeo, who sails from New York, stated that the Paul Hall Center continues to be the key element in upgrading one's skills and broadening one's knowledge of this ever-changing fascinating industry. To the trainees, Borromeo said that this period in their lives is an opportunity for enrichment through travel, experiencing different people and cultures and by acquiring the skills necessary to achieve their goals. Recertified Steward Albert Fretta advised the unlicensed apprentices to respect themselves, their families and their jobs. Seafarers LOG 9 �Do you have a family-related photo you would like to share with fellow Seafarers? If so, this is the place. Please send submissions 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 dhirtes@seafarers.org. The higher the resolution, the better. 10 Seafarers LOS September 2000 �Ship Seizure in Canada HI lllights Need for Strong U.S.-Flag leet The critical importance of The Katie was en route to maintaining a U.S.-flag mer- Becancour, Quebec when her chant marine available to meet owners, Third Ocean Marine national security requirements Navigation of Annapolis, Md., for sealift capacity was ampli- reportedly ordered her to stop fied Aug. 3 when an American- short of her destination and owned, foreign-flag freighter anchor in international waters was boarded and seized by off Newfoundland. At issue was armed Canadian sailors as part a pay dispute with the charter company, Andromeda Navigaof a pay dispute. The runaway-flag vessel, the tion, which allegedly owed GTS Katie, was carrying mili- Third Ocean some $228,000 for tary vehicles, containers and services previously rendered. other equipment-property of Katie owners refused to send the Canadian government- the freighter to port and unload being transported from Kosovo its cargo until the debt was settled. The Canadian National De"Canada -S dilemma fense initially agreed with SDV Logistics of Montreal to ship the equipment because its miliis a classic example tary did not have a vessel large enough to do the job. SDV subcontracted the job to Androof the danger of meda Navigation, which in tum retained the services of the GTS Katie from Third Ocean. becoming militarily After two weeks of fruitless negotiations, two Canadian war dependent on ships ships (the frigate HMCS Montreal and the destroyer HMCS Athabaskan), equipped registered in other with torpedoes and deck guns, were dispatched to the 36,000ton cargo ship's position. countries. " Canadian officials say the war ships' mission was to monitor - Vice Admiral James B. Perkins the Katie and attempt to force Fonner Military Sealift Cornman er her toward Canadian waters. Ship owners, however, refused to comply, and negotiations in the wake of a peacekeeping eventually broke off. With no resolution to the mission. The ship was sailing under the flag of St. Vincent and standoff imminent, the Canadian government secured perthe Grenadines. While accounts on the actual mission from St. Vmcent and number of vehicles and contain- the Grenadines to board the vesers aboard the vessel vary, sel and resolve the situation. Canadian National Defense Under international law, a vesofficials say the cargo is valued sel can only be boarded after at a quarter-billion dollars and either the captain or the country represents about 10 percent of of registry gives consent. the country's military might. The Katie weighed anchor at Reminiscing Old Times about I a.m. Aug. 3 and began moving toward Canada, but shipowners again announced plans to stop short of Canadian waters until money was received for the former debt. At about 1 p.m. that same day, the Canadian government launched its plan to seize the ship, and soldiers were ordered to move in. A helicopter was subsequently launched, flown to the Katie s location and maneuvered into position. Armed sailors were lowered onto the vessel to redirect it toward the Canadian mainland. No shots were fired during the incursion. Published reports quoted Canadian Defense Minister Art Eggleton as saying, "No responsible government can allow interference with military capabilities," during a briefmg in Quebec in the wake of the boarding. "We had to take action," he said. Two Canadian tugboats have since hauled the Katie from Rimouski, Quebec to Becancour, and eventually to Montreal where the military cargo was unloaded. As this issue of the Seafarers LOG went to press, the Katie was moored at Montreal and the Canadian government had filed suit against its owners for undisclosed damages associated with breach of contract. Third Ocean also may be the target of legal action by the 24member crew who argue that they have not been paid for nearly one year and are owed more than $200,000. According to an International Transport Workers' Federation representative, the crew could impound the vessel if talks on the back pay issue fail. Good Start for Guam Group Members of Unlicensed Apprentice Class 603 on July 7 completed part one of the three-phase entrylevel curriculum at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. The students, all citizens of Guam, were congratulated by their territory's lieutenant governor (Madeleine Bordallo, center), who toured the school after tending to unrelated business in Washington, D.C. Pictured from left to right are Mike Herrera, Gerald Martinez, Ryan Legario, Bordallo, Kevin Ignacio, Christopher Dinio and Joe Benvente. See page 13 for more information on the apprentice program. Seafarers on the MIV 1st Lt. Alex Bonny man reported smooth sailing after a recent exercise in Diego Garcia, with special credit given to the steward department. "The department deserves a vote of thanks, Ten retired Seafarers recently met at the SIU Hall in Philadelphia to reminisce about old times. The group, pictured above, included ( left to right, standing) Butch Zemeck, Bert Smith, Pat Devine, Joe Varano, Harry Smith, John Gallagher, Jack Pierce and Harry McCullough. Kneeling are Dan Dogherty and Vince Stankiewicz. "Canada's dilemma is a classic example of the danger of becoming militarily dependent on ships registered in other countries," commented former Military Sealift Commander Vice Admiral James B. Perkins. "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 missions. "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," the admiral 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." especially for all the hard work and improvements we've seen over the last couple of months," the crew reported in ship's minutes dated July 9. Chief Steward Howard Williams, during a recent stop at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md., said the Bonnyman "is a good ship. Everybody gets along-military and civilian, licensed and unlicensed. We go out every two weeks on trial runs, and overall things run smoothly." Fellow crew members praised the work of the Bonnyman's galley gang, which includes Third Cook Ali Nasser (far left}, Chief Steward Howard Williams (center), Chief Cook Rafael Cardenas (second from right) and SA Marco Cayetano (far right) along with SAs Reynaldo Lacayo, Kolly Patty and Rossell Mena. Seafarers LOB 11 �Liberty on the Lakes Orgulf Talks Begin Retired Seafarers Crew John W. Brown Above, the past and present intersect as SIU-crewed tugboats operated by Great Lakes Towing dock the John W Brown in Buffalo, N.Y. Contract negotiations began last month in St Louis for SIU boatmen who navigate Orgulf Transportation tugboats along the Mississippi River and its tributaries. Representatives for the SIU and the Cincinnati-based company conducted three negotiating sessions in early August, with more on the way. Overall, Seafarers crew 21 Orgulf tugboats. Above, pictured aboard the MN Dick Conerly, (from left) Cook Nancy Avery, Utility William Bowers, Lead Man Marty Watson and Deckhand Scott McQuade discuss suggestions for the new contract. At right, Watson and McQuade work on deck. A number of retired SIU members have been sailing as part of the volunteer crew aboard the Liberty ship John W Brown during the historic vessel's recent voyage throughout the Great Lakes. Usually based in Baltimore, the Brown is operated by Project Liberty Ship, a nonprofit group. The World War II-era vessel in late May kicked off its "Living History Voyage" to U.S. and Canadian Lakes ports; it was scheduled to return to Baltimore late last month. The Brown is a floating museum- albeit a fully functional shipand the main purpose of its recent voyage was to attract guests who otherwise probably never would see it. Visitor turnout reportedly has been very strong throughout the voyage, and the guests have seemed pleased with their tours. In fact, a spokesperson for the project said the turnout at times has been overwhelming. More information about the tour, including photos, is available on the internet at http://www.liberty-ship.com/. Personal Greetings for Holiday Issue of the LOG As has been done in past years, this December's edition of the Seafarers LOG will include the ever-popular 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: • 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.) • Be sure your greeting is in the holiday spirit. • Do not send more than three entires per person. (This form may be reproduced.) • 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 senders last name.) Include your phone number in case there are any questions. • The holiday greeetings must be received no later than Friday, November 17, 2000. • Send your entries to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 207 46. You also may fax copies directly to the LOG at (301) 702-4407. Above and below, retired SIU members Barry Malpas, Richard Hill and Dick Orgel work aboard the Brown in Toledo, Ohio. QMED Malpas joined the SIU in 1944, QMED Hill joined in 1942 and OS Orgel (who later sailed as master) also joined in 1942. 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. HOLIDAY MESSAGE 9100 (Please Print) To: ~------------------------------------------------------------~ From:~------------------------------------------------------------Sende~~lephone Numbe~--------------------------------------------~ Message: Check the block which describes your status with the SIU: D Active Seafarer D Family Member of Active Seafarer D Retired Seafarer D Family Member of Retired Seafarer Other: 12 Seafarers LOG September 2000 �Paul Ball Center: Apprentices Wanted! . .=-a ~ fi l la tl The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in C: 9 ~ tfj Jl Piney Point, Md., offers a wide range of vocational studies as well as aca&¥S ~ ~ M ~e~-;;, demic courses. One highlight of the curriculum is the unlicensed apprentice pro.· ~~~ ii~~·~~~~ gram- a three-phase course that fully prepares entry-level men and ·---;>~ women for careers as mariners. The apprentice program blends hands-on training with classroom studies. It includes an initial 12-week segment at Piney Point, followed by a 90-day shipboard assignment designed to help students select which department-deck, engine or steward- they prefer. Finally, students return to the Paul Hall Center for department-specific training. Staffed by knowledgeable, dedicated instructors, the school also is equipped with topnotch training equipment. This includes a maritime fire fighting and safety school (adjacent to the main campus) that is second-to-none. Additionally, the school this month is set to unveil a new simulator building that will house cutting-edge simulators for navigational, engine, crane and liquid-cargo operations. For more information about the apprentice program and other aspects of the Paul Hall Center, please call the school toll-free at 1-877-235-3275, or visit the internet site at http://www.seafarers.org. :;; ~ Basic and advanced fire fighting, water survival and confined-space safety are some of the classes conducted at the Paul Hall Center's Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, which opened last year. Aboard the training vessel Osprey, members of Unlicensed Apprentice Class 604 take part in a fire drill. Pictured above (from foreground to back) are Instructor Maurice Chambers, Louis Cappadonna, Damion Straughter, Roderic Kelly and Armando Gonzalez. Below is Michael Praslicka. Right: Hands-on training is a key component of the apprentice program. Here, Larry Tribby {left) and Louis Cappadonna practice their navigation skills. Below: Pausing for lunch before their afternoon class on the Osprey are (from left) Darren Rollins, Paul Voisin, Roderic Kelly, Larry Tribby, Damion Straughter, Matthew Nunez and Armando Gonzalez. Below Right: Armando Gonzalez helps prepare the training boat Osprey for docking. September 2000 Seafarers LOG 13 �Delta Queen Makes Surprise Stop In Clarksville, Tenn. Passengers aboard the SIUcrewed Delta Queen were surprised when the steamboat pulled into Clarksville, Tenn. because Clarksville was not on the 7-day cruise itinerary. Then again, there was nothing on the itinerary except for embarkation in St. Louis on day one (July 5) and debarkation in Nashville, Tenn. on day seven (July 12). Everything in between intentionally was a mystery. This meandering cruise is just one of Delta Queen Steamboat Company's growing attractions. It is known as Capt. Gabe's Tramping Cruise, because Capt. Gabe Chengery, a 33-year veteran in the steamboating business, said patrons needed a change from the ordinary. And just like on riverboats in the 1800s, the day-to-day itineraries were at the captain's whim. "Repeat cruisers are looking The Delta Queen jazz band sets up its instruments for a pierside ~re­ mony in which the captain is made an honorary citizen of Clarksville, Tenn. for a different kind of cruise," Chengery said. "So I came up with this mystery cruise idea about three years ago." For many years, the paddlewheeler has sailed past Clarks- ville (known as the Queen City) as it made its way up and down the Cumberland River, but this was the first time the boat docked there since 1986. The passengers were allowed off the boat to visit the local museum and tour the city on trolleys during their three-hour excursion. Ken Conklin, former commandant of the Paul Hall Training Center in Piney Point, Md., now lives in Clarksville and sent the LOG the accompanying photos. The Delta Queen is a beautiful example of the thousands of paddlewheel steamers that once plied the great American waterways. Built in 1926, it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1989. A second mystery cruise will Ken Conklin stands at the pier in Clarksville, Tenn. where the Delta Queen ties up for the first time since 1986. take place this month, starting in St. Louis and ending in Chattanooga, Tenn. ATTENTION ALL SEAFARERS The Committee was infonned that after Brother Cella received his Mailgram, he contacted the Secretary-Treasurer by phone who then referred him to the Credentials Committee to appeal his disqualification. The Credentials Committee infonned Brother Cella that a letter had been mailed to him that fully detailed the reasons for his disqualification. A copy of the Constitution was enclosed in the letter and if be wished to appeal the decision of the Credentials Committee he should follow the appeal procedure listed in the Constitution. 3. Charles Burdette Collins, C1652--{::andidate for President. Your Committee noted the receipt of a certified letter dated July 15, 2000, addressed to the Credentials Committee in which Brother Collins submitted his name for nomination to the office of President. Union records indicate that Brother Collins paid his dues for the Second Quarter of 2000 on May 7, 2000, whereas they should have been paid no later than April 30, 2000. The records also indicate that even though Brother Collins was employed aboard the Galveston Bay the vessel paid-off in Blount Island, Jacksonville, Florida on April I, 2000 and _Brother Co~ins had ~ opportunity to pay his dues on a timely basis. Your Committee could not waive the lateness on this dues payment and disqualified Brother Collins for the job of President. Based upon the provisions of Article XII, Section 1 (b), and further supported by Article III, Section 3; Article V and Article XXIV, Section 9, previously carried herein, the Committee disqualified Brother Collins for the job of President. In accordance with the requirements of Article XIII, Section 2 (c) of our Constitution, and in order to assure adequate notice of its decision, the Committee informed Brother Collins of his disqualification by Mailgram sent on August 16, 2000 to the address stated in his letter of nomination. Moreover, the Mailgram was followed by a Certified Mail Return Receipt Requested letter dated August 16, 2000 from the Committee to Brother Collins that set forth the reason for his disqualification. A copy of the Union Constitution was enclosed with the aforementioned letter so that Brother Collins would have available the procedure to be followed in appeal from the disqualification decision of the Committee. The Committee was informed that after Brother Collins received his Mailgram, he contacted the Secretary-Treasurer by phone to appeal his disqualification. He stated that, while the Galveston Bay did pay off in Jacksonville on April 1, 2000, he did not have the opportunity to pay his dues for the Second Quarter 2000 at that time because the Union official present at the pay-off had to leave to open the Union Hall. Brother Collins stated be paid his dues for the Second Quarter at the first date that that was feasible to do so. The committee contacted the Union official present at the pay-off and obtained from him a statement concerning his recollection of the events of April I, 2000 aboard the Galveston Bay. .... -.. - YouR. JoB MAY BE AT S1AKE 14 Seafarers LOB Upon reviewing the statement provided by the Union official, it was unclear to the Committee whether Brother ColJins had an opportunity to meet his monetary obligations. The Committee contacted Brother Collins by phone and he informed the Committee Chairman that another crewmember aboard the Galveston Bay was also unable to pay his dues at the pay-off. The Committee attempted to contact the crewmember but were unable to do so as he was at sea. However, the crewmembers dues records were reviewed and they indicated that he paid his Second Quarter 2000 dues on May 7, which is the same date as Brother Collins. The Committee decided that based on the known facts provided to SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel and your Committee, Brother Collins appeal did in fact have merit. The Committee agreed that Brother Collins was qualified to run for the office of President. Brother Collins was notified on the Committee's decision by a Mailgram dated August 18, 2000. 4. Roy W. Dunaway-Candidate for Assistant Vice President in Charge of Contracts and Contract Enforcement. Your Committee noted the receipt of an undated letter addressed to President Michael Sacco received June 26, 2000, in which Brother Dunaway requested his name be placed on the ballot for election to the office of Assistant Vice President in Charge of Contracts and Contract Enforcement. Your Committee noted that SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel, by letter dated June 26, 2000, advised Brother Dunaway that the nominating period is between July 15 and August 15, 2000 and enclosed a copy of the Constitution referencing Article Xlll, Section 1, which explains the nominating procedure. Your Committee no~ that no timely nomination has been received. Based upon the provisions of Article XlII, Section 1, the Committee disqualified Brother Dunaway for the job of Assistant Vice President in Charge of Contracts and Contract Enforcement. In accordance with the requirements of Article XIII, Section 2 (c) of our Constitution, and in order to assure adequate notice of its decision, the Committee informed Brother Dunaway of his Disqualification by a Certified Mail Return Receipt Requested letter dated August 17, 2000 from the Committee to Brother Dunaway that set forth the reason for his disqualification. A copy of the Union constitution was enclosed with the aforementioned letter so that Brother Dunaway would have available the procedure to be followed in appeal from the disqualification decision of the Committee. 5. Anthony Leo, L-685-Candidate for Executive Vice President Your Committee noted the receipt of a letter dated August l, 2000, ad<lre$ed to the Credential Committee in which Brother Leo requested his name be placed on the ballot for election to the office of Executive Vice President. Your Committee also noted the receipt of a certified letter dated August 11, 2000 addressed to David Heindel in which Brother Leo withdrew his nomination for Executive Vice President. Accordingly, the Committee agreed that no further action is needed on Brother Leo's nomination. 6. Larry Frank Phillips, P1257-Candidate for Vice President in Charge of Contracts and Contract Enforcement. Your Committee noted the receipt of a fax dated August 14, 2000 in which Brother Phillips requested his name be placed on the ballot for election to the office of Vice President in Charge of Contracts and Contract Enforcement Your Committee also noted that Brother PhiJJips in submitting his nomination did not include the Certificate, that according to the Constitution, Article XIIl, Section 1, is necessary to qualify a person for office. Your Committee noted that SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel, via facsimile dated August 15, 2000, advised Brother Phillips to send to his office a signed and dated Certificate as soon as possible, but no later than September 15. 2000. The Committee was informed that Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, on August 15, 2000, via facsimile received the signed and dated Certificate from Brother Phillips. The Committee agreed f:bat Brot~er Phillips had fulfilled the nominanon requrrements set down in the Constitution. Your Committee noted that Union records show that Brother Phillips paid his dues for the Second Quarter of 2000 on May 4, 2000. whereas they should have been paid no later than April 30, 2000. However, Brother Phillips was aboard the Overseas Ohio from March l, 2000 through June 1, 2000. On these grounds and due to the fact that the dues were paid within one month of his discharge your Committee agreed to waive the lateness of this dues payment. Your Committee also noted that Brother Phillips paid his dues for the First Quarter of 1999 on February 25, 1999, whereas they should have been paid no later than January 31, 1999. The records reflect that Brother Phillips was aboard the SS Cape Lookout Shoals from January l, 1999 through February 26, 1999. The vessel paid-off in Jacksonville on February 3, 1999 and Brother Phillips had an opportunity to pay his dues at that time. Your Committee found no grounds in the Constitution to waive this late dues payment. Based upon the provisions of Article XII, Section l (b), and further supported by Article III, Section 3; Article V and Article XXIY, Section 9, previously carried herein, the Committee disqualified Brother Phillips for the job of Vice President in Charge of Contracts and Contract Enforcement. In accordance with the requirements of Article XIII, Section 2 (c) of our Constitution, and in order to assure adequate notice of its decision, the committee informed Brother Phillips of his disqualification by Mailgram sent on August 16, 2000 to the address stated in his Jetter of nomination. Moreover, the Mailgram was followed by a Certified Mail Return Receipt Requested letter dated August 16, 2000 from the Committee to Brother Phillips that set forth the reason for his disqualification. A copy of the Union Constitution was enclosed with the aforementioned letter so that Brother Phillips would have available the procedure to be followed in appeal from the disqualification decision of the committee. All credentials received as of August 15, 2000, were turned over to the Committee in good order, and those received by mail subsequently, but not later than August 15, 2000, have similarly been furnished to the Committee in good order. All credentials have been examined in strict accordance with the Constitution. Any defect in the credentials disposed of by the Committee has been the sole responsibility of the sender and no person adversely affected by such defect has denied this to the Committee. Fraternally Committee submitted, Credentials August 18, 2000 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea JULY 16 -AUGUST 15, 2000 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port o· . g: ' 3 o- () 11 5 4 28 16 18 8 11 ... 8 :: 7 1 1 I 0 7 22 25 8 14 4 15 8 7 11 5 5 1 Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville · . Mobile ·:: ·. ·.s 7 NewOtleans · New)!'ork Norfolk 17 2 Wilmington Totals o 26 246 Port 4 0 3 5 7 ' 5.. 5 2 "9 7 2 11 117 3 3 78 20 26 2 19 Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 0 0 2 7 0 0 2 8 14 9 16 8 4 4 4 2 10 l 8 7 1 4 0 4 7 5 2 12 3. 8 2 2 12 50 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C i 0 2 ~ 7 5 · . ;7 .o 9 16 44 11 55 3 21 30 1 s 4 5 1 3 54 26 7 19 25 11 9 12 11 18 8 6 408 152 5 7 6 l 4 4 8 14 0 11 20 .I : 13 4 7 l 8 5 Duluth .....................Wednesday: October 11, November 15 Honolulu .................Friday: October 13, November 17 Houston ......•.•... ,.....Monday; October 9, November 13 5 90 52 4 6 Baltimore ................Thursday; October 57 November 9 0 11 85 0 3 16 15 •change created by Veterans. Day holiday 5 10 16: ·: 0 3 Monday: November 13* 14 o· 3 7 Algonac .........,.........Friday: October 6; 2 0 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: QCtober lO:t November 14. ' New York .................Tuesday; October 3, November 7 ~ 3 ' l() ~ 4 2 4 2 9 10 9 0 7 0 2 4 9 2 7 6 1 0 0 8 2 4 0 0 2 0 0 7 ·. s .; · 3 '. 6 11 1 5 ~t 7 0 3 . 24 2~ St. Louis ·-~,.....,.<;,,nwm 2 2 18 6 0 0 161 57 29 25 21 3 3 4 28 3 10 5 13 7 2 26 9 0 0 0 0 2· 17 16 0 17 2 9 4 10 3 8 JO 12 0 5 Personals 1 8 l 3 0 3 0 SIU-MSC ANNUAL PICNIC The annual SIU-Marine Cooks & Stewards picnic is scheduled for Sunday, September 10, from noon until 5 p.m. at the barbecue area (site #7) at San Bruno City Park. This is a pot luck, BYOB picnic. DEREK MACKEY Please contact the SIU hall in the port ofJacksonville (904) 353-0987 4 29 268 19 102 2 9 3 39 80 New Pensioner Soto 3 27 10 17 12 2 8 9 3 ' "i7 12 .1 l 3 6 2 ::9:·://:.:::. J·~.": .:· . . 24.:::.-.. 1 7 18 1 1 0 0 29 4 .>r : 19 St. Louis Wilmington Totals Totals All Departments 0 2 1 5 13 49 174 6 211 567 446 370 2.. 2 7 ·16 0 0 6 0 0 8 6 ... 332 0 () ···: o 8 () 1 24 240 ....... 9 4 4 -- 1 2 t6 .... l~ 11 3 0 3 3· "" 17 . ... 3 3 8 11 0 0 0 5 8 6 28 99 131 412 0 .. " 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 3 13 0 11 0 0 0 7 183 105 15 28 12 19 . 31 . " . 13 18 2 0 21 2 21 11 1s 22 3 30 3 73 14 248 16 310 938 607 496 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. September 2000 36 18 n - AB Jose Soto (right) receives his first pension check from SIU Port Agent Victor Nunez at the hall in Santurce, P.R. Seafarers LOS 15 �- Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes JULY 16 -AUGUST 15, 2000 CL - Company/Lakes DeanCorgey Vice .President Gulf Coast Nichobs J. Marre>ne Viee J>r.e$ident West Coast ' . . . Algonac 13 0 16 8 0 .. DECK DEPARTMENT 0 25 6 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 3 13 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT .. s . ..·..._-.w.: ··· 4 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP 0 7 1 0 3 5 0 0 0 :;···· 19 ."BEADQUARTERS . SWlAuth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 ·. (101) 89~-0675 ALGONAC - 32 Port Algonac . 510 St. Clair River l)r., A1g-0nac, Ml .48001 · 0 NP-Non Priority TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port L-Lakes ·........ om}) 7944988 Totals All Depts 0 74 44 0 62 32 0 12 *"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 . 12 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #lC, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters JULY 16 - AUGUST 15, 2000 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SIDPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region . Atlantic Coast ::·...::(j:""ifd: : .:·:: i ... ·: u . . -0as " :· . ~~~ Ihlarid Wat~rs 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 7· West Coast Totals Region I 2 0 5 2 12 Atlantic Coast 0 0 0 0 0 Totals All Depts 3 2 12 2 0 8 8 3 *"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. 2 33 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23$1Q ·(7$7) 622-i892 J>H&ADELPIDA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (21S) 336-3818 PlN.&.Y..POlN'f '. i>:o.. Box 75? Piney Point; MD 20674 (~01.) :994..001(} .. ..OllT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave,, Ft. Lauderdale, FL :33316 (954) s22~7984 ·· · ... · SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 ... (415) 5:43-.5.8$$. . · Go~e~nt ~tvi~ DiVision· · (415) 861~3400 . "" · SANTURCE lOS1 Femande.z Juuco$ Ave., Stop 16¥2 Santurce, PR 00907 - "(787) 721-4033 ' ' ST. LOUJS TACO.MA, 3411 South Union Ave .• Tacoma. WA 98409 (253) 212-1n4 WILMINGTON .. 510 N. BroadAve., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 5494000 16 Seafarers LOG This photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by Antoinette Warren, the wife of Pensioner Paul A. Warren of Mandeville, La. The picture was snapped in New Orleans during an organizing drive aboard the Mobile City. Warren is kneeling at left. Also in the photo is former SIU Vice President Lindsey Williams (standing fourth from left). Brother Warren, now 87, is a charter member of the SIU, having joined in 1938 in Alabama. He sailed in the deck department with the SIU as well as during WWII in all theaters of operation . An official in the union tor 32 years, Warren was active in all SIU beefs and served as an organizer on the Great Lakes and with Cities Service and Isthmian. Additionally, he worked as a patrolman in the port of New Orleans. Holding Book No. W-3, Warren may well be the seniormost SIU official. September 2000 �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. n inland captain and a member of the engine department who upgraded his skills on five separate occasions are among the eight Seafarers announcing their retirements this month. Captain Richard N. Roel Sr. navigated the waterways for nearly three decades, yet found time to upgrade his skills at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. And speaking of upgrading, Paul R. Wolf did it often. The Brooklyn, N.Y. native visited the union's school in 1979, 1981, 1984, 1992 and 1994, each time improving his skills as a member of the engine department. Four of the retirees sailed in the deep sea division, three navigated the inland waterways, and one plied the Great Lakes. Two of the new pensioners were members of the steward department, four others sailed in the deck department and two shipped in the engine department. On this page, the Sea/arers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of the retiring Seafarers• careers. A DEEP SEA - - - - - - - - . ALBERT HENDRICKS, 58, began his career with the SIU in 1962, joining in New York. The Mobile Ala. native first navigated the waterways aboard the Elizabeth, operated by the AH Bull Steamship Company. A member of the steward department, Brother Hendricks last sailed in March. Prior to his retirement, he sailed aboard the PFC Eugene A. Obregon, operated by Waterman Steamship Corp. Brother Hendricks resides in Mobile. FAGALILO MALIGA, 59, was born in American Samoa. Brother Maliga started his career with the SIU in 1978 in the port of San Francisco. He first sailed aboard Pensioner Makes SPAD Donation in Mooney's Memory Joe Morrison knew Ed Mooney for 40 years, so the retired recertified bosun understood how deeply Mooney cared about the SIU. With that in mind, Morrison last month made a $300 contribution in Mooney's memory to the Seafarers Political Action Donation (SPAD). "It's the best remembrance I possibly could give Ed," stated Morrison, who sailed with the SIU from 1960 to 1992. "SPAD helps make sure the union gets good jobs and benefits in the future, and that's what Ed was all about." Mooney, a popular and effective SIU official, passed away July 4, at age 84. He first sailed with the SIU in 1944, and later worked as a headquarters September 2000 the Santa Magdalena, operated by Delta Steamship Lines. A member of the steward department, Brother Maliga last navigated the waterways in 1999. His final voyage was aboard the Sea-Land Innovator. Brother Maliga lives in Long Beach, Calif. WILLIAMF. MURPHY, 70, sailed as a member of the deck department. He joined the SIU in 1974 in New York. His first ship was the Erna Elizabeth, an Albatross Tanker Company vessel. The Worcester, Mass. native served 20 years with the U.S. Marine Corps before becoming a Seafarer. Brother Murphy upgraded his skills often at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Before retiring he sailed aboard the Sea-Land Express. Brother Murphy resides in Okinawa, Japan. PAUL R. WOLF, 60, hails from Brooklyn, N.Y. Brother Wolf began his career with the SIU in 1962, joining in the port of New York. Prior to becoming a Seafarer, Brother Wolf served in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1960. A member of the engine department, he first sailed aboard the Capri, operated by Peninsular Navigation Corporation. A frequent upgrader, Brother Wolf attended the union's school in 1979, 1981, 1984, 1992 and 1994. Prior to his retirement, he sailed aboard the LNG Gemini, operated by Pronav Ship Management. Brother Wolf resides in West Melbourne, Fla. INLAND SAMUEL T. JACKSON JR., representative from 1961 until retiring in 1977. Morrison said he met Mooney during an organizing campaign in Buffalo in 1960. The two remained friends thereafter. "Ed worked very, very hard explaining what a union would mean, and he was talking to people who weren't used to the idea of a union," noted Morrison. "He impressed me right away. He was a gentlemen to everyone around him, always had time to hear any kind of complaint or beef-and there were plenty of them at that time." Morrison added that he stays up-to-date on the latest SIU news and that the union "has done so many things for people who wouldn't have had a chance if it weren't for the SIU. It still does that today- gives a chance to people who want to make something of themselves." 61, hails from Charleston S.C. Brother Jackson joined the SIU in 1976 in Houston. A member of the engine department, he sailed primarily aboard Marine Contracting & Towing vessels. His first voyage occurred in 1976; his last, in 1988. Brother Jackson still calls Charleston home. ed his career with the SIU in 1962, joining in Duluth, Minn.A member of the deck department, Brother Walsh spent his entire career sailing aboard Great Lakes Towing Co. vessels. He upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in 1995. Brother Walsh resides in South Range, Wis. SIU Joins 'Bloody Thursday' Remembrance RICHARD N. ROEL SR., 63, began his SIU career in 1961 in Philadelphia. Born in Camden, N.J., Captain Roel first navigated the inland waterways aboard a Curtis Bay Towing Company vessel. The captain upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education earlier this year. Prior to his retirement, he sailed at the helm of McAllister Towing of Philadelphia vessels. Brother Roel resides in Westville, N.J. PAUL VON BODUNGEN, 38, hails from New Orleans. Brother Von Bodungen started his Sill career in 1980. The Port Sulphur, La. resident spent his entire career navigating the inland waterways aboard Crescent Towing Salvage Company, Inc., vessels. A member of the deck department, Brother Von Bodungen 's most recent voyage was in 1998. GREAT LAKES JAMES P. M. WALSH JR, 59, was born in Wisconsin. He start- Retired SIU VP West Coast George McCartney carried a message of solidarity to the recent ceremony conducted in San Francisco by the International Longshore & Warehouse Union (ILWU) commemorating the ssth anniversary of the General Strike of 1934. "What was true then, remains fact today. Namely, we are strongest when we stand and work together," stated McCartney at the large gathering of union members, politicians and other citizens. The 1934 strike involved thousands of union members-including mariners and longshore workers-along with more than a thousand police and eventually the National Guard. It turned tragic on "Bloody Thursday" (July 5) when a policeman fired fatal shots into the crowd, killing two workers. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG the. fttan~m' . ~4'1~ry ~omm,,i~~e to . denounce the use·by''.Aijlertcan com~nles of ships registered irr Panama, Liberia·and upon jlfl19i?~~~HE:; ::!:::::;;~~:~:~:::~rz~ Street ·~ftihbits~ ·506-\ ~lr Ne~pYqH<' Br~nch action against these runaway flags. and the Attan~6:J~ ·<fiulfJ~~tj¢.~, Q.:f-fif~: '(~~,,. ~~,The runaway operatorJ''-- the SIU asserted,. union occupies the · · · ''is a predatory para.... top five floors with site, roaming the seas . the shipping hall takMQ,MTU in search of profit.. ing the entire second I '1 l n gate profits, mean. . floor. The lounge, while preying upon complete with. card /. I '1 l ' ~ the more poorly paid and writing tables, peoples of other takes the third floor. lands in the worst .Efh~. stewards' offices . traditions of ofd.. fash· ~nd the baggage room, which offers fr.ee joned dollar imperialism and economic cofobaggage chettdng ·for' members·in·gooa nialism.. /1 standing,.. artr-otf:.t.he. fourth .:floor).and 1984'. branch offices, indudJng the office of the Seafarers LOG take up the fifth floor. The Pfc. Eugene A Obregon, the second ·Of 'TUJS 'n JM SJU HJSYiC)iAY Atlantic & Gulf District headquarters com.. three vessels that have been converted for prise the top floor. military charter under the TAKX program, "The reaction of the·membershijfto 'tJ1eir . · was christened on September a in San new home has been very favorable. · Diego. She was preceded by the Sgt. MJtej Commenting on the new building, one Kocak, which was christened in August, and Seafarer said, ''from now on we don't have will be followed by the Maj. Stephen W. to take off our hat to nobody." Pless. The work is being performed for Watennan Steamship Corp. and wlll be 1964 operated under charter by the M11h:ary The Seafarers International Union has called Sealift Command. Seafarers LOG 17 �DEEP SEA EDMUND BURNETT =,--,....,=,,...-------,Pensioner Edmund Burnett, 72, died May 26. Brother Burnett ' began his career with the SIU in 1969 in the port of Houston and first sailed aboard the Steel Architect, operated by Isco Inc. A native of Hawaii, he was a member of the steward department and began receiving his pension in 1990. Brother Burnett returned to sea in 1991 during the Persian Gulf War, working aboard Seahawk Management's Falcon Leader. Galveston, Texas was his home. CALVIN DeSILVA Pensioner Calvin DeSilva, 73, passed away June 6. A member of the deck department, Brother DeSilva joined the SIU in 1947 in the pan of New York. Born in Trinidad, West Indies, Brother DeSilva first sailed aboard the Steel Maker, operated by Isco Inc. He last sailed aboard the SeaLand Crusader and began receiving his pension in 1989. Brother DeSilva resided in Orlando, Fla. ALBERT ESTRADA Pensioner Albert Estrada, 77, died May 17. Born in New Orleans, Brother Estrada began his SIU career in 1947 in the port of New Orleans. He first sailed aboard an Alcoa Steamship Company vessel. A member of the steward department, Brother Estrada served with the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1945. He upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. in 1981. In 1989, he sailed aboard the Waterman Steamship-operated Sam Houston and began receiving his pension that same year. Chalmette, La. was his home. CLAUDE H. GILLIAM Pensioner Claude H. Gilliam, 74, passed away May 30. A native of Tennessee, Brother Gilliam began his career with the SIU in 1951 in the port of Baltimore. A member of the steward department, Brother Gilliam first sailed on Metro Steamship Corporation's Atlantic Water. He served in the U.S. Army from 1944 to 1947. Prior to his retirement, he sailed aboard the Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel Stonewall Jackson. Brother Gilliam began receiving his pension in 1991 and resided in Gretna, La. KENNETH GILLIAM Brother Kenneth Gilliam, 53, died May 30. Born in Galveston, Texas, Brother Gilliam started his SIU career in 1991,joining in the port of Houston. He first sailed aboard the Cape Edmont, operated by Interocean Ugland Management Corporation. A member of the deck department, Brother Gilliam last sailed on the Liberty Star. operated by Liberty Maritime Corporation. Galveston was his home. HEBER GUYMON - - - - . Pensioner Heber Guymon, 74, died Nov. 11, 1999. Brother Guymon joined the SIU in 1948 in the port of Baltimore and first sailed aboard a Sinclair Oil Corporationoperated vessel. Born in Hunnington, Utah, he sailed as a member of the engine department. Brother Guymon upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg ThaLasacy Of Two Seafarers Two dedicated union members, later to become officials, were taken from us recently, only weeks apart. The legacy and contributions provided by these men remain intact. Edward Mooney and Juan Reinosa were a big part of my life as an active seaman. I shipped out of Brooklyn from the time Ed was first elected a patrolman until he was appointed headquarters representative and everything in between. His position toward the rank-and-file members never changed. He was always there for anyone with a reasonable concern. Ed, along with John Dwyer, were instrumental in handling a delicate Brooklyn waterfront problem that might otherwise have gotten out of hand. I was a shipmate of Juan's. When he was chosen to work ashore, I personally was skeptical. Are we going to trade a great steward, great cook and even greater shipmate for a three-piece suit, cluttered desk and typewriter (remember them?)? Time allayed those fears. It is common knowledge that Juan played a large role in making the food and stewards' program the overwhelming success that it is today. My next protracted stay other than New York was in San Francisco. As fate would have it, Juan was elected port patrolman there. My stay in San Francisco suddenly became a pleasant experience. I was blessed. I could never have picked this exacta. Memories are reward enough. If someone should ask if I knew Ed or Juan, I can proudly answer in the affirmative. To both families, I send my sincere condolences. Anthony Notturno Villas, N .J. 18 Seafarers LOS School of Seamanship in 1974 and began receiving his pension in 1981. Prior to his retirement, he sailed aboard the Sea-Land Commerce. El Paso, Texas was Brother Guymon's home. WILLIAM R. HORNE Pensioner William R. Home, 73, passed away May 17. Born in New Jersey, Captain Home began his career with the SIU in 1947, first sailing aboard the Council Grove, operated by Cities Service. Brother Home began receiving his pension in 1988. Prior to retiring, he sailed aboard the Transpacific. He resided in San Francisco. IRA R. JESSE JR. Pensioner Ira R. Jesse Jr., 65, died June 5. Born in Texas, Brother Jesse began his SIU career in 1967 in the port of San Francisco. A member of the steward department, he first sailed aboard the Andrew Jackson, operated by Waterman Steamship Corp. Bother Jesse served in the U.S. Air Force from 1953 to 1957 and began receiving his SIU pension in 1988. Prior to retiring, he shipped aboard Westchester Marine's Beaver State. Brother Jesse resided in Las Vegas. FREDERICK JOHNSON Pensioner Frederick Johnson, 78, passed away May 5. Bosun Johnson joined the SIU in 1942 in the port of New York. Born in Massachusetts, he first sailed aboard the Charles Warfield, an Alcoa Steamship Company vessel. A member of the deck department, Bosun Johnson upgraded his skills by completing the bosun recertification course at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in 1974. He began receiving his pension in 1986. Prior to his retirement, Bosun Johnson sailed aboard the OM! Missouri. Mobile, Ala., was his home. TOM MARSHALL Pensioner Tom Marshall, 76, passed away June 2. Brother Marshall began his career with the SIU in 1955, joining in San Francisco. t.:.---'l..--'----__...., A native of Louisiana, he was a member of the steward department and first sailed aboard the North PLT Victory, operated by Sheppay Steamship. Brother Marshall began receiving his pension in 1991. Prior to his retirement, he sailed aboard the Sea-Land Pacific. New Orleans was his home. CONLIN M. MURPHY Pensioner Conlin M. Murphy, 77, ~ passed away ·· June 2. Brother Murphy began his career with the Seafarers in 1952 in the port of San Francisco. A member of the steward department, he first sailed aboard the Del Oro, operated by Delta Steamship Lines. Prior to joining the SIU, Brother Murphy was in the U.S. Army, serving from 1941 to 1944. He began receiving his pension in 1988. Prior to his retirement, Brother Murphy sailed aboard Mokihana. He called San Francisco home. SIU in 1969 in the port of New Orleans sailing in the deck department. His first ship was the Steel Advocate, operated by lsco Inc. He later transferred to the inland division. Brother Davidson began receiving his pension in 1999. Prior to retiring, he sailed aboard Crowley Towing & Transportation vessels. Cypress, Texas was his home. DEAN PRINDLE Pensioner Harold A. Deich, 81, died April 18. A Maryland native, Brother Deich started his career with the SIU in 1957 in the port of Baltimore. A member of the deck department who also sailed as a captain, he first worked aboard Wheeling Steel Corporation vessels. Brother Deich served in the U.S. Army from 1944 to 1946. Prior to his retirement in 1981, he sailed aboard Charles H. Harper & Associates vessels. Glen Burnie, Md. was his home. Pensioner Dean Prindle, 75, died May 5. Born in California, Brother Prindle began his SIU career in 1956. He first sailed aboard the Fair Port, operated by Waterman Steamship Corp. A member of the deck department, Brother Prindle served with the U.S. Air Force from 1946 to 1948. He began receiving his pension in 1990. Prior to his retirement, he sailed aboard the SeaLand Pacific. Brother Prindle resided in Oakland. RICARDO RISBECK Brother Ricardo Risbeck, 60, passed away May 16.A native of Pennsylvania, Brother Risbeck started his career with the SIU in 1966, joining in Seattle. His first voyage was aboard the Sea-Land Anchorage. A member of the engine department, Brother Risbeck upgraded his skills in 1973 and 1987 respectively at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. He last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Enterprise. Brother Risbeck resided in Bellingham, Wash. EDWARD RULEY Pensioner Edward Ruley, 76, died May 12. Bosun Ruley started his career with the Seafarers in 1943, joining in the port of Norfolk, Va. A member of the deck department, he first sailed aboard a Waterman Steamship vessel. Brother Ruley began receiving his pension in 1990. Prior to his retirement, the Maryland native sailed aboard the SS Point Susan, operated by Point Venture Corporation. Baltimore was his home. ALEJANDRO SERRANO Pensioner Alejandro Serrano, 73, died June 6. Brother Serrano joined the Seafarers in , 1961 in the port ofNewYork. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Serrano first sailed aboard the Pisces, operated by Balton Shipping. He worked as a member of the steward department and began receiving his pension in 1995. Prior to his retirement, Brother Serrano sailed aboard the Mayaguez, operated by Puerto Rico Marine Management Inc. Brother Serrano resided in his native Puerto Rico. INLAND BYRON DAVIDSON Pensioner Byron D. Davidson, 57, died May 2. Brother Davidson served in the U.S. Navy from 1960 to 1964. The Colorado native launched his career with the HAROLD DEICH CYRUS GUSSMAN Pensioner Cyrus Gussman, 79, passed away April 23. A native of Morgan City, La. Boatman Gussman began his career with the SIU in 1964 joining in Port Arthur, Texas. He served with the U.S. Army from 1939 to 1946. A member of the engine department, Brother Gussman began receiving his pension in 1985. During his career, he sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by Higman Barge Lines. Brother Gussman resided in Louisiana. GREAT LAKES PAUL MONAHAN Pensioner Paul Monahan, 77, died Nov. 30, 1999. Born in Pennsylvania, Brother Monahan began his career with the Seafarers in 1968, joining in Chicago. A member of the deck department, he first sailed aboard the Southdown Challenger, operated by Cement Transit Company. Brother Monahan served with the U.S. Marine Corps from 1941 to 1947 and began receiving his SIU pension in 1991. Prior to his retirement, he sailed aboard the American Steamship Company-operated Charles E. Wilson. Brother Monahan resided in Albany, N .Y. AnANTIC FISHERMEN SALVATORE LoPICCOLO ..,,,,.,.,,.,.,,,,..,,,..,,.._..,...,...,.,,,.,.,....,,...... Pensioner Salvatore LoPiccolo, 81, died June 1. A native of Massachusetts, hejoind the Atlantic Fishermen's Union before it merged with the AGLIWD in 1981. During his career, he also sailed aboard deep sea vessels as a member of the deck department. LoPiccolo was a resident of Gloucester, Mass. He began receiving his pension in 1981. September 2000 �•, ·. ·.•. :.:. Ships ~ihu~'firlt are 'reviewed by Ille union's contract depattment \. Those Issue~ reqtiiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union . . ·.· UfHJn tetelJlf t1f the ships' minutes. The minutes are then forwarded >to the Seafarers LOG tor publication. LNG GEMINI (Pronav Ship Mgmt.), May 21-Chairman Zan al A. Sirigar, Secretary Georg G. Kenny, Educational Director Mark Freeman, Deck Delegate Scott J. Seiler, Engine Delegate Dasril Panko, Steward Delegate Sukirman Suraredjo. Chairman reported new mattresses received. Educational director advised members to take advantage of training facilities at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations for next contract include adding prescription coverage for dependents and issuing insurance cards. Question sent to contracts department concerning injury reports. Recommendation made for union to look into transportation to and from ship and for status of contract negotiations with Pronav. Discussion held on how to spend ship's fund. Suggestions included new microwave, refrigerators for all staterooms and upgraded satellite TV system. Steward thanked crew for help maintaining clean ship. Crew, in tum, expressed gratitude for having "one of best cooks in union onboard." MAERSK ARIZONA (Maersk Line), May 19--Chairman Scott A. Heginbotham, Secretary Grant H. Acmstead, Educational Director David W. King, Deck Delegate Joseph LeBeau, Engine Delegate Daniel F. Avery, Steward Delegate Raford C. Nixon. Chairman announced new washers and dryers due on arrival in Houston or New Orleans. Vessel then heading for Mombasa, Kenya. Educational director urged all members to upgrade at Piney Point, Md. Clarification requested by deck department on overtime. Request made for repair of antenna. At present, ship not able to pick up news broadcasts. Crew members also requested verification of company policy regarding monetary advances. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great chow. OVERSEAS VIVIAN (OSG), May 18---Chairman Doyle W. Ellette, Secretary Claude C. Hollings Ill, Educational Director Murray W. Robertson, Engine Delegate Andrew Lopez III. Chairman announced ship en route to Durban, South Africa. Captain to get van so crew can go ashore. He thanked crew for cooperation and asked everybody to be aware of safety issues and report unsafe items to department heads. Fresh vegetables and fruits to be brought aboard in Durban. Educational director stated upgrading skills at Piney Point is road to higher wages. No beefs or disputed OT reported. All communications read and posted. Chairman told crew that LOG gives members information on maritime news both at sea and ashore. Steward department given vote of thanks for job well done. PRODUCER (CSX Lines), May 21--Chairman William J. Card, Secretary David A. Cunningham, Educational Director Alan A. Rogers II, Deck Delegate Joseph A. Osorio, Steward Delegate Pedro Laboy. Chairman announced payoff in Oakland, Calif. upon arrival. Vessel now on regular 14-day run to Long Beach and Honolulu. Bosun reminded everyone to separate plastic items from regular trash and to keep messhalls locked in port. Crew September 2000 members also advised to check expiration date on z-card and make sure other documents (passports, STCW, TRBs) are up-to-date. Educational director urged everyone to upgrade ratings in department. Treasurer stated $848 in ship's fund. Clarification on reliefs requested in engine department. Suggestion made to ask contracts department to consider doubling pension and reducing seatime required. Bosun thanked steward department for good food and for keeping areas clean and well stocked. Steward thanked relief bosun for help with garbage during voyage and Chief Cook Laboy for keeping galley spotless. Request made by member for meals made with no beef, pork, lamb, cheese and pasta; also that pork not be added to beans and soup. WASHINGTON (ATC), May 7Chairman Rudy Santos, Secretary Scott Opsahl, Educational Director Charles W. Dahlhaus, Deck Delegate Gavino A. Octaviano, Engine Delegate Patrick Lynch, Steward Delegate Samuel Harris. Chairman announced payoff in Cherry Point, Wash. Vessel may anchor prior to docking; if so, ship will pay off at anchor. Secretary reminded members to leave clean room for next person. Educational director urged everyone to upgrade and keep endorsements current, check expiration date on z-card and have TRB signed. He also suggested donating a little extra to SPAD to help keep SIU interests known on Capitol Hill. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for electronic money transfer capability and for company-supplied DVD player. Crew radio antenna requires repair. Crew baggage locker, now used as weather gear locker by officers needs to be reclaimed. Next ports: Ferndale, Wash. and Valdez, Alaska. CAPE JACOB (Amsea), June 3Chairman Robert W. Johnson, Secretary James M. Kasha, Deck Delegate Kelvin W. Johnson, Engine Delegate Lawrence T. French, Educational Director Lawrence T. French III, Steward Delegate Arturo A. Rodriguez. Chairman talked about retroactive pay increase resulting from resolution in contractual agreement. Captain discussed repatriation flights and answered questions from crew. Secretary spoke more about new Amsea contract and how it benefits everyone in SIU. Educational director stressed need for keeping STCW endorsement and TRBs up to date and of upgrading at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $100 in ship's fund to be used for purchase of movies. Donation made to American Diabetes Association on behalf of crew member aboard ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President's report read from most recent LOG and discussion ensued on past and future of SIU. Voyage completed to Maldives with 22 Navy personnel aboard. Also took part in British operations mission. All went well; vessel to depart for Singapore July 10. Everyone reminded to be safety conscious at all times. This includes wearing goggles or other eye protection and safety shoes. Vote of thanks given to Steward Kasha and his department for job well done. CAPE LOOKOUT SHOALS (IUM), June 22--Chairman Steven L. Bush, Secretary Jose A. Rivera. Chairman confirmed vessel has new charter for next several years, begging early July. Run will be from Valdez to Nikolski, Alaska with occasional trips to Anacortes, Wash. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communications are slow aboard ship, with no LOGs received recently. This expected to change with change ofroute and new P.O. box in Nikolski. Suggestion made to have contracts department look into negotiating with company for various improvements, which will help attract relief crew members. GREEN ISLAND (Waterman Steamship Corp.), June 4--Chairman Bennie Freeland, Secretary John G. Reid, Educational Director James Laratta, Deck Delegate Desiree M. Crockett, Engine Delegate Philip W. Zalewski. Chairman talked about need for coffee makers in pantry and increase in provisions. Secretary reminded everyone getting off to strip beds and obtain fresh linens for next person; also to return any movies to video library. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade skills at Piney Point and to ensure STCW and other documents in order. He also mentioned help is available for anyone with alcohol or drug problems. Check with patrolman at any SIU hall. Beef reported in deck department; no disputed OT noted by department delegates. Request made that satellite dish be included in next contract for all SIU ships and that vacation time and overtime be counted toward seatime. Vote of thanks given to steward department for excellent job with limited stores. GUAYAMA (NPR, Inc.), June 11Chairman Roan Lightfoot, Secretary Gina G. Lightfoot, Steward Delegate Jerry S. Gant. Chairman announced payoff in Jacksonville, Fla. June 16. He noted safety pamphlets posted in messhalls and for everyone to become familiar with material, especially in light of upcoming Coa t Guard inspection. Secretary suggested crew members anend upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. Educational director reminded members about SCTW cutoff date (Feb. 2002) and not to wait until last minute. Some disputed OT brought up in deck department; no beefs reported by department delegates. Steward department given vote of thanks for fine job. Next ports: San Juan, P.R. and Jacksonville. INTEGRITY (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), June 4--Chairman Domingo Leon Jr., Secretary Stephanie Sizemore, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker. Educational director advised crew members to upgrade skills at Piney Point to secure brighter future and noted that new simulator building with state-of-the-art equipment to be ready soon. He also reminded crew members getting off to supply rooms with clean linens. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New dryer for crew on order. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into increasing maintenance and cure and extend medical benefits to dependents. Thanks given to steward department for excellent food. Next port: Boston, Mass. and Elizabeth, NJ. LIBERTY STAR (Liberty Maritime), June 18--Chairman Robert B. Lindsay Jr., Secretary Joseph C. Birke, Educational Director Junious Williams Jr., Deck Delegate James E. Sullivan, Engine Delegate Joseph Williams, Steward Delegate Julio Guity. Chairman announced Haifa, Israel as next port of call. Crew members should be aware that Liberty Star works from bell to bell. No word from company on June 15 pay increase. Educational director stated STCW requirements need to be fulfilled; he encouraged members to attend upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer announced $238 in ship's fund. Clarification requested by deck delegate on mandatory overtime for day workers Saturdays and Sundays in port or at sea. Beefreported in engine department regarding no weekend nighttime overtime. New microwave requested for crew on mess decks. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), June 11--Chairman Joseph W. Moore, Secretary John B. McGill Jr., Educational Director Lorie duties. Suggestion made for membership to receive Christmas bonus. Steward expressed interest in having union forms put on CDs for shipboard computer use. Movies purchased in El Segundo, Calif. Some members expressed desire for exercise area. Vote of thanks to steward department, especially T. M. Curley. "Good food is the standard and not the exception." Next port: Honolulu. OVERSEAS NEW YORK (ATC), June 11--Chairman Carlos Old Friends Meet Again Third Mate Mark Holman (left), who sent this photo to the LOG, and Bosun Dave Garoutte recently made a trip to South America on the SS Cleveland. The two graduated from the same bosun recertification class at Piney Point in 1988. Both also joined the union immediately after completing the entry-level training program: Holman in 1980 and Garoutte in 1972. Christmas Jr., Deck Delegate Abraham M. Murray, Engine Delegate Robert L. Stevenson, Steward Delegate Henry Greene Jr. Chairman announced payoff in New Orleans June 12. Both he and secretary gave words of encouragement to unlicensed apprentices aboard vessel. Educational director pointed out positive results of attending upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. Some disputed OT reported in engine department; no beefs or disputed OT in deck or steward departments. Requests made for new VCR and typewriter. MARINE COLUMBIA (ATC), June 11-Chairman Gregory L. Hamilton, Secretary James F. Dunne, Educational Director Ronald Gordon, Deck Delegate Fred L. Collins, Engine Delegate Carlos Ortiz, Steward Delegate John F. Huyett. Educational director advised crew members to attend necessary courses at Paul Hall Center to comply with STCW. Chairman noted weights and dartboard approved for purchase and additionally requested two new trash containers--one for plastics and one for biodegradable items. Treasurer announced $1,509 available in fund for purchase of dartboard and weights and $250 in emergency fund. Disputed OT reported in engine department. Everyone asked to help keep noise down in passageways. Extra launch requested but not approved. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Suggestions sent to contracts department for negotiation of new contract. OVERSEAS CHICAGO (ATC), June 12-Chairman Christopher J. Kicey, Secretary Gregory S. Lynch, Educational Director Miguel Callazo. Chairman thanked everyone for hard work. He said payoffs would take place monthly as soon as company gets payroll plan installed on ship. Secretary discussed union's money purchase pension plan (SMPPP). Educational director announced new ATC class at Piney Point being developed and encouraged all members to upgrade skills at the school, particularly to be up to industry standards for STCW. Movie fund to be created; donations accepted by GSU T. M. Curley. No beefs or disputed OT reported; clarification requested on coffee making Loureiro, Secretary Jeffrey L. Smith, Educational Director Edward H. Self, Steward Delegate Saeed Saeed. Chairman announced payoff in Ferndale, Wash. June 13. Educational director stressed upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center and noted ATC safety course not yet scheduled. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communications received from contracts department concerning vacation pay and current agreement. Clarification requested on interest rate for money purchase pension plan. Requests made for new crew lounge furniture and room for exercise equipment. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. RELIANCE (CSX Lines), June l 0--Chairman Lance X. Zollner, Secretary Gene C. Sivley, Educational Director Michael A. Rubino, Deck Delegate Russell Haynes, Steward Delegate Mose Peacock Jr. Chairman announced payoff in Tacoma, Wash. June 16 and thanked crew for smooth voyage. Educational director reminded crew memb{'.rs of importance of contributing.to SPAD, particularly in this election year. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department given vote of thanks for great job. R.G. MATTHIESEN (Ocean Shipholding Inc.), June 24--Chairman Robert G. Bell, Secretary Lovell McElroy Sr., Educational Director Moses Micken Jr., Deck Delegate Brian Matthiesen, Engine Delegate Todd Moreland, Steward Delegate Elhussieny Elnaggar. Chairman announced annual inspection by Lloyds of London insurance group to take place while at anchor in Manchester, Wash. Secretary noted fresh produce taken on with 90-days stores in Hawaii also due for contamination inspection in Manchester due to federal codes. Educational director reminded everyone to check expiration date on z-card before shipping out. He also suggested attending upgrading courses at Piney Point for job security. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for great meals. Next ports: San Francisco and Crockett, Calif. and Manchester and Ferndale, Wash. Seafarers LOG 19 - �Know Your Rights Gazpacho Serves: 25 Preparation Time: 2 hours 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. . . . a great way to use up your gardenfres h vegetables . .. GALLEY CORNER 1 1/s gallons red ripe tomatoes, chopped 1 1/s quarts cucumber, chopped 1 1/s quarts large bell peppers, chopped 11/s pints onion, chopped 41/g cloves garlic l1/s quarts bread crumbs 1 1/s cups olive oil l/4 cup balsamic vinegar !1/s teaspoons salt 11/s teaspoons white pepper Puree vegetables in blender or food processor. Press - through sieve to remove seeds. Puree bread crumbs with olive oil and vinegar. Blend into vegetable puree and season with salt and pepper. Chill well. If anyone is looking for loi..~.. ~ertified Executive Ch~ . .·:y . .John Hetmanski · l \.':. ~ ....::·· "·'· . i/: .. ' 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. ~;::~l!fllB&'it:~••~~1: .· Etripfoyee Retl!'¢tnent Income ~Urify'Acf of J'9?4 '(ERJSA)." ··· ·. . ··:···· ··· :· ··· . .. Basic financial Statement . ..... Tue value ofthe plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan. was $4,490A36 as ofJuty 31, 1999,. compared to :$3.143,615 as ofluly 31, 1998. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of$5SJ 79. During :.:1h.e pfari .year, the plan:bad a total incom~ of $5,780,303, .including employer contributions of $5,610.854 and earnings from ·· investments 6f $169,449_In addition. the plan restated its beginning net assets to appropriately reflect the ptovisions of , 1ICPA Sta~~entofPositi.vn 9f~1es~pg ir\,~djus~~nts . ~? bep~fit 09~~gatio~ . ()f$J~40S,t00. .... ·.· . .... ·. . .•. ..... ·../ ~1~~t;~:•f¢i.W~~k~~i~T~%:·'~p.#.n$~§Ji,l:9~µ4e~:t:.~~74.;(>:45m•adfuinistrati\f~expenses,•~<l:$S~$64i~3o/iiit>~n;;;; ' ' . YOUr Bights to Addltlomil Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report. or any part thereof~ on request. The items listed below ;~eiIT8I"aig~~~i~~~Q£1Jt;,;iJ~;Ji~~L"'"''0<49/t&,$U%:,,,,,,,%j% 0''' can 4 To obtam a copy of the full annual xeport; or any.part:thereof; write or M;lf: <:;ft.'.ice of;the. a.dmmts~tot o~i9le .S.1'i;t Pacific District Suppletnental a~efits flan, In~.• at 522 Harrison St;reet, §an Fran~~e~~. £6 . ~~lp?~~l 04.< ~~l~phQ*~ nill.11t:· · her (415) 495~6882. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.50 fort4e futl::aniiu~lir~i'iii §t".$.;<V2.Sp¢f pageif()r . part thereof. . ·.· . u• <} ., · x · ·•+ ' aliY · also have the right to receive from the plan administrator; .on. ~ue5}. ~a .~tp9 ~b~gp;.}~)S~~tgf:~~t~~.s~~> · and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement ofincome ·~fridexpensesQf!'thepl~µ 'and_;#cCptJiP.lWY~!V ·notes, {)r bQtb. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrat-O}\ the~ tw<> .&pitem.~ts .a.nqaccofrt,., · ...·panyiug note,s. will pe indµded !lS part of lliat!ermrt· ~e -~~arge .to covet copyjng costs giv¢ii !!bO,V:~. d~~ . nQtjn.clude a .•charge for the copying Qf tb~s~ portions of tbe report.t?eeaiise t.h~s~. P.Q#.i§ris ·;:ire :~i.Shed Without ·charge; · · · · · ·· Y-0u also have the legally protected right to examine the annualreport at the main -office ofthe plan, 522 Hamson Stree4 ; San Francisco, CA .941Q$·3104 and at th~ U.S ..Dept. ofLabQr(DQL) in Washington, D.C.. or to obtain a copy .from the DOL · upriil"payment of copying costs. Requests to the DOL should be address.ed to: Public Disclosure Room NS638, Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration; U.S, Department of LabQr~ 200 Constituti<m Avenue, N .w. Washington. DC 20216. . :: ·. Y\'>U Are You Receiving All Your Important Mail? In order to ensure that each active SIU member and pensioner receives a copy of the Seafarers LOG every month-as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and health insurance checks and bulletins or notices-a correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently or feel that you are not getting your union mail, please use the form on this page to update your home address. Your home address is your permanent address, and this is where all official union documents will be mailed (unless otherwise specified). If you are getting more than one copy of the LOG delivered to you, if you have changed your address, or if your name or address is misprinted or incomplete, please fill out the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union Address Correction Dept. 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 .--------------------------------------------------, HOME ADDRESS FORM 9100 (Please Print) Name: Phone No.:~----------------------------~ Address:~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- Social Security No.: ____ ~~~~'~~~~ Book No.: D Other _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ D Active SIU D Pensioner This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain in the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally. L--------------------------------------------------~ 20 Seafarers LOB 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. SIDPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 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 hal1s. 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 purp ses including, but not limi ed 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. September 2DDD �Sept 11, 25; Oct. 9, 23, 30; Nov. 6, 20; Dec. 4, 18 General education and ~ollege courses are available as needed. In acfditlOn; ·, . basic vocational support program courses are offered tbrough-0ut the year, one week prior to the AB, QMED, FOWT, Third Mate, Tanker·Assistant-.and Water .Survival courses. An introduction to. compu~rs· be self-stUdy. course will lflliJl'rf1*11ii~i;i,i~·;); Name --------------------------~ Address - -------------------------- With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days sea time 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 QMED 4J1.Plicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $280 with their apulication. The uavment should be made with a money order only. payable to LMSS. COURSE Telephone _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Deep Sea Member D Lakes Member Date of Birth D BEGIN END DATE DATE --------- Inland Waters Member D If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security# _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Seniority _ _ _ __ _ _ __ _ __ U.S. Citizen: Yes D No D Book#---------Department _ __ _ _ _ _ __ Home Port Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? DYes DNo If yes, class# _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ __ _ __ _ _ __ __ _ __ __ Have you attended any SHLSSIPHC upgrading courses? DYes ONo 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: 0 Yes ONo Primary language spoken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ September 2000 LAST VESSEL: _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ __ Date On: - - - - - -- -- - -- Rating: _ _ _ __ Date Off: SIGNATURE _ _ _ _ __ _ _ __ _ _ DATE NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only ifyou present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Admissions Office, 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 students in its programs or activities. 9100 Seafarers LOB 21 �Paul Hall Center Graduating Classes --r Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 598 - Unlicensed apprentices from class 598 who graduated from the water survival course are (in alphabetical order) Malachi Albertie Jr., David Alexander Ill, John Barrington, Roger Berger, Terry Blade, Earnesto Brandon, John Collins Jr., Edward Deupree Ill, Jose Echeverria Jr., Patrick Edwards, Lovell Hyman, Jared Lee, John Lightfoot, Edmund Livings, Timothy Manes, Kevin Mcintyre, Jose Rivera, John Rochez, Earle Shakes Jr. and Dominic Whitty. Their instructor was Bernabe Pelingon. SEAFARERS f•Ul HALL CENTER LIFEBOAT CLASS ::=:";:~~·~.9.l.;~_;.::=.=.;-~~~ Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 604 Completing the water survival course are unlicensed apprentices from class 604. They are (from left, front row) Louis Cappadonna, Bernabe Pelingon (instructor), Paul Voisin, (second row) Justin Johnson, Roderic Kelly, Larry Tribby, John Rochez, Darren Rollins. (in boat) Matthew Nunez, Damon Straughter, Emilio Abreu and Michael Praslicka. Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 603 - Class 603 unlicensed apprentices who successfully completed the water survival course are (in alphabetical order) Joseph Benavente Jr., Christopher Dionio, Lokona Farias, Jackson Gourgue, Byron Graham, Michael Harvey, Michael Herrera, Kevin Ignacio, Haven lussig, Nicholas Jones, Ryan Legario, Charles Lewis, Adam Lippe, Samuel Lloyd, Ralph Martin Jr., Jerald Martinez, William Mcintyre, Felix Medina, Allyson Pangelinan, Kenneth Simon and Sidney Wagner Jr. (Note: Charles Lewis is not in the photo.) Designated Duty Engineer (DDE) - Completing the designated duty engineer course July 7 are (in no specific order) John Knott, George Murphy Jr., Donald Lumpkins, Monty Dunphy, Richard Robertson, Laurence Gilley and Rene Vazquez. Their instructor, not pictured, was Barney Kane. We Did It! FOWT - Earning their FOWT endorsements July 21 are (from left, first row) Manuel Oliveras, William Rozier, Fahd Alsoofi, Paul Flores, Armando Bermudez, Curtis Thornton, Brent Morris, (second row) Mark Jones (instructor), James Brown, Pati Taototo, Pedro Ortiz Jr., Gary Torres, Edward Hopeau, William Watterson, Milton Flynn, Pablo Bermudez, Nicholas Joyce, (third row) Carey Foster Jr., Abdul Munassar, Niko Monsales, Juan Green, (fourth row) Gerald Evans, Ray Avie, Darryl White, John Turner 111, Victor Harvey, Rossel Lino and Louis Gracia. 22 Seafarers LOB Unlicensed Apprentice Graduation -All the studying pays off for another group of unlicensed apprentice graduates as they receive their certificates June 23. Posing with "Momma" Theresa Price are (in alphabetical order) Gregorio Abalos, Kyle Bailey, Tyrone Brown, Carlos Castillo, Christophre Cummings, Sherrod Frazier, Brian Guiry, Michael McErlean , Benny Perez, Karl Roy, Shauntay Shavies and Guy Todd. (Note: two of the graduates are not in the photo.) September 2000 �Paul Hall Center Graduating Classes Steward Department Skills Chief Cook - Leaming specific culinary skills which will prepare them to sail as a chief cook are (in no particular order) Erni Lizada, David Camacho, Natividad Zapata, Herman Stith, Harry Kimble, Gerry Querubin, Tanja Pfizenmaier, George Burgos, Michael Harris, Marcus Nicholas and Vern Andrews. With them are instructors Chef John Hetmanski and Chef John Dobson as well as assistant instructor Chef Phyllis Rand. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) - Completing the tanker familiarization/assistant cargo (DL) course June 16 are (from left, kneeling) Ian Ferguson, Eli Smith, Ronel Guerzon, Charles Walker, Randolph Cash Jr., Marque! Sapp, Raymond Elsner, Chris Todd, (second row) Jim Shaffer (instructor) Chuck Thompson, Janan Driggers, Thomas Odem, Ehtesham Ahmed, Sammy Montana, Kevin Conklin, Melvin Stegall, Justin Rodgers, (third row) Dave Rankin, Riley Donahue, John Gilston and Tom Woerner. Able Seaman - Completing the AB course August 4 are (from left, first row) Enrique Brown, Melvin Hill, Veronica Miller, Gwynne Turkington, (second row) Willie Johnson, David Pratt, Curtis Newman, Rizalino Aldana, Thomas Skubinna, Christopher Green, Timothy Beuk, (third row) William Maggio II, Jeffrey Smith, James Miller, Agustin Miranda, Joshua Weir, Jack Swain, Joel Patzer, Dustin Macomber, Randy Pasquarella, Thomas Morgan, Stan Beck (instructor) and Travis Jarvis. Galley Operations - The galley operations course teaches students baking skills. From the left (front row) are Angelo Camacho, Rocel Caballero, Leopold Calderon, Adele George, Kaipo Cornwell. Julio Ciliezar, Juan Rios, (second row) Chef Ed White (instructor), Gary Dottino, Jimmy Williams and Darren Barrett. Academic Department English as a Second Language (ESL) College Math Prep Instructor Peggy Densford (left) works with Pete Malone (Unlicensed Apprentice Class 575) to prepare for college math courses. September20IJIJ William Mcintyre, a native of Pattaya, Thailand , studies English with Instructor Peggy Densford. Right: Computer Class - Fateh Saleh, from the port of Wilmington, Calif., practices using the computer with help from Instructor Richard Prucha. Seafarers LOB 23 �Volume 62, Number 9 Septe ber 2000 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. -page20- SIU-Crewed Sbip Becomes Tourist Attraction hydrographers. While visitors in Alexandria toured the vessel, SIU Headquarters Rep. Carl Peth conducted a union meeting and answered questions posed by the crew members, mostly pertaining to the new contract. With him was Christine Short, who soon will help out in the port of Honolulu as a patrolman. This is the first ship for OS David Jones of Houston, who graduated from the Unlicensed Apprentice Program at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. in May. While still in training, Jones worked aboard the class 295 and joined the SIU in 1979. The vessel's mission scientists and technicians from the Naval Oceanographic Office perform surveys aboard the ship to collect data for charting that portion of the world's coastlines that are not adequately charted. The data are utilized in both war and peacetime missions. The oceanographic ships operate in potential hot spots of the world-such as the Sea of Japan, the Persian Gulf, the Mediterranean coastal waters-wherever the U.S. Navy may be called upon to operate or fight. Survey ships also are used for spe- Chief Steward Warren Lombard (left) and Chief Cook Julio Arzu have everything under control in the galley. I t's not often that ordinary residents get a chance to climb aboard a military vessel, but hundreds of people took advantage of just that opportunity when the SIU-crewed USNS Bruce C. Heezen (pronounced HAY-zin) docked in the port of Alexandria, Va. recently and was available for tours. The ship, launched March 25, 1999 and delivered to the Military Sealift Command (MSC) January 2000, is the fifth of the Pathfinder T-AGS 60 class of oceanographic survey ships that are designed to gather underwater data in either coastal or deep ocean waters. In order to perform its mission, the Heezen is equipped with the latest survey technology, including a dynamic positioning system, which automatica11y controls the ship's speed and heading and enables it to maintain its position and follow a track line. Survey ships are ambassadors for the United States, stopping at foreign and domestic ports that rarely see U.S. Navy vessels and creating goodwill by helping train other nations' oceanographers and Liberty Sun, but he considers the Heezen his first ship. It is also the first voyage for GVA Ann Mensior of Indiana, one of two women aboard ship, and she loves it. The mother of four (and grandmother) recently made a complete career change. And while she noted that it is sometimes difficult to be away from home, she keeps in touch with her family by e-mail and now has an opportunity to see things she has never seen before in Indiana: whales, jellyfish, dolphins, flying fish, a sunset at sea. She hopes to attend upgrading courses at Piney Point as soon as possible. OS Alvin Clark, who helped greet visitors as they climbed the gangway onto the Heezen , graduated from the Unlicensed Apprentice Program in 1998 and spent one month with the vessel in Gulfport, Miss. prior to sailing first to Norfolk, Va. and then to Alexandria. For Chief Steward Warren Lombard, however, this is old hat-his fifth time aboard an oceanographic ship. He graduated from the union's trainee program in situations, such as locating aircraft that have crashed or charting wrecks that may be hazardous to shipping. The scientific data collected by the Navy's oceanographic survey fleet are necessary to all U.S. military forces operating on or above the seas who must be prepared to sail or fly at a moment's notice. The Heezen, which is 329.5 feet long and can travel at a speed of 16 knots, was named for Bruce C. Heezen, a 20th century oceanographer best known for his pioneering work mapping the ocean floors. He died in 1977 of natural causes aboard a submarine that was about to explore the submerged mid-Atlantic mountains that he had studied throughout his 30-plus years as an oceanographer. During the shipboard union meeting, GVA Joseph A. Gierbolini listens intently to clarification on the current contract. The USNS Bruce C. Heezen was named by a group of fifth graders from Cranston, R.I. The students' entry was chosen from among 2,000 entries from American school children in a 1998 Navy-authorized ship-naming contest, which was held to coincide with the International Year of the Ocean. The contest encouraged students to learn about the maritime sciences, naVa:J'.'"0-e>eaitio~rr, phy and the use of the Internet as a research tool. Following a return trip to Norfolk, the vessel, operated by Dyn Marine for the MSC, will head for operations off the coast of Iceland. Above: While tourists were busy roaming the decks of the Heezen, SIU members gathered for a union meeting in the messroom. From the left are Storekeeper Earl Thomas, Chief Cook Julio Arzu, Chief Steward Warren Lombard, OS David Jones and Oiler Jonas Bocaya. OS David Jones (right) shows Headquarters Rep. Carl Peth his TRB, indicating he was properly credited for steering aboard the vessel. Left: Honolulu Patrolman (in training) Christine Short (left) talks with GVA Ann Mensior about life aboard 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 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 September 2000 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES UNIONS WIN KEY DEMANDS AT BELL ATLANTIC/VERIZON SEAFARERS’ WAGES, BENEFITS INCREASE UNDER NEW FIVE-YEAR T-AGOS PACT SIU WELCOMES USNS WATKINS WILMINGTON SIU HALL’S RENOVATION NEARLY DONE COMMITTEE REVIEWS NOMINATION PETITIONS FOR UNION ELECTION ITF GAINS $65,000 IN BACK PAY FOR CREW OF RUNAWAY-FLAG SHIP GULF WAR REPORT LAUDS U.S. MARINERS, CALLS FOR STRONG AMERICAN-FLAG FLEET 10 YEARS AFTER DESERT STORM, MARAD EXAMINES SEALIFT ROLE STRUCK BY CYPRUS-FLAG SHIP, ITF GLOBAL MARINER SINKS ARA’S STEINBERG PASSES AWAY CREDENTIALS APPROVED FOR CANDIDATES TO 27 UNION OFFICES BOSUN ISENSTADT RETIRES SHIP SEIZURE IN CANADA HIGHLIGHTS NEED FOR STRONG U.S.-FLAG FLEET SIU-CREWED SHIP BECOMES TOURIST ATTRACTION 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 09/01/2000 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. 9 2000 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/35e834ce5059b70ed01e20b50d9124f0.pdf 11065e098dce1cc0f0f854747f990a91 PDF Text Text Volume 63, Number 9 SIU-Crewed Pomeroy Delivered Watson-C1q,ss ·LMSR Augments American S!!alift Capacity . J~ Photo by National Steel and Shipbuilding Co. Steward Dept. Seafarers To Crew USNS Benavidez Construction Continues on RO/RO The first of two roll-on/roll-off ships for SIU-contracted Totem Ocean Trailer Express, Inc. is under construction in San Diego. It is scheduled for delivery in October 2002. For more photos of the early stages of the construction , see page 3. Sealaring Life Agrees With Zepedas Three Generations Find Career Niche in SIU Recertified Bosun Johnny Zepeda (left) and his son Felipe, who is enrolled in the unlicensed apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education , aren't the only ones in their family to discover their calling through the SIU. Page 9. SIU members will soon climb the gangway to the USNS Benavidez (T-AKR-306) , which recently was christened in New Orleans. Page 3. House Okays ANWR Development _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Page 5 - Carter Investigation Continues _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Page 2 �President's Report Time Is Right for ANWR Fluctuating gas prices at the pump. Electrical bills skyrocketing. Roving blackouts. The cost of home heating oil inflating. Is it any wonder that the =--.,.._..,,, House of Representatives last month passed-with bipartisan support-an energy bill that will affect all Americans? Besides other benefits, the president's energy plan will create jobs all across America through a commitment to modernizing and expanding the nation's energy infrastructure. This means new refineries, new power plants, new research into renewable energy sources. Within that legislation is a provision calling for safe Michael Sacco exploration and drilling of a specific area of Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Clearly, ANWR represents a great opportunity for the United States to become less reliant on foreign oil. Energy problems throughout the U.S. have been especially prominent this year. ANWR can be a new way to help meet the growing demand for energy products, while also helping to put the nation back on track toward the continued economic expansion we enjoyed over the past decade. Last month's House passage of the energy bill was a big victory for those who support ANWR development (including the SIU). In passing the energy plan-and in defeating an amendment specifically intended to yank ANWR exploration from the program-the House provided great momentum for this issue. I hope SIU members and their families have noticed the recognition given to the labor movement for helping move ANWR through the House. In this case, many legislators and reporters have given credit where it's due, noting the strong backing from AFL-CIO unions, including the SIU and other unions affiliated with the Maritime Trades Department, plus the unions of the Building and Construction Trades Department and others-all of whom are coordinating their efforts through the coalition known as JobPower. That coalition, formed earlier this year, includes an outstanding list of trade unions, elected representatives and businesses that are working together to deliver solutions to America's energy problems. The SIU will continue doing its part, through JobPower and through the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department. Already, we have lobbied hard on this issue, and the membership also has delivered by reaching out to their elected representatives on Capitol Hill. I thank all Seafarers who sent postcards and letters to Congress asking for their support of ANWR development. And I urge you to keep it up, because our work is far from finished. Once again, this is an example of how politics affects our lives and livelihoods. As the energy plan moves to the Senate, keep in mind that opening ANWR will do more than just increase domestic oil production. It will create new jobs for American workers-hundreds of thousands of jobs, by some estimates. Americans will do the exploration and drilling. U.S.-built pipelines will transport the oil. Domestic facilities will refine and distribute it. U.S. energy producers and U.S. consumers will use it. And, of particular interest to Seafarers, we will join many of our brothers and sisters in maritime labor to crew the growing fleet of environmentally safe, double-hulled, U.S.-flagged tankers that will carry the oil from Alaska. Even before we start bringing the oil back, we'll have to transport the construction equipment to Alaska. Opening ANWR to development will help enable our U.S.-flag Merchant Marine to grow and help expand our shipyard industrial base-both of which serve valuable military purposes. Another thing that stands out about the proposed exploration and development of ANWR is the evident partnership between labor, management and government. It's not often that those three components so readily take the same stance on a given issue. When we agree this strongly and this eagerly, you can bet we have a persuasive case. In part, that's because we've shown that exploring ANWR will be done in a responsible, environmentally sound way. Since the opening of Alaska's North Slope, nature and development have safely co-existed. And today's technology makes it possible to produce oil in a less invasive and more environmentally friendly manner. Incidentally, if you've ever seen a photo of ANWR with mountains in the background, you're looking at a federally protected area to the south of the one proposed for development. That is a key distinction because, despite the misleading claims of some opponents of ANWR development, the coastal plain area proposed for exploration is basically an icy desert. It is flat and treeless. What about the citizens of Alaska? They're overwhelmingly in favor of developing ANWR, according to studies. They've seen how North Slope production has expanded Alaska's tax base, created jobs and provided money for schools, roads and other infrastructure, and they know ANWR will do the same. The exploration and development of ANWR is a winner for the United States. It will mean new jobs and new energy. Our nation will benefit for years to come. Volume 63, Number 9 September 2001 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998 and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the~ Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing 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 LOB Ship Fire Investigation Still In Early Stages The U.S. Coast Guard in late July began its formal investigation into the engine room fire aboard the ammunition ship SSG Edward A. Carter, Jr. The July 14 fire in Sunny Point, N.C. claimed two lives-those of GUDE Horace Beasley and Third Asst. Engineer Paul Powell. Based on testimony during hearings in July and last month in Wilmington, N.C., the agency's investigation is far from finished. The Coast Guard is required to issue its report within six months after starting the investigation. Much of the recent testimony focused on the ship's fire fighting systems, the crew's initial response to the fire and the blaze's possible cause. Details also came to light regarding the fate of Beasley, a 45-year-old U.S. Marine Corps veteran who was making his first trip with the SIU. According to press reports, First Asst. Engineer George Howard saw Beasley treading water on the Carter's port side moments after the fire was discovered. Beasley apparently either jumped or fell from an engine room side port near where the fire started. Howard grabbed a life ring, but when he turned to throw it into the Cape Fear River, he no longer saw Beasley. An article in the Aug. 2 edition of the Wilmington Star-News reported that after Howard tossed the ring, Beasley came back into sight. The river's current and wind apparently deterred Beasley's attempts to grab the ring. "As Mr. Beasley drifted down river, Mr. Howard followed him, continuing to throw the line into the river," noted the article by reporter Trista Talton. Beasley, who didn't know how to swim, soon went under. His body was discovered four days later. Testimony from Capt. Robert Vranish indicated that at least three lines had been extended from the docked ship to the water. The Carter underwent conversion in Norfolk, Va. from a commercial cargo vessel to an ammunition ship. It is operated by Maersk Line Ltd. for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. The 950-foot vessel passed all its inspections following the conversion, and crew members completed a number of fire drills before the Carter sailed from Norfolk to Sunny Point. They also finished a fire safety drill the morning of the accident. Although investigators don't know how the fire started, they have ruled out the incinerator and two generators as possible ignition sources. A Star-News report from Aug. 11 said that one theory suggests "heavy fuel oil, pumped from an overflow tank into a settling tank, leaked onto the boiler stack.... A Coast Guard investigator said valves in a transfer pipe were found open after the fire." A Coast Guard officer speculated that fuel contacting a hot metal surface may have touched off the fire, though that hasn't been confinned. One thing that isn't in doubt is the crew's excellent work in containing the fire while awaiting assistance from local fire fighters. The Carter was carrying 2.5 million pounds of explosives, loaded in 1,300, 20-foot containers. Although the vessel can hold twice that amount of cargo, the tragedy undoubtedly would have been worse if the fire had spread to the ammunition. Seafarers and officers battled the blaze for approximately 30 minutes before help arrived. Some of them assisted in the emergency effort for up to two hours, until the generator powering their equipment was exhausted. At least one, QMED/Electrician Donald Hastings, stayed aboard for eight hours, primarily to aid emergency crews who had no familiarity with the ship's layout. The Coast Guard, Military Traffic Management Command, MSC and Maersk all praised the crew for its efforts, as did many of the local fire fighters. Patriot Gets Positive Reviews Cruising the Hawaiian islands is the best way to really get a flavor for the incredible variety of sights and experiences of our 501h state. And making that cruise on the SIU-crewed ms Patriot has elicited a number of positive comments from seasoned travelers. Dan Smith, former national executive vice president of the Propeller Club (a group which promotes and supports the American Merchant Marine) earlier this year took one of the seven-day voyages on the ms Patriot, the first in a new fleet of elegant and modern United States Lines cruise vessels. Smith, who spent his entire career in the shipping business, stated in a report provided to American Classic Voyages (the parent company of United States Lines), "I can very honestly say the trip was wonderful in all aspects and that the entire crew did everything in their power in an unobtrusive way to assure a pleasant trip for passengers of all ages. "I personally found the entire crew cordial, helpful and accommodating throughout," he noted. "The ship was immaculately clean and I found the food very good." Michael Brown, editor of the subscription-based on-line newsletter CruiseReports, also gave high marks to the week-long voyage. He specifically noted the attentiveness of the Patriot crew and a real desire on their part to please the passenger. That kind of service, he states, "has become all The ms Patriot, which makes weekly seven-day excursions around the Hawaiian islands, is the first ocean-going passenger vessel to register in the United States in more than 40 years. too rare on most ships today." He talked about the "very good, even outstanding, American-style service in a casual atmosphere" and of the many excursion selections available in each port-everything from sightseeing and hiking to kayaking, snorkeling and bicycle riding to scuba diving, golfing and helicopter rides-and the excellent guides for each group. He also noted that while the 1,212 passenger Patriot is now a U.S.-flag ship, it was built in 1983 as the Nieuw Amsterdam and retains a certain old-fashioned charm and quaintness not found on some of the newest large cruise vessels. Additionally, he said he saw "no signs of the obvious discontent and disinterest that one sometimes encounters among the staffs of some ships these days." Both Smith and Brown commented on the playing of the U.S. National Anthem at 8 a.m. as a welcome surprise. "This is, after all, an American ship," Brown wrote, "and it feels like America, not Europe." The ms Patriot was launched in Hawaii Dec. 9, 2000 under American Classic Voyages Co. 's United States Lines. American Classic Voyages also owns and operates Delta Queen Steamboat Company, Delta Queen Coastal Voyages and American Hawaii Cruises. Two additional 1,900-passenger vessels are presently under construction at Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Miss. The 72,000-ton cruise ships-the largest ever built in a U.S. shipyard-will enter service in Hawaii in 2003 and 2004. September 2001 �USNS Pomeroy Delivered to MSC Seventh Watson-Class LMSR Will Join Prepositioning Fleet Photo by National Steel and Shipbuilding Co. The SIU-crewed USNS Pomeroy will join MSC's prepositioning fleet. SIU Steward Department Members To Crew Benavidez, Newest MSC Ship SIU members will soon climb the gangway to the USNS Benavidez (T-AKR-306), a vessel under contract to the Navy's Military Sealift Command (MSC). Seafarers will crew the steward department aboard the Benavidez, which recently was christened in New Orlean . Vice Admiral Gordon S. Holder, commander of the MSC, delivered the principal address at the ceremony, and Hilaria Benavidez, widow of the ship's namesake, broke the traditional bottle of champagne across the bow. Built at the Northrop Grumman Avondale shipyard in New Orleans, the 950-foot USNS Benavidez is the seventh in the Bob Hope-class of vessels, part of a fleet of large, medium speed, roll-on/roll-off (LMSR) sealift ships that are well-suited for loading military combat- and combat-support equipment needed overseas and for re-supplying materiel during times of national crisis. The vessels in this class are among the largest in the Navy fleet and can cruise at speeds in excess of 24 knots. With six decks, the ships' interiors each have a cargo capaci.ty of approximately 400,000 square feet, making them ideal for transporting helicopters, tanks and other military materiel. Additionally, two 110-ton single pedestal twin cranes make it possible to load and unload cargo where shoreside facilitie are limited or non-existent. The new ship will have a crew of 29 and accommodations for 95. Like all but one other vessel in the sealift program, the Benavidez is named for a Medal of Honor recipient, U.S. Army Master Sergeant Roy P. Benavidez of Lindenau, Texas. Benavidez di tinguished himself in a series of daring and extremely valorous actions in Vietnam in 1968, where he volunteered to lead the emergency extraction of a 12man special forces reconnaissance team, inserted by helicopters into the dense jungle, that met heavy enemy resistance while gathering intelligence in an area controlled and routinely patrolled by the North RO/RO Construction Continues Recently christened in New Orleans, the USNS Benavidez represents new jobs for SIU members working in the steward department. Vietnamese Army. Benavidez was originally awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, but this was upgraded to the Medal of Honor when the full extent of his heroism became know. Not only was Benavidez a hero on the battlefield, he wanted to do even more for his country and made it his highest goal. "He worked with young children, pointing the way to their future and success," stated Holder at the christening ceremony. "To kids at the Benavidez Elementary School in Houston, Texa , Sgt. Benavidez is a legend they are proud to call 'their hero.'" Benavidez died Nov. 29, 1998. "The ship you see before you," added Holder, "will stand for the same ideals held by Roy Benavidez as she joins the MSC surge sealift force, ready to carry Army combat gear and supplies to support America's war fighters." Unions Seek 'Permanent Suspension' Of New Rules on Testing Procedures The SIU and three officers' unions have urged U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta to "permanently suspend" drug testing procedures that are spelled out in newly issued regulations from the U.S. Coast Guard. In a recent letter to Mineta, the unions (the SIU; American Maritime Officers; International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots; and Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association) stated that the Coast Guard's final rule (49 CFR 40), including technical amendments, is redundant for merchant mariners and burdensome for the maritime industry. The SIU previously voiced September 2001 The SIU-crewed USNS Pomeroy last month was delivered to the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), augmenting America's sealift capacity and signaling new job for Seafarers. Built at NASSCO Shipyard in San Diego, the Pomeroy (T-AKR 316) is 950 feet long. It ha a 106-foot beam, a 34-foot draft and a displacement of 62,644 long tons when fully loaded. The gas turbinepowered vessel's top speed (fully loaded) is 24 knots. Additionally, the Pomeroy has more than 390,000 square feet of cargo space. The ship is the seventh large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off ves el (LMSR) built at NASSCO through a government-initiated directive known as the Strategic Sealift Program. A spokesman for the hipyard said the Pomeroy, like its predecessors, was delivered "ahead of schedule, under target cost and with zero quality discrepancies." The vessel is named in honor of U.S. Army Pvt. First Class Ralph E. Pomeroy, who posthumously was awarded the Medal of Honor for his brave actions in Korea in October 1952. The LMSRs assigned to MSC carry prepositioned tanks, armored personnel carriers, tractor-trailers, and other combat equipment and supplies to potential areas of conflict around the world. Because of their multi-use capabilitie , they are considered among the most adaptable cargo ships ever built. The Pomeroy will preposition Army cargo at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. The other ships already in the Watson class are the USNS Watson, USNS Sisler, USNS Dahl, USNS Red Cloud, USNS Charlton and USNS Watkins. The eighth is scheduled for an April 2002 launch, with delivery in September 2002. strong concerns about certain aspects of the regulation (titled Procedures for Transportation Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing Programs) when it fir t was proposed. Those remarks were submitted this past summer during the Coast Guard's formal comment period. The new regulations took effect last month. Meanwhile, in the July 30 communication to the transportation secretary, the unions focused on one particularly troublesome component of the new rules: employer background checks on drug and alcohol testing records (49 CFR 40.25). According to the regulation, Construction is proceeding on the first of two roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) ships for SIU-contracted Totem Ocean Trailer Express, Inc. (TOTE), as pictured in photo above and two below. The first of the Orea-class dry cargo ships is slated for delivery in October 2002; the second is due in April 2003. As previously reported, the vessels are the first U.S.-built commercial dry cargo ships in 10 years. They're being constructed by NASSCO in San Diego for TOTE's Tacoma-to-Anchorage service. The new ships will be 839 feet long and have beams of 118 feet. all marine employers must, after obtaining an employee's written consent, request drug and alcohol testing from DOT-regulated employers who have hired the worker during the two years prior to the employee's current application. If the information obtained shows that the pro pective employee has violated a DOT drug or alcohol regulation, a marine employer can't hire that person to perform "safety sensitive functions" on the vessel, unless the employer gets information that the individual has subsequently complied with the retumto-duty requirements. "One major difference between surface transportation modes and marine transportation modes is found in the licensing Continued on page 4 Seafarers LOG 3 �Crew Compliments Car Carrier Contract Seafarers aboard the Overseas Joyce said they're happy with the new five-year contract covering the car carrier. Last month in Baltimore, crew members welcomed aboard SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez for an overview of the new agreement, which has been brought in line with the standard contract. "I think it's the best contract that I've ever seen-anywhere, Welcoming Liberty Grace The new SIU-crewed bulk carrier Liberty Grace last month made its first U.S. port, arriving in Stockton, Calif. after sailing from Japan. A brief ceremony took place before the vessel loaded approximately 40,000 tons of bagged rice (bottom photo) ultimately intended for the landlocked nation of Uzbekistan, located in Central Asia, north of Afghanistan. Pictured below left are Seafarers who first crewed the ship. The vessel is operated by Liberty Maritime Corp. anytime, in any union I've belonged to," stated Chief Steward James Willey. "I've never seen anything like it." Among other highlights, the contract increases wages and overtime by 6.25 percent in each of the first four years, followed by a slightly greater increase in the fifth year. Also, the vacation benefit will increase from 10 for 3 0 to 14 for 30. SIU members on the Overseas Joyce are pleased with the new contract covering the vessel. Above, Seafarers welcome SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez (standing, center) and Port Agent Dennis Metz (far right) in Baltimore. Notice: ASM LMSR Wage Increases Steward department members aboard SIU-contracted large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off vessels (LMSRs) operated by American Ship Management received wage hikes effective July 23, while in fufl operating status. The increases became effective in the third year of the contract, pursuant to provisions outlined under the agreement between the SIU and the company. Under terms of the accord, steward department personnel will receive increases as follows: chief stewards 3.9 percent, chief cooks 5.9 percent, assistant cooks {utility) 8 percent anci stewar<;I assistants 11.5 percent. Steward department personnel aboard the following LMSRs, all operated by American Ship Management, will receive the increases: USNS Fisher, USNS Gilliand, USNS Gordon, USNS Seay, USNS Shughart, USNS Mendonca and USNS Yano. Unions Seek Suspension of New Drug Testing Rules Continued from page 3 and documentation of employees," the unions' letter pointed out. "A mariner must have a merchant mariner's document issued from one source only- the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). The USCG rigorously enforces the drug and alcohol requirements and suspends/revokes documents of offenders. If you have a mariner's document, then you either have not committed an offense or your privilege has been restored by the USCG after completing an appropriate rehab program. The controls are already in place. The same may not be true for surface transportation with multi-state licensing. "We strongly believe that 49 CFR 40.25 is a clear invasion of privacy," the letter continued, "and once an individual has participated in the return-to-duty process and is permitted by the collective bargaining agreements between the seagoing unions and our contracted companies, the record of prior drug or alcohol violation should not be relevant or affect the individual's ability to gain employment aboard a U.S.-flag commercial vessel. After all, the USCG has restored the license or merchant mariner's document to the individual." Additionally, the unions noted that the background checks on testing records "would cause havoc on the hiring hall system, which supplies rotary hires to shipping companies. The hiring hall system relies on just-in-time delivery of fit-for-duty merchant mariners to crew U.S.-flag vessels. A requirement for further background checks of merchant mariners who hold the requisite USCG license or documents prior to a vessel's sailing makes no sense in that it potentially can paralyze vessel operations." Council: Drop Charges Against 'Charleston 5 1 Federations Says Accusations Are 'Unreasonable, Excessive, Unjust' With the case of the "Char]eston 5" set for trial this month, the AFL-CIO executive council in August issued a resolution summarizing the longshoremen 's plight and demanding that charges against them be dropped. Parts of the resolution follow. "An egregious miscarriage of justice in South Carolina threatens to tum back the clock on progress on workers' rights and racial justice in the South and across the nation. Five dockworkers who are members of International Longshoremen's Association Locals 1422 and 1771 face criminal charges for attempting to defend their jobs. " All five-Kenneth Jefferson, Peter Washington, Ricky Simmons, Jason Edgerton, and Elijah Ford-are victi ms of selective prosecution by South Carolina Attorney General Charlie Condon, a candidate for governor, who is using race and anti-labor sentiment to attack one of the most visible and active unions in South Carolina while furthering his political ambitions. Four of the dockworkers are members of ILA Local 1422, which is virtually all-black. "The prosecution of the union dockworkers, known as the Charleston 5, stems from an inci- 4 Seafarers LOG dent that occurred on January 20, 2000, when approximately 150 members of Local 1422 carried out a legal informational picket at the Port of Charleston to protest the use of a non-union stevedoring company to unload a Danish freighter. An encounter with 600 riot police during the picketing ended in a clash where a police1422 man clubbed Local President Ken Riley on the head while he attempted to restore order. "Eight of the dockworkers received mainly misdemeanor trespass charges from local Charleston law enforcement authorities in connection with the incident. But Attorney General Condon, who has demonstrated his hostility to unions on numerous occasions, intervened and raised the charges to rioting and conspiracy to riot, which are felonies and carry prison sentences. A Charleston judge dismissed these charges for lack of evidence in a preliminary hearing. ''Nevertheless, Condon sought felony indictments against the men through a secret grand jury in Charleston. Although it is implausible that these unarmed union members planned to riot against 600 heavily armed police officers in full riot gear, five of the dockworkers were indicted. "Despite the fact that they have not been convicted of any crime, the Charleston 5 have already been severely punished. For nearly a year-and-a-half, they have been confined to house arrest from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., allowed only to go to work or attend union meetings. The impact of the house arrest has been devastating, not only for the dockworkers, but for their families as well. "The Charleston 5 face trial in September, and they could receive prison terms of up to five years . The AFL-CIO stands squarely behind the International Longshoremen 's Association and the South Carolina AFL-CIO, which have taken the lead in the fight for the dockworkers. This summer, union activists and leaders, including AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Linda Chavez-Thompson , joined together with South Carolina community and union leaders for a rally of more than 7 ,000 in Columbia, South Carolina, to support the Charleston 5. "The American labor movement demands that Attorney General Condon and the law enforcement authorities of South Carolina drop the charges against the Charleston 5. These charges are unreasonable, excessive, and unjust. We welcome the support of allies from among civil rights, religious, and community-based organizations, as well as support committees that are forming in cities from New York to Los Angeles. The AFL-CIO is proud to take a leadership role in the fight for the Charleston 5. We will wage and escalate this fight until they are free and justice is done." Above: Reg ina Ewing , George Vorise and Lydell Grant were among the SIU members participating in the rally. Right: Seafarers (from left) Michael Amador, Jack Jackson and Ursel Barber demonstrate support for ILA during June rally in South Carolina. September 2001 1 �ITF Gains $865,000 for Cruise Ship Crew Federation Also Aids Mariners During 'Action Week' The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) last month won a court judgment that mandates payment of $865,000 plus repatriation to the crew of the Panamanian-flagged cruise ship Ocean Glory I. Some 23 7 crew members are involved in the ruling. The 51-year-old ship has been detained in Dover since failing a safety inspection in early July, according to the ITF. Despite the court order, other aspects of the case are not finished, noted Stephen Cotton, secretary of the ITF's Special Seafarers' Section. "With the burning question of so many stranded crew members settled, we can investigate some of the other issues raised by this case: how crew members had to pay bribes for jobs on board, and how a Panamanian safety certificate was issued for a ship that at the time of its inspection was clearly not safe," Cotton said. "I hope too that there will be a similarly successful resolution for the passengers and tour operators who bought passage in good faith on what the elusive Cruise Holdings must have known was an unsafe ship." The ITF official described Cruise Holdings as "the fugitive Greek operators to whom [shipowner Cruise Invest SRL] had the misfortune to charter the ship." In a separate matter, the federation recovered $121,039 in back wages for mariners during a "week of action" against unfair practices on ships-some of them registered with runaway flagsin the Irish Sea. ITF inspectors and volunteers from British and Irish trade unions inspected 41 ships from July 30Aug. 3 in the ports of Dublin, Belfast, Liverpool and Heysham. They found instances of wage discrimination based on nationality aboard many of the vessels, with crews being paid widely varying rates depending on their country of origin. Wages of just $450 per month were not uncommon. AFL-CIO Bains 66th Union Delegates representing the California School Employees Association (CSEA) recently voted to join the AFL-CIO as the federation's 66th independently chartered union. "Our delegates made history today (Aug. 2) when, after serious contemplation and deliberation, they voted overwhelmingly to join the AFL-CIO," said CSEA State President Clyde Rivers. "Delegates recognized that this presented the best opportunity for the continued success of our great union." CSEA is the largest statewide union for classified employees in the nation, representing nearly 200,000 school employees in California. This historic vote came at the union's 75tb anniversary conference. "The AFL-CIO is proud to welcome the California School Employees Association," said AFL-CIO President John J. Sweeney. "The CSEA's decision to join forces with the 13 million members of the AFL-CIO is indicative of the level at which the union movement is reaching out, growing and representing a broader range of professions. This new alliance will strengthen both organizations, and will mean a stronger future for school employees and for California students and their families." "We'll now be part of a national coalition," said Rob Feckner, a CSEA area director, who spoke to the delegates on behalf of the board. "CSEA can now play a bigger role in the national education scene, better able to sponsor federal legislation, and, with added clout in the California political arena. We'll have a more significant role, and we'll accomplish even more for our dedicated school employees." "As we look back on this day, CSEA delegates will surely know that they were part of something bigger than all ofus," Rivers said. "We all look forward to a bright future as we enter the true house of labor." Labor Federation Picks 6 For Executive Council The AFL-CIO named six new members to its executive council during its quarterly meeting last month in Chicago, with all of the new members filling vacancies on the board. The 54-member AFL-CIO executive council is touted by the federation as "the highest-ranking leadership body in the union movement." SIU President Michael Sacco has served on the council since 1991. The newest members are Joe Hunt, president of the Iron Workers; Cheryl Johnson, president of the United American Nurses; Bruce Raynor, president of the Union of Need]etrades, Industrial and Textile Employees (UNITE!); Cecil Roberts, president of the United Mine Workers; September 2001 Ed Sullivan, president of the AFL-CIO Building and Construction Trades Department; and Clyde Rivers, president of the California School Employees Association. The AFL-CIO paid tribute to six officials who stepped down from the council, recognizing "the tremendous service that each has given to the union movement." The outgoing members are Robert Georgine, former president of the AFL-CIO Building and Construction Trades Department; John T. Joyce, former president of the Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers; Jay Mazur, former president of UNITE!; James Norton, former president of the Graphics Communications International Union; "On some ships registered with flags of convenience, we have found crew members from countries such as Burma, Indonesia and the Philippines who are being paid 77 cents an hour," explained Norrie McVicar, coordinator of the week-long event. During the action week, six ITF agreements (which hold employers on runaway-flag ships to acceptable standards of pay and hours) were signed and two more are due. "This week served notice on a lot of people," McVicar added. "Any owner who has seen the kind of cooperation shown between British and Irish affiliated unions and the level of support we've had from dock workers will not feel safe running substandard ships." The week of action was so successful that officials voted to extend it for another week in Ireland. Apparently this move paid immediate dividends. Inspectors visited the Lebaneseflagged livestock carrier Rami M in Waterford, Ireland during the week of Aug. 6-10. Officials expressed their concerns about the apparent absence of mandatory STCW documents on the part of crew members. In addition, they were distressed about wages aboard the vessel, which were thought to be between $300 and $400 per month. All uncovered evidence of pay discrimination based on nationality has been presented to the British government. The ITF advised Irish port state control officials of the suspected breaches of maritime regulations aboard theRami M House Okays Energy Plan, Including ANWR Segment The U.S. House of Representatives last month passed legislation that allows for oil and gas exploration in a small area of Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). The Senate is expected to consider a similar bill soon. In the Aug. 2 House vote on H.R. 4 (which took place after midnight), representatives approved President Bush's energy plan-including plans for ANWR exploration-by 240-189. Earlier that night, the House defeated a measure specifically intended to forbid oil development in ANWR. That vote was 223-206. Organized labor's support for ANWR exploration widely has been cited as vital to last month's House votes. The AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department aggressively has lobbied for ANWR development. In a July 26 letter to many members of the House, MTD President Michael Sacco (who also serves as president of the SIU) wrote, "We consider this (H.R. 4) a jobs bill because it will provide quality, good-paying, skilled opportunities for tens of thousands of American workers during the next 30 years. We call on you to support the opening of the Arctic National Wildlife Robert E. Wages, former executive vice president of PACE; and Jake West, former president of the Ironworkers. The council also passed resolutions on a number of subjects including: stopping domestic violence at work; HIV/AIDS, both domestically and around the world; justice for the Charleston 5, a group of union dockworkers in South Carolina who have been unfairly discriminated against and punished for their union activities (see story, page 4); public officials' support for workers' freedom to choose a union; immigrant workers' rights; and eliminating non-compete agreements in the broadcast industry. In addition, the 2001 George Meany - Lane Kirkland Human Rights award was presented to U Maung Maung, founder of the Federation of Trade Unions in Burma (FTUB), for bringing the plight of Burmese workers to the world's attention. Refuge for safe and environmentally sound exploration and drilling. America cannot afford to be driven into a comer and forced to accept whatever is available at the moment at a price dictated by others who don't have our best interests at heart." Additionally, SIU members in recent months have contacted their senators and congressional representatives to urge them to back safe development of ANWR. Many Seafarers utilized postcards that are available at SIU halls. On July 31, the AFL-CIO reaffirmed its support for ANWR exploration. In a letter to House members, AFL-CIO Legislative Director William Samuel stated, "The AFL-CIO has long supported the development of appropriate energy sources to meet the needs of the nation and the concerns of consumers, as long as the environment is protected. At our 1993 convention, delegates adopted a resolution that, in part, called on the country to 'explore the Alaskan National Wildlife Refuge for oil with safeguards to protect the environment.' The entire policy expressed in the 1993 AFL-CIO convention resolution on energy remains in effect." That resolution calls for construction of tankers and port facilities to transport the gas to the lower 48 states. Along those lines, oil discovered in the 2,000 acres of ANWR's coastal plain would be carried aboard American-flag ships. According to some estimates, the coastal plain contains between 5.6 billion and 16 billion barrels of oil. Further, as pointed out by the coalition Job Power (of which the SIU is an affiliate), the area proposed for exploration constitutes less than 1 percent of the refuge. That area has been described as Arctic desert and a small fraction of the 88,000 acres that make up the North Slope. Sen. Frank Murkowski (RAlaska) noted that the use of U.S. tankers boosts the contention that ANWR development will be done safely. "Many seemingly ignore a key environmental benefit that will stem from coastal plain development," he stated. "That is that production of more oil on land in America means that oil will head to our markets on American-built tankers-tankers sporting far better safety designs, controls and regulations, including the requirements for double hulls .... " Murkowski added that if U.S. dependence on foreign oil continues to increase, more and more foreign-flag tankers will dock at American ports every day. "That creates several times more environmental risk than developing our own petroleum resources, using American technology and enforced by American environmental laws," he pointed out. Earlier this year, at a Capitol Hill press conference announcing the formation of JobPower, Sacco summarized some of the benefits of developing ANWR's coastal plain. "By opening ANWR, the United States can increase domestic oil production, reduce our reliance on foreign sources of oil, and create hundreds of thousands of new jobs for American workers," he said. "ANWR will be explored and drilled by American workers; the oil transported through U.S.-built pipelines; refined and distributed by domestic facilities; and its byproducts used by U.S. energy producers and U.S. consumers." He added, "Many of our brothers and sisters in maritime labor will crew the growing fleet of environmentally safe, doublehulled, U.S.-flagged tankers that will carry the oil from Alaska." The Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA), completed in 1980, designated ANWR's coastal plain a "study area" with the intent of assessing its potential for oil and gas development. Accordingly, the Department of the Interior conducted a resource evaluation, released the study in 1987 and recommended that Congress open the coastal plain for energy exploration. Despite efforts since then by Alaska's Congressional delegation, its governors and state legislators, the closest that ANWR has come to development was in 1995, when the U.S. House and Senate approved coastal plain exploration as part of a balanced budget act. The entire measure was vetoed. Seafarers LOG 5 �SIU Safety Directors Delve Into Training, Shipboard Safety, STCW Regulations The Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. provided the setting Aug. 6-10 for the third annual SIU Safety Directors Conference. Safety directors from SIU halls throughout the nation took part in the five-day conference, which focused on training requirements and other issues affecting Seafarers and other mariners worldwide. Participants underwent the center's STCW Basic Safety Training (BST) course, which included lectures and hands-on instruction in water survival, fire fighting, first aid, social responsibility and personal safety. Additionally, they received briefings on the requirements of the amended STCW convention and a safety presentation from SIUcontracted Alaska Tanker Co. The safety directors also met with representatives of the SIU's various departments to review key procedures that impact the individual Seafarer's interactions with headquarters and the ports. "It was a very intense week of training for safety team members this year," said Paul Hall Center Safety Director James Hanson. "We held class day and night in basic safety and sensitivity training.... I think participants not only learned a lot, but also had a lot of fun in the process. Based on their feedback and comments, we have already started planning next year's agenda." Safety Director Todd Brdak from Algonac, Mich. was particularly impressed with the conference and what it had to offer. "I can't say enough about the quality of the instructors and the relevance of the materials they presented to us," he shared. "They were highly professional in their approach and had no problems with giving conference participants individualized attention." Frank Gill, representing the SIU's Wilmington, Calif. hall, echoed Brdak's sentiments. "I thought the whole experience was great and the instructors were fantastic. Based on my experiences while attending the conference, it's easy to see that everyone affiliated with the school is doing their best to provide all students with the training they require to be successful. "I highly recommend and encourage all of our members who have not done so, to go to the school and take advantage of all the offerings available there," he concluded In addition to Brdak and Gill, Instructor Norm Bleakley (kneeling) briefs students on the proper use of oxygen tanks. other safety directors and representatives who participated in the conference were: Amancio Crespo (Puerto Rico), George Kenny (Baltimore), Joseph Mieluchowski (Philadelphia), Kenneth Moore (Houston), Jamie Overby (Tacoma, Wash.), Harmando Salazar (Jacksonville, Fla.), Oscar Lopez (Brooklyn, N.Y.), James Storm (Honolulu), Chri_s Westbrook (New Orleans) and Chester Wheeler (San Francisco). SIU safety directors from throughout the United States converged on the Paul Hall Center Aug. 6-10 for training. Participating were (back row, left to right) Ken Moore, Frank Gill, James Storm, George Kenny, Oscar Lopez, Harmando Salazar and Chris Westbrook. Also taking part were (front row, left to right) Jamie Overby, Amancio Crespo, SIU Plans Administrator Lou Delma, Joseph Mieluchowski, Instructor Mitch Oakley, Paul Hall Center Safety Director James Hanson and Todd Brdak. Coast Guard Praises SIU Crew For Response to Tugboat Fire Seafarers Recently Had Completed STCW Training Five SIU boatmen put their recent fire fighting training to good use when they extinguished a blaze aboard the Express Marine tugboat Escort that was towing a loaded coal barge en route from Newport News, Va. to Jersey City, N.J. U.S. Coast Guard Investigations Chief J.R. Crooks commended the Seafarers "for the professional manner in which they reacted to this emergency and extinguished the fire. The proper response of the crew to this fue undoubtedly limited the damage sustained. This incident stands as positive proof that an investment in training is money well spent," Crooks wrote in a Coast Guard "safety alert." No one was injured in the April 15 fire (Easter morning), which happened just 10 days after Capt. Gil Pruitt, Mate Foster Watts, Observing Mate Billy Cahoon, AB Rick Daniel and AB Bob Perusse completed STCW Basic Safety Training (BST) at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. The week-long class includes two-and-a-half days of fire fighting training. "Because they went through the training as a crew, they responded to the fire as a team," noted Crooks. "The crew knew their duties precisely and performed them in a calm, professional and efficient manner." Watts said the blaze began around 8:30 a.m., shortly after the Escort sailed from Newport News. "I grabbed my radio and ran outside, and the smoke was just pouring out," he recalled. "We mustered like we were supposed to. Got it out in about 20 minutes." He added that the BST class is worthwhile, as are the regular fire drills and safety meetings conducted 6 Seafarers LOG by Express Marine Seafarers. According to the safety alert, the fue started when "the gasket on the oil filter housing failed under pressure. The ignition source for the fire was the engine's turbocharger. The cause of the failure could not be determined." Crooks said that operational tests and system pressure were normal after maintenance had been performed a few hours before the fire started. Additionally, tests showed that the pressure-relief devices were operating properly. Chief Engineer Stuart Pigott discovered the fire after a round; he notified Pruitt, who sounded the alarm. Pruitt then guided the Escort outside the channel and anchored the barge in the Chesapeake Bay while the crew gathered all of the tug's fire extinguishers and rigged fire hoses from the barge. The crew sealed off the engine room, secured fuel to the engines and discharged seven 15-pound C02 portable extinguishers into the engine room through the engine air intake on the stack, shutting down the engine and extinguishing the fire. They also cooled the fire boundaries using the hoses from the barge. "Most importantly, no one was placed at unnecessary risk by trying to enter the space to fight the fire," Crooks stated. He added that remote fuel shutoffs "are not a substitute for remote engine shutdowns.... The Escort was scheduled to have remote engine shutdowns installed." The tug reentered service in late July, following reparrs. Also aboard during the April 15 incident was Second Asst. Engineer Art Schwendeman. SIU New Orleans Safety Director Chris Westbrook extinguishes a controlled blaze while fellow directors and representatives look on. SIU President Michael Sacco (far right) , Plans Administrator Lou Delma (left of Sacco) and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (left of Delma) meet with safety directors and representatives at the Paul Hall Center. September 2001 �'Schaal Is Always There far Yau' Stewards Find Many Benefits in Upgrading The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education received a dozen persuasive endorsements last month from a group of Seafarers that knows all about the benefits of upgrading. As the union's newest class of recertified stewards graduated at the August membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. , they enthusiastically mentioned those advantages. Completing the month-long course, considered the school's top curriculum for steward department Seafarers, were Grant Armstead, Osvaldo Castagnino, Ralph Edmonds, Donald Huffman, Blair Humes, Norman Jackson, Gerald Kirtsey, Rang Nguyen, Florencio Nieves, Samuel Raines, William Simmons and Steven Sun. Their studies included fire fighting and basic safety training, various lessons in the hands-on galley classrooms, a trip to AFL-CIO headquarters in Washington, D.C. and meetings with SIU department representatives at the union's headquarters. Students also participated in a friendlybut-spirited "mystery basket cook-off" designed to augment their creativity and skills. Edmonds, who sails from the port of New York, said the Paul Hall Center has been a constant for him. "I had problems in my life at one time, but the school is always there for you," he stated during last month's meeting. Nguyen, from Tacoma, Wash., is a frequent upgrader. "I always learn something new at the school, but especially this time," he stated. "The classes were helpful, the instructors were great and with Simmons offering a straightforward "thank you." Huffman, borrowing a line from television commercials about retired NBA star Michael Jordan, looked at SIU President Sacco and said, "I want to be like Mike! " The newest class of recertified stewards joins SIU and school officials on stage at the Paul Hall Center auditorium following last month's membership meeting. Graduating from the course are Grant Armstead, Osvaldo Castagnino, Ralph Edmonds, Donald Huffman, Blair Humes, Norman Jackson, Gerald Kirtsey, Rang Nguyen, Florencio Nieves, Samuel Raines, William Simmons and Steven Sun. Also pictured are SIU officials President Mike Sacco (front row, right), VP Contracts Augie Tellez (front row, left), Seafarers Plans Administrator Lou Delma (far left), Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan (fourth from right), Asst. VP Contracts George Tricker (second from right) and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (far right). the practical equipment looks exactly like what's aboard ship. I also gained more understanding of the inner functions of the SIU." Armstead, whose home port is New Orleans, said he figuratively traveled "a long road to get here, but it's been a very good experience. It was very enlightening to learn of the SIU officials' unwavering effort to fight for our shipping rights." The recertification course marked Humes' seventh trip to Piney Point, and he said it proved very worthwhile. The class was given "a refreshed appreciation and understanding of industrywide techniques and skills while relating the history, politics and strengths of our union that are working toward securing our improved quality of life," said Humes, who sails form the port of Tacoma. "I thank all of the leadership, from our president Mike Sacco on down, for their efforts and dedication to the membership," he added. "For me, a special note of thanks goes to the culinary staff at Piney Point for their continued excellence." Castagnino, from Houston, said the safety classes were particularly valuable components of recertification. "The school provided extensive training in CPR, first aid and fire fighting," he noted . "All of this training is important and will enable me to perform (as needed) aboard ship, in case of an emergency." Nieves (from Tacoma) , Jackson (Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.) and Raines (Mobile, Ala.) carried on the unofficial tradition of newly recertified Seafarers by encouraging the school's unli- censed apprentices. "Give it the best shot you've got, because you have a bright future ahead of you," Nieves declared. "We're strong today, but the apprentices are our future," observed Jackson. "Keep an open mind and learn all you can," urged Raines. A 34-year member of the SIU who sails from San Francisco, Sun thanked the school's staff and added, "God bless the SIU!" Kirtsey, whose home port is Jacksonville, Fla., stated that he is "proud to be an SIU member." He utilized the occasion to thank the SIU's contracts department for the improvements in the newly ratified standard freightship and tanker agreements. Simmons (from Houston) and Huffman (Jacksonville) kept their respective comments "The classes were helpful, the instructors were great, and the practical equipment looks exactly like what's aboard ship." -Rang Nguyen Who says there's no graceful way to use a chainsaw? Sam Raines (right) creates an elegant ice sculpture, under the watchful (and protected) eyes of instructor John Hetmanski. The "mystery basket cook-off" is a friendly competition in which stewards are grouped in teams of two. Each team receives a container of the same ingredients, from which they write menus and prepare meals-with a time limit, of course. Pictured clockwise from above photo during the contest are Blair Humes (who paired with Osvaldo Castagnino to earn first place), William Simmons, and secondplace winners Grant Armstead (left) and Florencio Nieves. September 2001 Seafarers LOG 7 �Trip (In a letter to the editor in the April issue of the Seafarers LOG, Walter Karlak wrote about leaving the union hall with a trip card in his pocket and going home to pack. He was to report as soon as possible to his first ship, the SS Greeley Victory, docked at President Street in Brooklyn in 1951.) s I packed, there was sadness in the faces of my parents and brother John, and a little bit in mine, too. It was the first time I would be away from home. I knew I would be missed and that I'd miss them and my everyday life at home. There wasn't any problem getting to President Street. I knew the way since I had once worked for Coca Cola in that area. As I neared the ship with my small suitcase and zippered bag, I thought, "How in the world can all that weight stay afloat." To this day, I am still amazed. Going up the gangway, I was told where the chief engineer would be. I saw him and gave him my trip card. I was then told to see the other wiper for a rundown as to what my duties were to be as well as where my room was. Earl Kromwell, the wiper, showed me the room we would share. Never having been away from home and viewing the room to be shared was strange in a way. But the room was fine for two people- a bunk on each side, a porthole and a fan, two lockers each and a small desk. I was given linen, soap, etc. , and made up my bunk. Once I was squared away, Earl told me my duties--doing sanitary every other week. The other week I would go into the engine room and do whatever the first engineer told me. As the ship left the dock, it headed to the Brooklyn Army post to load some trucks and other equipment, then departed for Charleston, S.C. for more Army equipment. It was sort of exciting hearing all the whistles and horns as the tugs pulled us away from the dock, along with the sounds from the engine room as the pilot was dropped off, the "full ahead" was given and the turbines increased their speed. Standing at the rail astern, I watched the New York skyline getting smaller and smaller until there was only the wake of the ship. I thought, "This is it; there's no turning back now; I'm on my way to the life I always wanted." It took about three days to dock in Charleston and finish loading all the military equipment. I went ashore in Charleston and saw buildings with balconies, cobbled stone streets, tall trees and bales of cotton on the docks. There was a smell of the south, and country western music was played from bar jukeboxes. This was all new to me. To see it and hear it was exciting. It was what I had read about in school books- and to think that a city slicker like me was in the middle of it felt great! As the tanks were loaded by heavy lifts, I watched, thinking of the weight being lifted and A B Seafarers LOG hoping the boom wouldn't break. And then with so many tanks being loaded and seeing the waterline getting lower and lower toward the water, I thought, "I sure hope they know when to stop loading." I watched the longshoremen in the holds below, like little ants, stowing and shoring up the cargo. It was something to see. Everyone knew just what to do and when to do it. Once everything was loaded, we set sail for the "Rock" [the Rock of Gibraltar] , which took about 12 days. After leaving Charleston, there wasn't a ship in sight. It was like being the only one in the world with nothing but the sea and the hum of the ship's engines 24 hours a day. As far as the eye could see, the sea was changing colors with each peaceful wave. Sometimes the waves were a little rough, causing me to slide on the steel floor plates of the engme room, which was scary at first. With each passing day without seeing any ships, I thought, "Are we lost?" It's a feeling that can't be put into words, being out at sea, heading for Tripoli, Libya, in North Africa. After each day working in the hot engine room, I'd take a shower, which felt good. But getting to it was a problem on cold days, even though it was just across from my room. With the cold wind in the passageway, I didn't waste any time getting there. After a week, I needed to wash my clothes. In the laundry room there was a washboard and a slop sink where clothes were scrubbed. We were given brown soap to do the job. Then the clothes were hung on the railings of the engine room. This was done after the ship's tubes were blown at 4:00 p.m. and removed before they were blown the next day. Otherwise, all the clothes would have been full of soot and need to be washed again. As I learned from crew members on other ships, there were different ways to wash clothes, like soaking them in chips of soap for a day or so and then putting a heavying line through the belt loops of the pants and shirt sleeves, securing the end to the rail, and tossing the clothes over the side. Leaving them over the side could be costly. If left too long, they would be in shreds, necessitating buying more from the "sea chest." Another way (and to this day I still use it) was to soak my dress pants in soap chips (I now use soap powder) for a day, then use a bathroom plunger and push up and down countless times, by Walter Karlak changing the water until it's clear (sort of like an agitator in a washing machine). In my career, I've had nothing but good crew members who have helped me in all respects, which is why I'm sharing my secret of washing clothes with a plunger. It took about 12 days to reach the Rock, and it was great to see ships appear in the distance as we neared it, giving us the feeling we weren't the only ones sailing on the ocean. Again, I'm thinking of my school days and of reading about the Rock and now .. .I'm actually seeing what I read about! A ship traverses the Suez Canal. Once we passed the Rock, Tripoli appeared in sight in another three days. As we sailed near and night fell, there was a smell of the port along with views of the mosques and the accompanying sounds of wailing prayers. While ashore, it was an unbelievable experience to see the ways of the people- how they dressed, what they ate, how they got around on mules and camels. The women wore clothing with only their eyes exposed. I was thinking how lucky I was to be an American and not have to live as they did. While walking along the streets, I thought about all the armies that fought over this city, the latest in World War II, in which it changed hands a number of times. The buildings were still in ruins. This was what I read about as a young boy during World War II as I followed the war in the newspapers. Then I thought about the movies made in this city and of the Marine Corps hymn, including the line "to the shores of Tripoli." And to think that a young kid from Brooklyn was seeing all this. It was just unbelievable. And then to think that the SIU allowed me to experience it all by sailing on their contracted ships .... On the streets of Tripoli, children of all ages would beg for change. They rubbed their stomachs, saying "no papa," "no mamma," "no food," "no eat," etc. Or they tried to sell items, grabbing my arms. Giving them change at times was a mistake because more children would appear from nowhere until there was no more change to give. With all the conditions they lived under, I quickly realized how fortunate I was to live in the United States of America. After about three days, we were on our way to Port Said, the entrance to the Suez Canal. The trip would take two more days. As we neared the canal, I saw smoke puffs in the sky from the many ships. They were all waiting in line to form a convoy before entering. The ships, of all sizes, were from various nations, each flying their flags astern. Old Glory fluttered from our's. I felt that no matter who they were, we all were doing the same job, supplying what was needed to whomever needed it. We were like one big family, no matter who we were or where we were from. Once anchored, the - "bumboats" came alongside with many items to sell. Our rooms started getting smaller with all the trinkets we bought in every port, items that, no doubt, are still in the homes of any seaman who traveled through that body of water. Everyone would haggle over prices. Once agreed, checks, American cash or cigarettes would exchange hands. Cigarettes were worth their weight in gold (one carton = $.99). I stockpiled mine. The captain gave out 10 cartons per man so he wouldn't have to go to the trouble of issuing travelers checks. Everyone was pleased with this arrangement. After the sellers and the pilot were off the ship, the high whining of the turbines was again heard- and it was "full ahead" to Bombay, India. The four days it would take us brought us back to the daily routine of sanitary work and cleaning bilges by hand, working with the day or first engineer at whatever needed to be done. I got to like working with the engineers because it was a good experience learning all about taking pumps apart and putting them back together. Engine rooms are also hot, which is expected, but after leaving the canal, it became hotter and hotter as we neared India. It was even worse for the deck members since there weren't any blowers on deck to stand under, like in the engine room. When we got to the Red Sea, it was really hot, and the porthole fan was a big help, along with the wall fans above the bunks. It was difficult to sleep. In Bombay, we anchored for a few days awaiting a berth. Again, the bumboats were alongside, trying to sell us items. And once we got to the dock, the merchants came on board, selling items, doing our wash, tailoring, etc., and stayed until the ship was ready to leave. Going ashore was similar to Tripoli, with children begging for money. I walked with the sun beating down on me to the point where my shoes felt like they were on fire. I saw cows roaming the streets, relieving themselves wherever they pleased. It was a sight I couldn't believe. Cows are sacred in India, yet the people were starving. It just didn't make sense to me. Going to India was always at least a two-week stay, so there was plenty of port time. But after a few days, having done everything I wanted to ashore, I was ready to leave for the cooler ocean. It was a relief to finally hear the turbines reaching a high pitch once the "full ahead" was rung. I thought Bombay was hot! It was nowhere near as hot as the Persian Gulf. We had no relief from the sun all the way to a port in Iran. The deck department went through hell trying to do any work on deck--chipping, painting, general maintenance. With all the cargo finally unloaded, everyone was glad to see the sailing board posted for New York. And being empty, the ship was like a cork in a bottle, as the saying goes. We repeated our trip in reverse, anchoring at Suez with all the bumboats alongside. Even as we went through the canal, they were trying to sell us things . Most of the leather items smelled up the rooms to the point they would be hung across the hatches in the hot weather to air out. It took possibly 3\12 weeks before we finally got to see the skyline of New York. I never realized how much this sight meant to me, especially after seeing the conditions of the countries we had just visited. The engines slowed as we picked up the pilot, who would bring us alongside the dock. And once the "finish with engines" was rung, I thought, "Well, I made my first trip! Within a day or so, the patrolman came aboard to settle any beefs. And once that was done, all that was heard was "payoff," and everyone lined up in the officers' mess to be paid. Seeing all that money in one place was· unbelievable- and some would be given to me. I had never had so much money at one time. With the pay in my pocket, I felt like a million bucks. There was so much happiness when I got home-my parents hugging and kissing me and my brother John grinning from ear to ear. It was a wonderful feeling as I gave the money to my father to use for whatever was needed for the house. The remainder I put in the bank for myself. The next day, when I went to the union hall on Beaver Street, I received my permit card, which was like gold to me. It allowed me to throw in for wipers' jobs that bookmen had refused. This had been my first trip, and I was caught- hook, line and sinker-and never regretted one day of my SIU career. September 2001 �For Seafaring Zepeda&, Sailing Is 'In Our Blood' The merchant marine apparently is more than a profession for members of a specific Zepeda family from Galveston, Texas. Going to sea is their way of life. Just as the late Maurilio Zepeda did during his career, which spanned 40-plus years, four of his five sons currently are wearing the colors of the SIU on the high seas. The family patriarch passed away Feb. 17. Like their father, Johnny, Lawrence, Ernest and Robert Zepeda all joined the SIU in the port of Houston and sail as members of the deck department. All currently sail in the deep sea division, again like their father. (Ernest and Robert also have time in the inland division.) Each of the Zepeda sons has worked for several of the same ship operators and sailed on many of the same vessels at identical times during their respective careers. Each also has shipped with their father and at least one of their other siblings simultaneously. Additionally, each of the sailing Zepeda sons recognized the importance of continuous training and the positive influence it could have on their careers. All four have upgraded at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. What's more, all four are bosuns and three of them "recerts," having completed the highest level of training available to members of the deck department. Johnny reached the milestone in 1985 and Lawrence did it in 1990. Robert added his name to the roster of the deck department's elite in 1992. What of the fifth son? His name is David. Although not a Seafarer, he's still a mariner of sorts. But rather than transport The late Maurilio Zepeda sailed for the SIU for more than 40 years. He passed away in February of this year, but four of his sons and one grandson are continuing his legacy. Like three of his four sons who currently are SIU members, Zepeda was a recertified bosun. various cargoes over the high seas, he conveys motor vehicles, people and other freight over the inland waterways. David is employed by the State of Texas in Galveston. He works aboard a ferryboat. Maurilio Zepeda was not the first in his family tree to become a merchant mariner, according to his eldest son, Johnny. "My father sailed for the SIU for many years, and my grandfather also went to sea as a merchant mariner," said Johnny. "I also have some uncles and cousins who are former members of the SIU. But as far as we [he and his brothers] are concerned, sailing is a natural for us because of our father. And that's the reason I joined the SIU, to follow in his footsteps and to be like him. Sailing is just in our blood I suppose. "Once I joined the SIU and got out to sea, there was no going back," he continued. "I can't imagine doing anything else at this point of my life." He added, "I suppose going to sea has its ups and downs for some, but I like being able to go to work when I want to and being off when I want to. The SIU has made this possible for me and it's been great." After Johnny's SIU career took off, his brothers seemingly couldn't wait to follow suit and further emulate their father. Johnny joined the SIU in 1968, Ernest in 1970, Lawrence in Unions: Include Mariners on Calif. WWII Memorial N. Y. Group Gains Recognition for Merchant Marine in Albany The presidents of four maritime unions, in a been erected without proper recognition of the sacrecent letter to the Marin County (Calf.) Board of rifices of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Supervisors, voiced their strong displeasure that a "We have been told that your board offered to monument dedicated this year on Memorial Day compromise by placing a reference to the USMM "To All Who Served" in World War II, conspicuous- on the side or rear of the monument. Such a secly omitted the U.S. Merchant Marine (USMM). ondary position is not an acceptable option, as it is SIU President Michael Sacco joined his counter- demeaning to the sacrifices and memory of our parts from the American Maritime Officers, mariners and their ships-those who braved freezInternational Organization of Masters, Mates & ing storm-tossed seas, enemy air and naval surface Pilots and the Marine Engineers' Beneficial and sub-sea attacks, and more, to carry the war to Association in condemning the failure to properly America's enemies!" recognize the merchant marine 's vital contributions The maritime union presidents urged board during World War II. members immediately to "do the right thing" and At issue is an $80,000, privately financed memo- prominently include the merchant marine on the rial which now rests on the grounds of the Veterans monument with the other services. They also Memorial Auditorium near the Marin County Civic pledged their support in whatever way necessary to Center in San Rafael, Calif. The 15-foot-tall granite resolve the mistake. structure's face is adorned with medallions repreThe correspondence was drafted at the urging of senting the U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air RAdm. Tom Patterson, chairman and chief execuForce and Coast Guard. No mention is made of the tive officer (CEO) of the National Liberty Ship merchant marine. Memorial (SS Jeremiah 0 'Brien). Patterson is a In an indirectly related story, several northeastern retired member of the U.S. Maritime Service chapters of the American Merchant Marine Veterans (USMS). At press time, no solution had been (AMMV) this summer successfully lobbied for the reached. inclusion of the merchant marine in a monument The monument has been a source of widespread scheduled for construction in Albany, N.Y. Initially, controversy since its May 28 dedication. Published the memorial didn't incorporate merchant mariners. reports say more than 1,000 people attended the AMMV representatives rejected later proposals event, among them a host of U.S. Merchant Marine for "recognition via a bench off to the side of the veterans. Some of these, members of the AMMV of main monument," according to the Hudson Valley Berkeley, Calif., initially had planned to show their Chapter's August newsletter, and ultimately secured disdain for the monument by turning their backs on equal acknowledgment with the other services. it when it was unveiled. However, the only visible Meanwhile, the correspondence to the Marin protest cited was a lone sign that read "Torpedoed in County officials, affixed with the signatures of pres- Marin." idents from the aforementioned unions, read in part: Daniel Horodysky, CEO of the USMS Veterans, "Marin County, surrounded by the sea and bay attended the ceremony. He said the monument was and next to the ports of San Francisco and Oakland, not dedicated to all who served but to some who has been home to many merchant mariners and served. Horodysky added that the U .S Merchant members of the American maritime industry. They Marine, an official military and naval auxiliary, has are rightfully distressed that this monument has been snubbed for decades. September 2001 Three of the four sailing Zepeda brothers take a break from their duties aboard a vessel on which they sailed at the same time. Pictured are (from left) Recertified Bosun Robert Zepeda, Bosun Ernest Zepeda and Recertified Bosun Lawrence Zepeda. 1971 and Robert in 1976. "My father went to sea and saw the world," offered Ernest. "He worked very hard and made a good living and I admired that. So I joined the SIU because of him. I wanted to do the same thing as he did." Like Johnny, Ernest has no regrets about becoming a Seafarer. "My career has been wonderful," he shared. "I've sailed in the deep sea as well as inland divisions and seen a lot of the world so far. "But the thing that stands out to me about my career to date has been job security. I've never been out of work, and that says a lot about the union," he continued. "I've always been kept busy." He further noted that training at Piney Point "prepared me for every challenge I've ever faced during my career." Although Robert never knew the real reason his father became a Seafarer, "I suppose it was because it afforded him a good way to take care of his family," he said. "He was gone a lot and I'm sure it hurt him each time he had to leave us, but he did what he had to do to take care of my mom, me and my brothers and our three sisters." The elder Zepeda also enjoyed meeting and working with different people, according to Robert, and the SIU made it easy for him to do that. "I think that explains why me and my brothers became merchant mariners; to be like our father," Robert said. "He made a good living at it and as we [the sons] got older, we all wanted to be like him. "I thought long and hard about being away from home and my family," explained Robert. "But after looking at the big picture and remembering all the good things my father told me about being a Seafarer, I decided to give it a try. That was more than 20 years ago and so far I have no regrets, because in all that time I've only missed two big holidays with my family. Joining the SIU was actually good for me because as a teenager, I was not doing anything productive with my life." Although Maurilio Zepeda is gone, his legacy continues to thrive through his sons. And, much to the family's delight, the seafaring legacy has reached a third generation. Johnny's oldest son, Felipe Zepeda, is keeping the family tradition going. The 18-year-old currently is enrolled in phase one of the unlicensed apprentice training program at Piney Point. Once he completes his training, his ambition is to sail in the deck department, like his father and grandfather. "I'm proud of my family's sailing background," said Felipe, "And I want to keep it going." He added that people speak highly of his family's sailing accomplishments. "And if I do a good job, I'll be able to add to it [the Zepeda's reputation for sailing]." He believes his family's sailing experience is advantageous to him as he begins his career because "I'm able to talk to them about exactly what goes on aboard ship. This will benefit and help me because I'll know what's expected of me while I'm at sea." Aside from keeping his family tradition alive, Felipe said that sailing would afford him a chance to travel, see the world and explore other places. "Being a Seafarer will enable me to do all these things, and at the same time, make some good money," he said. So far, everything is working out fine for the latest Seafaring Zepeda and his father couldn't be happier. "Out of nowhere, my son just decided that he wanted to get involved in sailing to follow in my footsteps," said Johnny. "I was shocked at first, but also very pleased. "It's really not strange that he wanted to be a merchant mariner," Johnny concluded. "I wanted to do it to be like my father, and now he wants it to be like me and all the rest of our family members. I guess it's all in the blood." Recertified Bosun Johnny Zepeda (left) joins his son Felipe for a walk near the waterfront of the Paul Hall Center. The elder Zepeda is at the school undergoing SCTW training while his son is in phase one of his unlicensed apprentice training. Seafarers LOG 9 �Apprentice Program Oft'ers Safe I .aunch For Maritime Careers Students from Class 615 train aboard the Eric Gibson in Guam. Pictured above is Billy Duenas and (below) Jonathan Babauta. The unlicensed apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education provides thorough preparation for students interested in sailing as merchant mariners. Open to men and women ages 18-25 (or up to 30 with military or appropriate vocational experience), the apprentice program has many advantages, including guaranteed employment for graduate , plus no tuition and no charge for room and board. The first and third segments of the curriculum take place at the school in Piney Point, Md. These involve an initial 12-week training session (phase I) covering the ba ics, and department- pecific training (phase III) which finalize students' readiness to begin sailing in either the deck, engine or steward department. In between, students take part in a 90day practical training and assessment period (phase II) aboard a working U.S.- flag ship. In order to best meet the industry's needs, Paul Hall Center officials and instructors frequently have modified the entry-level program' curriculum since the school opened in 1967. However, the course's mi sion (and that of the chool as a whole) always ha remained the ame-providing the world's safe t, be ttrained, most efficient shipboard manpower. SIU members are encouraged to help prospective unlicensed apprentices get in touch with the admissions office at Piney Point. For more information on the apprentice program, call toll-free 1-877-2353275; visit http://www.seafarers.org/phc/index.html on the web; or write to the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Attn: Admissions, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. Roger Abramson helps fold the U.S. flag during a daily ceremony at the school. The 90-day shipboard segment (Phase II) has proven extremely beneficial for students. Pictured aboard the Eric Gibson are (from left) Capt. Sica, Apprentices Chris Borja, Billy Duenas and Jonathan Babauta and Bosun Mike Sinclair. Thomas Almodovar (wearing cap) offers a tip to guests concerning knot-tying. Open since 1967, the school features a training and recreation center (left), library and maritime museum (right) and much more. 10 Seafarers LOG September 2001 �Addison Bell is the mate on the tug James Hannah and tank barge 5101. Clockwise from left aboard the Erie Sand and Gravel Co.'s Richard Reiss are AB Larry English, Porter William Agnello and Watchman Abdul Ali. Above: Crew members operate the bosun's chair on the Richard Reiss at Fairport, Ohio. At right: OS Mike Naylor on the Reiss. OS Abdul S9id Richard Reiss September 2001 With paintbrushes in hand, members who ship from the port of Algonac recently helped give a fresh look to the SIU hall there. Above, from left, are Seddik Ali and Mousa Ali . At right is Second Cook Penny Pollard . Captain Keith Duffton (left) and SIU VP Tom Orzechowski aboard the Ottawa. The Ottawa is an Arnold Transit Co. passenger ferry, servicing Mackinaw City, Mich. and Mackinaw Island, Mich. Seafarers LOG 11 �Around the Ports and Halls With the SIU Right: Captain Jimmy McNutt (left) and Cook/Deck Utility Willy Rose pose in the galley of the American Sa/vor. The Crowley salvage boat recently was in Long Beach, Calif. before heading to Japan for a salvage operation . During a summer job fair on the Mall in Washington, D.C., Bart Rogers (center), manpower coordinator at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., meets USCG Commandant Admiral James M. Loy (right) and Chuck Raymond, president and CEO of CSX Lines. In attendance at the May membership meeting in Mobile, Ala. are (top photo, from left) QMED Gilbert Ford Tedder Jr., CPU Larry Frank Phillips, Bosun Ray Wilkes, Chief Cook John A. Palughi and Chief Cook Alvin Smith. In photo at right, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey chats with Recertified Bosun Doyle Wayne Ellette before the meeting. When Bosun Vernon Huelett (right) recently signed on aboard the SP5 Eric G. Gibson, he did so in a new role-that of third mate. Previously, he often sailed on the American Cormorant. A spokesman for Osprey Ship Mgt. provided this photo (which includes Capt. Skip Krantz) and described Huelett as "a role model for younger mariners. He is known for hard work and leading by example." Retired Bosun Roland "Snake" Williams (right) enjoyed a chance meeting with SIU hawsepiper Larry Kincer aboard the Ready Reserve Force vessel Cape Avinof this summer in Baltimore. Williams, who works at the SIU hall in Baltimore, and Kincer (sailing as third mate aboard the RRF ship) sailed together during the 1970s. Aboard MSC Ships Based in Norfolk and Crewed by Seafarers SIU Government Services Division Reps Kate Hunt (center), Maurice Cookes (second from right) and Chester Wheeler (center, back row) join members of the crew of the USNS Kanawha. SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (seated left) meets with crew members from the MSC ships Cape Ray and Cape Race. USNS Patuxent crew members receive current union information from Goverment Services Division Rep Kate Hunt. With them is delegate Bruce Hamilton (standing, second from right). 12 Seafarers LOG September 2001 �If you sail aboard deep sea or near-coastal vessels, you must comply with the amended STCW convention. Although the deadline for compliance is Feb. 1, 2002, SIU members are urged to complete STCW Basic Safety Training (BST) and acquire the 1995 STCW certificate, if required, immediately. The following unlicensed Seafarers need an STCW '95 certificate: Bosur.s, ABs, QMEDs and FOWTs. Steward department personnel are not required to possess a certificate. Also, all unlimited 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 SST. All SIU members who sail on these types of vessels are asked to contact the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education at this toll-free number: 1-800-732-2739. Please contact the school even if you already have completed basic safety and you have a '95 certificate. The alarm is about to go off! Sign up today for your STCW training! For additional information, check out these articles in past issues of the Seafarers LOG. Please note that this is a partial list. Issue Page No. Headline April 2000 13 What You Need to Know About STCW Certificates July 2000 6 STCW in Plain English Oct. 2000 7,41 USCG Approves 2 Additional STCW-Related Classes Nov. 2000 5, 10 Advisory Board Revisits STCW Feb.2001 2 STCW Countdown (president's report) March 2001 12-13 STCW Essentials April 2001 11 STCW May 2001 20 The STCW Clock Stops Ticking Feb. 1, 2002 (cartoon) May 2001 24 Paul Hall Center Enrollment Soars as Seafarers Eye .:;;r STCW Deadline June 2001 14 STCW: 8 Months Remain for Feb. 1, 2002 Compliance Aug.2001 6 SIU Crews in Diego Garcia Complete STCW Training Aug.2001 10 The STCW Cock Stops Ticking Feb, 1, 2002 (cartoon) With Gov't Services Division Seafarers Guam-based SIU Patrolman Matt Holley recently provided these digital images of the Rappahannock, an oiler crewed by members of the SIU's Government Services Division for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. The vessel refuels aircraft carriers and other military ships while at sea, a procedure known as underway replenishment or unrep. The photos were taken at the fuel pier in Guam. Bosun's Mate K. Allen AB Herbert Brown OS Juan Vargas Purser David Juco September 2001 · Seafarers LOS 13 �to tlie Lakes Seafarers Connect With Speedboat Racer Several of the SIU members who sponsor Skip Gabler and Short Circuit pose near the powerboat in front of the SIU hall in Algonac. Standing (left to right) are AB Rob Heath, AB Alan Maury, OS Mousa Ali and AB Ron Lamere. Port of Algonac Secretary Karen Devauh, Port of Algonac Seniority Director Susan Durseweh and OS Linda Weeden are aboard the vessel. A group of SIU members in Algonac, Mich. just can't stay away from the water. When they're not sailing on it themselves, it appears they're behind someone else who is-someone like offshore speedboat racer Skip Gabler. Gabler was rocketing up and down the Sinclair River next to the SIU Hall in Algonac about two months ago. His 1976 Magnum Sport powered speedboat, Short Circuit, was humming a tune which the Seafarers inside the hall simply could not resist. Minutes later, the boat pulled over to the river's banks. Almost instantly, more than a dozen Seafarers left the hall and made their way to the riverbank, where they converged on the watercraft it and its driver. The SIU members bombarded Gabler with questions about himself, his profession and his vessel. Apparently, the Seafarers liked what they heard, for they departed the riverbank as sponsors for Gabler and his boat. In return for the members' backing, Gabler now displays both the emblem and the name of the SIU on his powerboat. (Editor's note: The pledges were made individually, by mariners, but the union itself is not the sponsor.) Gabler hails from the Algonac area and has been racing since 1977. He owns the Short Circuit and has a long list of accomplishments to his credit, including a second-place finish in the American Powerboat Association's 2000 World Championship last November. According to SIU Algonac Port Agent Don Thornton, Gabler "is one heck of a powerboat driver." He has won his last three race , Thornton said, the last with only one engine functioning when he crossed the finish line. SIU Members who are sponsoring the racer are: AB Alan Maury, Pensioner Jim Lawson, AB Rob Heath, AB Ron Lamere, OS Linda Weeden, AB Mike Couzens, AB Nick Velkoff, Porter Arafat Kaid, Chief Steward Darell Bays, Second Cook Penny Pollard, Second Cook Gaye Madara, OS Paul Hennesey, AB Chad Partridge, OS Mousa Ali and AB Mark Trepp. Book Recounts Seafarer's Challenger Resumes 'Coming of Age' in WWII Regular Run -- Edgar Werner graduated from high school in June 1943. Two months later, he signed on aboard the SIU-contracted Robin Sherwood-via Sheepshead Bay-for the first of seven voyages he'd make during World War II. The New York City native swapped his z-card for a microscope in 1946, turning to a career in science and education. But his strong recollections of "growing up" on SIU ships during the war have prompted a new book, "A Company Of Men." Though written in the third person (and with Werner renamed Ralph Warman), the book closely is based on his "coming of age" in the merchant marine. "My hope is that Seafarers who lived the action and, as well, the young adults just starting their merchant marine careers will enjoy the story," Werner said. "It's a stage where innocence and boyish boldness, combined with the not-alway -gentle guidance of new shipmates, start the beginning of lifelong techniques and skills that open the door to the adventure and joy that begins after the first pierhead jump." Werner, who this month turns 76, is a veteran of two wars, having served in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict. He sailed on the Liberty ship Robert Toombs at the Normandy invasion in World War II. In December 1944, he sailed aboard the Tarleton Brown, spending Christmas in port at Antwerp "while the V-2 missiles were dumping on the city and the port. I still have shards of metal from one of the missiles still tucked away in my old storage boxes." He later returned to civilian life as a biological scientist and college professor. These days, though officially retired, he works as a freelance writer and photographer. "Life has been an exciting, stimulating mosaic,'' said Werner, who lives in northern Virginia. He noted that "A Company Of Men" doesn't focus on tales of combat. Rather, the story "is a collection of incidents in which the boy (Warman) goes through all of the activities and problems that were involved in sailing those ships, and the interactions he has with the rest of the crew and the Armed Guard personnel. It's an exciting story and will bring back to any old salt, the day he first climbed up the swaying gangway." The book is available in paperback, and an electronic version also may be accessed via the internet. To order by phone, call tollfree at 1-888-795-4274, extension 276. To order on line, go to www.xlibris.com/ACOMPANYOFMEN.html. Sample chapters are available at that address. After undergoing routine cleaning and engine work in a Singapore hipyard, the Challenger has resumed its regular run. The vessel carries reefer cargo and containers for CSX Lines, sailing from San Juan, P.R. to New Orleans and then to Houston. Recertified Steward Brandon Maeda, who sent the photos accompanying this story to the Seafarers LOG, noted the crew enjoyed an Independence Day cookout while headed to Houston from San Juan. "We are all glad the Challenger is out of the shipyard and back in the U.S.," Maeda wrote. "This is an older ship, but I'm enjoying it." Built in 1968, the Challenger is a "C7-class" ship with a top speed of better than 21 knots. The vessel is 700 feet long and 84 feet wide. Bosun Roger Reinke (left) and Recertified Steward Brandon Maeda celebrate Independence Day aboard the Challenger. What's July 4 without a cookout? From left, AB Julio Mattos, Chief Cook Manny Guanga and Bosun Roger Reinke keep an eye on the grill. Pictured on deck are (from left) SA Rafael Pagan, OMU Terry Mouton and OMU Sam Taylor. Are You Receiving All Your Important Mail? In order to en ure that each active SIU member and pensioner receives a copy of the Seafarers LOG every month-as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and health insurance checks and bulletins or notices- a correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently or feel that you are not getting your r------------------------------------------------------------ - -------, HOME ADDRESS FORM (Please Print) Name : ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Phone No.: Address : ~-------------------------------------~ Social Security No.: _ _ __ ~~~~/~~~~ D Active SIU D Pensioner D Other This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain in the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally. 9/01 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 fill out the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union Address Correction Dept. 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 L--------------------------------------------------------------------~ 14 Seafarers LOB September 2001 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea JULY 16 -AUGUST 15, 2001 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Totals 2 3 4 4 2 Totals 0 1 11 10 7 20 42 25 16 9 8 8 12 4 29 24 22 13 7 10 12 10 2 2 3 6 3 3 3 12 16 8 4 11 32 0 35 37 292 11 13 8 12 13 158 Totals Totals Totals All Departments 5 0 2 0 2 9 6 19 9 33 8 15 9 11 4 4 5 4 5 9 7 25 17 8 101 184 113 57 14 1 3 6 21 1 9 1 0 5 3 I 3 2 1 0 3 1 5 8 17 22 8 9 14 7 14 12 8 5 9 12 8 9 4 2 4 7 0 16 5 127 l l 2 0 2 6 9 4 29 9 8 11 12 5 7 4 17 15 19 7 3 8 20 15 5 3 3 14 6 7 4 Houston .................. Friday: October 19, November 16 (Lawndale Street) 14 19 14 16 Jacksonville ............ Thursday: October 11, November 8 194 141 10 40 50 21 11 3 19 45 3 57 52 74 458 4 2 0 5 6 2 11 0 15 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 7 6 10 2 6 6 4 8 15 17 5 7 5 11 6 0 4 4 3 2 3 5 0 2 2 2 6 I 8 4 6 4 10 7 12 14 2 2 2 134 54 6 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 7 12 16 9 10 6 15 2 2 6 6 4 5 1 8 0 l 2 7 0 0 11 11 4 3 1 20 3 20 26 155 5 2 0 0 3 4 11 0 6 6 99 3 3 2 0 0 3 4 3 12 3 78 2 2 6 3 37 10 18 1 8 6 2 0 3 1 4 1 2 9 0 3 0 4 9 3 1 2 19 I 0 5 0 4 2 7 2 9 7 11 0 5 7 1 3 3 4 0 0 1 7 0 6 2 16 7 46 42 121 38 13 20 2 0 0 0 5 24 32 14 19 11 6 2 44 5 0 7 2 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 0 1 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 6 15 0 0 1 6 6 25 11 198 1 9 13 10 20 9 19 16 16 7 4 4 2 1 5 5 10 1 6 5 13 4 1 6 0 4 0 10 6 18 172 9 75 11 0 0 7 3 4 4 0 16 17 25 0 0 0 1 0 10 2 1 41 4 6 6 10 3 1 16 30 15 6 3 4 5 9 2 0 3 9 0 4 1 2 0 3 15 3 9 10 0 6 3 12 17 11 33 1 0 3 7 23 l 5 15 0 0 0 0 9 20 48 8 13 45 6 12 0 19 16 1 29 21 3 32 3 15 12 12 1 38 0 0 0 0 6 10 81 20 307 23 460 993 739 753 0 2 15 3 292 24 110 126 0 0 0 489 428 339 233 175 2 l 15 20 0 2 12 11 42 178 616 516 9 11 0 0 6 14 19 5 4 0 9 2 7 0 Personals WILLIE CUNNINGHAM JOHNSON Connie Brown, daughter of the late William Stubblefield of St. Louis, would like to hear from anyone who sailed with her father. She may be reached at (248) 446-3060. 1 6 6 Each Porl's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. 0 6 223 6 8 Wilmington ...............Monday: October 22, November 19 ANYONE WHO KNEW WILLIAM STUBBLEFIELD OF ST. LOUIS 1 64 12 1 Tacoma ................... Friday: October 26, November 23 2 2 0 2 3 Savannah ................ Friday: October 12, November 9 77 0 0 16 San Juan .................. Thursday: October 11, November 8 66 0 0 0 0 24 San Francisco ......... Thursday: October J 8, November 15 256 3 1 30 7 0 2 9 0 4 5 Port Everglades ....... Thursday: October 18, November 15 57 2 0 11 9 1 Philadelphia ............ Wednesday: October 10, Nov. 7 4 0 0 7 2 0 Norfolk ................... Thursday: October I l ~ November 8 9 2 4 130 12 24 0 New York ......... ....... Tuesday: October 9, November 6 35 0 31 9 18 New Orleans ........... Tuesday: October 16, November 13 3 0 0 New Bedford .......... Tuesday: October 23, November 20 1 0 10 Mobile .................... Wednesday: October 17, Nov. 14 2 0 1 0 3 (changed created by Veterans Day holiday) 39 2 6 Tuesday: November 13 * 9 16 1 10 26 Houston .................. Monday: October 15 0 0 6 Honolulu ................. Friday: October 19, November 16 8 0 18 26 0 4 Duluth ..................... Wednesday: October 17, Nov. 14 33 3 0 10 Boston ..................... Friday: October 12, November 9 St. Louis ................. Friday: October 19, November 16 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 Baltimore ................ Thursday: October 11, November 8 Jersey City .............. Wednesday: October 24, Nov. 21 I 2 5 4 Algonac ..................Friday: October 12, November 9 4 12 40 56 13 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 Piney Point ............. Monday: October 8, November 5 2 4 1 10 18 28 0 2 Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington 3 8 7 0 2 1 3 1 7 3 Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington 1 2 3 7 23 Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington **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 Trip Reliefs October & November 2001 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters 0 9 Please contact Robert Defenderfer at P 0. Box 180, Athol, MA 01331; telephone (978) 249-9268; e-mail bobdeej@yahoo.com. *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. September 2001 Seafarers LOG 15 �Seafarers lntemalional Union Directory l\TMV Monthly Shipping A Registration Report JULY 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 III Group I Group II Trip Reliefs REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Jack Caffey, Vice President Atlantic Coast Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice Presidem West Coast Kennett Mangram, Vice President Government Services . Rene Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large .. HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 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, #IC, 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 DECK DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norfolk San Pedro Savannah Tacoma Totals 5 7 1 0 4 1 12 7 4 5 0 0 0 4 5 44 13 l 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 27 0 0 1 0 2 8 6 0 22 109 4 0 0 0 10 3 0 0 7 1 0 0 8 6 24 0 0 2 37 0 4 8 0 1 0 0 11 8 17 17 4 59 185 48 0 0 7 0 2 4 2 104 0 3 1 88 0 3 2 0 34 17 170 125 20 2 0 8 0 0 0 0 73 I 11 12 1 1 2 0 0 2 0 3 0 0 15 5 0 10 4 93 0 41 4 0 2 2 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norfolk San Pedro Savannah Tacoma Totals 8 0 0 5 1 9 3 0 4 0 1 1 7 1 5 6 5 0 0 2 29 6 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 3 0 0 2 2 2 6 5 0 17 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 6 2 8 30 3 0 1 0 9 0 9 1 0 12 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building, Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 Tun GUAM P.O. Box 23127, Barrigada, Guam 96921 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, ID 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Hou ton, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 8329 Lawndale St., Houston, TX 77012 (713) 928-3381 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 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 (504) 328-7545 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston 1 5 Harvey, LA New York Norfolk San Pedro 2 5 I Savannah Tacoma Totals 0 2 3 19 l 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 0 7 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 4 0 2 12 0 0 0 0 2 1 1 24 0 5 3 103 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norlolk San Pedro Savannah Tacoma Totals 2 0 3 2 4 0 1 2 4 0 4 1 0 6 0 6 0 6 16 108 3 0 1 0 0 0 4 1 0 0 3 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 0 14 2 4 4 104 0 5 l 0 0 0 4 2 0 2 4 0 3 9 1 0 23 0 6 0 2 0 0 6 23 45 12 57 16 6 123 1 0 79 0 15 2 35 1 135 187 101 593 375 137 Totals All Departments NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PffiLADELPHIA 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 333 I 6 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St, San Franci co, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Govemment Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16Vi Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 SAVANNAH 2220 Bull St., Savannah, GA 31401 (912) 238-4958 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 PIG-FROM-THE-PAST In 1947, Theodore E. Lewis was sailing as a "trip card" holder on the SS Fort Donaldson as an OS. He had taken the summer off from his studies at Pace College in New York, where he was enrolled after a couple years' service in the U.S. Navy. This was a World War 11 "T-2" tanker. After picking up a load of oil in Aruba and dropping it off in Gibraltar, the vessel then shuttled oil from the Persian Gulf to Haifa, Palestine (now Israel) for several round trips. Lewis was taken off the ship in August 1947 in Port Said, Egypt with a case of hepatitis. After several weeks in a local hospital, he was sent by train to Alexandria, Egypt to await a ship home as a passenger. The shipping company's local agent put him up in a pension, which was right across the street from the Seaman's Club, where he spent most of his time. The photo at left was taken on the front steps of the club. It had been the old German Embassy before World War II. Lewis writes that "the seven fellows in the photo are all American seamen and were members of the SIU, I believe, and were also being repatriated." While he doesn't remember the names of the other six men, Lewis is the one seated on the top step. He celebrated his 21 •1 birthday a few days after the photo was taken. That was his only trip with the SIU. After graduating from college, Lewis got a job as a purser with the old Grace Line and sailed with them to South America for about five years. He then went shoreside, working in international sales. Now 75, Lewis continues to travel around the world and write stories for several publications. Otherwise, you can find him at home in Severna Park, Md. with his "lovely wife of 40 wonderful years" or enjoying time with his grandson. September 2001 �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. hree captains and two recertified stewards are among the 13 Seafarers announcing their retirements this month. Inland Captains Louis E. Louvierrre, Ronald Williams and William Zorn sailed the inland waterways at the helms of their respective vessels for a combined 72 years. Recertified Stewards Angel B. Correa and Salvatore E. Torneo each completed the highest level of training available to members of the steward department at the Seafarers school in Piney Pont, Md. Including the recertified stewards, seven of the retirees sailed in the deep sea division. One plied the Great Lakes and the remaining five, which include the former captains, navigated the inland waterways. Four of the retirees worked in the deck department, seven shipped in the engine department and two sailed in the steward department. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of the retiring Seafarers. T DEEP SEA ANGEL CORREA, 57, tarted his SIU career in 1966, joining in the port of Philadelphia. d1 Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Correa first shipped aboard General Cargo Corp. 's Spitfire. The steward department member frequently upgraded at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. He completed the steward recertification course in 1998. Brother Correa last worked aboard the Challenger, operated by CSX Lines. He lives in St. Augustine, Fla. ALBERTO GARCIA, 65, started his SIU career in 197 6 in Puerto Rico and worked in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Brother Garcia first sailed on a Crowley Towing & Transportation vessel. The engine department member enchanced his skills often at the SIU's training school in Piney Point, Md. He upgraded in 1980, 1983, 1984, 1989 and 1992. Brother Garcia last shipped aboard the Sea-Land Expedition. He resides in Carolina, P.R. I~~~~ DIMITRIOS PAPA GEORGIOU, 64, started his career with the Seafarers in 1969. He joined in the port of New York and first sailed aboard Hudson Waterways Corp. 's Transcolorado. Brother September 2001 Papageorgiou shipped as a member of the engine department. He upgraded his skills in 1973 and 1974 at the Sill's training school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Papageorgiou last sailed on Maersk Lines' Pvt. Harry Fisher. He lives in Greece. MILTON SABIN, 59, joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of San Francisco. Prior to becoming a Seafarer, Brother Sabin served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1959 to 1963. He first sailed aboard the Hudson Waterways Corp.'s SS Transerie. Brother Sabin upgraded his skills at the SIU' training school in 1980 and 1986. An Ohio native, he sailed in the engine department. Brother Sabin's last voyage was aboard the Sea-Land Trader. He calls Federal Way, Wash. home. JAMES SIMMS, 61, started his career with the Seafarer in 1959 in the port of Baltimore. The Maryland native served in the U.S. Army Reserve. He first sailed aboard A.H. Bull's Edith. The engine department member last shipped on the 2nd Lt. John Paul Bobo, operated by American Overseas Marine. Brother Simms lives in Baltimore. SALVATORE E. TORNEO, 64, began his SIU career in 1991, joining in the port of New York. Brother Torneo served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. He first sailed on American Overseas Marine's Cape Ann. The Connecticut native shipped in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the Sill's training school in 1995. Brother Torneo completed the steward recertification course in 1997. He last went to sea aboard the USNS Capella, another American Overseas Marine vessel. Brother Torneo calls Port Charlotte, Fla. home. HOWARD YAEKEL, 60, was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of New York. He initially went to sea aboard the Steel Artisan, operated by ISCO, Inc. The deck department member last worked on U.S. Ship Management's Quality. Brother Yaekel lives in Glendale, N.Y. INLAND BOBBYW. BARTA, 62 joined the SIU in 1973 in the port of Houston. Prior to becoming a Seafarer, Boatman Barta served in the U.S. Air Force from 1956 to 1957. He first sailed aboard a Dixie Carriers vessel. Born in Nueces County, Texas, Boatman Barta hipped as a member of the engine department. His most recent voyage was aboard a vessel operated by G&H Towing Co. Boatman Barta makes his home in Rockport, Texas. JOHNM. HINSON, 57, started his SIU career in 1978, joining in the port of l~b~~b.J Norfolk, Va. The North Carolina native first sailed aboard a vessel operated by Steuart Transportation Co. r:::.. Boatman Hinson upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in 1997. A member of the engine department, he last worked on an Allied Towing Co. vessel. Boatman Hinson lives in Beaufort, N.C. LOUISE. LOU- VIERRE, 69, joined the SIU in 1964 in Port Arthur, Texas. Born in Louisiana, Boatman Louvierre worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Higman Barge Lines, Inc. A member of the deck department, he shipped as a captain. Boatman Louvierre now calls Seabrook, Texas home. RONALDD. WILLIAMS, 62, started his SIU career in 1972, joining in Port Arthur, Texas. Boatman Williams served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1956 to 1971. The deck department member shipped as a captain, first sailing aboard a Dravo Basic Materials Co. vessel. He last worked on a Higman Barge Lines, Inc. vessel. Boat- man Williams lives in Port Neches, Texas. WILLIAM H.ZORN, 63, began his career with the Seafarers in 1968, joining in the port of Houston. A member of the deck department, Boatman Zorn sailed as a captain. The Florida native first sailed aboard a National Marine Services, Inc. vessel. He upgraded his skills at the SIU's training school in 1976. Boatman Zorn last worked on an Hvide Marine operated vessel. He resides in Harper, Texas. GREAT LAKES JOHN J. RITTINGHOUSE, 62, hails from Indiana. Brother Rittinghouse began his career with the Seafarers in 1961, joining in the port of Detroit. He first sailed on the Kinsman Independent. The engine department member last worked aboard a Red Arrow Steamship Co. vessel. Brother Rittinghouse lives in Toledo, Ohio. Welfare Plan was first launched in 1950 and, since that time, more than $41,555,958.55 has been paid out for 1943 hospital, death, disability, maternity, depenAfter a year's struggle with the New dent, optical and out·patient benefits. In England Steamship Company, the SIU was February 1952, the SIU Vacation Plan was successful in getting an increase of $ 15 per month for all ratings. On September l 0 the inaugurated and it has since paid a total of $59,483,828.34 in vacation benefits for Boston Regional War Labor Board confirmed SIU members. a maritime panel report containing these gains. In addition to rn==============================~ The total value of the claim, the union welfare benefits is won a retroactive .. 'jU..rU actually considerably clause providing that 'n '~' n higher (than the aforementioned the increase would go into effect as of amount), since the December 9, 1942. cost of scholarship payments, meal 1959 books, training faciliw The Maritime Trades !!::::::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=:===~ ties and medical Department will open its biennial convention examinations-for SIU members and their on September 15 in San Francisco with dependents-are not included in the above plans to tackle the nation's maritime ills. figures. Among items on the agenda of the MTD 1991 are reports on the increase of the affiliated The opening of a new union hall in port councils and legislative developments Honolulu was celebrated by Seafarers on which will affect the merchant marine. September 12. The SIU's newest Strengthened by eight new international office-located at 606 Kalihi Street-opened union affiliates in the past two years, the for business in March, but renovations had MTD will plan programs continuing and expanding organizing activities on the Great been taking place until the week of the dedication ceremony. Lakes and considering legislative needs to The hall is roughly 4 miles west of the strengthen the domestic trades and to prounion's previous facility on Cooke Street. It tect shipping from pressure from the rail· is larger than the old one, includes a classroad industry. AFL-CIO President George room and is only two blocks from the Meany will be the featured speaker at the waterfront. Moreover, the new hall is closer convention. to the facilities used by two SIU~contracted companies. The property includes more 1968 than 9,200 square feet of land, while the As of August 31, the SIU's Welfare and Vacation plans have paid out a total in ben- building takes up more than 4,000 square feet. efits of $101,039,786.89. The SIU Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG ,.UJS M0 1 IN SIU HISTORY Seafarers LOG 17 �final Departures MUBAR BEDROS Pensioner Mubar Bedros, 86, died May 7. Brother Bedros was born in California and started his career with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (Mc&S). The steward department member began receiving his pension in 1970. He lived in Rohnert Park, Calif. JOSEPH BOTWINIS • Brother Joseph Botwinis, 59, passed away June 4. He joined the SIU in 1977 in the port of Houston. Brother '---------~ Botwinis served in the U.S . Army from 1963 to 1965. The Mt. Clemens, Mich. native first sailed on a Marlin Steamship Co. Inc. vessel. A member of the engine department, he last worked aboard the lst. Lt. Harry Martin, operated by Osprey-Acomarit Ship Management, Inc. Brother Botwinis made his home in Woodstock, Mich. GEORGE BROOKS Pensioner George Brooks, 75, died Dec. 17, 2000. Brother Brooks joined the MC&S and sailed as a member of the steward department. Brother Brooks started receiving his pension in 1975. He lived in Dallas. Brother Galt joined the SIU in 1946 in the port of Philadelphia. He served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1952. Brother ~ Galt's first SIU voyage was aboard a Pan Shipping Corp. vessel. A member of the deck department, he last worked aboard the Cpl. Louis J. Hauge Jr. Brother Galt started receiving his pension in 1990. He called Seymour, Tenn. home. CHARLES GARRISON - - - - - - - - - - . Pensioner Charle Garrison, 75 , passed away May 14. Born in Ben Hill, Ga., Brother Garrison joined the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He first went to sea aboard the James B. Duke, operated by Delta Steamship Lines. The engine department member last shipped on Waterman Steamship Corp.'s Jefferson Davis. Brother Garrision started receiving his pension in 1981. He lived in Georgia. WILBUR GEE WALTER COLLEY Pensioner Walter Colley, 78, passed away May 25. Brother Colley started his SIU career in 1954, joining in the port of Norfolk, Va. He served in the U.S. Army from 1940 to 1944. Brother Colley first shipped on Waterman Steamship Corp.'s Andrew Jackson. A member of the deck department, the Dickenson County, Va. native last worked on a Michigan Tankers Inc. vessel. Brother Colley began receiving his pension in 1977. Hayse, Va. was his home. WALTER CUTTER • Pensioner Walter Cutter, 75, died June 12. Born in Boston, Brother Cutter joined the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of New York. The steward department member first shipped aboard the Rebel, operated by Bull Steamship Co. Brother Cutter last worked on the OM/ Defender. He began receiving his pension in 1987. Brother Cutter made his home in Galveston, Texas. GREGORY DIOSES Pensioner Gregory Dioses 88, passed away' April 11. Brother Dioses started his SIU career in 1944, · joining in the port of Baltimore. Born in Peru, he first sailed aboard an Ore Navigation vessel. The engine department member last worked on Sea Transport Corp.'s Eagle Traveler. Brother Dioses started receiving his pension in 1974. He lived in Peru. CHADBORNE GALT Pensioner Chadborne Galt, 76, died June 20. Born in Rochester, N.H., 18 Seafarers LOG ~~~ ~ · ~· \ New York. The •;. Port Arthur, Texas native served in the U.S. Navy from 1949 to 1953. His initial SIU voyage was aboard a Coyle Lines Inc. vessel. Brother Gee shipped in the engine department. He last worked aboard the Overseas Vivian. Brother Gee started receiving his pension in 1993. He resided in Sabine Pass, Texas. '-------'-----~ MICHAEL HOEFFER Brother Michael Hoeffer, 38, died Feb. 7. Born in California, he started his SIU career in 1987. Prior to becoming a Seafarer, he served in the U.S. Coast Guard. Brother Hoeffer first worked on the USNS H.H. Hess, operated by Lavina Steamship Co. The steward department member last sailed aboard the President Polk. Brother Hoeffer made his home in Reno, Nev. EDWARD KILLIGREW Pensioner Edward Killigrew, 77, passed away June 8. Brother Killigrew began his career with the Seafarers in 1949 in the port of New York. The Massachusetts native first sailed aboard Bull Steamship Co. 's Rebel. A member of the deck department, he last worked on the Virgo, operated by Colby Shipping Co. Brother Killigrew started receiving his pension in 1978. He called Marblehead, Mass. home. EUGENE NICHOLSON Pensioner Eugene Nicholson, 75, died July 2. Brother Nicholson started his SIU career in 1944, joining in the port of Baltimore. The Maryland native first shipped aboard the Stoney Creek, operated by American Tramp Shipping & Development Co. Brother Nicholson shipped as a bosun. He last sailed on Connecticut Transport's Ohio. Brother Nicholson began receiving his pension in 1982. He lived in Pasedena, Md. RICHARD NYBERG Pensioner Richard Nyberg, 66, passed away April 12. Born in Ohio, Brother Nyberg started his career with the MC&S. A member of the steward department, he started receiving his pension in 1977. Brother Nyberg made his home in San Francisco. ROY SHORTT Pensioner Roy Shortt, 63, died June 2. Brother Shortt began his career with the Seafarers in 1976 in the port of San Francisco. Before joining the SIU, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1954 to 1958. He first sailed on the Longview Victory, operated by Victory Carriers, Inc. The Virginia native shipped in the deck department. He last worked aboard the OM/ Sacramento. Brother Shortt started receiving his pension in 1990. He resided in Pound, Va. SATURINOSIMSUANDCO Pensioner Saturino Simsuandco, 81, passed away May 30. Brother Simsuandco started his SIU career in 1963 in the port of Baltimore. He was born in the Philippines and first sailed aboard an ISCO vessel. The steward department member last shipped on the OM/ Platte. Brother Simsuandco began receiving his pension in 1991. He lived in New Orleans. JOHN SMITH Pensioner John Smith, 78, died May 27. He joined the Seafarers in 1943 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Born in Keysville, Mo., Brother Smith shipped in the engine department. His last voyage was aboard the Overseas Boston. He began receiving his pension in 1985. Brother Smith was a resident of Covington, La. WILLIAM SMITH Pensioner William Smith, 78, passed away June 5. Brother Smith started his SIU career in 1953 in the port of San Francisco. The Arkansas native first sailed aboard Delta Steamship Lines' Santa Maria. Brother Smith worked in the steward department. He last sailed on the Maui, operated by Matson Navigation Co. Brother Smith began receiving his pension in 1988. Chula Vista, Calif. was his home. PETER STEIN Brother Peter Stein, 63 died July 5. He joined the Seafarers in 1990 in the port of Baltimore. A Chicago native, Brother Stein's ---~~-~ first voyage was aboard Interocean Management Corp. 's Cornhusker State. He shipped in the engine department. Brother Stein's final trip to sea was on the Cape Washington, an American Overseas Marine vessel. He lived in Seymour, Tenn. JOSE VALENZUELA Pensioner Jose Valenzuela, 73, died March 30. Brother Valenzuela joined the SIU in 1953 in the port of Baltimore. Before becoming a Seafarer, the California native served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1947. The engine department member sailed in both the deep sea and inland divisions during his career. His last voyage was aboard the Santa Magdelena, operated by Delta Steamship Lines. Brother Valenzuela made his home in Manzonillo Colina, Mexico. EDWARD WALLACE Pensioner Edward Wallace, 73, passed away May 21. The Illinois native started his SIU career in 1945 in the port of New York. Before becoming a Seafarer, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Brother Wallace shipped in the deck department and last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Integrity. He lived in Chicago and started receiving his pension in 1991. -...,.----,.,,=-==--:-:----, CHARLES WATSON Pensioner Charles Watson, 77, passed away May 18. Brother Watson started his career with the MC&S. The Greeley, Colo. native began receiving his pension in 1970. He resided in The Dalles, Ore. .------,~~-,..,..~ MARCUS WEIKLE Brother Marcus Weikle, 55, died Feb. 9. He joined the SIU in 1967 in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Born in South Charleston, W. Va., Brother Weikle served in the U.S. Army from 1963 to 1965. The engine department member first shipped aboard an Alcoa Steamship Co. vessel. Brother Weikle last sailed aboard the USNS Kane. He lived in Rainelle, W. Va. VINCENT WELCH ==,-:--n Pensioner Vincent Welch, 82, passed away May 29. Brother Welch started his SIU career in 1967, joining in the port of New York. Before that, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1943. Brother Welch initially sailed on Marine Carriers Corp.'s Commander. The Great Barrington, Mass. native shipped as a member of the engine department. His final voyage was on Hudson Waterways Corp.'s Transcolorado. Brother Welch began receiving his pension in 1984. He called Berkshire, Mass. home. DAVID WILLIAMS -----:--------,Brother David Williams, 48, died April 14. He joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of Piney Point, Md. Brother Williams' first voyage was aboard Delta Steamship Lines, Inc. 's Del Rio. Born in Ohio, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Williams last worked on the Overseas Chicago, an Alaska Tanker Co. vessel. Brother Williams made Houston, Miss. his home. LEVY WILLIAMSON Pensioner Levy Williamson, 67, passed away April 26. The Alabama native joined the SIU in 1951 in Lake Charles, La. He first sailed with Penn Central Railroad Co. Brother Williamson was a member of the engine department and sailed in both the deep sea and inland divisions. He last shipped aboard the Merrimack, operated by Odgen Merrimack Transportation, Inc. Brother Williamson started receiving his pension in 1984. He resided in Mcintosh, Ala. CHARM WONG Pensioner Charm Wong, 71, died April 11. Brother Wong started his career with the MC&S. Born in China, he started receiving his pension in 1978. He made his home in San Francisco. INLAND DANIEL BRISTER Pensioner Daniel Brister, 70, died March 23. Boatman Brister started his SIU career in 1956 in the port of New Orleans. The Mississippi native first sailed aboard a Wheeling Steel Corp. vessel. A member of the deck department, he shipped as a captain. Boatman Brister started receiving his pension in 1996. He lived in Jayass, Miss. RAYMOND CALLIS Pensioner Raymond Callis, 96, passed away May 14. Boatman Callis started his career with the Seafarers in the .___..__~~~-~ port of Norfolk, Va. Born in Virginia, he sailed in the deck department as a captain. He began receiving his pension in 1967. Boatman Callis resided in Matthews, Va. Continued on page 20 September 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. AMBROSE CHANNEL (IUM), May 27- Chairman Mario R. Romero, Secretary Elena R. Curley, Educational Director Demetrios Simmons. Bosun reminded all crew members of need to comply with STCW by Feb. 1, 2002. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. for better wages and job security. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Following reading of president's report, discussion ensued on new cruise ships being built by U.S. Lines which should be ready in a few years. Request made to ask company for coveralls for deck and engine department members. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great meals. INNOVATOR (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), May 6-Chairman James L. Carter, Secretary Jose M. Bayani, Educational Director Olie E. Webber, Deck Delegate Gary P. Walker, Engine Delegate Antonio N. Libon, Steward Delegate Loumrhari Mostafa. Chairman stressed importance of getting STCW by Feb. 1, 2002. "No STCW, no ship." He also reminded those getting off to clean rooms and leave keys for next person. Secretary thanked everyone for jobs well done, especially dayworkers who did "super jobs in repairing and painting all doors with broken locks." He also thanked the engine department for their fine work. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills at Piney Point for increased earnings and better future. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for new videotape rewinder. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEALAND FLORIDA (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), May 28-Chairman Jose F. Caballero, Secretary Donald B. Ganung, Educational Director Randolph L. Tannis, Deck Delegate Randall R. Shearer, Engine Delegate Glenn O'Leary, Steward Delegate Charles E. Curley. Chairman reminded everyone of need for STCW safety training by Feb. 1, 2002 or be denied sailing. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department thanked deck department members for help cleaning stairwells. Requests made for safety guard on turnbuckle machinery, repair of TV antenna in crew lounge, purchase of CD player and new videotape rewinder. MAERSK TENNESSEE (Maersk Lines, Ltd.), May 31-Chairman Stanley A. Gurney, Secretary Dwight E. Wuerth, Educational Director Joseph P. Barry II, Deck Delegate Joseph LeBeau. Chairman reported on old business, including installation of new horn for crane and proposed improvement of mail system. Additionally, new microwave purchased. Ship going into dry dock for 14 days in Balboa, Panama. All crew will remain on board vessel. Shoreside water to be used for showers; bottled water to be ordered for drinking. Educational director reminded crew members to attend Paul Hall Center and be ready for STCW deadline-Feb. 1, 2002. Treasurer stated $450.99 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. September 2001 OVERSEAS CHICAGO (ATC), May 20-Chairman Jesse L. Mixon, Secretary Gregory S. Lynch, Educational Director Mark E. Sawin, Deck Delegate Marco A. Felix, Engine Delegate Robert Santos, Steward Delegate Robert M. Mensching. Chairman announced ship to discharge cargo in Richmond, Calif., then proceed to lay berth for repairs. Payoff went smoothly with no disputes. He advised crew members to call 800 number for details of STCW requirements. Secretary reported new contract ready soon. Educational director announced safety award of $7,200 given by company for entire crew. Satellite dish was purchased and installed. He also stated that when filing for vacation, members may split discharge if they have more days than the required 120. Any balance over that may be saved for next time member applies. Steward department delegate asked crew members to wait to eat until men going on watch have been fed. Suggestions made to include annual cost of living allowance in pension plan and reduce number of days required for vacation. Crew members expressed thanks to steward department for good job. Also noted that company has given $3,000 to crew for exercise equipment. Treadmill, elliptical machine and free weights have been purchased and installed. Additionally, company has added soda pop to requisition for daily consumption. USNS HENSON (DynMarine), May 6-Chairman George J. Keblis, Secretary Linda F. Van Nieuwenhuyse, Educational Director Julio Arzu. All union forms made available to members. Bosun introduced himself and wished everyone a safe voyage. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade at Piney Point as well as ensure STCW compliance by Feb. 1, 2002. "Beat the last-minute rush!" No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for bottled water. Next port: Bahrain. CHEMICAL TRADER (Marine Transport Line), June 27Chairman Raymond A. Tate, Secretary Michael A. Pooler, Educational Director Nikolay Entchev, Deck Delegate Mary Rose Bado, Engine Delegate Dominique N. Tarantino, Steward Delegate Luis Gonzalez. Chairman announced three days in Corpus Christi, Texas unloading, cleaning tanks, then loading again. Captain is happy with crew's performance. He also reported Welfare Plan renamed to Health and Benefits Plan. Educational director spoke of upgrading benefits at Paul Hall Center and need to take advantage of it, not only for STCW compliance, but also for improving skills and job security. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made to lower required time needed to apply for vacation check. "Bravo" to steward department for putting out restaurant quality food. Requests made for repair of TV antenna and washing machine as well as purchase of satellite dish and new mattresses. Everyone asked to help by separating plastics from paper and cans and place in proper containers. items off side of ship. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. CHALLENGER (CSX Lines), June 19-Chairman Roy L. Williams, Secretary Rafael Pagan, Educational Director Clive A. Steward, Deck Delegate Julio Mattos Jr., Engine Delegate Monte Pryor. Chairman noted OT sheets turned in to captain. Due to ga and soot being released from smokestack during voyage, captain advised crew not to work OT on deck if conditions are unsafe. Educational director notified all who have not complied with STCW requirements that time is running out and not to wait until last minute-Feb. 1, 2002. Suggestion made to reduce sea time requirements to collect vacation and higher pension benefits. Thanks to steward department for good job. Next port: San Juan. MAERSK ARIZONA (Maersk Lines, Ltd.), June 5-Chairman Scott A. Heginbotham, Secretary Grant H. Armstead, Educational Director David G. Gordius, Deck Delegate James Clark, Engine Delegate Hurtado Alexandro, Steward Delegate Scott Burges. Chairman spoke of importance of ENDURANCE (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), June 24-Chairman Romeo Lugtu, Secretary Russell B. Bayschau, Educational Director Mario B. Cruzat, Deck Delegate Dennis R. Pickering, Engine Delegate James F. Siegar, Steward Delegate Jimmy L. Williams. Bosun reported new contract due out within 90 days. He also urged crew members to contribute to SPAD, upgrade at Piney Point and meet the Feb. 1, 2002 deadline for STCW compliance (" ... or you will not ship."). Electrician reported that new Coast Guard testing guidelines go into effect in 2002 for licensed and unlicensed mariners. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. EXPEDITION (CSX Lines), June 7-Chairman James E. Reed, Secretary Edgardo M. Vazquez, Educational Director Oswald N. Bermeo, Steward Delegate Jose M. Jorge. Chairman announced payoff in Jacksonville, Fla. He advised crew members to return to ship one hour before sailing time. Secretary noted everything running smoothly. Educational director stressed opportunities available at Paul Hall Center for upgrading skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President's report from LOG read; everyone was happy to hear about new passenger ships being built. Suggestion made for health plan to include prescription coverage for dependents and increase in pension benefits. GOPHER STATE (IUM), June 28-Secretary Anthony L. Curran, Educational Director James W. Demouy III, Steward Delegate Jessie Jones. Vessel arriving in Guam after 43 days at sea from England. Educational director reminded all members about STCW and that without proper documents, Seafarers cannot ship. Union has presence in Guam now, so medical needs should go through that hall. Discussion held about purchase of new movies. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. LITTLEHALES (DynMarine), June 25-Chairman John R. Wolfe, Secretary Warren G. Lombard III, Educational Director Alexander Zharkoff, Deck Delegate Edward D. Wilson, Engine Delegate Andrzej Furmanowski, Steward Delegate Emilio Placides. Chairman announced pirates boarded stem of vessel while under way off coast of Gabon in West Africa with one man on watch. After incident, ship went to two-man watch with stricter security measures. Vessel will lay up somewhere on East Coast in late July for 1Yi months during start of hurricane season. Treasurer stated $72 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members asked to be careful to not throw food, plastic or glass PERSEVERANCE (IUM), June 29- Chairman Thomas W. Lasater, Secretary Kenneth A. Roetzer, Educational Director Kenneth W. Pinchin, Deck Delegate John Yates, Steward Delegate William B. Young. Chairman announced payoff July 2 in Tampa, Fla. Repair period will last 2-3 weeks. All hands reminded to work safely. No news yet about contract; crew members will be A Passage to India Taking a well deserved break on the Stonewall Jackson after transiting the Suez Canal are (from left) AB Finn Jakobsen, Recertified Bosun Cesar A. Gutierrez and Deck Maintenance Buddy Brinks. attending union meetings and need for all Seafarers to obtain STCW training. Secretary stated stores to be loaded upon arrival in port of New Orleans. Educational director thanked steward department for fine meals and reiterated need for STCW compliance by Feb. 1, 2002 deadline. Treasurer announced $148 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made for improving contract included upgrading dental plan and improving dependent's medical plan as well as reducing time needed for vacation. NAVIGATOR (CSX Lines), June 25- Chairman Werner H. Becher, Secretary Lynn N. McCluskey, Educational Director Daniel F. Dean, Deck Delegate Sangie Mohamed, Steward Delegate Susano C. Cortez. Chairman announced ship arrival and payoff June 29 in Tacoma, Wash. He asked crew members to keep doors locked in port and have clean set of linen ready for replacement crew. Secretary noted $135 collected for tuna fund; educational director stated $65 collected for movie fund (of which only $5 remains). He also encouraged members to upgrade skills at Piney point and be aware of STCW deadline rapidly approaching. Beef reported in deck department; no disputed OT noted. Steward department requested repair of TV antenna in crew lounge as well as a new radio. Next ports: Tacoma; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. OVERSEAS PHILADELPHIA (OSG), June 10-Chairman Timothy J. Olvany, Secretary Ronald D. Jones, Educational Director Kenneth Spivey, Engine Delegate Oscar Garcia, Steward Delegate Cesar A. Avila. Payoff scheduled June 12 in Port Everglades, Fla. No word yet on new contract. Secretary reported everyone doing fine job with upkeep of ship. Educational director noted STCW classes are full through September. Deadline for compliance is Feb. 1, 2002. Apply now. Treasurer stated $1,200 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made to reduce time needed for vacation and to have prescription coverage for family members. Still awaiting word on new dryer for crew laundry. Everyone asked to help keep crew areas clean and be quiet when coming back from shore so that others may sleep. informed. Chairman stressed importance of contributing to SPAD and staying abreast of political activity in Washington. He stated that SIU-NMU merger was ratified and reminded crew members about Feb. 1, 2002 deadline for STCW. Educational director also talked about other upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Everyone thanked for good job aboard ship, especially steward department for excellent meals. QUALITY (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), June 10-Chairman Zainal A. Siregal) Secretary Franklyn J. Cordero, Educational Director Scott E. Speedy, Deck Delegate Donovan E. Christie, Engine Delegate Abdulrub H. Atiah, Steward Delegate Arturo Lopez. Chairman thanked all departments for safe trip and for help keeping mess hall, pantry and lounge areas clean. He also reminded everyone to think safety and work safely at all times. Secretary stated that upgrading classes at Piney Point are unique benefit to Seafarers-a place to upgrade for greater job skills and security- and a place to get necessary STCW training before Feb. 1, 2002 deadline. Educational director reminded crew of importance of contributing to SPAD to support maritime industry on Capitol Hill. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made for new contract to include reducing seatime needed for pension and adding prescription coverage for dependents. Next port: Charleston, S.C. LIBERTY GLORY (Liberty Maritime), July I- Chairman Juan M. Rivas, Secretary Michael Baker, Steward Delegate Cecil Husted. Chairman reported ship sailing from New Orleans after loading for Africa. Then to North Korea and possibly voyage to the West Coast-approximately 90 days in all. Secretary thanked crew for working well together and helping keep ship clean. Educational director stated ship's committee looking forward to copies of new contract. Crew discussed starting ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to increase coffee break from 15 to 30 minutes. Requests made for gym equipment, grill in galley, freezer in mess halls and water fountain on upper deck. Seafarers LOS 19 �The Whale letter to the Editor Know Your Rights by Wayne D. Brandt A whale went by - Writing & Remembering In March of 1965, I joined the SIU. The last year I sailed, I was attached to the U.S. Army and went to Vietnam. It was aboard the Seatrain Puerto Rico. I sailed the Great Lakes mostly, but did enjoy going "salt water" and was lucky to have seen some of the world-the Panama Canal, Hawaii, Thailand, Vietnam and Okinawa. It was a great adventure for me. I consider my years in the merchant marine as some of the happiest days of my life. And, of course, I still have those memories to make me smile. Due to a car accident, I can no longer do the things that I used to, and am now totally and permanently disabled. However, I love to write. And thinking of my days as a mariner, I made up this "sea story" [see poem at right]. My favorite ship was the J.A. W. Iglehart. Just sailing along Enjoying his roam - at sea Our anchor got caught On the fin of the whale Which caused - three men to drown. No chance did we have For our craft was pulled down: I alone - am here left to tell. I swam for a ship Not far from that fate Awed in horror As I read the bow-plate - Wayne D. Brandt Alpena, Mich. "THE WHALE" as a member of the deck department and began receiving his pension in 1969. He lived in New Orleans. Pensioner Darcy Etheridge, 76, died June 10. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Before joining the SIU, Boatman Etheridge served in both the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Coast Guard. Born in Dare County, N.C., the deck department member last worked aboard a Mariner Towing (Mari trans) vessel. Boatman Etheridge started receiving his pension in 1.987. Wanchese, N.C. was his home. WILLIAM GILMORE · Pensioner William Gilmore, 65, passed away May 10. Boatman Gilmore started his SIU career in 1988.A member of the deck department, he sailed as a captain, working primarily aboard Allied Towing Co. vessels. Boatman Gilmore resided in Andalusia, Ala. and began receiving bis pension in 1998. ~-------. JESSE HASSELL Pensioner Jesse Hassell, 83, passed away May4. Born in Elizabeth City, N.C., he started his career with the Seafarers in 1958 in the port of Baltimore. Prior to joining the SIU, he served in the U.S. Anny from 1942 to 1955. Boatman Hassell first sailed aboard a Moran Towing of Philadelphia vessel. The engine department member started receiving his pension in 1980. He called Pearl River, La. home. HENRY SOUDELIER Pensioner Henry Soudelier, 72, died March 13. Boatman Soudelier started his career with the Seafarers in 1962,joining in the port of New Orleans. He served in the U.S. Anny from 1950 to 1952. Boatman Soudelier worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Dixie Carriers. A member of the deck department, the Louisiana native shipped as a captain. He began receiving his pension in 1992. Boatman Soudelier lived in Houma, La. ELBRIDGE MANN Pensioner Elbridge Mann, 71, passed away March 9. Boatman Mann joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The North Carolina native served in the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1953. He first sailed aboard a Moran Towing of Virginia vessel. A member of the deck department, he last shipped on an Atlantic Towing Co. vessel. Boatman Mann started receiving his pension in 1988. Kill Devil Hills, N.C. was his home. ELIJAH PLATT Pensioner Elijah Platt, 77, died May4. The Atlanta native started his career with the • SIU in 1950 in ,, the pon of New York. He sailed 20 Seafarers LOG ANTONIO LaFATA Pensioner Antonio La Fata, 91, passed away June 14. He was born in Marsala, Italy. Brother Lafata started his career with the Atlantic Fishermen's Union and started receiving his pension in 1975. Brother Lafata lived in Gloucester, Mass. DONALD SUTHERLAND Pensioner Donald Sutherland, 75, died April 25. Brother Sutherland started his career with the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in 1969 in Boston. He served in the U.S. Army from 1944 to 1947. Brother Sutherland sailed in the deck department as a captain. The Gloucester, Mass, native started receiving his pension in 1988. He resided in Massachusetts. RAILROAD MARINE WALTER HUGATE GREAT LAKES RUBEN LEIJA Boatman Ruben Leija, 38, died March 28. Born in Houston, he shipped as a member of the deck department. Boatman Leija worked primarily aboard Penn Maritime, Inc. vessels. AnANTIC FISHERMEN JOHN CAIRNS Pensioner John Cairns, 66, passed away May 5. Brother Cairns started his career with the Seafarers in 1961 in Detroit. The Michigan native first sailed aboard a Dunbar & Sullivan vessel. He shipped as a member of the deck department and last sailed on a Luedtke Engineering Co. vessel. Brother Cairns started receiving his pension in 1996. He lived in Sugar Island, Mich. ALFRED ZAPOLNEK Pensioner Alfred Zapolnek, 77, died Jan. 14. He joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of Duluth, Minn. Brother Zapolnek first sailed aboard a Great Lakes Associates, Inc. vessel. The engine department member last shipped on the Charles E. Wilson, operated by American Steamship Co. Brother Zapolnek began receiving his pension in 1994. He called Calumet, Mich. home. Pensioner Walter Hugate, 79, died June 8. Brother Hugate started his career with the Seafarers in 1960, joining in the port of L-.......J'---":.....;..;;~-=-.JNorfolk,Va.He sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by the marine division of the Penn Central Railroad Co. Born in Virginia, he shipped as a member of the deck department. He started receiving his pension in 1982. Brother Hugate made his home in Gloucester, Va. MELVIN WHITE .----===-- ---,Pensioner Melvin White, 88, passed away April 8. Boatman White started his SIU career in 1960. The Matthews, Va. native first sailed aboard a vessel operated by the Penn Central Railroad Co. A member of the deck department, Boatman White began receiving his pension in 1977. Mobjack, Va. was his home. 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 Autb 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. AH 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. September 2001 �SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Engine Upgrading Courses The following is the schedule for classes for the months of September through December 2001 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course,s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the J:>aul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Arrival Date Date of Completion Fireman/Watertender & Oiler September 8 November 3 October 19 December 14 Welding September 15 October 13 November 24 October 5 November 2 December 14 Course Recertification Date of Completion (including simulator September 22 October 20 October 19 November 16 steering assessments) 1 T ovember December 14 17 Lifeboatman/Water Survival September 8 October 6 November 3 September 22 October 20 November 17 Radar (simulator) September 8 October 6 November 3 September 21 October 19 November 16 Radar (one-day renewal) September 21 October 19 November 16 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (simulator) September 22 October 20 November 17 September 28 October26 November 23 September 1 September 29 October 27 . . Tovember 24 September 15 October 13 November 10 December 8 September 1 Septem er 29 October 27 November 24 September 7 co r November2 November 30 (*must have radar unlimited) GMDSS (simulator) ridge Resource Management October 8 Safety Specialty Courses Arrival Date Able Seaman _'tr September 8 Bosun Recertification Deck Upgrading Courses Course ... Arrival Date Date of Completion Government Vessels September 1 September 15 September 29 October 13 October 27 November 10 November 24 September 21 October 5 October 19 November 2 November 16 November 30 December 14 STCW Medical Care Provider September 22 October 20 September 29 October 27 Basic Fire Fighting/STCW ..Basic Safety September 8 September 15 September 22 September 29 October 20 October 27 November 10 November 17 November 24 September 14 September 21 September 28 October 6 October26 November 3 November 16 November 23 November 30 , Course Tanker Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* (*m11st have basic fire fighting) Tankerman (PIC) Barge* · September 15 October 13 October 28 November 11 nr • October 6 ',. ;,; ,J,;t: t September 29 October 27 November 10 November24 ~ .... . 1 " • , • October 13 (*must have bask fire fighting) l I Steward Upgrading Courses Start Date Course Date of Completion GalleyOperations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week beginning January 8. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning January 6. Academic Department Courses General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, one week prior to the AB, QMED, FOWT, Third Mate, Tanker Assistant and Water Survival courses. An introduction. to computers course will be self-study. -·-~·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ---------------------------~ Address- - - -- - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - (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 QMED applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $280 with their application. The pavment should be made with a money order onlv. pavable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE Telephone _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Deep Sea Member D Lakes Member D Inland Waters Member D If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security#______ _ _ __ Book# _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 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 September 2001 D No CPR: D Yes DNo Date Off: SIGNATURE _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ DATE NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only ifyou present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2! 89. 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. 9101 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Water Survival - Upgrading Seafarers earning their Completing the water survival endorsements July 27 are (from left, kneeling) bridge resource management class July 20 are (from left) Mohamed H. Ali, John Fisher, Egbert Campbell, Rudy Freddie Cantrell, Steven Hardin, Brent Hensley, Paul Szalus, Garrido, (second row) Stan Beck (instructor), Louis Holder, William Hough, William Schuppman and Leo Bonser. Herb . Joseph Borys, Jerry Fanning, Chaerul Salim and Carlos Walling, their instructor, is at far right. Nunez. Bridge Resource Management - ARPA- Standing outside the entrance to the Paul Hall Center's new simulator building are graduates of a recent ARPA class. From the left are James Hoffman, Steven Taylor, Fenton Whitlow and Horace Wood, all NATCO boatmen. Their instructor, Mike Smith, is at far right. GMDSS - Completing the GMDSS course July 27 are (above photo left, from left) Andre Skevnick, Brad Wheeler (instructor), Paul Carolan, Jack Walker, Gregory Rivera, Scott Costello, Jason Bryan and John Cox. Graduating Aug. 17 from the same course are (above photo, right, from back) Nils Kohlmyer, Albert Hendricks and their instructor, Brad Wheeler. Tankererman (PIC) Barge - Graduating from a recent tankerman (PIC) barge course are (from left, front row) Jeff Bruton, Robert Judy, Herbert Rogers, Paul Seitzinger, Ray Prim, (second row) Clarence Jannette, Marcus Laguer, Marc Tomoschat, Luis Perez, (third row) Herb Walling (instructor) Peter Madden, Craig Amison and Kenneth Mottley.· Steward Department Skills Personal Survival/STCW - Earning their personal survival endorsements July 29 are (in no particular order) Jules Delgado, Manuel Bans, Odilia Evora, Andrew Donaldson, Jeffrey Beasley, Kevin Gasaway, Woodrow Coleman, Andrew Brzezinski, Husain Ali, Mary Friedman, Ralph Clark, Craig Hammer, Clifton Ayars, Thomas Gliva, Joseph Gandara, David Fridstrom, Chris Brewster, Maurice Gutierrez, Vicente Cacacho, Arnaldo Arzu, Rodolfo Garcia, Luis Aguirre, Ricardo Abella Jr., Robert Bostick, Jesse Hankins, Bandoh Franklin, Mariano Gutierrez, Earl Farmer, David Akpoviri, Philippe Brunelle, Robert Edwards and Gerardo Ballestar. Any student who Certified Chief Cook - Improving their culinary skills in the certified chief cook course are (from left) Robert Johnson, Leoncio Dela Cruz, Arturo Rodriguez, Juan Rochez and Angelo Camacho. has registered for a class and findsfor whatever reason-that he or she cannot attend, please inform the Personal Survival/STCW - At left, Arturo Rodriguez chops carrots for another creation, while (above) Leo Dela Cruz shows off his salmon en papillote. 22 Seafarers LOB Successfully completing the personal survival/STCW course July 29 are (in no particular order) Juan Torres, Ausberto Laspinas, William Lima, Allan Lane, Daniel White, Rafael Tannis, Courtney Taylor, Emanuel Washington, Spanhoff Abu Bakr, Walter Winchester, Roberto Velasquez, Alfonso Navarro, Samuel Uyatede, Lindberg Wilson, Victor Wolf, Kenneth Huddleston, Carl Herrmann, Moises Johnson, David Kennedy, Noel Magbitang, Carlos Solina, Wilfredo Williams, Donnell Lewis, William Mokey, Glenroy Reid, John Robinson Ill, Paul Shara and Ralph Holzinger. admissions department so that another student may take that place. September 2001 �Paul Hall Center Classes April 23-27, 2001 - Paula Brookshire, Phillip Darval, Wilfredo Espinoza, Greg Heseltine, Albino lnofinada, Simon Klein, Jehu Laranjo, Gregory McHugh, Ali Mohsin, Aurelian Moise, Toaono Nagaseu, Remando Ortiz, Paul Su and Ricky Tongg. Training Classes Held in Hawaii May 7-11, 2001 - Glenford Ancheta, Alwie Assagaf, Conrad Blas, Lou Cabano, Romeo Cacal, Edilberto Cateil, Abelardo Cortez, Charles Howard, Patronilo Luis, Nghia Luu, Nuemie Pascual, Rizalino Pascual, Alberto Quiba, Claudia Rivera, Francisco Salgado, Alfonso Troz, Juanito Ulatan Jr. and To-Nu Wallace. May 14-28, 2001 - Justin Blair, Robert Borro, Jonathon Flakoll, Katie Goodale, Hugo Infante, Colleen Mast, John McCarthy, Robert McElwee, Victoria Messamore, Melinda Napoleon, Orlando Pajarillo Jr., Rodulfo Pardillo, Charles Pasay, Honesto Roces, Nelson Rochez, Dennis Rosal, Robert Spitzock and Christopher Zaucha. June 18-22, 2001- Rafael Aguirre, Ebrahim Alshuabi, Sure Anitak, Romeo Bendico, Gabriel Emmanuel, Junell Garalde, Calixto Guerro Jr., Mafi Heimuli, James Holland, James Humphrey, Rudolfo Jordan, Christopher Kaanaana, Randy Miller, Carey Patton, Ali Said, Nabil Sharif and Robinson Tacang. Computer Lab Class Outstanding Initiative - Grady June 25-29, 2001 - Daniel Ah San , Krystal Andrews, Rod Busca, Manuel Destura, Kevin Dougherty, Douglas Dunnell, Luke Failauga , Enrique Garcia, Brett Kosking, Gary Lauer, Patrick Legras, Theresa Motas, Ramend Prasad , Augustin Reinate Jr., Diane Zagorski and Douglas Zagorski. Mason (left) and Jeff Edwards (right) display the certificates they earned while learning the complexities of Microsoft's Excel spreadsheet software. Both were attending the school to complete the unlicensed apprentice program, and they worked at learning Excel in their spare time after regular classes were over for the day. They each successfully completed three levels of Excel training with near-perfect grades. With them is their instructor, Rick Prucha. .... July 9-13, 2001 - Abdo Ali, Saleh Ali, Yahya Ali, Shawn Canon , Susano Cortez, Richard Fisher, Algerico Gubutan, Peter Hadden, Elizada Kahaialii, Tony Kaplan, Patrick Maher, Edwin Manalaysay, Chris Margaronis, Claudia Mauricio-Brice, David Pryce, Pablo Rochez-Colon, Beverly Stevens, Luis Valerio, Laurie Victorino, Harold Wolf and Michael Young. September 2001 The students pictured above received certificates in the computer class which ended )uly 6, 2001. From the left are Joshua Overland, Leon Pulley, James Cunningham, Rick Prucha (instructor) and Paul Duquette. Seafarers LOS 23 �DEADLINE: FEBRUARY l, 2002 . That is the date by which mariners sailing aboard deep sea or near-coastal vessels must comply with the amended STCW convention. For additional information, see page 13 SIU-Crewed Delta Mariner Ready for Rockets There was much excitement at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. last June when the SIUcrewed Delta Mariner tied up at the dock. During its three-week stay at the southern Maryland facility, students and other guests were able to tour the unique vessel, which is designed to transport rocket boosters and other space hardware. It also gave the crew members an opportunity to complete an STCW Basic Safety Training class-needed to help them meet the requirements of the amended STCW convention before the Feb. 1, 2002 deadline. Since leaving Piney Point, the 312-foot Delta Mariner has transited the TennesseeTombigbee Waterway twice. Its variable ballast design allows it to operate on rivers (with an 8-foot draft) as well as oceans (12 feet). At ~ ~ press time, it was at the ~ Boeing plant in Decatur, Ala., ready to load its cargo for a trip to Cape Canaveral, Fla. Delta Mariner • Steward Americus Bell Jr. breaks down boxes to be thrown into the trash. Arthur Quinney, oiler aboard the vessel operated by Gulf Caribe Maritime, Inc. , goes over some paperwork in the engine room . Constructed at Halter Marine Gulfport, Miss. • Operated by Gulf Caribe Maritime, Inc. • Length: 312 feet • Variable ballast design allows it to operate on rivers and oceans • Main mission : hauling Boeing Delta IV flight hardware, including rocket boosters , upper-stage rocket motors and satellites • Travels between Decatur, Ala. , Cape Canaveral, Fla. and Vandenburg Air Force Base in California AB Jamie Hall (above) lowers the cargo door, which leads into the large cargo area at left. Bosun David Dines (left) receives another can of paint from crew member Kevin Samuels. � 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 September 2001 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SHIP FIRE INVESTIGATION STILL IN EARLY STAGES PATRIOT GETS POSITIVE REVIEWS USNS POMEROY DELIVERED TO MSC SIU STEWARD DEPARTMENT MEMBERS TO CREW BENAVIDEZ UNIONS SEEK ‘PERMANENT SUSPENSION’ OF NEW RULES ON TESTING PROCEDURES CREW COMPLIMENTS CAR CARRIER CONTRACT COUNCIL: DROP CHARGES AGAINST ‘CHARLESTON 5’ ITF GAINS $865,000 FOR CRUISE SHIP CREW FEDERATION ALSO AIDS MARINERS DURING ‘ACTION WEEK’ HOUSE OKAYS ENERGY PLAN, INCLUDING ANWR SEGMENT AFL-CIO GAINS 66TH UNION LABOR FEDERATION PICKS 6 FOR THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL SIU SAFETY DIRECTORS DELVE INTO TRAINING SHIPBOARD SAFETY, STSW REGULATIONS COAST GUARD PRAISES SIU CREW FOR RESPONSE TO TUGBOAT FIRE ‘SCHOOL IS ALWAYS THERE FOR YOU’ STEWARDS FIN MANY BENEFITS IN UPGRADING THE FIRST TRIP BY WALTER KARLAK UNIONS: INCLUDE MARINERS ON CALIF. WWII MEMORIAL N.Y. GROUP GAINS RECOGNITION FOR MERCHANT MARINE UNIONS: INCLUDE MARINERS ON CALIF. WWII MEMORIAL OFF TO THE RACES LAKES SEAFARERS CONNECT WITH SPEEDBOAT RACER BOOK RECOUNTS SEAFARER’S ‘COMING OF AGE’ IN WWII CHALLENGER RESUMES REGULAR RUN SIU-CREWED DELTA MARINER READY FOR ROCKETS 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 09/01/2001 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. 9 2001 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/fbb3467e9741396142f5600bcd0479b2.pdf ed3e76272a05797056bf3484ba6c5cf3 PDF Text Text Volume 64, Number 9 September 2002 ... 5-Year Contract Boosts Wages, Benefits SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (based in Norfolk, Va.) has been awarded a five-year contract to operate eight LMSR vessels for the U.S. Military Sealift Command . The agreement covering the vessels takes effect Oct. 1 and includes major increases in wages and benefits for the unlicensed crew. Page 3. Lakes Sealarers Unanimously Approve Contract SIU members sailing on the Great Lakes unanimously have approved the new standard contract covering their vessels. Voting took place aboard the ships in late July. The agreement significantly boosts wages and benefits and also better defines working conditions. Pictured at lower left (from left) are AB Frank Read, AB Robert Mason and DEU Abdul Hussein aboard the Sam Laud in Port Inland, Mich. Pictured at upper left (displaying the new pact). is AB Bob Derke at the SIU hall in Algonac, Mich. Page 3. • • Midnight Sun Christened Paul Hall Center Offers Fast Rescue Boat Class A new course is available for students at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Last month, a group of eight Seafarers became the first to complete the school's new 30-hour fast rescue boat course-a U.S. Coast Guard-approved class which satisfies the requirements of Table A-Vl/2-2 of the STCW Code. Pictured during the class are Marc Grantham (being lifted from the water) along with (from left) Lon Piner, Stan Beck (instructor) and George Sadler. Page 10. NY Waterway Augments Expansion With Comprehensive Safety Training Pages 12-13 The first commercial dry cargo ship built in the U.S. in 10 years was christened last month in San Diego, signaling new shipboard jobs on the horizon for Seafarers. The union joined with SIU-contracted Totem Ocean Trailer Express, Inc. (TOTE) and the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) in welcoming the new Orea-class vessel Midnight Sun (top photo) Aug. 3. U.S. Sen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) served as the christening's keynote speaker. Christening the ship are (photo above, from left) Lynn Garvey, wife of Mike Garvey, chairman of TOTE's parent company; Lily Stevens, daughter of Sen. Stevens; and NASSCO Pres. Richard Vortmann. Page 3. �President's Report 'Globallzlng Solldarlty' Few would argue against the fact that the AFL-CIO and its affiliate unions, including the SIU, together stand as the strongest ally and most powerful voice of American workers. In much the same way that the port councils of the Maritime Trades Department help amplify the concerns of U.S. maritime workers through solidarity, the AFL-CIO leads the way for working families by harnessing the collective clout of trade unionists from throughout the nation. On a global level, the International Transport Michael Sacco Workers' Federation (ITF}-which last month conducted its 40th Congress-fills the same role for its 600-plus affiliates and the 5 million workers they represent, again including the SIU. To borrow an old phrase, if the ITF didn't exist, we'd have to create it. In a hurry. Many of you know the ITF as the people we work with to fight runaway-flag shipping. But the federation is so much more. In an age when terms like "global economy" and "global competition" have become second nature, there's simply no question that the federation, headed by General Secretary David Cockroft, is an invaluable asset to merchant mariners and other transport workers worldwide. The ITF is a dynamic vehicle that promotes workers' interests through international campaigning and unity. I see the ITF as the best way for unions to protect their members' interests on a broad scale. As was so evident at the recent House hearings concerning the U.S. Maritime Security Program, the companies we negotiate with are global. The only way we have a fighting chance to protect worker rights and improve our way of life is to answer with a global voice. In fact, as part of the ITF 's flag-of-convenience campaign and as its primary mission in the next four years, the organization's Congress last month urged increased worldwide union cooperation under the banner "Globalizing Solidarity." Noting that "new forms of union coordination, deeper contact between unions representing members employed by the same companies, and international campaigning on issues of common concern has become a central part of ITF work," the federation's executive board and staff presented the ITF Congress with an action plan for increasing global trade union cohesion. In a series of motions enacted by the delegates from more than 87 nations, the ITF Congress adopted a response to the threats posed by uncontrolled globalization of the world economy. The plan includes developing union campaign strategies to deal with these trends, preparing materials on this matter for affiliated unions and establishing a team of professionals to assist unions in solidarity efforts. The job of the ITF, one adopted motion states, is to "promote solidarity among workers in the transport chain and to guard against company strategies to pit different groups of workers against each other." Clearly those are fundamental and essential goals for our industry. And I'm extremely confident in the ITF's ability to deliver on those objectives, with the strong support of its affiliates. We in the SIU are very proud of our association with the ITF. It's a relationship that goes back many years, and one that always has been positive and productive. Understandably, much of our effort has been directed toward improving the living and working conditions of mariners around the world. It's an ongoing project, and we have achieved some success, most notably in the increasing number of vessels covered by ITF contracts, in port-state control and the inspections they perform when ships dock in their harbors, and in securing tougher international rules for mariner training and certification. We will not let up. Lastly, I call your attention to the articles on page 5 about two SIU officials who have served in the ITF's Seafarers' Section (the arm of the federation that focuses on mariner issues). John Fay and David Heindel have been a credit to the SIU as well as the whole U.S. Merchant Marine when they've represented us in the ITF. John's accolades at the ITF convention were well-deserved, and Dave already is doing a great job of building upon John's groundbreaking work at the federation. Volume 64, Number 9 September 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 Seafarel'S LOG Mariners Association Questions Foreign Vessel Activity in Gulf An official of the Gulf Coast Mariners Association (GCMA) recently penned a letter that points out some potentially grave safety issues involving foreign mariners sailing on foreign-flag ships in ports along the U.S. Gulf Coast. Capt. Richard A. Block, secretary of the GCMA, wrote to the editor of WorkBoat Magazine in response to an earlier letter "complaining about foreign seamen working aboard foreign-flag vessels in Port F ourchon, La. and other ports along the U.S. Gulf Coast." Block said he found it interesting to note that the original letter was sent from Portland, Maine, "which indicates how pervasive knowledge of foreign vessel activity in Port Fourchon has become." The rest of Block's letter, dated July 26, follows: "The letter complains about the use of foreign-flag vessels in our coastal waters in violation of the Jones Act. The Jones Act states that only certain U.S.-flag vessels have the right to engage in coastwise trade. Whether or not these foreign-flag vessels actually are engaging in coastwise trade is debatable. This is also a determination for U.S. Customs to make, not the U.S. Coast Guard. "On the other hand, enforcement of U.S. citizenship requirements in the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) is a duty of the U.S. Coast Guard. It is a matter of speculation by some observers whether or not this enforcement is being done diligently, if at all. "Could one or more of these foreign-flag vessels be in Port Fourchon for any purpose other than to perform some form of offshore oil-related activity on the U.S. outer continental shelf relative to an oil development-related activity? This is a legitimate question to ask after the attacks of September 11. "We understand that the OCSLA mandates that only U.S. citizens be employed on the U.S. outer continental shelf in support of the mineral and oil industry. There are several very limited exceptions to these requirements for certain personnel: when U.S. citizens are not available, when foreign companies have the right to effectively control a vessel, or for certain temporary and intermittent personnel who are not crewmen. We believe that many officials in both the U.S. Coast Guard and the mineral and oil industry are completely unaware that these citizenship requirements (as defined in 33 CFR Part 141) apply to both fixed and floating production units, MODUs and other vessels that support the exploration, development and exploitation of the OCS oil and mineral resources. "We understand that in light of the events of September 11, 2001 the Coast Guard has taken significant steps and Congress has provided funds to protect many of the nation's ports and waterways from terrorist attacks. Notably, no funds were provided to protect Port Fourchon and its vulnerable access route! However, the Coast Guard's October 4, 2001 temporary final rule lengthening the usual advance notification arrival from 24 to 96 hours for certain vessels bound for United States ports is a welcome effort. This rule properly exempts U.S .-flag vessels that carry passengers and supplies in support of the OCS mineral and oil industry. Could it be that the U.S. Coast Guard is not requiring foreign-flag vessels performing similar duties to give 96 hours advance notice of their arrival at U.S . ports? These vessels are clearly not a part of the coastwise exemptions granted in the temporary regulation. "These foreign vessels in the Gulf of Mexico include derrick barges, seismic vessels, dive support vessels, MODUs and others which routinely perform important industrial tasks on the outer continental shelf. These vessels, in and of themselves, are not necessarily a security concern. However, since they may generally be considered exempt from the notice of arrival requirements, they could potentially offer opportunities for vessels not legitimately performing OCS activities to claim to be doing so, and enter our ports without scrutiny or notice. Clearly, this is not an acceptable situation. "Does the U.S. Coast Guard really believe that Osama bin Laden and his al Qaeda organization do not own, operate and crew vessels, and that they are not aware of what typically occurs at oil industry staging ports? Oil exploration and drilling-related activities are well known in the Middle East. ... "We recognize that these are challenging issues that require the focus of resources and attention to detail. "If, as a nation, maritime security is a real issue of concern, then the U.S. Coast Guard should be concerned about foreign vessel activities in Port Fourchon, as well as other oil staging ports along the Gulf Coast and, in fact, nationwide. We understand that there may be cases where foreign vessels departing West Coast ports deliver supplies and cargo to American drilling rigs. "It would seem that the present situation presents an ideal opportunity to the U.S. Coast Guard to both perform what may turn out to be critical natio al defense port security functions with respect to these vessels, as well as ensuring that U.S. citizens are performing OCS activities as required by law. Jobs of American mariners are clearly at stake. "We understand that any foreign vessel engaged in an OCS activity should either be manned entirely by U.S. citizens, or the vessel must have letters from the U.S. Coast Guard in Washington for crew exemptions to the law, or authorizing letters (also from the U.S. Coast Guard) approving a 'foreign right to effectively control' the vessel. "We have good reason to believe the offshore oil industry considers U.S. Coast Guard enforcement of certain federal law is a joke and privately hold them up to ridicule. Isn't it time to get the job done?" Union-Backed GCMA Defends Gulf Mariners, Promotes Safety In Offshore Maritime Industry The many mariners working in the Gulf of Mexico oil patch and the inland waters who do not enjoy the benefits of union representation until recently had no organized voice in government decisions that affect their lives. In 1999, that changed with the birth of the Gulf Coast Mariners Association (GCMA). Formed with the assistance of the SIU and three other unions representing seagoing workers, the GCMA serves as a voice for mariners working on vessels of less than 1,600 tons. Based in South Louisiana, the GCMA has made a strong case for stricter safety measures and more rigorous enforcement of existing safety regulations for vessels operating in the Gulf of Mexico in service to the offshore oil and gas industry as well as for inland towing vessels. Taking its case before the U.S. Coast Guard, the National Safety Transportation Board, the U.S. Department of Labor, the Department of Transportation and elected officials on both the federal and state level, the GCMA has advocated measures to reduce fatigue among mariners including increased vessel manning and inspection regimes for uninspected towing vessels, among other positions. With a board of nine Gulf mariners, the GCMA also recognizes that mariners who wish to improve their pay and working conditions must do so by union representation at their company. The GCMA has urged Gulf mariners who want to improve their direct working conditions to contact the Offshore Mariners United (OMU). The OMU is a federation of the SIU, along with the American Maritime Officers (AMO), Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association (MEBA) and the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P) formed for mariners working in the Gulf of Mexico. Taking on broader policy issues that must be tackled by the government, the GCMA has worked to ensure that mariners' views are heard at all levels of the Coast Guard. The GCMA has pushed for mariner representation on various Coast Guard advisory committees. This effort resulted in the inclusion of an offshore captain's appointment to the National Offshore Safety Advisory Committee (NOSAC) of the Coast Guard-a group previously made up solely of industry representatives. GCMA's officers include Penny D. Adams, president, and Richard A. Block, secretary. Adams worked as a deckhand on offshore supply vessels and coowned with her husband, Ray Continued on page 4 September 2002 �SIU to Crew 8 LMSRs New Contract Features Big Gains in Wages, Benefits When the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) last month announced the award of a new five-year operating contract for eight LMSR vessels, Seafarers got a double dose of good news. First, SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Ltd. (based in Norfolk, Va.) won the award, meaning that Seafarers will crew the following ships for the next five years: USNS Watson, USNS Watkins, USNS Red Cloud, USNS Sisler, USNS Soderman, USNS Charlton, USNS Dahl and USNS Pomeroy. Second, the contract covering those vessels (which takes effect next month) includes major increases in wages and benefits for the unlicensed crew. The gains were spelled out in a letter from SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez to the ships' chairmen in mid-August. "The new contract substantially enhances the membership's earning power as well as the benefits for them and their families," Tellez said. "Another positive aspect to this agreement is that it should help our ability to recruit and retain the best-qualified mariners who are so essential to national security. The government got the best value for their dollar with this award, and they maintained continuity with proven entities-the SIU and Maersk Line, Ltd." Reaction from Seafarers will be printed in next month's LOG. Meanwhile, the new contract highlights include: • Major increases in base wages for all ratings. • Medical coverage increases to the premier "Plan G" level, which includes 100 percent (reasonable and customary) prescription coverage for Seafarers and their dependents, orthodontic care for members and their dependents, increases in the vision and death benefits, a new organ-transplant benefit and more. • The new vacation benefit is 15 days for every 30 days worked. • The new Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan benefit is five percent of the 56-hour base wage. • Plan G allows members to count their vacation benefit days toward pension eligibility, pursuant to the rules of the plans. Plus, the dollar amounts of members' vacation benefits will be considered base earnings for the purpose of calculating wage-related pensions. This means Seafarers need less sea time to qualify for a pension, while at the same time increasing the pension amount. LMSR stands for large, medium-speed, rollon/roll-off vessel. The ships covered under this contract (awarded Aug. 5) are Watson-class vessels which carry a third _of all prepositioned U.S. Army equipment, according to MSC. Each of the vessels is 950 feet long, with a beam of 105 feet. Each is equipped with two 110-ton single pedestal twin cranes, making it possible to load and unload cargo where shoreside infrastructure is limited or nonexistent. Additionally, each ship is equipped with six decks and a cargo-carrying capacity of about 393,000 square f~et. As MSC put it, "Each ship can carry an entire U.S. Army Armor Task Force including 58 tanks and 48 other tracked vehicles, plus more than 900 trucks and other wheeled vehicles." Generally, these vessels are prepositioned in the Indian Ocean near Diego Garcia or in reduced operating status in U.S. ports. At press time, four were in Diego Garcia, two were in Charleston, S.C., one was in San Diego and another was at an undisclosed location. When announcing the contract award, MSC stated, "The successful deployment of U.S. military forces depends on the ability to act quickly. In an unstable world where regional hostilities can break out at any time, Military Sealift Command's prepositioning ships provide for a fast powerful military response by U.S. forces anywhere in the world." TOTE1s New Cargo Ship Christened in San Diego Delivery Set for Early Next Year The fust commercial dry cargo ship built in the U.S. in 10 years was christened last month in San Diego, signaling new shipboard jobs on the horizon for Seafarers. The union joined with SIUcontracted Totem Ocean Trailer Express, Inc. (TOTE) and the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) in welcoming the new Orea-class vessel Midnight Sun Aug. 3. U.S. Sen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) served as the christening's keynote speaker. Leading the SIU group were Pres. Michael Sacco, Exec. VP John Fay, VP Contracts Augie Tellez, VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and VP West Coast Nick Marrone. Sacco stated that in addition to representing new jobs for Seafarers, the Midnight Sun-as well as a sister ship scheduled for delivery next summer-means greater security for the nation. "The civilian crews who work aboard these ships will learn and use the exact same skills that are needed to support our armed forces in times of war. So when the next Desert Storm unfolds, the men and women who maintained their skills in the commercial fleet can be an asset for our military- and therefore our nation," he said. "Whether it's replacement tonnage or new additions, America needs the kind of investment made by TOTE in the new Orcaclass vessels," he added. "This is an important step in strengthening the merchant marine." The Midnight Sun will sail with an SIU crew and is slated for delivery early next year. Above, guests arrive at the christening Aug. 3 in San Diego. September 2002 Representing the union at the christening were (from left) SIU Pres. Michael Sacco, VP Contracts Augie Tellez, Exec. VP John Fay, VP West Coast Nick Marrone and VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey. Both new ships are expected to operate in TOTE 's service from Tacoma, Wash. to Anchorage, Alaska. The Midnight Sun, and her sister ship, the North Star, are 840-foot-long, 118-foot-wide roll-on/roll-off cargo ships offering .the option to carry trailers as large as 53 feet long. TOTE reports that the vessels already have been recognized for their environmentally sensitive design. The ships received the States/British Columbia Oil Spill Task Force Legacy Award for 2000, the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner's 2000 Pollution Prevention Award, and the Biennial William M. Benkert Foundation 2002 Environmental Excellence Bronze Award. Lynn Garvey, wife of Mike Garvey, chairman of the board of TOTE's parent company, Saltchuk Resources, Inc., and Lily Stevens, the daughter of Sen. Stevens, were the Midnight Suns sponsors. It's Unanimous! Lakes Seafarers Approve Pact Including Dependent Coverage As votipg took place aboard SIU-crewed ships on the Great Lakes the last week of July, Seafarers left no doubt about their feelings concerning their new standard contract. More than 200 Lakes Seafarers unanimously approved the new multi-year agreement, which significantly boosts wages and benefits and also better defines working conditions. The agreement calls for medical benefits under the top-level Plan G, which includes dependent coverage. This is believed to be the first time Lakes mariners have had dependent coverage. The contract also increases the pension and vacation benefits. Voting took place July 25-31 aboard 14 vessels throughout five states. Negotiations took place for the past year, but had been especially active since February. Aboard the H. Lee White, Bosun Bill Mulcahy noted, "I have been working on the Great Lakes for almost 25 years, and the improvements in the new Great Lakes standard freight agreement are impressive. I commend the area vice president, Tommy Orzechowski, on providing a solid base on which we can forge ahead with. "To see improvements in wages in this unstable economy is encouraging, but to see an increase in medical, vacation and pension benefits, plus improved working conditions is a testament to all the hard work that went into this agreement," Mulcahy added. "In addition, I would like to thank (Port Agent) Don Thornton and (Patrolman) Todd Brdak. I remember a year ago when they came out to the boat to ask for input on the new agreement. They took the time to sit down with the crew and listen to our concerns SA Dave Warner, pictured at the Algonac hall, likes what he reads in the new Lakes Standard Freightship Agreement. and suggestions. I have to honestly say that all of our concerns were addressed, the spirit and faith in the union is at an all-time high. Thanks for a job well done!" Orzechowski thanked SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, whom he credited for "steady guidance and invaluable help. Believe me, we couldn't have done it without his input and leadership." On the Sam Laud, SA Dave Warner noted, "I got a chance to review the new Great Lakes standard freighter agreement while I was at the Algonac union hall. This agreement has come a long way. I sail relief and the new A, B, C seniority is what we have needed for a long time. The Algonac staff also took the time to explain the improvements. Tommy, Don and Todd did a good job." AB Frank Read, sailing as a relief AB on the Sam Laud, observed that despite the slump in the steel industry, "we have managed to secure gains in every Continued on page 4 Seafarers LOG 3 �Cape Knox Crew Eager to Sail When SIU New Orleans Port Agent Steve Judd recently met with crew members aboard the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ship Cape Knox, he discovered a group that is quite anxious to support U.S. armed forces whenever the assignment may arise. During a late-July meeting with the mariners-who were NMU members when that union merged into the SIU last year- Judd discussed the U.S. Merchant Marine's role in national security. "We talked about world events and what it all means to the merchant The Cape Knox and the Cape Kennedy are docked next to each other in New Orleans. marine, and we also discussed the importance of maintaining the ship's gear for safety," Judd noted. "But what really stood out was how anxious they are to sail. Not that anyone's wishing for a conflict overseas, but these guys are eager to answer the call, when and if it comes." The Cape Knox is maintained in reduced operating status (ROS) in New Orleans. The vessel is operated by Keystone Shipping and is docked next to a sister ship, the Cape Kennedy. The Cape Knox is part of the U.S. Ready Reserve Force. EPI Volume Reinforces Benefits of Going Union The Cape Knox has earned numerous awards and certifications (including safety awards and recognition for participation in Desert Storm as well as various military support exercises) , a few of which are displayed in this photo. Pictured from left to right are DMAC Robert Cullon,· Electrician Robert Joyce, GVA Joe Shepard (kneeling), SIU Port Agent Steve Judd and Bosun John McKee. Chief Steward Bruno Rodriguez has the galley operating smoothly. Lakes Seafarers Approve Multi-Year Pact Continued from page 3 aspect of our employment. I sail deep sea in the winter months when the Lakes ships lay up for the winter, so I know the deep sea agreement. On a deep sea ship we have always had our vacation tied into our base wage, so when we got an increase in our wages our vacation went up accordingly. Unfortunately, that has not been the case on the Great Lakes until the new Great Lakes freighter agreement. "The Algonac hall, under the leadership of Tom Orzechowski has managed to create a hybrid between the deep sea and the Great Lakes contracts. The crew on the Sam Laud salutes Tom, Todd and Don on their innovations." Oiler Khris Behcktel nearly was left speechless by the new contract. Aboard the Southdown Challenger, he stated, "Wow, I · don't know what to say. I had been sailing entry level and I just finished upgrading at Piney Point. I now have my oiler endorsement and with that I have received a significant wage increase. In addition to that increase,·with this new agreement I just got another one. Once I get a chance to go back to Piney Point and get my QMED-any rating I will get another wage increase. This agreement allows me to decide what I can earn. Nice work Tommy, Don. and Todd." 4 Seafarers LOG wins hands-down on all four measures of what defines a good job--health coverage, retirement benefits, paid days off, and wages," said Lawrence Mishel, president of the Economic Policy Institute and an author of the book. The typical worker with a union contract is paid .11.5 percent more per hour than a similar unrepresented worker. Among Hispanic and black workers, the premium for working under a union contract was even greater, adding up to 16 percent and 12. 7 percent, respectively. Among whites, blacks, and Hispanics, the union wage advantage · was largest among Hispanics-16 percent overall. In all three groups, the wage advantage was greater for men than for women. With the erosion of the share of workers who are unionized have come lower wages and benefits overall for the blue-collar and non-college educated workers who constitute about 70 percent of the work force. Consequently, the book finds, lack of representation is a significant factor in the widening wage gap between high- and middlewage workers. "For working people, a union contract still pays big dividends," said Mishel. "Whether you're a white, black, or Hispanic man or woman, the surest ticket to better compensation for your work is a union card in your wallet." · GCMA Defends Gulf Mariners Continued from page 2 Above: Aboard the Indiana Harbor in Chicago, SIU members vote for the agreement. From left to right, the first fully visible face is that of DEU Allan Johnson, followed by AB Ron Dandrea, Conveyorman Daryl Overby and QMED Andrew Perry. Among those attending the informational meeting at the SIU hall in Duluth, Minn. were (from left) AB Bob Derke, DEU Jack Povaser and Leonard Kauti. Of all the differences today between a workplace where employees are covered by a union contract and one where they are not, perhaps the biggest one can be sulll111ed up in two words: good benefits. So says a forthcoming Economic Policy Institute (EPI) book, "The State of Working America, 2002-03," which compares unionized workers to others who do similar work in a nonunionized workplace. It finds that the typical union worker is 54 percent more likely to have a pension plan, is 28 percent more likely to have health insurance, and gets three more days of paid vacation each year. Not only is there more pension and health coverage for unionized workers, that coverage is better. On the pension side, the union worker is 36 percent more likely to be covered by a traditional defined benefit plan and 17.7 less likely to have to rely on the more volatile defined contribution style plan, such as a 401(k). For health care, the unionjzed worker is more likely to have an employer who pays a larger share of the premium. The unionized worker's deductible averages $200, rather than the $300 typically paid by workers who don't enjoy the benefits of union representation. "In a match-up with nonunionized jobs, unionized work Reminder: Lakes mariners must pass a reading proficiency exam in order to register. This is a result of the amended STCW convention. For more information, contact your port agent or the Paul Hall Center at (301) 994-0010. Adams, a mariner school in South Louisiana. Block has been a licensed mariner for 4 7 years as well as a boat owner of ferries and later offshore supply vessels. In addition to serving as an outspoken advocate for mariners in his capacity as a GCMA officer and activist, he runs Marine Education Textbooks, his business of the past 32 years. He authors textbooks for license preparation and other books of value to mariners and the industry. For more information on the GCMA, write to the organization at PO Box 3589; Houma, Louisiana 70361, or call (985) 537-4885, or go to their web site at www.gulfcoastmariners.org. To stay informed on offshore mariner issues, ask to receive a copy of the GCMA's newsletter. Membership is open to any mariner who works or lives in the Gulf of Mexico, its inland waters or the western rivers. Individuals who support the work of the GCMA may join as non-voting associate members. Annual dues for members are $36 and $20 for associate members. September 2002 �'Globalizing Solidarity' Is Rallying Cry .For World's Seafarer and Transit Unions ITF Congress Views Inter-Union Cooperation as Key to Gains for Workers Working people and their delegates, advisors. and guests, unions must utilize their solidar- the ITF convention and the orgaity to challenge and triumph nization's Seafarers' Section over powerful multinational also tackled the issue of safety companies and global economic on flag-of-convenience vessels. conditions that attempt to drive Adopting a plan for World wages and working conditions Maritime Day, which is Sept. 26, as low as they can go. That was the Congress called. for a new the ringing statement and its "safety culture" in international accompanying action plan of the shipping. 401h Congress of the Intercampaign for Safety national Transport Workers' A briefing book distributed at Federation (ITF) meeting Aug. the Congress titled "Give 14-21 in Vancouver, Canada. In his message to the Seafarers the Freedom to be Congress, ITF General Secretary Safe," discloses how globalizaDavid CockroB, who was tion and increased competition resoundingly re-elected to that in the shipping industry "are crepost by the more than 570 dele- ating ·a race to the bottom in gates at the quadrennial event, safety," · the ITF stated. "Essaid, "Thousands of union mem- pecially on board flag-of-convebers have come to understand a nience ships, there are poor lot more about international sol- health and safety conditions and idarity and the ITF." As a result, seafarers often suffer physical Cockroft continued, "the ITF is and emotional abuse," the ITF probably in a better state to document continues. Also at the Congress, the ITF defend the interests of transport workers around the world and ·Dockers' Section, representing face the challenges of globaliza- longshoremen around the world, vowed to step up its campaign to tion than at any other time." Attended by more than 1,000 end union-busting practices m SIU's John Fay Honored For Years of Service to ITF Delegates to the ITF 401h Congress gave a standing ovation to SIU Executive Vice President John Fay as he received the organization's prestigious distinguished service award for his more than 20 years of international trade union work. On the last day of the ITF's convention, Aug. 21, General Secretary David Cockroft recognized Fay's meritorious contribution to the international organization made up of more than 600 transport unions from around the globe. Fay's participation in the ITF dates back to the late 1970s when he began representing the SIU on the ITF's Fair Practices Committee-the group within the ITF charged with executing the organization's flag-of-convenience campaign. Fay was elected to the position of vice chairman of the ITF Seafarers' Section in October 1992, Cockroft told the more than 1,000 trade unionists assembled in Vancouver, Canada. In 1995, at the ITF's Seafarers' Section meeting, Fay was elected to the position of chairman upon the resignation of his predecessor, Cockroft continued. And three years later, in 1998, at the ITF's Congress, meeting in New Delhi, Fay was re-elected. Fay, Cockroft noted, was the fust American ever to serve as chairman of the ITF's Seafarers' Section. "John played a major role" in formulating ITF policy and actions in the organization's campaign to stop runaway-flag shipping, Cockroft told the delegates. As chairman of the Seafarers' Section, the part of the ITF dedicated to the concerns and interests of seamen on both national flag vessels and those under flags of convenience, Fay helped ensure a September 2002 vigorous ITF approach to combating unfair conditions for the world's seamen. . As part of that campaign, Fay served as the seafarers member of the United Nations' International Labor Organization's Joint Maritime Committee from 1994 to 2001. U.S. System 'Significant' Looking back on his tenure with the ITF that ended when he resigned from the Seafarers' Section chairman position in December 2000, Fay said the experience had .been invaluable. "Seeing what conditions other maritime unions face made me fight that much harder to keep everything we have here in the United States. For instance, the Jones Act. So many countries have done away with their cabotage laws. It's a very significant thing that we have the Jones Act," Fay explained. · "And then getting to travel around the world (and) seeing the kinds of terrible and harsh conditions that seamen work in," he continued. "Taking on the flag-ofconvenience operators and raising the standards for the seamen on those boats is so important, and that's what the ITF is trying to do." Defending Union Rights For his role in that effort, the ITF awarded Fay its top honorthe "ITF Gold Badge," a small gold pin with the ITF emblem. Cockroft read the accompanying certificate to the delegates during the presentation: "In deep appreciation of the dedicated and distinguished service which has been given to the cause of transport workers internationally, in defense and furtherance of the interests of those workers, and for the preservation of trade union freedoms and rights, the ITF executive ports everywhere in the world. SIU Officials in Umelight Other matters before the Congress were the election of officers and members of diverse governing bodies, including the executive board and heads of various sections. Among the SIU representatives elected to ITF positions were SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel, vice chair of the Seafarers' Section, and Michel Desjardins, SIU of Canada secretary treasurer, to the position of North America regional chair on the Fair Practices Committee Steering Group. In a ceremony on the last day of the Congress honoring individuals who had made a significant contribution to the work of the ITF, the SIU's executive vice president, John Fay, was presented the organization's highest award, the "ITF Gold Badge" (see separate story, this page). Summing up the ITF Congress, SIU President Michael Sacco, who _led the SIU's delegation, said, "We know from our experience in U.S. shipping that Participating in the ITF Congress in Vancouver are (front row, from left) ITF Inspector Ricky Esopa, SIU of Canada President Roman Gral.ewic~, SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. More than 570 delegates attended the convention. Heindel Re-elected ITF Vice Chairman The more than 570 delegates to the ITF 40th Congress unanimously re-elected SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel to the position of vice chairman of the organization's Seafarers' Section. Meeting in Vancouver, Canada from Aug. 14-21, representatives from hundreds of transport unions around the globe also re-elected Brian Orrell, the general secretary of NUMAST, the ship officers' union of Great Britain, to the chairmanship of the Seafarers' Section. Heindel is the second U.S. citizen to hold a top post in the Seafarers' Section. He succeeded SIU Executive Vice President John Fay, who served as the secSIU Executive Vice President tion vice chair from 1992 to 1995 John Fay (left) receives the ITF's . and then as section chair until December.2000. top award from ITF General Secretary David Cockroft. Fay was the first American ever to serve as the chairman of the federation's Seafarers' Section. 'All in SIU Proud' Important Mandate The ITF Seafarers' Section brings together seafaring unions from every continent. It determines ITF policy regarding the campaign to end flags of convenience and to eliminate substandard working conditions on such vessels. The section also is charged with working within various international governmental bodies to ensure adequate shipping safety regimes. F:inally, the section works to increase the use of national flag shipping around the world. Heindel has served as the SIU's secretary-treasurer since 1997. He became a union official for the SIU in 1980 and fust became vice chair of the Seafarers' Section in December 2000. Commenting on Heindel's election, ITF General Secretary David Cockroft said, "The Seafarers' Section is very active and it is recognized worldwide for its tough approach to substandard shipping. Dave has played a strong leadership role in this campaign. We in the ITF are happy that he will continue to be our partner in this critical effort." Reflecting on Fay's efforts as a union official and ITF activist, SIU President Michael Sacco noted for the LOG, "All of us in the SIU should be proud of John's work-both in the SIU and in the ITF. He's always put seamen first and he's accomplished a lot for seafarers in the U.S. and all around the world". Fighting for Rights SIU President Michael Sacco congratulated Heindel, who joined his fust ship in 1972, on his election. "The SIU is at the forefront of the fight for seamen's rights and in his ITF position, Dave can really do a lot of good for our members, for American seamen in board has, by unanimous decision, nominated John Fay for the award in public of the ITF Gold Badge, the highest mark of respect and honour which it can bestow on behalf of the ITF's affiliated membership in all the continents of our globe." Upon receipt of the award, Fay said, "This really means a lot to me because it is an award from my peers---0ther seamen and union officers." Replacing Fay for the SIU in the ITF is Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who was re-elected at the ITF Congress to the position of Vice Chair of the Seafarers' Section. Fay, who began his seagoing life in 1949, fust coming ashore as a union official in 1957, served as SIU secretary-treasurer from 1990 to 1997. Since 1997, Fay holds the post of SIU executive vice president. the world is getting to be a smaller place and that the companies we deal with are global. The ITF is the union way of being a global force. Our work iO.- the ITF is important to our members and our union and to protecting the U.S.-flag fleet and making sure that substandard shipping is eventually wiped out." SIU Secretary-Treasurer . David Heindel addresses the ITF Congress following his re-election as vice chairman of the federation's Seafarers' Section. general and, really, all seafarers." noted that SIU Sacco Executive Vice President John Fay recognized how important the ITF could be to SIU members and mariners everywhere and, thus, increased the SIU's presence in the ITF. "Dave is building on what John did. This is so important for our members and our union because shipping is a global industry and seafarers' unionsthrough the ITF--can have a global response," Sacco said. "Dave's great work in the ITF is really important to preserving and expanding our good jobs at home and making sure that we stop runaway flags and their substandard conditions in other parts of the world." UF Profile The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) is an alliance of 604 transport trade unions in 137 countries, representing approximately 5 million workers. The SIU is an ITF affiliate. The ITF was founded in 1886 in London by European seafarers' and dockers' union leaders who realized the need to organize internationally against strike breakers. Today the ITF organizes workers in ships, ports, railways, road freight and pas· senger transport, inland waterways, fisheries. tourism and civil aviation. The ITF represents transport workers at the world level and promotes their interests through global campaigning and solidarity. It is dedicated to the advancement of inde~ pendent and democratic trade unionism, and to the defense of fundamental human and trade union rights. Seafarers LOG 5 �Man's 'Best Friends' Rescued The seafaring life is an adventurous one, but everyday existence aboard ship sometimes becomes quite routine and, perhaps, a little lonely. For the mariners aboard the SIU-crewed SP5 Eric G. Gibson, that routine took an upturn with the arrival of two furry visitors. On July 6, as the Gibson was in the Caribbean en route to Guam, the captain received a request at l :20 p.m. from a U.S. Customs plane to check out a sailboat that appeared to be adrift. When the Gibson pulled up alongside the stranded boat three hours later, AB John T. Williams went aboard with Chief Mate Timothy L. English. The cabin was cluttered, they noted, and there was evidence of water in the bilges, but no one was located. Williams and English did, however, find a dog. And, after searching some more, they found another, smaller dog. "They almost did not find the little dog," said Capt. Yngvar A. Krantz III, master of the Gibson. "She was hiding under the cockpit seating and barely visible unless you looked very carefully. If we had not sent English and Williams over, the second dog would not have been found." Once the dogs were brought aboard the RO/RO vessel and housed in the wheelhouse on the bridge deck, where there is a mate on watch 24 hours a day, they were immediately adopted by the crew. Everyone wanted to feed them, but "the food was too rich," said Krantz, so the third Captain (left) and Ti Ti, rescued after 21 days aboard a disabled sailboat with little food and water, find their quarters on the SP5 Eric G Gibson to be quite comfortable. mate finally was designated the official dog feeder. "The whole crew has gone to some lengths to save and care for the dogs," noted Krantz. "The morale on board has already improved considerably with the two new additions to the crew. We have debated on many names, but refer mostly to the big dog and the little dog. The big dog is rather thin and lethargic. She seemed close to shock. The little dog is definitely the 'alpha' dog. It has shown little, if any, ill effects of its ordeal ... The little dog is a dachshund mix and is a little on the excitable side. When she gets excited, she wags her whole stem section and jumps up and down. The bigger dog is very subdued. To get up and wag her tail is about all the emotion she exhibits. She does, however, like attention and affection. She is just not demonstrative about it." It turns out the owner of the sailboat, a French national, was sailing from Cura9ao to Venezuela when he lost his main engine and sail. He and his two dogs were adrift for 21 days with little food and water, and the seas were very rough. A passing Panamanian ship threw him a rescue line and brought him aboard ship, but there was no way to save the dogs. The survivor was taken to Houston, and the French consulate there contacted Osprey Shipping, which Above: Crew members aboard the Gibson pose for a group shot with the two rescued dogs. At right, AB John T. Williams and Chief Mate Timothy English climb aboard the stranded sailboat looking for survivors. operates the Gibson, to help the owner retrieve his dogs, whose names he said were Captain (the little one) and Ti Ti. But further communication wasn't forthcoming, and the dogs were still aboard the Gibson when it landed in Guam last month. A military veterinarian has examined them and given them health certificates, which are necessary in order for the animals to be shipped back to the States. "The cost for shipping both dogs, including the kennels and a stopover in Hawaii overnight in a kennel is about $800," stated Chris Nette, director of opera..: tions at Osprey Shipping. "We are already starting a fund in the office. The next problem is to find a home for the dogs when they get here." Philly Ferry Hosts News Show RiverLink Adding 2nd Pa ssenger Boat The SIU-crewed passenger ferry RiverLink recently doubled as an outdoor television studio when it hosted part of a local Fox Network affiliate's morning program. News anchor Janet Zappala of Philadelphia's WTXF-TV broadcast from the boat on Friday, Aug. 2 from 8-9 a.m. The show is called "Good Day Philadelphia." "It was good publicity for us," said Gerry McGovern, president of McGovern Marine Corp. and a former Sill member. "The New Jersey State Aquarium in Camden, N.J. (one of the ferry's stops) had a special event that day and it was being promoted through Fox. As part of the promotion, we offered free rides on the ferry before 10 a.m." For the nine Seafarers employed at McGovern Marine Corp., nothing on the Fox program could top the news----confirmed last month by McGovern-that the Delaware River Port Authority (owner of the RiverLink) is adding a second boat in October. The additional vessel is planned for use during "peak demand" periods, noted McGovern. It will have a passenger capacity of 600, compared to 400 on the current boat. The RiverLink transports people between Philadelphia and Camden. It operates seven days a week, normally from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. but with extended hours during waterfront events. Shipboard personnel include the captain, senior deckhand and deckhand. Capt. James Anderson 111 welcomes TV reporter Janet Zapalla aboard the ferry RiverLink prior to broadcast. Anderson is one of nine SIU members who works aboard the boat (pictured below). "We're all Seafarers now," says Steward/Baker Saundra Leonard, pictured above with Third Mate Andrew Johnson and Chief Steward Larry Simmons on the Mormac Sun and below with Patrolman Robert Troy (left) and SIU Asst. VP Jim McGee at the union hall in Houston. When Steward/Baker Saundra Leonard signed on to the Mormac Sun earlier this year, she wasn't quite sure what to expect. By the time she finished her tour aboard the vessel, any doubts had been erased by the positive experience. The Mormac Sun had been part of the NMU fleet before that union merged into the SIU in 2001. Even now, many of its crew members only have sailed aboard former NMU ships. "But I saw firsthand how greatly our unions have come together," Leonard observed. "It was a good working time. We are all Seafarers now, and the merger has been a good thing." Chief Steward ~arry Simmons said Leonard contributed to the smooth sailing. "She is the best chef I've seen on these ships-probably the best organized and definitely the best in personnel matters," Simmons stated. "She gets the maximum work out of her department but also always has a smile and sunny disposition, which rubs off on everyone." A tanker, the Mormac Sun transports cargo along the Gulf Coast. Attention Sealarers: New SPAD Promo Includes 'Political Action Team' Jacket As reported in last month's LOG, the union's voluntary political action fund has begun a new promotion that aims to enhance and reward participation. The core program includes SPAD merchandise available to Seafarers (including members who formerly were in the NMU) front who contribute to the fund through a check-off authorization found on the vacation application (and also available at the union halls). In addition, a new, high-quality SPAD jacket is available to members who make a one-time donation of $300 or more in addition to their checkoff authorization. One-time contributions should be made out to SPAD and addressed to the chairman at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. For more information, write to SPAD at the aforementioned address or call the office of the secretary-treasurer at (301) 899-0675. 6 Seafarers LOB September 2002 �12 Graduate from Top Galley Curriculum Recertified Stewards Grateful For Opportunities Available in SIU The graduating class of recertified stewards joins SIU officials on stage at the Paul Hall Center auditorium following last month's membership meeting. From the left are Cynthia Caster, VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Alexander Banky, Steven Dickson, Paula Kaleikini, SIU President Michael Sacco, Michael Fields, Sherman Anderson, Asst. VP Contracts George Tricker, VP Contracts Augie Tellez, Justo Lacayo, Ronnie Richardson, Michael Amador, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Gloria Holmes and Mark Cabasag. Not pictured is William Moe. Opportunities abound for mariners in the Seafarers International Union. That was the consensus among the 12 members of the graduating class of recertified stewards as they stood and spoke before an audience of their fellow Seafarers, SIU officials, friends and guests at the union's August membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. Expressing their gratitude for those opportunities that have helped them better their own lives and improve the lives of their fellow shipmates were Michael Amador, Sherman Anderson, lexan er: Caba ag, C thia Caster, Steven Dickson, Michael Fields, Gloria Holmes, Paula Kaleikini, Justo Lacayo and Ronnie Richardson. William Moe also graduated from the month-long steward recertification program but shipped out prior to the graduation ceremonies. Considered the school's top curriculum for steward department Seafarers, the steward recertification program included fire fighting and basic safety training, a trip to the AFL-CIO headquarters in Washington, D.C. and meetings with SIU department representatives at the union's headquarters in Camp Springs. Sfudents also trained in the galley lab and participated in a "mystery basket cook-off' designed to utilize their culinary creativity and skills. First up to the podium to receive his graduation certificate was Alexander Banlcy, who ships from the port of New York. The 40-year-old told those assembled at the meeting that he is upholding a family tradition of sailing. He noted that his many years as a Seafarer have shown him the best and worst that life has to offer. The amazing places he has seenthe Suez and Panama canals as well as the Great Wall of Chinaare some of the best. Traveling with military supplies aboard ship into a war zone ranks among the saddest. He reminded the future Seafarers-those unlicensed apprentices still in training at the school- that they, too, are part of th· gmat s arin tradition.. Mark Cabasag, 48, started sailing in 1988 aboard the SS Independence in Honolulu. This is his third time upgrading at the school and he expressed thanks to everyone for making his time there so comfortable-from the driver and front desk personnel to the purser, travel coordinator, admissions, housekeeping and instructors. Cabasag thanked the Paul Hall Center staff for all their help, patience, time and care. He expressed gratitude to SIU President Michael Sacco for his constant guidance and for the opportunity afforded him to enhance and upgrade his skills. He also thanked VP Contracts Augie Tellez for "pushing [the recertified steward class] toward our aspirations and goals." Cabasag urged the current class of trainees to "work hard and don't give up." Cynthia Caster, 54, joined the SIU in 1982. Now sailing from the port of Tacoma, Wash., she noted that most of her time at sea has been spent aboard freight ships running to the Far East. This is the eighth time back at Piney Point for Caster, a place she described as a "supportive environment where I have learned, trained, reflected, researched and rejuvenated over the years." Caster was instrumental Ice sculpting was one of the many hands-on opportunities experienced by the recertified stewards. Here, Alexander Banky takes his turn while Instructor John Hetmanski looks on. September 2002 in conceptualizing a computerized monthly menu planner, which she believed could be a real time saver at sea. With the help of Instructor Rick Prucha, that idea has been formatted into an Excel worksheet program, available to all. To the unlicensed apprentices, Caster wished them smooth sailing and hoped they would always wake up each morning "with a sense of gratitude and a willingness to 'go for it."' Since joining the SIU in the port of San Francisco in 1991, Steve Dickson has returned to the Piney Point facility £our times. Each time he has learned more about the efforts and dedication involved in running a successful organization and will be better prepared to answer crew members' questions with honest and useful information. He noted that the SIU is a large and diverse family with an honorable tradition of delivering the goods that make the world a better place, "and I am proud to be a member of that family." Now sailing from the port of Tacoma, Dickson, 48, congratulated his fellow recertified stewards and told the trainees that they should listen, learn and work hard for tomorrow for they are the next generation. "It is our responsibility to learn from the past and look to the future," he concluded. Michael Fields, 48, tossed aside his prepared statement and spoke "from the heart." He told the audience that he is an alcoholic and that he will celebrate his first year of recovery in September. Fields thanked the union for its belief in him and warned the unlicensed apprentices of how easy it is to get some substances overseas which are illegal in the U.S.-and urged them to be careful. Fields, who sails from the port of Wilmington, Calif., said he has come to · recognize his membership in the SIU as not only a privilege but also as a responsibility. This is the third time back at the school for Gloria Holmes, who started sailing with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1978 in the port of San Francisco. The 55-year-old Seafarer thanked the union for giving her a life of adventure, freedom and the opportunity to travel. She advised the trainees to learn all they can while at school and aboard ship, to listen to their supervisors and work as a teamalways keeping safety in mind. Justo Lacayo, 41, joined the SIU in 1991 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. He stated he has sailed as an OS, chief cook, SA, chief steward-and now will sail as a recertified steward-and that he is proud to be a member of the SIU. He said the union changed his life in a positive way. While many things in life are difficult, he said, if you work hard in the SIU, "they give you the tools you need to make something of yourself." Ronnie Richardson, 51 , began sailing with the MC&S 28 years ago in the port of San Francisco. When that union merged with the SIU, he noted, there were jobs for all. "Thank you, thank you, thank you," he concluded. Joining the SIU 10 years ago was one of the best decisions Paula Kaleikini said she has made. Now sailing from the port of Tacoma, Kaleikini, 53, first shipped from out of Honolulu in 1992, following in the footsteps of her son, who was working aboard the American Hawaii cruise ships. She noted that it has been a personally satisfying career, more than she ever expected-and is pleased that it has afforded her some rewards, like moving into a new home soon. The best part, she told the audience, was being on a U.S.-flag vessel. Kaleikini told the trainees that shipboard life is quite different from land-based jobs and that it is not for the meek, but that it is a very rewarding career. Sherman Anderson, 56, who ships out of the port of Tacoma, has been an SIU member since joining 22 years ago. He stated, "it's been said, 'join the Navy and see the world.' But it wasn't until I joined the SIU that I truly saw the world. I can find my way around the streets of Hong Kong as easily as the streets of Seattle." He advised the trainees to listen to their instructors and learn to work as a team. He reminded them that when they're in the middle of an ocean and an emergency occurs, there is no 911 to call. "You are the 911 !" he said. "Working as a team and using what you learn here at the school and at shipboard drills can save your life and those of your shipmates." He further noted that the merchant marine helped defend our country in World War II, Korea, Vietnam and the Gulf War. "We were ready, willing and able then, and we will be again if called upon in the future." Now sailing from the port of Jacksonville, Fla., Michael Amador started his SIU career in 1985 in the port of Honolulu. This was the seventh time he has returned to upgrade his skills-and he said it was the best yet-including fun, knowledge and hard work. Amador, 55, encouraged the trainees to practice what they learn at the school when they go aboard ship and then to return for upgrading courses to "learn, learn, learn." First place in the "mystery basket cook-off' went to Sherman Anderson (left) and Steven Dickson. The cook0ff is-a ffiencUyi competition in which the recertified stewards are grouped in teams of two. Each team receives a container of the same ingredients from which they write menus and prepare meals within a certain time limit. Instructor Rick Prucha works with Recertified Steward Cynthia Caster to create a menu on a computer spreadsheet that allows the user to plan a full month's worth of menus at a time. Currently, Caster has included a total of 356 menu items in her planner. Seafarers LOG 7 �Fifty Yean in the Ha1bor. The Story of a Ship Docking Pilot As told to Henry W. Gamp, April 2002 Editors note: Henry W. Gamp has been a member ofthe SIU since 1974 and a frequent contributor to the Seafarers LOG. September 29, 19562200 hours-the Japanese freighter Atlas Maru was inbound on Fort McHenry Range, Baltimore Harbor, bound for Pier # 11 Canton on a course of 320°.5. It was a clear bright night with a light northwesterly breeze. The tug Ganett, an 800-horsepower single screw tug, smartly came alongside amidship on the ship's starboard side so that Docking Pilot Frank Schultz could board her from the Jacob's ladder already rigged for him. On this particular night, Captain Jasper Mamoliti, who recently had become a federally licensed docking pilot, was operating the Ganett. · After Captain Schultz boarded the ship,' the Ganett moved up to her bow and put up two lines. During Captain Schultz's transit to the ship's bridge, a horrifying incident took place. Captain Mamoliti glanced to his right and saw a vessel showing anchor lights on #3 Anchorage underway and slowly edging toward the channel. Realizing a collision was inevitable, he instinctively sounded the tug's general alarm and the danger signal, which alerted his deckhands and the sailors on the ship. · Working in concert, they miraculously were able to slip the tug's lines in the nick of time. Just moments after backing away, the ships collided with the terrible sound of steel grinding, sheering, twistingwith sparks flying as the hull plating and frames were being ripped open. In the aftermath, the Atlas Maru sported a 40-foot long hole several feet wide above her waterline on the starboard bow in the exact location that the Ganett had been made fast, visibly exposing the contents of the cargo stowed in the 'tween decks. The errant vessel was the steamship Elana. It was later determined that her engineers were performing maintenance work, which involved slowly jacking (turning) over her propeller shaft. Neither the engineers nor the deck watch officer on the bridge realized the ship was slowly ranging ahead on her anchor, causing it to drag and the ship to enter Fort McHenry Channel. For his efforts, Captain Mamoliti received a commendation, which in part read," ... by his quick wit, saved his tug and the B Seafarers LOS lives of his crew." The short story I described was one of hundreds that Captain Jasper (a retired SIU member) related to me over the years. He was one of several mentors who taught me the art of shiphandling in the early 1970s. I have always had the utmost respect for these men and their skills. He, in particular, had an uncanny ability to make you smile or laugh on a ship's bridge, often breaking the tension when executing a difficult were converted carriers from merchant ships. Our job was to chase submarines and pick up aviator survivors when they missed a flight deck. "I saw action twice in battle for which I received two battle stars, four campaign bars and, believe it or not, 50 years later England sent me what they call the Silver Badge for the Battle of the Atlantic. We sank our first submarine off the Coast of Cape Town, South Africa. We traveled everywhere with this little vessel; she was really seawor- The Annapolis was a coal-fired steamboat on which Captain Mamoliti served in the middle to late 1940s. maneuver. Be it his broad smile or in the telling of a joke, he could disarm the hardest of men and put them at ease. We were reminiscing one recent afternoon in his living room, and he shared some interesting highlights about both himself and the port of Baltimore, going back to World War II. I jotted them down as I believe most mariners will enjoy reading them. "In 1941 I went to work for Curtis Bay Towing Company (now part of Moran Towing) and we sure had a lot of exciting towing experiences. We docked and sailed ships, did salvage work for damaged and torpedoed ships, went to all the launchings in Fairfield (Liberty Ships) plus shifted ships and barges for the Army and Coast Guard in Curtis Creek. We towed mud scows for Arundel Dredging Company, railroad barges for Western Maryland Railroad, coal barges and oil barges in the harbor. Up and down the Bay, we towed everywhere between the James River and Trenton, N.J. "In 1942 I tried to join the Navy to do my part for the war effort. The Navy turned me down for being a half-inch too short as well as underweight. Imagine that! In 1943 they came down and inducted me right off the tugboats . . . no questions asked. After a short period of boot camp, I was sent to Orange, Texas to put the US.S. Fessenden, DE14, into commission. After a short shakedown, we saw action escorting convoys to the Mediterranean--operating with three "baby" carriers, the Crotan, the Mission Bay and the Tripoli, which trimmed and adjusted. So we really have come a long way since those days! "Curtis Bay Towing had two little tugs, the Marion and the Jane, that were like yachts inside and always looked brand new. We towed this big wooden barge, the Maine, which looked like Noah's Ark, and a steel barge named the Tillet with acid to the Gulf Oil Dock in the Schuylkill River; Philadelphia; Dupont Plant at Deep Water, Del.; and Fredericksburg, Va. "Later, tugboat work slowed down and I was on my way to ship out on an Esso tanker in 1948 when someone asked me if I had my seamen's documents. When I told them 'Yes,' they suggested I go to work on the steamers F C. Latrobe and the Annapolis, owned by the City of Baltimore. In fact, on my Able Body Certificate (z- Pictured at a November 1994 ceremony in Baltimore are (from left) retired Seafarers Herbert Groh, Jasper Mamoliti and Harold Thompson. The ceremony celebrated the tug Baltimore's certification as a National Historic Landmark. son, it was our job on the Annapolis to clear the shipping lanes from North Point to the C & D Canal while the Latrobe took care of the Inner Harbor to North Point. These vessels were really unique! They had horizontal steam engines independent of one another and had paddle wheels on the side. The hubs were made of steel and the frames were oak timbers with steel bands. Channel irons bolted them across. We would ride up on the ice, and the weight of the vessel plus the paddle wheels turning would chew it up and make a path wide enough for a ship to come by. We would only travel during the daylight hours; at night we would jam her in the ice, no need to anchor. A watchman stayed awake through the night to see that we didn't drift away. "During the summer months, our mission was much different. We used the Latrobe to take underprivileged children on excursions-sometimes once a week, sometimes twice a week. We ferried them to the former Chesterwood Amusement Park up the Bear Creek. In those days Shulerberger would donate the luncheon meat, .Henler's Ice Cream would donate the ice cream, Schmitt's Bakery would supply all the bread, G. Fava (produce wholesaler) would supply all of the watermelons and what have you. In those days people were not wealthy but they were very generous with what little they had. On these free excur- thy! We did all kinds of duties. We escorted President Roosevelt back from Yalta when he had a meeting with Churchill and Stalin. After I got off that ship, she went to the Pacific. I understand she transported Japanese currency back from one of the islands to Japan. "After the war, I returned to Baltimore Harbor to work aboard wooden hulled steam tugs- and graduated to diesel tugs. In those days, Curtis Bay Towing had a contract with Western Maryland Railroad. We used to tow their railroad car floats (that were over 300 feet long with 21 boxcars or gondolas with limestone) from Port Covington to Sparrows Point. We had boats steadily working day and night shifts around the clock. We would go down during the day to hang kerosene lanterns on the spar buoys so we could see them at night. The channel didn't have any ranges, and the tugboats didn't have generators to power search lights. Everything was kerosene lamps: the running lights, towing lights, everything! After an hour or so of use, they sooted up and the lens and mirror had to be cleaned. Every so often the wick had to be Restored after years of neglect, the steam tug Baltimore is owned by the Museum of Labor and Industry. card), I have an endorsement for "coal passer and wiper," a rating I filled when they were shorthanded. We had a 38-man crew on board; I eventually worked my way up to chief mate and pilot just before I returned to Curtis Bay Towing. Let me add something about the life on those steamboats: we took bucket baths by necessity. You heated your water by opening a steam line directly into your bucket. You had two buckets-one to soap yourself down and one to rinse off. They were healthy but hard times. Looking back, I enjoyed them; they built character and fortitude. "The side-wheelers were used as ice breakers in the winter. During the ice sea- sions, we would take around 800 passengers (that included the parents). "Fifty years ago, Baltimore Harbor was a much different place than it is today. The Inner Harbor piers, now given over to the upscale shops, restaurants, marinas, even an Aquarium, were working piers with ships' booms and stays, etc., moving general cargo to and fro at a fast pace. The piers were occupied with Liberty ships, Victory ships, converted LSTs, banana ships, bay liners, skipjacks, railroad car floats, lightering barges and tugboats (many powered by steam). "Containerized cargo did not exist and, without automation, many more people were employed. In fact, Dundalk Marine Terminal had an airport and even sported a seaplane ramp. The railroads owned and operated the port terminals. The main channel project depth was 35 feet (now it is 50 feet), and its width was 600 feet (now it is 700 feet). "We towed all the steel for the construction of the two Chesapeake Bay bridges and the Baltimore Key Bridge as well as tunnel sections for the Hampton Roads tunnels and the Baltimore Harbor tunnel. We towed sand for the 1000-foot Sparrows Point Graving Dock, Dundalk Marine Terminal and Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant. "In the 1950s, '60s and '70s, a lot of changes came about-both in the size of the ships and the manner in which we handled them. For instance, I first learned how to handle ships by giving my commands on a whistle I carried around my neck. The tugs would acknowledge on their peet whistles. Sometimes it was necessary to put a deckhand on top of the wheelhouse to see or hear my commands. Then came walkie-talkies. At first they were very big and bulky; the later models were hand held. The size of ships grew from 400-foot L. 0 .A. to 900-foot L.O.A. The horsepower of the tugs grew from 500/600 horsepower to 3,000 horsepower plus. Some days, as captain and pilot on a tug, I would handle as many as ships-docking and sailing-including the dry docks at Key Highway Yard, Maryland Dry Dock and Sparrows Point. This was very exciting work and quite an experience in piloting. ·"In the early 1960s, Curtis Bay Towing was . bought by Moran Towing and operated as a subsidiary until 1987 when its white and blue colors were finally replaced by Moran's burgundy and green. "After retiring in 1984, Captain Harold Thompson, Captain Herbert Groh (also retired Seafarers) and I volunteered to run the tug Baltimore for the Museum of Labor and Industry. The Baltimore mostly remains in her berth, but we did take her out for excursions for several years. I still faithfully attend my various naval reunions around the country." In Captain Jasper Mamoliti's Own Words "I have held a Merchant Marine Officer's License for 50 years or more; I am a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars; American Legion; a lifetime member of the Atlantic & Gulf Docking Pilots Association plus the Northern Chesapeake Docking Pilots Association; I'm a 32nc1 Degree Mason; and I belong to the Legion of Honor in the Masonic Temple." September2002 �Grilled cheese sandwiches are on the lunch menu aboard the Matson vessel Mauf-made to order by Steward Muhamad Sani. Chief Cook Brenda Grays (left) cooks lunch aboard the Consumer while (right) Bosun Mate George Pino and Chief Steward Louella Sproul briefly pose for a picture. Bosun Ruftno Giray lowers the Consumer's gangway net to a crew member below. The smiling face behind the salad bar is Joan Ann Riley, third cook on the Maui. Above: Larry Watson {left}, ,bosun aboard the Trader (CSX) is t~ritled to be working side by side with his son, Unlicensed Apprentice John ~atson. When the Keystone docked in Alameda, State Calif. recently, SIU Rep Archie Ware (left) was on hand to meet the ship. With him are Chief Steward Sam Harris (center) and SIU Union Rep Jeff Turkus. Just before the USNS Curtiss went into drydock (above) in San Francisco, Chief Cook Billy Bragg (left) and Assistant Cook Lauren Oram helped clean the galley from top to bottom. September 2~2 A shipboard meeting was held aboard the Cape Mohican in the port of Alameda, Calif. From the left are AB James Crate, Chief Electrician Kashmir S. Dhillon, Recertified Bosun Stephen R. Garay and QMED Herman Best Jr. Seafarers LOB 9 �FAST RESCUE aOAT Paul Hall Center Offers Swiftly Paced Course A new course is available for students at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Last month, a group of eight Seafarers became the first to complete the school's new 30-hour fast rescue boat course-a U.S. Coast Guard-approved class which satisfies the requirements of Table AVI/2-2 of the STCW Code. As with virtually every other course available at the Piney Point, Md. facility, the fast rescue boat curriculum blends hands-on training and classroom instruction. Students receive practical assessments each day; they must also pass a 50-question test. "It's a fast-paced class," stated Paul Hall Center instructor Stan Beck (with no pun· intended). "A lot of newer ships have these types of boats and the davits to launch them. The intent is exactly what the name suggests-faster rescues." Beck pointed out that the center's fast rescue boat is jet-driven (like those carried aboard ship), and the absence of propellers helps ensure safety during the class. The boat has a rigid hull and can stop very quickly- from 30 knots to a complete stop in one boat length. The course's hands-on components include familiarization with the boat, pivot turns, sector searches (utilized when there's evidence of mishap, such as a capsized boat) and expanded-square searches (embarked upon when mariners essentially are making a "best guess" about the possible location of someone in distress). Other practical training involves approaches to the training vessel Osprey, under way at 6 to 8 knots, and securing a line from the vessel that keeps the boat alongside (as may be done when transferring people). Predictably, everyone who takes the class gets wet. That's because students are required to swim two boat lengths, and each mariner takes a tum as the "man overboard." The other members of the class then simulate different types of rescues-"direct" for an unconscious victim, indirect for one who's conscious. The latter technique uses a rescue line. A second fast rescue boat course was scheduled for late August, and the school plans to schedule additional classes on a regular basis. Right: Dan Milligan lies motionless to sig nal a direct rescue to the crew on the boat. Ronald Corgey reaches for the "victim" as instructor Stan Beck prepares to help lift, and Ryan Eglinton observes. Left: Participating in the hands-on course are (from left) Dan Milligan, George Wyatt, instructor Stan Beck, Ronald Corgey and Ryan Eglinton. Right: Lon Piner (left) and Stan Beck lift Marc Grantham as George Sadler handles the wheel. Left: Lon Piner and Stan Beck pull George Sadler from the water as Marc Grantham mans the wheel and Ryan Eglinton looks on. Upcoming Course Dates Sept. 30 - Oct. 4_ .Oct. 7 - Oct. 11 Oct. 28 - Nov. I Nov. 11 -Nov. 15 Nov. 25 - Nov. 29 Right: George Sadler pulls instructor Stan Beck to th_e boat as Marc Grantham· prepares to help lift. Lon Piner is at the wheel. Left: George Sadler signals for an "indirect" rescue-a term that indicates the victim is conscious. Dan Milligan checks gauges and settings on the boat before heading out for practical training. 10 Seafarers LOG September 2002 �Wit.h t.he SIU in QMED John Osburn, just off the 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez, comes into the SIU hall in Guam to have his vacation check processed. Chief Steward Ray Jones (center) steps out of the galley for a shipboard meeting on the Richard G Matthiesen. With him are Bosun Dana Naze (left) and AB William Mcintyre. When Guam Port Agent Matthew Holley (right) came aboard the USNS San Jose, he had an opportunity to meet with the vessel's crew members. Here he is with the ship's chairman, Ralph Salmond. Jesse Toves, a native of Guam and graduate of the unlicensed apprentice program (class #607) at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., holds up his certificate of achievement for recently completing the AB class. Chief Cook Joseph J. Welle, who disembarked from the LNG Capricorn, visits the Guam hall accompanied by his wife, Editha, who was seven months pregnant at the time. There's always something to paint aboard ship. Here, AB James Bolles completes one more such project on the USNS San Jose. SA Marlon Brown (left) and Chief Steward Ray Jones break from their meal preparation aboard the Richard G Matthiesen for a quick photo. ABs Carelina Baker (left) and Rodney Akima stand watch. Akima, with the shotgun, was part of the gangway watch force protection unit. In photo at right, Bosun Lionel Kimokeo (right) and Bosun's Mate John Dickeson watch from the deck of the USNS San Jose as cargo-in this case a forklift truck-is brought aboard (photo at left). The USNS San Jose is one of six combat stores ships operated by the Military Sealift Command that provides supplies to U.S. Navy combatant ships at sea for extended periods of time. The combat stores ships perform underway replenishment of all types of supplies, ranging from repair parts to fresh and frozen food, clothing and mail via tensioned cargo rigs and UH-46 Sea Knight helicopters. Its home port is in the Pacific. As a result of underway replenishment techniques, the U.S. Navy can remain ready for a mission to carry out U.S. policy anywhere in the world at any given time. September 2002 Seafarers LOB 11 �FAST-GROWING Y WATERWAY GOES ABOVE A D BEYOID W As SIU-contracted NY Waterway-the largest privately owned commuter ferry operator in the United States--continues its rapid growth, perhaps the only thing surpassing the company's expansion is its extraordinary commitment to safety training. Teaming up with the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (based in Piney Point, Md.), NY Waterway during the past two years has facilitated training for hundreds of Seafarers who work aboard the ferries. Much of that instruction took place on the NY Waterway boats in New York, although a number of classes also were conducted at the school. In short, NY Waterway has gone far beyond any Coast Guard requirements for its shipboard personnel-all in the name of safety. For instance, this 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 (in this case, the Paul Hall Center's Coast Guard-approved and STCW-compliant class). Two years ago, NY Waterway became the first to establish STCW Basic Safety Training as a requirement for captains and deckhands. Altogether, 162 NY Waterway personnel this year have taken crowd-control and crisis-management courses administered by Paul Hall Center instructors, all aboard NY Waterway boats. At least another 25 have been to Piney Point for other, individually scheduled courses including radar, medical care provider and others. Additionally, Seafarers at NY Waterway were scheduled to participate in a week's worth of on-site first aid and CPR training beginning the week of Aug. 18, including a hands-on disaster-response exercise involving personnel from the Coast Guard and New York and New Jersey police and fire departments, respectively. High Standards "Keep in mind, they're not required (by the Coast Guard) to have any of this training," noted J.C. Wiegman, assistant director of training at the Paul Hall Center. "Within their segment of the industry, there aren't many Coast Guard regulations, compared to the deep-sea segment. Their company safety standards actually exceed the Coast Guard standards for those types of vessels." "Both the union and the school always aim to deliver the world's best-trained mariners, and it's a credit to the membership that they've been so enthusiastic about the training," added SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi. "Everyone involved-the members, the school, the union and the company-has stayed totally focused on the main objective, which obviously is safety." NY Waterway's dedication to safety-and its utilization of the school-aren't new. During 2001, for example, more than l 00 mariners completed first aid and CPR courses. That same year, 65 SIU members employed by NY Waterway finished classes at Piney Point that were specifically scheduled for them. That training included STCW Basic Safety (which features first aid and CPR, water survival, fire fighting and social responsibilities); crowd control; crisis management; radar; and licensing. 12 Seafarers LOB "We are fortunate through our affiliation with the SIU to be able to harness the resources of the Paul Hall Center to train our crews," said Peter Johansen, NY Waterway's senior director of regulatory compliance, safety and training. "Since we began requiring STCW Basic Safety Training, the result has been a dramatic increase in the safety of our vessels. Also, the recent crowd management training was a huge success and reflects both the quality of the school and the company's seriousness about safety." On the Front Unes Never were the crew members' skills put to the test more than on September 11, a day that saw NY Waterway ferries evacuate upwards of 160,000 people from Manhattan. A few of the boats operated into the pre-dawn hours of the next day, providing help for emergency crews. Several SIU members rescued people who had fallen from piers into the water, most likely because of terrible visibility. In the aftermath of the attacks and the effort to evacuate survivors, ·.. NY Waterway Operations Manager Michael McPhillips described the SIU crews as "without a doubt, the most flexible and responsible people that anybody could have working for them. No matter what went on, these guys adapted to every situation, just as the whole maritime industry did." Aside from that awful day, Johansen pointed out that NY Waterway crews periodically execute comparably routine water rescues in the port involving small numbers of victims (most or all of which have been reported throughout the years in the Seafarers LOG). Fleet Expansion Also becoming almost routine-though certainly never taken for granted-are the christenings of new high-speed boats for the NY Waterway fleet. The latest to join the flotilla is The Hoboken, christened Aug. 8 near the Hoboken Historical Museum. The newest boat can carry 149 passengers and is 79 feet long. Other new additions (some of which are replacement vessels) during the past year include the Moira Smith, the Austin Tobin, the Father Mychal Judge, the U.S. Senator Frank R. Laufenberg, the Brooklyn, the Fred V Morrone and the Enduring Freedom. SIU members, including ing to help ensure the The ferries make appro Pictured above are Se Amaro, Joseph Lorocc and Steve Lesclinski du September 2002 �SAFETY TRAINING NY Waterway Seafarers have completed safety training aboard the boats (top photo) and at the Paul Hall Center in Pmey Point, Md. (photos below and at left), including STCW Basic Safety Training and also crowd management. y a a Gia pictured above, have utilized their trainof NY Waterway's passengers (below). !ly 17 million passenger trips per year. s Joseph Stella, Ysdelin Abreu, Tony os Lugo, Richard Lopez, Marcio Silva cent on-board training. • • • • • • • Provides 65,000 passenger trips per day Operates 46 boats serving 22 routes between New Jersey and Manhattan and Brooklyn, and between Rockland and Westchester Counties Additional routes are being developed Employs SIU members as captains and deckhands Also offers various sightseeing cruises, day trips, weekend getaways and other journeys Corporate office: Weehawken, N.J . Web site: www.nywaterway.com ..- President: Arthur E. Imperatore Jr. September 2002 Seafal'el'S LOB 13 �NOTICE TO INTERESTED PARTIES - SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT PENSION PLAN 1. Notice To: All employees who are covered by collective bargaining agreements, or other written agreements accepted by the Board of Trustees, providing for participation in the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan. An application is to be made to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for an advance determination on the qualification of the following collectively bargained plan: 2. Plan Name: SIU Pacific District Pension Plan 3. Plan Number: 001 4. Name and Address of Applicant: Board of Trustees SIU Pacific District Pension Plan 1422 Market Street San Francisco, CA 94102 5. Applicant's E.I.N.: 94-6061923 6. Name and Address of Plan Administrator: Board of Trustees SIU Pacific District Pension Plan 1422 Market Street San Francisco, CA 94102 7. 2002 for an advance determination as to whether the Plan meets the qualification requirements of section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, with respect to the amendment and restatement of the Plan. The application will be filed with: EP Determinations Internal Revenue Service 201 West Rivercenter Blvd. Attn: Extracting Stop 312 Covington, KY 41011-1454 8. All employees who are covered by collective bargaining agreements, or other written agreements accepted by the Board of Trustees, providing for their participation in the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan are eligible to participate in the Plan. 9. The Internal Revenue Service has previously issued a determination letter with respect to the qualification of this Plan. Rights ,,, ,,,,,,,_,,,,, l'artJes The application will be filed on July 31, 10. You have the right to submit to EP Determinations, at the above address, either individually or jointly with other interested parties, your comments as to whether this Plan meets the qualification requirements of the Internal Revenue Code. You may instead, individually or jointly with other interested parties, request the Department of Labor to submit, on your behalf, comments to EP Determinations regarding qualification of the Plan. If the Department declines to comment on all or some of the matters you raise, you may, individually, or jointly if your request was made to the Department jointly, submit your comments on these matters directly to EP Determinations. 11. The Department of Labor may not comment on behalf of interested parties unless requested to do so by the lesser of 10 employees or 10 percent of the employees who qualify as interested parties. The number of persons needed for the Department to comment with respect to this Plan is 10. If you request the Department to comment, your request must be in writing and must specify the matters upon which documents are requested, and must also include: (1) The information contained in Items 2 through 5 of this Notice; and (2) The number of persons needed for the Department to comment. A request to the Department to comment should be addressed as follows: Deputy Assistant Secretary Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration ATTN: 3001 Comment Request U.S. Department of Labor 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W. Washington, DC 20210-0002 Comments lo . . ""'1mal , , _ Senlce 12. Comments submitted by you to EP Determinations must be in writing and received by Monday, September 16, 2002. However, if there are matters that you request the Department of Labor to comment upon on your behalf, and the Department declines, you may submit comments on these matters to EP Determinations to be received by them within fifteen days from the time the Department noti- Seal arers Money Purchase Pension Plan Beneficiary Cards The rules and regulations of the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan (SMPPP) provide that upon the death of a participant, the beneficiary named by the participant shall be entitled to receive the balance in the SMPPP account at the time of death. The rules further state that the participant may designate a beneficiary on a form provided by the plan trustees and delivered to the plan office prior to the death of a participant. Upon review, it has come to our attention that many members have not completed the proper beneficiary form and, therefore, we are requesting that they fill out and complete the below beneficiary form and return it to the plan office as soon as possible. Doing this will reduce the possibility of a payout being delayed following the demise of a participant. It is worth noting that this form is entirely sepa- I rate from the beneficiary form currently used by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan and the Seafarers Pension Plan. The form on file for these plans cannot be utilized for the SMPPP and vice versa. Some participants mistakenly believe that they have to fill out only one beneficiary card for all plans. As you can see, this is not correct. A majority of participants in the SMPPP do not have beneficiary cards on file and, therefore, their timely response is important. If further information is required, or if you need to request a new beneficiary form at any time, you may do so by calling the SMPPP administrator at (800) 485-3703. It's a good idea to update all of your beneficiary forms every so often, especially if the status of the beneficiary changes; for example, in the case of divorce or death of the beneficiary. r------------------------------------------------------------------------------------SEAFARERS MONEY PURCHASE PENSION PLAN c/o Basil Castrovinci Associates, Inc. 3235 Kennedy Blvd., Jersey City, NJ 07306 (800) 485-3703 < Participant Enrollment Form & Designation of Beneficiary (Please provide all requested information) First Name Middle Initial Home Address - Street City Last Name Zip Code State ( Date of Birth Social Security Number Marital Status: D Single D Married D Divorced ) Area Code D Widowed Telephone Number D Other _ _ _ _ _ __ Spouse's name (if married)_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Date Married_ _ _ _ _S.S. # _ _ _ _ _ __ Please designate a beneficiary (person/s) to receive your pension in the event of your death) 1. Name S.S.# Share(%) to Be Paid Address Name 2 S.S.# Address 3. Name S.S.# Address 4. Name S.S.# Address lY1lIJ1;.. Each surviving beneficiary shall share equally, if the shares to be paid the beneficiaries are not indicated above. Spouse's signature (Required if spouse is not the sole beneficiary. Spouse's signature indicates agreement with the above designation of beneficiaries.) Member's Signature_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Date Witness's Signature_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Date If you have any questions, please contact the Fund Director at the above address and telephone number. You also may contact the Plan Administrator at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; or call at (800) 485-3703. 14 Seafarers LOS fies you that it will not comment on a particular matter, or by Monday, September 16 2002, whichever is later, but not after Monday, September 30, 2002. A request to the Department to comment on your behalf must be received by it by Thursday, August 15, 2002, if you wish to preserve your right to comment on a matter upon which the Department declines to comment, or by Monday, August 26, 2002 if you wish to waive that right. Addillonal lntonnatlon 13. Detailed instructions regarding the requirements for notification of interested parties may be found in Sections 17 and 18 of IRS Revenue Procedure 2002-6. Additional information concerning this application (including, where applicable, an updated copy of the Plan and related trust; the application for determination; any additional documents dealing with the application that have been submitted to the IRS; and copies of Section 17 of Revenue Procedure 2002-6) are available at 1422 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102 during regular business hours for inspection and copying. (There may be a nominal charge for copying and/or mailing.) NOTICE The Seafarers Pension Plan is seeking updated addresses for the following individuals. Please contact the Pension Plan if you can provide the current mailing address for any of the following individuals: Abdulla, Fadel M. Aboubaker, Saeed A. Acevedo, Wilfredo Ahmed, Abulgabar H. Ahmed, Zein Alexander. David Alexander, James E. Ali,AliM. Allen, Robert S. Alomary, Abdulaziz S. Green, Henry E. Gregel, J, Grundy, Joseph Hare, William H. Harpole, Marsha Hayden, Robert L. Helm, Cleo Henderson. Ben W. Hester, Donnie D. Hill, Harrill AlshanunamJ Qasim M. ,.am, Michael. A. , Hokanson, Richard E. Apodac~ Steven Arellano, Antonio Hollingsworth, Don M. Arredondo, G. Hollins, Ralph Bailey, P. Honorio, Jamie A. Bartolon. Frank D. Hubble, BillieJ. ·· Bedford, Anthony Hurlburt, Charles M. Hyatt, Tomothy L. Biondi, P. Ibbott, R. f_ Biugos, E. Bodie, Alfred J. Jacintho, Mary Boiser, Michael Jackson. Roy Johnson, Claude N. Bongoloan, D. D. Jones, Charles E. Booth, Oliver J. Justin, Reginald V. Boris, Michael Juzang, Rickie L. Bracken, Scott A. Kead, D. Brandon, Linell Keefe, Richard E. Brickley, Thomas J. Brown, B. Kennington, Dennis L. Bubakr, Hussain A. Ketchem, Martin Khulaqi, Yousif Bukis, Brian A. Killiam, Elizabeth A. Bulawan, John N. K.inanahan., Santiago Bunnell, Larry R. Burch, Douglas E. Kingo, C. Konas, Julie M. Camry, Najib Laffitte, Tyler N. Cardwell, Joanna Charleston, Cornell Lewis, Hennax;i Cherry, John T. Long, Paul Loprinzi, Joseph Christmas, William F. Mack, Charles Cladinos, Diane G. Martin, Warren C. Collado, Edward W. Collings, Stanley E. Maurer, Janet M. McBride, Donovan A. Crews, Fred Cromwell, Willie J. Mccowan. Henry P. McCree, Johnnie Cue,. Lawrence W. McGurk, Thomas B. Cuevas, Luis S. Davis, Robert Mehia. Raymond W. Melrose, C.A. Dechamp, Arthur A. Delorey, Joseph F. Milabo, Goodfredo T. Demo, Gary F. Miller, James L. Mills, David W. Dhalai, Hazaim Mineo, Frank J. Echeverio, Ronald H. Elegan, Gerald Mohamed, Abdulla, A. Mosad, Abdullah Ely, Lany Muzayyad, Nassir Evanosich, Anthony J. Femandezees, C. Nason. Diana L. Flores, David Nasser, Ahmed A. Nassir, Hussain M. Francisco, Roland Netters, Willie French, Michael G. Furman, Edward C. Nixon, R.D. Gal1eguillos, Ruebin S. Norczyk, Leo Ortiz, Sharon L. Gebbia, Sandra Gegenheimer, Richard A. Overton, Robert L. Gierlich, Bradley J. Palacio, Leopoldo Pavao, Whitey A. Gomez, G. Peterson, Ernest W. Pratt, David D. Pratt, John A. Prescott, Dennis P. Price, James E. Rambow, Kenneth L. Redding, Stanley Richardson, Nathaniel Rivera, Robert Robbins, RR. Robert.son, Michael W. Rodriguez,.Wilfredo F. Rogers, Harl J. Rogers, Paul R. Rosete, Reynaldo B. Royals, Roy F. Russi, Leonard Russo, Michael F. Ryan, Joseph S. Santiago, Robert S. Sasaki, George Saxton, Jim Scamale, Willy K. Scruggs, Dvaughn N. Seager, Samuel Serrano, J. A. Sheard, Timothy Slaney, Eddward R. Smith, C. C. Smith, Clyde G. Smith, Robert L. Smith, Samuel N. Smithennan, Marvin E. Spencer, Jack W. Spratley, William St. Julien, Lionel Stock, Francis A. Syor, David E. Taan, John A. Takahashi, Kevin R. Tapanan, Sharon A. Taylor, Linton N. Taylor, Norman F. Thorpe, Charles W. Thrasher, Jesse Tinsley, Thomas V. Torro, Jerson I. Tourere, Cassie D. Velez, Gustavo Vidaurre, Victor E. Ward, John K. Ware, Efrem M Warren, Richard T. Weddington, Victor Weed, Jimmie L. Wicks, Percival Wiggins, Edward J. Williams, Carlos C. Williams, Yvonne A. Wolfel, Edward I. Yadao, D. V. Yafai, Ahmed Zachary, James C. September 2002 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea JULY 16 - AUGUST 15, 2002 *TOTAL REGISTERED TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 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 l 9 5 1 0 8 34 10 12 21 8 19 11 14 4 8 4 38 9 17 30 15 9 2 12 22 17 3 2 14 12 5 13 17 5 0 1 2 6 20 3 18 31 15 170 3 3 10 15 107 264 Algonac Baltimore 0 1 0 8 6 Guam 0 2 l 0 3 14 22 10 2 2 10 20 4 7 2 New·York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point ~: Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 9 15 8 1 2 3 5 1 11 10 122 9 11 11 0 4 10 16 9 4 1 0 0 4 1 6 5 125 47 4 6 3 9 2 Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville · Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco 0 0 1 1 1 13 14 15 4 9 18 4 0 4 2 7 3 5 5 9 2 3 3 22 3 0 5 St. I:ouis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 20 21 151 0 0 1 0 5 2 0 3 3 0 0 0 1 0 1 9 56 18 Por t ·"~" Algonac Baltimore Ouru;n Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals.AU Departments All Groups Class A Class B Class C Piney Point ............. Monday: October 7, November 4 DECK DEPARTMENT Port · Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile New Orleans **REGISTERED ON BEACH Trip Reliefs October & November 2002 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters 0 0 0 9 2 4 0 3 4 0 3 1 17 10 13 5 11 24 7 1 10 2 2 9 3 28 3 3 I 7 0 23 37 10 8 20 9 11 18 9 18 9 3 l 9 21 7 7 2 3 4 7 19 13 0 4 0 6 16 19 8 9 0 4 3 1 6 10 1 4 8 3 1 4 8 2 4 8 2 0 8 13 1 1 0 3 2 3 o -~- 1 0 0 0 0 4 14 0 5 2 1 4 30 Baltimore ................ Thursday: October l'O, November 7 18 52 71 1 18 16 34 25 18 13 10 39 59 33 31 31 25 33 19 11 3 18 42 6 57 52 493 24 7 9 13 16 3 26 27 272 0 l 9 0 6 23 9 0 8 17 39 38 i4 7 16 22 25 23 16 6 5 6 1 8 4 6 2 6 0 0 2 1 3 3 0 6 9 3 10 13 4 14 20 20 0 4 6 6 21 33 257 2 2 1 0 3 4 0 7 3 2 1 2 14 0 22 16 109 1 1 0 0 5 0 0 4 9 1 2 0 9 0 1 .,2 3 0 20 15 9 66 18 28 582 501 364 445 287 5 5 4 0 2 0 5 0 7 2 51 137 0 0 286 1 0 0 13 6 4 5 0 0 41 0 4 5 2 31 3 12 23 62 72 0 15 3 1 18 Personal BOSUN RHETT DAVIS Please contact Eddie in Corpus Christi, Texas at (361) 884-3345 or (361) 883-1818. Seafarer, Spears & Supe~ Bowl 6 6 43 0 0 11 7 18 78 303 374 215 1,063 884 765 *"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. Each port's meding starts at 10:30 a.m. 30 27 4 Wilmington ............... Monday: October 21, November 18 49 20 24 11 15 I Tacoma ...................Friday: October 25, November 22 4 54 13 0 0 St. Louis .................Friday: October 18, November 15 3 5 0 0 0 0 Port Everglades.......Thursday: October 17, November 14 2 3 15 96 10 4 18 9 21 0 41 25 0 0 New York ............... .Tuesday: October 8, November 5 2 0 5 7 3 3 6 7 12 15 2 5 2 37 34 5 2 4 0 10 4 11 17 3 13 20 0 9 4 1 l 3 0 0 5 4 2 2 0 0 1 1 6 0 1 5 0 43 3 9 18 0 7 0 0 0 0 0 New Orleans ........... Tuesday: October 15, November 12 San Juan..................Thursday: October 10, November 7 4 0 19 27 36 10 14 31 14 4 2 0 1 4 New Bedford ..........Tuesday; October 22, November 19 Savannah ................ Friday: October 11, November 8 0 2 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 l 0 0 2 7 0 0 2 0 Mobile .................... Wednesday: October 16, November 13 9 1 93 5 Jersey City .............. Wednesday: October 23, November 20 - San Francisco ;........ Thursday: OctQber 17, November 14 14 8 Jacksonville ............ Thursday: October 10, November 7 Philadelphia ............ Wednesday: October 9, November 6 213 3 0 (*change created by Veterans' Day holiday) 8 1 2 0 18 2 Houston ..................Monday: October 14 Tuesday: November 12* Norfolk ................... Thursday: October 10, November 7 206 12 4 Honolulu ................. Friday: October 18, November 15 7 14 2 2 112 Duluth ..................... Wednesday: October 16, November 13 10 8 0 22 54 75 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 1 0 3 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 9 ·7 4 1 9 9 9 Boston ..................... Friday: October 11, November 8 2 14 12 13 192 September 2002 Algonac .................. Friday: October 11, November 8 8 4 2 2 32 13 3 2 0 0 150 17 12 6 19 14 '9 0 27 0 6 9 4 8 196 120 49 95 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 5 7 5 9 3 l 22 45 16 1 0 2 2 ll 23 2 0 2 5 3 8 0 8 4 1 6 10 3 I 8 0 5 2 3 1 2 0 10 0 4 0 7 0 7 5 72 0 0 0 1 3 While on the beach last winter, Seafarer Denis Burke worked as a manager at the Planet Hollywood restaurant and night club in New York City. During a Super Bowl party co-hosted by entertainer Britney Spears, Burke and the celebrity posed for this photo. No word on whether Spears asked for his autograph. Brother Burke sails as a certified cook and baker. Seafarers LOG 15 �l\T1'111 Monthly Shipping A Registration Report AUGUST 2002 Mlthael Sa«o, President 1Jobn Fay; Executive Vice President All Groups Group I Group II David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer REGISTERED ON BEACH TOTAL SlllPPED TOTAL REGISTERED Group ill Group I AU Groups Group II Group III Trip Reliefs All Groups Group I Group II Group ill ,Augo$tin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Plce President Lakes and Inland Water$ Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett M8llgram, Vice President Government Services Rene Lioeaujie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at large • • HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 Port Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norfo]k DECK DEPARTMENT 7 8 2 3 0 16 4 3 0 San Pedro Savannah Tacoma 11 Totals 0 4 3 4 0 0 6 1 3 0 2 61 15 10 7 5 5 3 9 2 10 8 43 0 0 . 2 7 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 12 12 IO 36 2 2 10 0 2 0 0 20 3 5 24 0 4 54 0 0 7 5 6 10 1 6 106 5 5 12 0 0 1 0 28 25 0 3 3 24 0 0 13 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 4800 I (810) 794-4988 ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #IC, 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 30l·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 ('113) 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 Pauphin Island Pkwy,. Mobile, .AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St., New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997~.5404 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norfolk San Pedro Savannah Tacoma Totals 3 5 1 6 2 7 2 3 29 0 I 0 1 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 8 3 Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norfolk · San Pedro Savannah Tacoma 23 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 Harvey, LA New York Norfolk San Pedro Savannah Tacoma Totals 0 0 0 0 0 1 8 1 9 0 0 0 22 8 15 2 0 4 0 9 2 5 1 0 0 29 77 14 22 7 4 0 2 2 4 2 2 0 0 2 0 0 3 2 0 0 0 17 2 8 l 3 2 0 0 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 0 2 0 0 0 15 12 0 0 0 ·o. 1 54 4 12 0 3 2 3 0 1 0 0 9 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port Totals 2 2 4 0 1 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 4 2 3 5 0 0 7 3 5 2 0 0 2 J 4 14 5 1 5 0 6 0 8 41 2 27 0 17 26 '52 3 38 0 . 24 3 10 51 0 8 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 6 0 0 0 3 45 16 14 16 3 0 0 0 15 0 3 26 96 156 139 128 38 30 75 5 4 124 333 210 195 NEW-01lLEANS 3911 'LapalCQ Blvd,, Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY~ H~2 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (7181832-8767 NORFOLK 11 S Third St, Norfolk, VA 23510 (151) 622-1892 PHILADELPBIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 {215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P-0. 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 009Q7 (787) 721-4033 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 SAVANNAH 2220 Bull St., Savannah, GA 31401 (912) 238-4958 ,,, TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510N. Broad Ave., Wilmington. CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seatarel'S LOG Totals All Departments PI CS-FROM-THE-PAST The photos on this page were sent to the Seafarers LOG by Jimmy Soto of Sandpoint, Idaho. In a note accompanying the pictures, he writes: "My first ship with the SIU was in July 1968 on the Overseas Lena, seen here at Danang, Vietnam . AB Tom Shoemaker from St. Louis, Mo. is on my left. He more or less was showing me the ropes. The ship was chartered by the Military Sea Transportation Service. We were carrying supplies for the war. "I was still attending high school in San Pedro, Calif. It was summer break, and most of my friends were either looking for work in service stations or restaurants, but I decided to go to sea . I had a great time that summer traveling throughout Asia. "I'm still sailing deep sea, and my last ship was the Overseas Juneau, sailing as QMED/pumpman." The smaller photo shows Soto doing a little fishing at Knowles Head Anchorage in Valdez Alaska from aboard the Overseas Juneau. 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. September 2002 �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. · T hree inland captains are among the 18 Seafarers announcing their retirements this month. Captains Charles Foster, Stephen Latocha and Lee Roy Lepretre worked at the helms of vessels on the inland waterways for a combined time of more than 60 years. Thirteen of the retirees sailed in the deep sea division, one plied the Great Lakes and four navigated the inland waterways. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of the retiring Seafarers. enhanced his skills in 1977 at the Seafarers training school. He last worked aboard American Hawaii Cruises' Independence. Brother Domingos calls Sacramento, Calif. home. CALVIN HAZZARD, 63, hails from Alabama. Brother Hazzard began his career with the Seafarers in 1969 in his native state in the port of Mobile. His first trip was aboard the AlleDEEP SEA giance, an Interocean Management Corp. vessel. The steward LOUIS B. ANDERSON, 58, department member upgraded his joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The North · skills at the Paul Hall Center in 2001. His last voyage was on the Carolina native first sailed aboard USNS Algol. Brother Hazzard still Waterman Steamship Corp. 's De lives in Alabama. Soto. Brother Anderson worked in all three departments and upgrad- -.. . . . JOHN ed his skills at the Paul Hall CenJACKSON, ter for Maritime Training and 65, started his Education. He last shipped aboard SIU career in the Cape Nome, an American 1972 in Port Overseas Marine vessel. Brother Arthur, Texas. Anderson lives in Virginia Beach, He first went Va. to sea aboard the William T. LONNiE BETTIS, 65, started Steel, a Richmond Corp. vessel. his career with the Seafarers in Born in Beaumont, Texas, he 1962 in the port of Mobile, Ala. worked in the .steward departBrother Bettis worked in the ment. Brother Jackson upgraded steward department, last sailing his skills at the Paul Hall Center on Liberty Maritime Corp. 's Liberty Sun. Brother Bettis makes in Piney Point, Md. in 1985. His last voyage was on Matson his home in Mobile. Navigation's Manukai. Brother Jackson still lives in Beaumont. LEO TE CORDOVA, 65, joined the SIU in 1980 in the port of New York. Born in La Ceiba~ Hon.__.......___............._.....___, duras, he first shipped on the Houston. The deck department member upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. in 1988 and 2001. He last went to sea aboard Waterman Steamship Corp. 's Robert E. Lee. Brother Cordova is a resident of New Orleans. THOMASK. CURTIS, 63, joined the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of Houston. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, L-~~""-=-..L.----' the Indiana native worked in the engine department and was a :frequent upgrader at the Seafarers training school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Curtis' most recent trip to sea was on the USNS Patlifi.nder. He makes his home in Gulfport, Miss. MANUEL DOMINGOS JR., 71, began his career with the SIU in 1961 in San Francisco after serving in the U.S. Air Force. The California-born mariner worked in the engine and steward departments and September 2002 JOSE G. LIMA, 69, joined the Seafarers in 1966 in New Bedford, Mass. Brother Lima's initial voyage was aboard the USNS Bold. Born in Portugal, he worked in a11 three departments while at sea. His last voyage was aboard the USNS Assertive. Brother Lima continues to live in New Bedford. at the Paul Hall Center in 1996, 2000 and 2001. His final voyage was on the Liberator, a USSM vessel. Brother Luse makes his home in Shelton, Wash. GERARDO MORENO, 73, was born in Puerto Rico. He started his SIU career in 1980 in Miami. A veteran of the U.S. Army, Brother Moreno worked in all three departments and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in 1990. Brother Moreno's last voyage was on the Sea-Land Pride. He calls Spring Hill, Fla. home. .------:-=:::-----, STEPHEN SENTENEY, 69, began his SIU career in 1966 in Seattle. He is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. Brother Senteney's maiden voyage with the Seafarers was aboard Bloomfield Steamship Co. 's Alice Brown. Born in Illinois, he shipped in the engine department and upgraded his skills on four occasions at the Seafarers training school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Senteney last went to sea on the Great Land, an Interocean Management Corp. vessel. He is a resident of Everett, Wash. QUITMAN YOUNG, 65, started his SIU career in 1990 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Born in Alabama, Brother Young is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. His first ship was American Hawaii Cruises' Independence. He worked in the steward department, last sailing on the Maj. Stephen W Pless. Brother Young calls Gautier, Miss., home. GREAT LAKES deck and engine department, last sailing aboard the Padre Island. He still lives in Kingston. CHARLES FOSTER, 64, started his career with the SIU in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Foster first worked aboard a Gulf Atlantic Transport Corp. vessel. A member of the deck department, he shipped as a captain. He is a resident of Belhaven, N.C. DAVIDHUBBARD,65, began his career with the STEPHEN LATOCHA, Seafarers in 1970. Brother 61, hails from Hubbard first Harrisburg, Pa. He joined worked aboard the SIU in the Hennepin, a Redland Steamship Co. vessel. 1973 in the The Michigan native shipped in port of the deck and engine departments Philadelphia. Boatman Latocha is a veteran of and enhanced his skills at the Seafarers training school in 1981. · the U.S. Air Force. A deck departBrother Hubbard last sailed on the ment member, Boatman Latocha Richard J Reiss. He resides in shipped as a captain. He last Bay City, Mich. worked on an Interstate Oil Transport Co. vessel and makes his home in Felton, Del. INLAND ROBERT ANDE~ON, 62, hails :froµi Kingston, N. Y. Boatman Anderson began his SIU career in 1978 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Padre Island, operated by North American Trailing Company. Boatman Anderson worked in the LEE ROY LEPRETRE, 61, started his career with the SIU in 1989 in the port of Houston. Born in New Orleans, Boatman Lepretre shipped in the deck department as a captain. He last worked on a Higman Barge Lines vessel. Morse, La., is his home. CLYDE LUSE, 64, joined the Seafarers in 1966 in ers, the SIU-contracted Maritime Overseas Corporation • 1947 The ship is the third in a series of similar vessels ordered by Maritime Overseas and will be NEW YORK-The presence of hundreds of used mainly for the carriage of petroleum white~capped Seafarers prevented strikebreakers from forcing their way through picket lines products in the United States domestic trades. However, the 660-foot Overseas Vwian, with a established by the CIO Shipyard Workers . capacity of 3 30,000 barrels in 15 tanks, has around two Brooklyn plants of the Bethlehem been constructed so it Steel Company. The rr.:::=============================:=;;i can be easily convertlines were set up by ed to carry as much Locals 12 and 13 as 1,500,000 bushels more than 12 weeks of grain. ago, but early this week the company stated that it would 1992 "throw its gates open" Responding to sepato any employees who wanted to return, a t=:=;:;;;;;;:;;;;;;:;;;;;:=;:;;;;;:=;:;;;;;:=:=:=:=:=:=:=~ rate stonns which battered Hawaii and move that the union Guam, Seafarers sailed ships out of hann's way immediately branded as "strike-breaking." and then provided supplies and other aid for The regional representative of the Shipyard the victims. Workers called upon the Seafarers for help In Hawaii, the SIU-crewed SS Independence and, with the same speed that the SIU has and SS Constitution took different courses of shown in the past, aid was dispatched to the 29th Street and 56th Street, Brooklyn, plants action to avoid damage from Hurricane lnild, which struck most of the islands September of the company. 12. The Constitution sailed out of Nawiliwlli, All the SIU members who went to join the Kauai-the island which took the brunt of the picket lines did so on a volunteer basis. storm-early that morning and traveled to a safe area, while the Independence safely Seattle. He 1968 JIM CHIEN LIU, 66, began his SIU · · career in 1996. . His first ship ~\ was the Inde. ;. pendence, · operated by - American Hawaii Cruises. Born in China, he shipped in the deck and steward departments. Brother Liu upgraded his skills at the Seafarers training school in Piney Point, Md. He is a resident of Seattle. served in both the U.S. Air Force and U.S. i......c:.,..............._ _~ Air Force Reserve. Brother Luse first sailed under the SIU colors aboard the Flor, an Altair Steamship Co. vessel. The Montanaborn mariner enhanced his skills Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG THIS MONTH JN SIU HISTORY The Overseas Vwian, a 37,500 deadweighHon tanker capable of cruising in a range of 12,000 miles because of her unique design, has been launched at the Bethlehem Steel Corporation's yard in Sparrows Point, Md. and is being readied for winter delivery to its own- remained docked in Kahului, Maui •••• On August 28, Typhoon Omar and its 155mph wind gusts hammered Guam .... Among the ships which took part in the initial aid operation were the MV 1st Lt. Jack Lummus and the fleet tug USNS Navajo, both manned by Seafarers. Seafarers LOii 17 ~- - �Final Departures DEEP SEA EUGENE BENT Pensioner Eugene Bent, 74, passed away May 30. Brother Bent started his career with the Seafarers in 1951 in the port ofNewYork. Born in New Jersey, be was a U.S. Army veteran. Brother Bent first shipped for the SIU aboard a Cabin Tanker Inc. vessel. The engine department member last sailed on the Sea-Land Navigator. Brother Bent started receiving his pension in 1989. He made his home in Hayward, Calif. WILLIAM R. CARROLL Pensioner William R. Carroll, 78, passed away May 9. The Ohio-born mariner started his career with the SIU in 1944 in the port of Baltimore. He first went to sea aboard the Del Sol, a Delta Steamship Lines vessel. A member of the engine department, he last shipped on the Charles L. Brown. Brother Carroll started receiving payments for his retirement in 1994 and lived in Honolulu. HUANCHENG Pensioner Huan Cheng, 70, died April 26. He joined the SIU in 1989 in the port of Honolulu. Born in China, Brother Cheng worked _,,. primarily aboard vessels operated by American Hawaii Cruises, including the Independence. The engine department member started collecting retirement stipends in 1998. He lived in Kekaha, Hawaii. ..-------~ JAY COHEN Pensioner Jay Cohen, 81, passed away May 5. Brother Cohen started his SIU career in 1952 in New Orleans. His initial voyage was aboard a Nautilus Petroleum Carriers vessel. Born in Texas, Brother Cohen shipped in the engine department. He last worked on the Sea-Land Portland. Brother Cohen began receiving his pension in 1985 and lived in Seattle. ....-r~,,.--,---==-----.. ROBERT COLANTTI Brother Robert Colantti, 55, died May 23. He joined the Seafarers in 1963 in the port ofNew YOik Brother Colantti's maiden voyage for the SID was aboard theAlcoa Mmter, an Alcoa Steamship Co. vessel. Born in New York, he shipped in the engine department He also was a long time member of the shoregang. Brother Colantti lived in Puerto Rico. JOHN CUNNINGHAM Pensioner John Cunningham, 83, passed away April 1. Brother Cunningham started his SIU career in 1953 in the port of New York. His first voyage was aboard a Sinclair 18 Seafarers LOB Oil Corp. vessel. Born in New York, he shipped in the deck department. Brother Cunningham last went to sea on the Amco Trader. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1984 and resided in St. Petersburg, Fla. THEODORE DROBINS Pensioner Theodore Drobins, 78, passed away May 26. Brother Drobins joined the Seafarers in 1953 in the port .....,...................J of Baltimore and worked in the deep sea and inland divisions. The Pennsylvaniabom mariner was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Brother Drobins shipped in the deck department and last worked on a Moran Towing Co. vessel. He began receiving his pension in 1985 and lived in Baltimore. ROBERT ENKE Pensioner Robert Enke, 65, died May 18. He started bis career with the Seafarers in 1978 in New Orleans. Brother Enke's initial SIU voyage was aboard the Walter Rice, a Reynolds Metal Co. vessel. Born in Brazil, he shipped in the deck department. Brother Enke last went to sea aboard the Overseas New Orleans. He started receiving payments for his retirement earlier this year and lived in Kenner, La. CHRISTOS FLOROUS Pensioner Ghrist.0s Florous, 78, died April 27. Brother Florous started his SIU career in 1968 in Yokohoma, Japan. His initial voyage was aboard the Transwestem, a Hudson Waterways vessel. Born in Greece, he shipped in the deck department. Brother Florous' final voyage was aboard Seahawk Management's Falcon Leader. He started receiving his pension in 1998 and lived in East Elmhurst, N.Y. LEON LEVIN Pensioner Leon Levin, 77, died May 9. Brother Levin started his SIU career in 1966 in the port of New York. He was a U.S. Army veteran. Born in Pennsylvania, he worked in the engine as well as steward departments. Brother Levin last sailed aboard Puerto Rican Marine Management's Nuevo San Juan. He started receiving retirement stipends in 1990 and made his home in Mays Landing, N.J. JANET MAURER Sister Janet Maurer, 47, passed away April 23. She joined the Seafarers in 1989 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Her initial voyage was aboard the Independence, an American Hawaii Cruises vessel. Sister Maurer worked in the steward department and last went to sea on American Steamship's Cape Blanco. The Pennsylvania-born mariner was a resident of Ormond Beach, Fla. GEORGE McKENNA Pensioner George McKenna, 83, passed away April 11. Brother McKenna joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of New York. He initially sailed aboard Sinclair Oil Corp. 's Bull Finch. Born in New York, Brother McKenna worked in the deck department. He last went to sea on the Sea-Land Consumer. Brother McKenna began collecting payments for his retirement in 1989 and resided in Suffolk, Va. GEORGE MELEAR Pensioner George Melear, 75, died May 17. Brother Melear started his SIU career in 1969 in the port of Houston. The U.S. Army veteran was born in Texas and worked in the engine department. Brother Melear began receiving his pension in 1991 and lived in Houston. MANNY MITTLER Pensioner Manny Mittler, 81, passed away June 13. Born in New York, Brother Mittler began his career with the MC&S. His initial voyage was aboard Delta Steamship Lines' Santa Maria. A member of the steward department, he last sailed on the President Taft. Brother Mittler started receiving payments for his retirement in 1982 and called Medford, Ore. home. ALVAR NORDSTROM Pensioner Alvar Nordstrom, 86, died May 9. Brother Nordstrom started his career with the MC&S in 1978 in San Francisco. Born in Finland, he initially sailed on Delta Steamship Lines' Santa Magdalena. The steward department member last worked aboard the Independence, an American Hawaii Cruises vessel. dr m Brother ordstrom st his pension in 1983 and lived in San Francisco. STANLEY RUZYSKI Pensioner Stanley Rusyski, 83, died May 30. He started his SIU career in 1942 in the port of New York. Brother Ruzyski first went to sea aboard the Alcoa Patriot. Born in Canada, he shipped in the deck department. Brother Ruzyski last worked on the SeaLand Newark. He began collecting payments for his retirement in 1983 and lived in Seattle. CHARLES D. SKEEN Brother Charles D. Skeen, 63, passed away May 13. He joined the Seafarers in 1997 in Detroit. Brother Skeen was born in Virginia and first shipped aboard American Steamship Co. 's Buffalo. The engine department member last sailed on Pronav Ship Management's LNG Taurus. Brother Skeen was a resident of Bidwell, Ohio. LARRY STANBACK Brother Larry Stanback, 51 , passed away May 16. Brother Stanback joined the SIU in 1986 in the port of Norfolk, Va. A native of Virginia, be was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Brother Stanback's initial voyage was aboard the UNSN Vindicator, an SIU-crewed vessel operated by Sea Mobility, Inc. He worked in all three departments and last sailed on Interocean Management Corp. 's Gopher State. Brother Stanback called Portsmouth, Va. home. LEROY TEMPLE Pensioner Leroy Temple, 74, passed away May 20. The U.S. Army veteran joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Temple first went to sea aboard the Josefina, a Liberty Navigation Trading Co. vessel. A deck department member, he last sailed on the Overseas Alabama. Brother Temple lived in Stockton, Calif. and began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1992. ONETIA WESTLIN Pensioner Onetia Westlin, 70, passed away April 25. Sister Westlin started her career with the MC&S in 1981 in Seattle. Her initial voyage was aboard the Santa Juana, a Delta Steamship vessel. Sister Westlin shipped in the steward department and last went to sea aboard Matson Navigation's Ewa. She started receiving retirement payments in 1998 and made her home in Seattle. LEON YEARWOOD Pensioner Leon Yearwood, 96, died April 4. Brother Yearwood began his career with the MC&S. The steward department member visited many world ports during his career while sailing aboard American-flagged vessels. Brother Yearwood started receiving his pension in 1973 and was a resident of Bronx, N. Y. ANTHONY ZIGGO Brother Anthony Ziggo, 56, died April 15. He joined the Seafarers in 1978 and first shipped aboard Manhattan Tankers Corp. 's Manhattan. 0 fa, ro er Ziggo shipped in the deck department. His final voyage was on the Sea-Land Liberator. Brother Ziggo called San Diego home. J - GREAT LAKES EDWARD ELDER Pensioner Edward Elder, 68, died May 9 . Brother Elder began his SIU career in 1976 in Detroit. His first SIU voyage was aboard the J.S. Young, an American Steamship Co. vessel. The South Carolina-born mariner shipped in the engine department and last worked on Bell Steamship's Saint Clair. Brother Elder started receiving his pension in 1999 and was a resident of Campobello, S.C. INLAND RICHARD CONWAY '""""""""'""""I Pensioner Richard Conway, 71, passed away April 5. Boatman Conway began his career with the Seafarers in 1969 in the port of New York. He was a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard and first sailed on a Moran Towing Co. vessel. Born in Massachusetts, he shipped in the steward department. Boatman Conway began receiving his pension in 1993. He lived in New Jersey. CHESTER FOSTER Pensioner Chester Foster, 77, died May 24. Boatman Foster worked in the inland and deep sea divisions during his career. He was a member of the deck department. Boatman Foster last sailed on a Mi°chigan Tankers vessel and began receiving his pension in 1991. He lived in Cleveland, Miss. MARVIN HAUF r--:;:;::::=.,.,'!!"l'l"._:;a_ Pensioner Marvin Hauf, 83, passed away July 19. Boatman Hauf launched his SIU career in 1944 in the port ofNewYork and sailed in the inland as well as the deep sea divisions. Born in Maryland, he first worked aboard a Bay Dreding Corp. vessel. The deck department member last worked on a Liberty Navigation Trading Co. vessel. Boatman Hauf began receiving his pension in 1977 and made his home in Norfolk, Va. MORRIS JORGENSEN Pensioner Morris Jorgensen, 80, died April 6. Boatman Jorgensen started his career with the Seafarers in 1983 in Port Arthur, Texas. The Texas-born mariner shipped in the deck department as a captain and worked primarily aboard Hvide Marine vessels. He started receiving his pension in 1982 and was a resident of Jasper, Texas. WILLIAM LOTZ P-ensrone William Lotz, 88, passed away June 19. Boatman Lotz joined the SIU in 1985 in Port Arthur, Texas. He first worked aboard an Ellis Towing & Transport Co. vessel. A member of the deck department, the Texas-born 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. LAWRENCE PAUL Pensioner Lawrence Paul, 69, died June 26. Boatman Paul started his career with the Seafarers in 1969 in the port of Philadelphia. He first worked aboard an Interstate Oil Transport vessel. The North Carolina-born mariner shipped in the deck department as a captain. He last sailed on a Taylor Marine Towing Co vessel. Boatman Paul began receiving retirement stipends in 1988 and was a resident of Quakerstown, Pa. ALLEN SEGREST Pensioner Allen Segrest, 68, passed away March 20. He joined the Seafarers in 1979 in New Orleans. A veteran of the U.S. 1 - -_ _..___ __,.. Army, Boatman Segrest was born in Memphis, Tenn. The steward department member. worked primarily aboard Delta Queen Steamboat Co. vessels during his career. Boatman Segrest began receiving his pension in 1995 and made his home in his native state. September 2002 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union s,bipboard minutes as possible, On occasion, because of spa• · limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minute$ first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Th0$8 issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt 11/ the ships' minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG far publication. MAERSK ALASKA (Maersk Line, Ltd.), May 9---Chairman Cesar A. Gutierrez, Secretary Felipe Orlanda, Educational Director Frank J. Michalski Jr., Deck Delegate Ernest M. Richardson, Engine Delegate Agustin Clotter, Steward Delegate Samuel Johnson. Chairman announced arrival May 13 in Sunny Point, N.C., with payoff next day. Ship then scheduled to sail to Germany. Educational director stressed need for mariners to have required STCW training. Steward thanked deck and engine department members for help in keeping crew lounge and mess hall clean. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New dryer requested. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. CLEVELAND (Sealift, Inc.), June 23---Chairman Kevin 0. Nattoo, Secretary Robert G. Maschmeier, Educational Director Angelito S. Pertobal, Deck Delegate William Powell, Steward Delegate Alice Poree. Chairman informed crew members there will be no reimbursement for workboots. He led discussion about foreign nationals aboard ship and requested copies of union contract with Sealift be made available to crew members. He also asked for clarification of e "al hands." Secretary . · reminded..t;hoSCT · ea roo can ' hfr h linen for replacement mariner. Educational director suggested e ~one take advantage of upgrading classes offered at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Some disputed OT reported in deck and engine departments. Recommendation made for fumigation of ship. Next port: Houston or Lake Charles. DEFENDER (USSM), June 23Chairman William J. Dean, Secretary Raymond S. Garcia, Educational Director Henry L. Paquin, Deck Delegate Benedicto P. Miranda, Engine Delegate Gualberto Salaria, Steward Delegate John Bennet. Chairman thanked everyone for smooth voyage and advised crew members make sure all shipping documents are up to date. Educational director Celebrating the 4•h They may have been at sea, but crew members aboard the Endurance (USSM) celebrated the Fourth of July like many of their shoreside brothers and sisters-with chicken, steak, hamburgers and hotdogs sizzling on the grill. September 2002 spoke about upgrading opportunities at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food. Next port: Oakland, Calif. EL MORRO (IUM), June 29qiairman Steven W. Copeland, Secretary Kris A. Hopkins, Educational Director Sheldon S. Greenberg, Deck Delegate William Rackley, Engine Delegate Michael N. Blue Jr., Steward Delegate Duane K. Washington. Chairman reminded everyone to be respectful of others aboard ship and keep noise down in passageways. Steward thanked DEUs Cecil Edwards and Gary Timmons for good job on sanitary. He also thanked Chief Cook Matthew Scott and his steward department for their fine efforts. Educational director urged crew members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer announced $200 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Letter from headquarters regarding tours of duty was received and posted. New dryers for laundry room expected soon. Suggestion made to remove age requirement for retirement. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. HM/ BRENTON REEF (Seabulk Tankers), June 29---Chairman . Dav S. Cole l ecretaf}' ' Timothy A. Laird, Educational Director James L. McDaniel, Engine Delegate Charles Jensen. Chairman announced payoff on arrival June 30 in Pascagoula, Miss. He mentioned that solution to question of e-mail use aboard ship is being worked out. Educational director spoke about opportunities available at Piney Point, both upgrading and academic. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made that Seabulk use standard tanker contract and that 75-day rotations be made available. Everyone asked to try and separate plastic items from regular trash. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good job. INNOVATOR (USSM), June 30Chairman Abdulla R. Alwasee~, Secretary Jose M. Bayani, Educational Director Olie E. Webber, Deck Delegate James D. Morgan, Engine Delegate Shawn L. Clark, Steward Delegate Merucrion Abuan. Chairman praised entire crew for job well done and pleasant voyage with no accidents. He announced payoff in port of Long Beach, Calif. and wished everyone a happy Independence Day. Secretary stressed importance of contributing to SPAD when applying for vacation pay and thanked crew members for helping keep crew lounge and mess hall clean. Educational director talked about how upgrading one's skills at Paul Hall Center can lead to better pay and job security. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Six new mattresses requested for unlicensed crew. Letter of thanks received from the Owens family, rescued by the Innovator on May 20 from aboard their sailboat. /TB BALTIMORE (Sheridan Transportation), June 26-Chairman Jeffrey H. Kass, Secretary Pedro Ramos Mena, Educational Director David S. Fricker, Engine Delegate Steven Pollard, Steward Delegate Elsayed T. Amasha. Chairman spoke about importance of contributing to SPAD, upgrading skills at Piney Point and keeping noise down in passageways, among other issues. He stated he was awaiting response from union regarding old business of getting day's pay in lieu of day off. Educational director noted $200 in ship's movie fund. Some disputed OT reported in engine department. Thanks given to SA for excellent salad bar and for keeping mess hall so clean. Next ports: Cherry Pt., Wash.; Long Beach, Calif LIBERTY SPIRIT (Liberty Maritime), June 23---Chairman Ralph W. Gibbs, Secretary Lito G. Acosta, Educational Director Daniel A. Rodriguiz, Deck Delegate Ron Owens, Engine Delegate Samuel Akuffo, Steward Delegate Nadine Butler. Secretary noted bags for dirty linen to be placed on each deck for those getting off. Educational director advised mariners to take advantage of upgrading courses at Piney Point and improve job security. All departments reported five-day restriction to ship. Suggestion made to schedule laundry times (to reduce noise in rooms next to laundry room). Request made for new mattresses and linen as well as juice machine, paper cups and paper plates. Clarification requested on policy for washing cargo holds each day. Next port: Portland, Ore. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), June 23---Chairman Joseph W. Moore, Secretary Ronald J. Davis, Educational Director Joseph B. Dunnam, Deck Delegate Floyd Patterson, Engine Delegate Joseph Williams IV, Steward Delegate Mark Werfarien. ·Cfiarrman announced payoff July 2 in New Orleans. Room inspection will take place at that time. Those getting off should clean rooms and turn in keys. Educational director spoke about educational opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members informed of 3 percent increase in overtime and penalty rates as of July 1. Vote of thanks given to steward department, especially for great barbecues. OVERSEAS NEW YORK (ATC), June 28---Chairman Christopher J. Kicey, Secretary Nancy S. Heyden, Educational Director Edward H. Self. Chairman announced payoff June 30 in Cherry Point, Wash, From there, ship scheduled to go to San Francisco, probably for a few days at anchor. Bosun thanked crew for hard work, with special thanks to riding gang for all the painting they did. All rooms now have satellite cables in them. Anyone who buys a TV can get a dish box from the captain. Secretary thanked DEU John Stewart and GSU Ahmed Nasser for outstanding sanitary jobs. He also thanked entire crew for helping maintain common areas. Educational director stressed importance of supporting union through SPAD donations and upgrading skills at Piney Point. He noted that movie library has been inventoried and tidied up and asked that all movies be returned to officer's lounge when finished with them. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made to include medical benefits for those seafarers who take early retirement. Crew unanimously thanked Bosun Kicey for being a great shipmate, terrific ship's chairman and great bosun. Crew also acknowledged retirement of AB Patrick F. Mathes, who was making his final voyage on the Overseas New York after 43 years of going to sea. "Enjoy your retirement." PACIFIC (CSX Lines), June 30Chairman Benedict B. Born, Secretary Robert P. Mosley, Educational Director David M. Mitchell, Deck Delegate Julius C. Udan. Bosun spoke about importance of donating to SPAD and explained how it benefits SIU members. He advised everyone to check in with customs and immigration at payoff in Tacoma as well as with the port agent and to Beach, Calif. He noted mooth voyage with no accidents. Secretary and educational director added their thanks for smooth voyage and recommended seafarers take advantage of educational opportunities available at Paul Hall Center and contribute to SPAD for future of maritime industry. New chairs received for crew mess hall. Treasurer stated $600 in ship's fund. No beefs reported. Chief cook requested more OT for his department. Several suggestions made for next contract regarding standby relief and parking at dock. Clarification of new contract Birthdays =Personalized Cake on the Endurance Chief Steward Russell B. Beyschau (right) always tries to make each fellow crew member's birthday a special one with a decorated cake. This one was for "Darrell" aboard the USSM vessel Endurance. leave rooms clean and with fresh linen for new crew member. Secretary urged mariners to take upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. He also reminded them to keep all necessary shipping documents up to date. Educational director suggested seafarers read monthly LOG to keep abreast of union bu ines ·· industry. Treasurer stated $223 in cookout fund and $346 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for more information on money purchase pension plan. Steward department given vote of thanks for job well done. Two unlicensed apprentices on board this trip-Larry Howard and Chris Bryant-who are both doing a very good job. After payoff in Tacoma, ship heading to Oakland, Calif., Hawaii, Guam and Hong Kong. USNS BOWDITCH (Dyn Marine), June 24-Chairman Donald G. Rezendes, Secretary Francisco Madsen, Educational Director Gary Torres, Deck Delegate David Manix, Steward Delegate Leocadio Colon. Chairman talked about repairs done in shipyard and welcomed all new members on board. He thanked engine department for their help during the shipyard period, especially getting air conditioner working and water and sewage system on line. Secretary noted everything running smoothly. Educational director offered assistance to anyone interested in upgrading skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held about need to have all shipping documents and medical records up to date, including having immunizations entered on medical records. Information requested on insurance (health, dental) issues, including list of accepted hospitals/clinics/doctors. ENDURANCE (USSM), July 9Chairman Romeo Lugtu, Secretary Russell B. Beyschau, Educational Director Tesfaye Gebregziabher, Engine Delegate Steve Roberts, Steward Delegate Jimmy L. Williams. Chairman announced payoff July 11 in Long requested. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done, especially for great July 4 barbecue (photos on this page of barbecue and birthday taken by Russell B. Beyschau). MAJ. STEPHEN W. PLESS (Waterman Steamship Corp.), July 2-Chairma c0bert agoed, Secretary Linda L. McPhefridge, Educational Director Jan Morawski, Deck Delegate Kenneth R. Lacour, Engine Delegate Brian W. Monnerjahn, Steward Delegate Frederick A. Gilbert. Chairman announced upcoming payoff and crew change in port of Klaipeda, Lithuania on July 8. Return U.S. port not yet known. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for union to check into possibility of combining pre-sign on and yearly physicals. Resolved to start ship's fund and elect treasurer at next meeting. Request made for new TV antenna as well as clothes irons in both crew laundries. Copies of online newspapers also would be appreciated. Crew members expressed displeasure at current transportation arrangements and hoped for some solution. MARINE COLUMBIA (ATC), July 5---Chairman Gregory L. Hamilton, Secretary Amy K. Rippel, Educational Director Glenn Barnes, Deck Delegate Pedro V. Ramos, Engine Delegate Rolando E. Bundang, Steward Delegate Patricia J. Geras. Bosun informed crew they should go through chain of command when an grievance or beef arises-and not go directly to captain. He stated he has tour of duty certificates to be filled out at end of tour in order to collect 16 days vacation. Educational director urged everyone to attend upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center and keep STCW and other required merchant marine documents up to date. Treasurer noted nearly $3,000 in ship's fund, although new satellite system ($2, 100) not yet paid for. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. Seafarers LOG 19 �Hot Times In the Gulf Litten to the Editor (Editors note: the Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writers intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) ABs Elshawa, Castlllo ~lstlngulsh Themselves I just got back to the office after responding to the fire aboard . the MIV Patriot. Titan Salvage fixed the tug and sent a team over the water from Ft. Lauderdale. I led the team as salvage master, and the job was completed without incident; the ship is safely secured in Charleston. Prior to our boarding the vessel, all non-essential crew had been removed from the Patriot, by way of tug, to the sister ship Mormac Sun. When we boarded the ship, it was drifting in the Gulf Stream with six people on board, two of which were SIU members-Able Seamen Zach Elshawa and Jose Castillo. In my initial meeting with the Patriot master, I asked him who was still aboard, and he informed me that the chief engineer, first assistant, second assistant, two able seamen and he remained. I was initially surprised that no other deck officers were aboard and that instead two ABs remained, but it didn't take long to figure out why the captain had kept whom he did. Both Zach and Jose are two of the finest seamen I have ever had the pleasure of working with. During the beat of battle, both men remained alert, attentive and focused on jobs that they were assigned. Both men were smart, tireless, safety-conscious and vital assets to ·our response. And this was after they had spent 30 . hours on the deck of a dead ship after having secured spaces for release of the C02 system, including the taping of vents as heat and smoke fought their efforts. Prior to our arrival, they had sustained themselves on nothing more than lifeboat rations. Both of these men are a credit to the SIU and the American Merchant Marine. I would be proud to sail anywhere with them. . . . These men are SIU heroes and you should be proud of them. Dan Schwall Ft. Lauderdale, Florida Seafarer Commended For 'MercY' Voluntarlsm I am writing this letter in appreciation of a man from the SIU who volunteered his services on board one of our hospital ships. Mr. Ed Lobb (QMED) volunteered his time when our ship, the Caribbean Mercy, was schedule for a move. His service as an engineer aboard our ship was exemplary, and he went beyond the caJl of duty in serving with us. He left his friends and family to help our ship make a strategic move in preparation .for its medical outreach in Honduras. Mercy Ships is an all-volunteer organization and operates three hospital ships around the world, serving the poor and . needy. I greatly appreciate Mr. Lobb's service to our organization and, in tum, to those we serve, the poorest of the poor. Steve Wargo Marine Staffing Manager, Mercy Ships Rescued Owens Famlly Thanks Innovator Crew (This letter was sent to Capt. Bob Lamb and the crew of the SeaLand Innovator, and then forwarded to the LOG. The rescue was reported on page 7 of the July issue.) We thank you so much for coming to our rescue on May 20. You and your awesome crew went out of your way and totally over and beyond the call of duty. You helped us achieve a safe transfer from our disabled vessel to yours. This was the hardest thing we ever had to do. We can't begin to tell you what your hospitality meant to us. We're at a loss for words, but we will never forget what you did for us. Thank you so much. Sept. 2-7, 2002 Seafarers LOG Second Mate Stephen Barry Aboard the USNS Watkins The Owens Family (Harvey, Krista, Taysia and kitty) Vista, California Union Label Week 20 Greetings from the Persian Gulf. Here is a shot of the USNS Watkins pulling into Ash Shuaybah, Kuwait for "Operation Vigilant Hammer." It was l 20F in the shade. Sweat evaporated off you as it hit the air. You had to drink 8 oz. of water every 15 minutes to stay properly hydrated. We were the first LMSR to drop off the metal. All was a sue- · cess, the download was done in 39 hours when originally estimat. ed at 48-72. That's a piece of cargo every two minutes. · A big Bravo Zulu from the Army. As always the SIU crew was paramount and did an exemplary job. The Captain (Dave Smith) gave the crew a big Bravo _ Zulu. Also sending photos (see below) of our U.S. Army armed guard ("sea grunts" we call them!). They mounted 50-caliber machine guns on the bridge wings. These boys were happy to get out of the desert (and eat some dessert!) for a while arid eat like kings under the stewardship of Mike Briscoe. We had an extra 30 people on board and the steward dept. stood to the challenge. Giving credit where it's due, the steward department consists of Briscoe, relief Steward Chris Cassie, Chief Cook Raul Napoles, ACU Ali Hussein and SAs Harry Hernandez, Shad ~arrington and Ali M. Abdulla. Bravo Zulu to all! Union Goods and Services: They're Everywhere! If you can eat it, drink it, or ride it ... If you can sit on it, play on it, work in it or stay in it ... If you can tell time with it, build with it or cook with it ... If you watch it, listen to it or keep things cold with it ... If you use it for work or just to have fun . .. You can find one made by union workers. But, did you also know that union members treat you when you're sick and help you stay well. They fight fires, fly airplanes, drive buses and trucks ... They build houses and buildings, churches and schools ... They make trains, airplanes and boats and the engines that move them ... They build autos and trucks and the roads they follow ... They run railroads and subways and ships big and small ... They make glasses to wear .. . and the kind that you drink from ... They keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer ... They make music and movies, and they film TV news . . . They write newspapers and print them, take pictures and tint them . . . They do thousands of things to make life more secure. So, look for the union label-just to be sure. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters n ·istrict/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 20_746 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 hav:e 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. September 2002 �SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRABIN6 COURSE SCHEDULE Engine Upgrading Courses schedu~~ .~f 9<>~~8,~~,\~t !~:i:~~~!J°!'.lfl . Gen~t}tfor M~rltitne ill .\ is Jhe . ucatio~ ~n ~riJ;l~~'.: E .·- -~;; ¥~: fronl' -September-through December .,~ll:PfOgtam~ a!:e,gear~~:t? ~J'l'f>'Xtflhe..job skills of Seafarers and to promote 'eric~ .J}l .~ti~~ . ~11dJ1Slry} ·., . . .- · ftijis.scheaule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, Date of Arrival Date Completion Oiler September 16 November 11 ()ctober 25 ··· December 20 QMED • Junior Engineer September 30 December20 Welding September 23 October 21 November 18 October 3 Novembers December6 Engine Utility (EU) October 20 November 25 November 15 December 20 Course ··&W-~; i11dustry and- in times of conflict~the nation's security. t;ntS·· attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their s"'start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of , start Uates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be l made Yor Saturday. Seafarers xyho have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Safety Specialty Courses Beck Upgrading Courses · ;;\..utomatic .Ra~ar Plotting Aids* f"tnllst have radar urtlimited) Bridge Resource Management (BRM) - Inland Arrival Date of Date Compl~tioy September 30 October28 November22 September 23 October 14 September 27 October 18 September 30 October21 November 11 · J>ecemher 9· October 4 Oc.tober 25 November 15 Decemb~r 13 October 25 Basic Fire Fighting/STCW · Arrival Date Date of Completion October 7 Decemberl October 18 December 13 September 27 October4 October 18 September 23 . , ,S eptember 30 October 14 October28 October 18 November 15 December 13 September 27 October25 Academic Department Courses ,.. , Novemb~rJ October 7 General education and .college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support · pr~gr~m . courses are offered througMut 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 app lication, COPIES of the follo wing must be sent: One hundred and twenty UPGRADING APPLICATION (I 20) days seatime fo r the previous year, one day in th e last six months prior to the date Name~--------------------------~ Address----------------------------'----~ y our class starts, USMMD (z -card) front and back, front page of y our union book indicating y our department and seniority, and qualify ing seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All FOWT. AB and QMED aJl.plicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $280 with their application. The Jl.avment should be made with a monev order only. pavable to LMSS. COURSE Telephone _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Deep Sea Member D BEGIN END DATE DATE , Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 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 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ __ LAST VESSEL: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ Rating: _ _ _ __ Date On: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? D Yes D No 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: D Yes Primary language spoken September 2002 D No CPR: D Yes D No Date Off: SIGNATURE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ DATE NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only ifyou present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Admissions Office, PO Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or Jax 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. 9;o2 Seafarers LOB 21 - �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Oass 630 - Unlicensed apprentices who graduated from class 630 are (from left, kneeling) Bryan Fletcher, Eddie Lastimosa Jr., (first row, standing) Nadia Wright, John Shea, Desmond Jones, Ralph .Williams Ill, Jerrard Key, Clinton Betties, Eileen Lammers, (second row, standing) Christian Rosado, Christopher Rosado, David Barber, Lonnell Carter, Raymond Flores, Demond Williams and Roy Logan. QMED - Earning their QMED certification July 18 are (in alphabetical order) Eli Ade, Daniel Avery, Mark Campbell, John Collins Jr., Joshua Davenport, Jon Hemba, Richard Huffman, Paul Kucan, Steven Lombardi, Mark Maduro, Joseph Mccrosky, James McDonald, Clarence Murphy, Niko Nomsales, Celina Ortega, Robert Pinkard, Jason Roate, Justino Sanchez, Lane Schroeder, Michael Sims, Donna Sylvia and Craig Verdine. (Note: Not all are pictured.) CBR-D-The CBR-D (chemical, biological, radiological defense class), held aboard the Richard G. Matthiesen in Guam recently, was taught by Paul Hall Center Instructor Stan Beck (fourth from the left). Awaiting their certificates are (in no specific order) Salvatore J. Ali, Dana Naze, Michael Bowers, Raymond Jones, Ahmed Quraish, Marion Brown and Kenneth Brown. Government Vessels - Upgrading Seafarers who successfully completed the government vessels course June 28 are (from left, front row) Carolyn Milstead, Martin Zeidenberg, Geronimo Bareng, (second row) Willie Waddell, Glen James, Stanley Kordinak, Robert Odmark and Jennifer Senner. Their instructor, Greg Thompson, is at far right. ARPA- Welding- Seafarers who successfully completed the welding course June 28 are (in With their instructor, Mike Smith (left), are graduates of the ARPA class, which ended June 28. From the left are Smith, George Payne, Donald Lash and Douglas Carson. alphabetical order) Gregorio Alvarez, Manuel Gasper, Timothy Jackson, Anthony Neathery, James Ortiz, Carmus Peet, William Sholley, David Wade and Clarence Murphy. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, stands in back row (with plaid shirt). Computer Lab Classes In photo at left, Bernardino Eda (left) and Richard Ho proudly show their certificates of achievement for completion of the Computer Basics/ Windows Operating System course. With them is their instructor, Rick Prucha. At right, Dimitre Dimitrov (seated) displays three certificates he received for computer courses he successfully completed under the instruction of Rick Prucha. - 22 Seafarers LOG Welding- Completing the two-week welding course July 19 are (from left) Buzzy Andrews (instructor), Rahul Bagchi, Lloyd Marsh, Dwaine Nolte, Gregory Johns and Ivan Ingram. September 2002 �Paul Hall Center Classes Tankerman (PIC) Barge - Inland boatmen who graduated from the tankerman (PIC) barge class recently are (from left) Jim Shaffer (instructor), Peter Funk, Ronald Corgey, George Wyatt, William Harvell, George Sadler, Kenneth Graybill, Bruce Murphy, Marc Grantham, Lon Piner and Daniel Milligan. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL)- Completing the tanker familiarization/assistant cargo (DL) course July 26 are (in alphabetical order) Mian Ahmad, David Ayou, David Ballard, Benjamin Barnes, Clebert Berthelot, Jose Boza, Bernardino Eda, James Gasca, Phillip Harmon, David Hawkins, Arthur Hurd, Nathaniel Lynch, Lyle Mccorison, Lee McMillan, Patricia McNulty, John Mensah, Antonio Miana, Lawrence Richardson, Wilfredo Rodriguez, Emani Viii, Henry Whitt and Nevis Williams. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is at far right. Government Vessels Upgrading Seafarers who graduated from the government vessels course July 26 are (from left, front row) Robert Mcfeeley, Michael Sims, Timothy Tyree, (second row) Phillip Widmer, Jonathan Carter, Brian McAllister and Clarence Murphy. Their instructor, Greg Thompson, is in back in white shirt. Marine Electrical Maintenance- Working their way up the engine department curriculum are July 27 graduates of the marine electrical maintenance course. They are (in alphabetical order) Ehtesham Ahmed, Lawrence Banks, Andre Carriere, David Cuffe, George Grigorovitch, Antoine Jennings, Darrell McDonald, Lamar Parker, Allen Pryor, Ron Schexnayder, James Tyson, Andrew VanBourg, Jevon Vontoure and Leroy Williams. Any student who has registered for a class and GMDSSCompleting the GMSDSS course July 19 are (in alphabetical order) James Braddy, Michael Daniels, Bruno Kalmeta, Daniel Marks, Mark Schultz, Phillip Spoerle and Alvin York. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is at far right. finds -for whatever reasonthat he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may take that place. Engine Utility- Unlicensed apprentices in phase Ill of their training completed the engine utility course Aug. 8. They are (from left, front row) Christopher Cash, James Grasseth, Brian Shaw, LeRoy Dominguez, (second row) Jay Henderson (instructor), Jeffrey Thomas, Daniel Amesbury, Gregory McKinnon, Bradley Flowers and John Jackson. Basic Safety Training Classes Carl Wonderly, Hamdi Hussein, Bruce Watson, James Sullivan Carma Petersen, William Rios, Carmine Bova, Jorge Santana, Donald Garrison, Thomas Sybo, Thomas Hulsart Jr., Kenneth Kitchen, John Howard, Jeffrey Carter, Thomas Bert, Sherman Anderson, Douglas Burch and Stan Beck (instructor, at far right)). September 2002 Dimitre Dimitrov, Sherwood Foster, Steven Gray, Elton Jeansonne, Charlie Pierce, Robert Rush, Zaid Said, Donlee Wilson, Gerasimos Ballas, Franz Eder, Russell Dean and Stan Beck (instructor, at far left). Seafarers LOS 23 �to ew .... Tacoma Port Agent Bryan Powell (right) meets with Seafarers aboard the newly crewed ATB Sea Reliance in Ferndale, Wash. He said that everyone was very pleased with conditions aboard the ATB and with the new contract. Everything is running smoothly aboard the new SIU-crewed tug Sea Reliance and its accompanying double-hulled barge 550-1, according to SIU Tacoma Port Agent Bryan Powell, who recently met with its crew members in the port of Ferndale, Wash. Together, the tug and its barge form an articulated tug-barge (ATB) tank vessel unit that transports clean oil products. The hinged connection system between the units "allows movement in one axis or plane in the critical area of fore and aft pitch," noted Intrepid Ship Management, which operates the equipment. Following the ATB's April christening in New Orleans (see July 2002 Seafarers LOG), the American-built, -crewed and -owned unit- which incorporates the latest environmental and safety advances in its design- now carries petroleum cargo between Portland, Ore. and Anacortes, Wash. The tug and barge units of the ATB are connected in Ferndale, Wash . (top photo). The picture above shows, in greater detail, the tug in the notch of the barge. Right: AB/Tanker man Willie Allen performs some routine painting on deck. Captain Charlie Tuck and Utilityman Larry Soulier inspect the integrity of the hydraulic lines on the 5501, the ATB's double-hulled barge unit. The communication and navigation equipment on board the Sea Reliance, seen in this photo of the bridge, is among the most technologically advanced in the industry. Seafaren Approve Contract First reviewing the new Matson contract July 2 (photo at left) and then voting unanimously in favor of the agreement (right) were Seafarers aboard the SS Lihue, which was in Honolulu harbor. From the left in each photo are Room Steward Sam Rashid, Chief Cook Abdulla Falah, Honolulu Port Agent Neil Dietz and Chief Steward Colleen Mast. Additionally, Assistant Cook Jorge Barahona is on the far right in the photo above. Above left, SA Nasser Rashid (left) and Chief Cook Steven Sun intently read the terms of the new Matson agreement during the contract ratification meeting aboard the SS Matsonia, July 3 in Honolulu harbor. Above right, aboard the same vessel, Chief Steward Ruti Demont (seated) and SA Nasser Hussein give their "thumbs up" to the new pact. Details about the contract were published in last month's LOG On board the SS Chief Gadao July 5, also in Honolulu harbor, voting was unanimous in favor of the Matson contract. From the left are Assistant Cook Peter Scheutz, Honolulu Port Agent Neil Dietz, Chief Steward Douglas Swets and Chief Cook Mohamed Omar. Matson - � 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 September 2002 Description An account of the resource Headlines: MARINERS ASSOCIATION QUESTIONS FOREIGN VESSEL ACTIVITY IN GULF SIU TO CREW 8 LMSRS IT'S UNANIMOUS! TOTE'S NEW CARGO SHIP CHRISTENED IN SAN DIEGO CAPE KNOX CREW EAGER TO SAIL EPI VOLUME REINFORCES BENEFITS OF GOING UNION 'GLOBALIZING SOLIDARITY' IS RALLYING CRY FOR WORLD'S SEAFARER AND TRANSIT UNIONS HEINDEL RE-ELECTED ITF VICE CHAIRMAN SIU'S JOHN FAY HONORED FOR YEARS OF SERVICE MAN'S 'BEST FRIENDS' RESCUED MORMAC SUN REFLECTS UNITY ATTENTION SEAFARERS: NEW SPAD PROMO INCLUDES 'POLITICAL ACTION TEAM' JACKET RECERTIFIED STEWARDS GRATEFUL FOR OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE IN SIU FIFTY YEARS IN THE HARBOR: THE STORY OF A SHIP DOCKING PILOT SEAFARERS SAIL INTO SAN FRANCISCO FAST RESCUE BOAT WITH THE SIU IN GUAM NUMBER 1 FOR A REASON SEAFARERS MONEY PURCHASE PENSION PLAN NEW TUG/BARGE OFF TO GOOD START 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 9/1/2002 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 64, No. 9 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text 2002 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/0b80081e9adba2d73e09b717f59249c9.pdf bb7b9b7849c7309f90513b41f32be07e PDF Text Text Volume 65, Number 9 September 2003 Hands-On Training Highlights Courses At Paul Hall Center Practical training has always been a key component at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Today, because of STCW requirements for “demonstrations of competency,” the school’s hands-on curriculums are more useful than ever. Pages 12-13. NY Waterway Crews Come Through Again Page 3 Alaska, Paul Hall Center Are Winning Combination Page 6 SIU ‘Family Photos’ Page 11 Joliet Hall Opens this Month AB Richard Campbell (left) and Bosun John Glenn helped ready the new TOTE ship North Star (below) for delivery last month. Page 3. The SIU’s newest hall is set to open in mid-September. Located in Joliet, Ill., the hall already has made favorable impressions on Seafarers and SIU officials, including (from left) SIU President Mike Sacco, AB Leo Bonser Jr. and AB John Immerfall, pictured inside the hall last month. Page 3. North Star Delivered! �President’s Report In Peace and War When the largest power outage in our nation’s history struck last month, Seafarers answered the call. In a scene that couldn’t help but bring back memories of September 11, SIU crews aboard NY Waterway passenger ferries transported 200,000 commuters from New York City on August 14. With subway and bus service as well as most other ground transportation out, Seafarers were there for their fellow citizens who desperately needed a ride toward home. Thankfully, last month’s events weren’t anyMichael Sacco where near the same tragic scale as the terrorist attacks. But, they served up another reminder that U.S. mariners answer their nation’s call—in peace and war. The blackout came on the heels of numerous ceremonies honoring U.S. crews—including thousands of SIU members—who supported our troops by sailing in Operation Iraqi Freedom and in Operation Enduring Freedom. During those ceremonies, high-ranking officials from our government and armed forces described the U.S. Merchant Marine as patriotic, dedicated and reliable. Many factors are behind that dependability and the similar steadiness shown by our ferry crews. Love of country. Devotion to duty. Upholding the tradition of the fourth arm of defense. Commitment to proper training that helps ensure safe operations. Willingness to sail into harm’s way. If you look a little further, you’ll see other important components that allow our mariners to deliver the goods. Namely, laws such as the Jones Act and the U.S. Maritime Security Program, among others, which help maintain a pool of trained, loyal crews to sail aboard American-flag ships. Put simply, the Jones Act works. Now more than ever, with our nation constantly under the threat of more attacks, common sense says it’s more than reasonable to insist that cargo (and passengers) moving from one domestic port to another be carried aboard U.S.flag, U.S.-crewed, U.S.-built vessels. In my book, that’s the safest, most trustworthy combination on water. Likewise, the Maritime Security Program, up for reauthorization possibly as soon as next month, works. Operation Iraqi Freedom proved it, although, as discussed here many times, the program already had shown its worth to U.S. national and economic security. It’s too bad that it sometimes takes unwanted circumstances to remind people of the merchant marine’s importance. Yet our crews have consistently shined when they’re most needed, during wars and other emergencies and peacekeeping missions. Time after time, we deliver. Slowly but surely, more Americans are becoming aware of our critical role. During the war in Iraq, the merchant marine received at least a passable amount of media coverage—certainly far more than during Operation Desert Storm. And, just last month, Fox News Channel aired an hour-long piece on the heroism of America’s World War II mariners. The segment concluded with a very appropriate acknowledgement of today’s seafarers and their performance in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Incredibly, even as some of our mariners return home from the war while others continue post-war sealift operations, new attacks on the Jones Act have surfaced, as reported elsewhere in this issue. Those attacks are a sobering reminder that the enemies of the U.S. Merchant Marine won’t let up. But they’ll have to do more than trot out the same old weak arguments which are nothing more than thinly disguised attempts by foreign-flag interests to crush our industry. The U.S. Merchant Marine is a proven, valuable asset to this country. The administration knows it. The military knows it. So do plenty of people in Congress. And the public finally may be catching on. With that in mind, I remain very optimistic about our industry’s future. As we tackle new challenges to improve shipboard and port security, the cooperation between labor, management and government has never been better. With Operation Iraqi Freedom and the blackout as backdrops, our importance remains clear. The opportunities to strengthen our fleet have never been more critical or viable. Whether by protecting the Jones Act, or expanding the Maritime Security Program, or strengthening the fight against runaway flags, the SIU will continue to help lead the battle to maintain a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. Our members—and our nation—deserve nothing less. Volume 65, Number 9 Seafarers Can Help Plan Contain Medical Costs The Seafarers International Union, like many organizations in the United States today, is continuing its battle against the rapidly rising cost of health care for its members. As noted in last month’s Seafarers LOG, while many employers are trying to shift the skyrocketing health care costs to the employees, the SIU and other unions are meeting the challenge by fighting hard when negotiating new contracts to try and keep a high level of health care benefits with minimal responsibility on the part of the member. Plans administrators from a number of maritime unions participated in a meeting at SIU headquarters July 22 aimed at combating the continually rising health care expenses. Their goal is to work together to fight the increasing costs of providing quality medical care for their memberships. Their next meeting will take place Sept. 4 at the MM&P headquarters and will include representatives from the Seafarers, NMU, MFOW, MM&P, AMO, SUP, MEBA and ARA. In addition to the work that the union officials are undertaking, there also are ways that each individual member can help reduce the costs of their medical care. Before undergoing any medical procedure, be sure to ask the provider if the course of action is, indeed, necessary and, if so, whether they accept the Seafarer’s insurance of 100 percent “reasonable and customary.” After a procedure has been done and the insurance has covered the “reasonable and customary” portion, the Seafarer may wish to call the provider and ask them to write off the balance, since the 100 percent “reasonable and customary” has already been paid. The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan has an understanding with the Eckerd Pharmacy chain (including Genovese and Thrift drug stores), which offers a discount for prescriptions to those Seafarers and their dependents who show a Seafarers Health and Benefits ID card. This will result in an immediate reduction in any out-of-pocket monies spent to fill each prescription. Once the discount has been given, eligible members and their dependents should submit their prescription claims to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan for reimbursement. This results in a lower out-of-pocket payment by the Seafarer as well as a reduced cost to the Plan. Another way to minimize prescription costs is to ask your doctor to prescribe (or your pharmacist to fill) a generic version, whenever possible, of the prescribed drug. In some cases, the difference in price is significant. Minimizing prescription costs is one component of affordable health care. Another is checking the invoices from doctors or hospitals. When Seafarers receive a bill from a health care provider, they should look it over carefully to see if it includes charges for services not received or services billed twice. If it does, the doctor or hospital should be contacted to have the mistake corrected. Once a correction has been made, the Seafarer should contact the Health and Benefits Plan office. After verifying the correction, the Plan will pay the Seafarer a bonus which is equal to 25 percent of the amount he or she saved the Plan—up to a maximum of $500. Safety Team Explores Latest Security, Training Issues Examining a host of important issues that affect Seafarers, SIU safety directors last month met at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. The five-day session marked the fifth annual conference of the union’s safety directors. “It gave all the representatives the opportunity to compare situations in various ports, and that really helps us be in a better position to address the needs of the membership,” said Joe Mieluchowski, the union’s safety director for the port of Philadelphia. “Port security obviously is an issue of great importance, and that was one of the main topics we discussed.” The typically full agenda included tours of the school’s simulator complex, admissions office, manpower department, Crowley Marine’s Dominic LaSenna reviews key aspects of quality assurance standards. Cole Cosgrove of Crowley Marine Services discusses vessel security issues. small arms range and Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School. The safety directors also revisited STCW issues, effective communication and more. Additionally, they welcomed safety presentations from SIU-contracted Crowley Marine Services and Dyn Marine. “It was great, very informative,” stated SIU New York Safety Director Joe Baselice. “We covered so much—interaction with the companies, port security procedures, the (impending) new ID cards, STCW…. Basically, what to look out for and what’s ahead.” Archie Ware, SIU safety director in San Francisco, said the communications lessons proved especially useful, as did the meetings with SIU headquarters officials and representatives. Safety directors who participated were Mieluchowski, Baselice, Ware, Amancio Crespo (Puerto Rico), David Heindel Jr. (Houston), Steve Ruiz (Jacksonville), Samuel Spain (Norfolk), Jeff Turkus (Wilmington, Calif.), Chris Westbrook (New Orleans) and Chad Partridge (Algonac, Mich.). Company representatives who addressed the group included Cole Cosgrove and Dominic LaSenna from Crowley Marine Services and Jake Jacobs and Anthony Williams from Dyn Marine. September 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 Jake Jacobs of Dyn Marine addresses SIU safety directors at the Paul Hall Center. September 2003 �SIU Ferry Crews Come Through Again Seafarers who crew NY Waterway passenger ferries provided transportation for scores of commuters in the New York region during the Aug. 14 power failure which forced the evacuation of office buildings, stranded thousands of commuters and inundated some hospitals with people who fell victim to the oppressive heat. The outage—whose cause still is under investigation by the U.S. Department of Energy—struck abruptly at 4:11 p.m. ET and cut off electricity to millions of residents in New York City, Toronto, Ottawa, Detroit and Cleveland. Other affected cities included Buffalo, Albany and Syracuse, N.Y.; Hartford, Conn.; Lansing and many other smaller cities in Michigan; Akron and Toledo, Ohio and some counties in southeast Pennsylvania. It was the largest power failure in U.S. history and lasted upwards of 10 hours in some areas. An estimated 50 million people were without power during this period. In the New York region, virtually every mode of transportation failed except for ferries and feet. Reports say traffic jams grew to dozens of miles long, bringing buses and even emergency vehicles to a standstill. Police and hordes of self-deputized citizens tried to control the streets with handmade stop and go signs. Subway and commuter trains were paralyzed on their tracks, some in tunnels. A Long Island Railroad Train reportedly was trapped beneath the East River for almost two hours with no air conditioning. With no trains running, cabs marooned or practically nonexistent and buses moving only a few blocks an hour, people around the region tried to get home any way they could. Pedestrians for hours packed the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges as they streamed their way away from the island. Ferry lines, according to some reports, reached lengths of a third of a mile in lower Manhattan. NY Waterway had 50 vessels in service immediately following the blackout. Captains and crews worked extended hours to accommodate as many commuters as possible. Despite the fact that many would-be passengers waited in line for more than two hours—a result of sheer volume —NY Waterway vessels and crews still got the job done. In the end, 200,000 people were ferried off the island, 40,000 more than the company accommodated during September 11. SIU Capt. Tom Colomara and Joliet Hall Set to Open The SIU’s newest hall, located in Joliet, Ill., is set to open in midSeptember. “We’re tentatively planning to open on September 15, and the hall should be fully functional by the end of the month,” noted SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tommy Orzechowski. “We’re still getting our mainframe access in place as well as working out some other details, but we’ve made a lot of progress.” Seafarers may call the hall at (815) 723-8002. The hall is located at 10 East Clinton Street in downtown Joliet, occupying two stories of a corner building. Members who visited the hall last month liked what they saw. SIU Port Agent Don Thornton and Joliet secretary Nicole Mackowiak have helped ready the hall for a September opening. his crew aboard the Bayonne provided transportation for some 4,000 people during his shift. A resident of Brooklyn, N.Y., Colomara has been a Seafarer for almost two years. “We worked from about 2 p.m. until midnight on the day of the blackout,” Colomara recalled. “We were all very busy and at times it was particularly demanding dealing with the passengers. “It was very hot and most of them (the passengers) were nervous and scared because they did not know what was happening,” the captain continued. “I’m sure that many of them had flashbacks about 9/11 and that’s understandable considering the circumstances. I’m just glad that everything worked out in the end. “Altogether, we made about 25 to 30 runs during our shift and we were filled to capacity on each run,” Colomara concluded. “Everyone (the crew) did a great job in getting as many people home safely as they could. I’m delighted with their efforts.” Bob Capenegro, the SIU captain of the Lautenberg, worked his normal shift and then was called back in to man his vessel for an additional four hours on the day of the blackout. “It turned out to be a pretty exciting evening for myself and the crew,” said the SIU member of three years, who lives in Atlantic Highlands, N.J. “Normally, we provide transportation for about 1,100 people daily. On the day of the blackout though, that number more than doubled. I’d say that we ferried more than 2,000 people. When you consider that the capacity of my boat is 150 people, that’s quite a few runs.” Capenegro echoed Colomara’s description of passengers’ moods. “Most of them were nervous because they didn’t know what caused the power failure. Many thought it was another terrorist attack at first, but after we told them that it was not, they felt relieved,” Capanegro said. “A lot of others were upset because they could not get out of the city when they wanted to. Many could not leave until 10 p.m. and they were pretty irate about that, but we did our best to calm their moods and get them home as soon as possible.” “We are very proud of the job our captains and crews did in the aftermath of the blackout,” said Michael McPhillips, NY Waterway operations manager. “The performance and professionalism they exhibited during this episode was nothing less than spectacular. It was a true testament to their tremendous dedication and “It’s a welcome addition,” said AB Leo Bonser Jr. “It saves the members in this area a lot of driving time to either St. Louis or Algonac.” AB John Immerfall, who sails with Great Lakes Towing, said he’s “glad to see a hall in the Chicago area. This means the patrolmen will be at our tug facilities more often. They’re a welcome site anytime.” AB John Benjamin said the hall is “another item that continues to put the SIU on the map in our region. My compliments to (SIU President) Mike Sacco, Tommy and the rest of the SIU leadership for making this possible.” The hall, which also is open to members Checking out the electronic shipping board are of the SIU-affili- (from left) SIU VP Great Lakes Tommy ated United In- Orzechowski, SIU President Mike Sacco and dustrial Workers Seafarers John Benjamin and Frank Melgoza. and the Seafarers Other features include a secEntertainment and Allied Trades Union, is accessible by public rail ond-floor conference room and a and bus services. Plenty of park- comfortable seating area (with ing is located nearby. television) on the ground level. The interior is well-lighted and A baseball stadium—home of consists of approximately 2,500 the minor league Joliet Jacksquare feet. The hall will utilize Hammers—is located a few an electronic shipping board. blocks from the hall. The hall occupies two stories at 10 East Clinton Street. superb training. “I really was not surprised at their performance,” concluded McPhillips, who himself is a former SIU deep-sea division member. “They always rise above the occasion.” NY Waterway has the largest ferry and excursion fleet in NY Harbor. The company’s SIUcrewed vessels provide ferry service between Hoboken and Manhattan, seven days per week. Elsewhere, the blackout had a minimal lasting impact on the SIU and it operations. SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi noted that the union’s hall in Brooklyn closed early the day after the outage, since it had no operable computers or phones and the city’s transportation system largely was crippled. All was back to normal on Monday, however. SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tommy Orzechowski had a similar assessment of the power outage. Operations at the SIU hall in Algonac mostly were unaffected by the blackout. “Although the people in Detroit had a 24-hour outage, everyone remained calm and in control of the situation,” he said. “We did have a boil-water order in effect, but that was about it.” North Star Delivered to TOTE The SIU-contracted North Star was delivered Aug. 22 to Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE), signaling new shipboard job opportunities for Seafarers. The North Star is the second of two new Orcaclass trailerships built by San Diego’s NASSCO The main deck includes an enclosed bow to provide cover during rough weather. September 2003 Shipyard for TOTE’s service from Tacoma, Wash., to Anchorage, Alaska. Sister ship Midnight Sun was delivered to TOTE in April. Both ships are 840-foot-long, 118-foot-wide rollon/roll-off cargo ships capable of carrying highway trailers as large as 53 feet in length. Cargo decks total 360,000 square feet and can carry up to 600 cargo trailers and 220 autos as well as oversized freight. The ships employ the latest in marine and environmental protection technologies, including twin-screw, diesel-electric propulsion that can achieve a speed of more than 24 knots. Both vessels already have received awards for their environmentally sensitive design features. These awards include the States/British Columbia Oil Spill Task Force Legacy Award for 2000, the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner’s 2000 Pollution Prevention Award, and the U.S. Coast Guard’s William M. Benkert Foundation 2002 Environmental Excellence Bronze Award. Pictured aboard the North Star on Aug. 15 in San Diego are (standing, from left) Bosun John Glenn, SIU Wilmington, Calif. Port Agent John Cox, AB Carmine Bova, AB Deocadio Romney, (seated) AB Saleh Alsinai and AB Fadhel Saleh. Seafarers LOG 3 �Horizon Hawaii Helps Save 3 Atlantic Rescue Takes Place in Rough Weather Merchant mariners aboard the SIU-crewed Horizon Hawaii during the mid-evening hours of May 17 came to the aid of three people in distress aboard a sailing vessel in the Atlantic Ocean. While steaming on a southbound course for Puerto Rico— and located at 37 degrees 1 minute North Latitude and 72 degrees 44 minutes West Longitude—the Hawaii at about 8:55 p.m. received a distress call via radio from the Gina, a 44-foot Irwin Sloop. Three people (Kathleen O’Sullivan, Frank Grande and Captain Jay Sweet) were aboard the troubled vessel, which was located some 150 miles off the North Carolina coast and on a northbound course for Maine. Because of equipment malfunction, the Gina could not establish contact with the U.S. Coast Guard, or sail due to a broken shroud. To add to the trio’s problems, their fuel tanks were contaminated. Because their vessel’s decks were awash, however, they had no way to refuel. The craft was not taking on water yet, but it would only be a matter of time before their situation became grave. The sloop could only maneuver on a northerly course and, due to rough seas and swells, crew members feared the rolling might bring down their mast. After being briefed on all the particulars—especially the deteriorating sea conditions near the distressed vessel—and weighing his options, Hawaii Captain F. John Nicoll at about 9:15 p.m. changed course and headed for the Gina, which was located about 10 miles away and to the north. Some 40 minutes later, the Hawaii arrived on the scene and continued contact with the U.S. Coast Guard in New York who in turn relayed them to their counterparts in Portsmouth, Va. The resulting dialogue between the Hawaii and the Coast Guard led all concerned to the conclusion that it would be far too dangerous for the container ship crew to attempt to board the Gina to rescue its crew. In addition to darkness, the barometer at the time was going down, winds were northeasterly at 20-25 knots, the swell was 12-15 feet and the seas were 8 feet. The Coast Guard opted to dispatch a rescue helicopter and a C130 aircraft to the location for the rescue mission. Meanwhile the Hawaii, with its entire crew at the ready for whatever they were called upon to do, stood by with the Gina. While waiting, the Hawaii crew remained in contact with the Coast Guard, relaying messages back and forth between them and the Gina. About one hour later, the C130 joined the Hawaii at the scene. Another hour passed and the rescue helicopter arrived and began retrieving the sailboat crew. Shortly before 1 a.m., all three were safely aboard the helicopter and headed back to SIU’s Corgey, UIW’s Armstrong Elected VPs of Texas AFL-CIO An SIU official and a chief shop steward from the Seafarersaffiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW) made history in July when they were voted to key positions in the Texas AFL-CIO. SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and Mike Armstrong, chief shop steward at the UIW-contracted Crown Cork & Seal plant in Abilene, Texas, became the first two individuals affiliated with the SIU to occupy state labor federation executive board posts simultaneously in any state in the union. Corgey was re-elected vice president for District 3, Texas AFL-CIO while Armstrong was chosen as vice president for the federation’s District 15. Both were selected for their posts during the federation’s 43rd Constitutional Convention in Austin, Texas. This marks at least the seventh time that Corgey has been chosen for the vice president’s post in District 3. Armstrong, like Corgey, is no stranger to the labor movement or to the importance of grassroots political action. He currently is a four-term president of the Abilene/Big Country Central Labor Council. Armstrong also is serving his second three-year term as chief shop steward. Elsewhere at the convention, Communications Workers of America Local 6137 President Becky Moeller also made her mark in history. Moeller became the highest-ranking labor woman 4 Seafarers LOG Virginia. The Hawaii came about, increased to sea speed and resumed it course for San Juan. Seafarers aboard the Hawaii at the time of the rescue were: Bosun David Murray, ABMs Dwayne Gordon and Pat Lavin, ABWs Ricardo Quinones, Gregory Johnson, Keith Obryan and Wilfredo Cruz, QEE Roy Frett, OMU Omer Omer, GUDE Fadel Ghaleb, EU Eliester Montalvo, Oiler Pablo Albino, Chief Cook Leopoldo Ruiz, SB Joseph Gallo, UMM Arturo Lopez and UAs Sergio Gonzalez Lopez and Michael Pockat. Gina crew member Grande, who also is a captain, expressed his gratitude to everyone aboard the Hawaii in correspondence to Captain Nicoll. In part, Grande wrote: “Words cannot express my heartfelt gratitude for your assistance in my time of need. The Atlantic Ocean, far from a safe shore, is a lonely, desolate area. Hearing your response was a big factor in our safe rescue and ulti- Seafarers and officers aboard the Horizon Hawaii pose on deck for a snapshot after taking part in the rescue of three persons from a vessel in distress in the Atlantic Ocean. mate survival. To all the hands that responded and volunteered, I thank you from the bottom of my heart and present to you the ultimate gift: three lives saved. Your diligence and attention to detail, when presented with our emergency rescue, is indicative of a well-trained, coordinated crew.” Fellow Gina crew member O’Sullivan likewise was appreciative and in a letter to Captain Nicoll offered: “I can’t begin to Jersey City Mayor Hoists Merchant Marine Emblem For what is believed to be the first time in the history of Jersey City, N.J., the U.S. Merchant Marine standard flew above city hall this summer, joining the flags of the armed services. The flag was hoisted by Jersey City Mayor Glenn D. Cunningham, a former U.S. Marine, Jersey City Police captain and U.S. Marshall. Joining the mayor was his deputy, Eugene Drayton, a combat veteran of the Vietnam War and retired Hoboken, N.J. police describe the sense of relief we felt when you answered our Pan Pan…The willingness and enthusiasm of you and your crew to turn around and stand by us deserves gratitude and commendation that are beyond words. Our prayers to the Gods of the High Seas were answered in the form of a container ship called the Horizon Hawaii and its captain and crew. We are forever in your debt.” detective. The flag was a gift to the citizens of Jersey City, presented on behalf of the SIU by Recertified Steward (and former U.S. Marine) Joey Gallo Jr. Mayor Cunningham delivered an impromptu speech thanking Seafarers and all U.S. mariners for their “extraordinary contributions to our country.” He acknowledged the sacrifice of past and present mariners and wished all in theater throughout the world a safe return. Gallo thanked the mayor and deputy mayor for supporting the U.S. Merchant Marine. The mayor concluded by saying it was his pleasure “to be a brother of the Brotherhood of the Sea.” Gallo serves as a special assistant to the mayor on community, labor and port maritime issues. Mayor Cunningham hoists the flag as Deputy Mayor Drayton and Gallo observe. Dean Corgey Jersey City Mayor Glenn D. Cunningham (center) prepares to raise the U.S. Merchant Marine flag at city hall. Joining him are Deputy Mayor Eugene Drayton (left) and Recertified Steward Joey Gallo. Notice NMU WELFARE PLAN – CHANGES IN ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS The Plan Administrator will be notifying all Participants in the NMU Welfare Plan that benefit eligibility requirements will change effective January 1, 2004. Mike Armstrong in Texas and the first woman ever to be elected to the office of secretary-treasurer. Former secretary-treasurer and longtime labor official Emmett Sheppard was elected as the federation’s new president. Sheppard replaced Joe Gunn, who retired after holding the top office for 14 years. The revised rules will require a Participant to sail in covered employment for at least 120 days in a calendar year to be eligible for benefits in the following year. A Participant will also be required to sail one day within six calendar months before the date of a claim or sail in the month in which a claim is incurred as long as the day of employment precedes the date of the claim. Vacation days will no longer count as days of covered employment. The Plan Administrator supplied the following example of how the new rules will work. John Smith works in covered employment for 120 days in the period from January 1, to December 31, 2003. His last date of employment is December 31, 2003. He then works one day in January 2004 and one day in July 2004. Thus, he has fulfilled all of the eligibility requirements and the Plan will pay all covered medical expenses incurred in 2004. Periods of disability as a result of illness or an accident will count as covered employment as long as a Participant conforms to Plan Regulations. One half of the time spent attending courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education will also count as days of covered employment. Eligibility for each of the following years will be subject to the same requirements. Plan Participants are encouraged to review their work experience for 2003 in order to maintain their eligibility for benefits. September 2003 �SIU Stands Up for Mariners’ Rights Union Backs Most of MTSA’s New Regulations, But Stresses Need for Fair Rules for Shore Leave The enactment of effective, realistic and fair security rules to protect America’s ports and waterways from a terrorist attack continues to be a priority of the highest magnitude for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The agency on July 1 announced the publication of temporary interim rules governing the implementation of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2003 (MTSA) and solicited feedback via written comments from affected entities. As reported earlier in the Seafarers LOG, U.S. maritime unions, including the SIU, are at the forefront and remain extremely energetic in moving toward greater shipboard and port security. The SIU has met with representatives from the U.S. Coast Guard, officials from numerous U.S. ports, the International Transport Workers’ Federation, the International Maritime Organization and the International Labor Organization, among others, to facilitate the identification and enactment of effective, realistic and fair security rules. In keeping with its resolve to remain active in this arena and pursue measures that best address the needs and satisfy the interests of its members, the SIU in correspondence to the U.S. Department of Transportation voiced its views on the recently published interim rules on the MTSA. Following are excerpts from the letter, which is dated July 31, signed by SIU President Michael Sacco and addressed to the Docket Management Facility, (USCG-2003-14792), U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW, Washington, D.C. 200590-0001: The Seafarers International Union of North America (SIU), AFL-CIO, representing thousands of American merchant mariners employed on U.S.-flag vessels in the domestic and international waterborne trades is pleased to generally comment on the temporary interim final rules published on July 1, 2003 with regard to the implementation of the Maritime Transportation Security Act, recent amendments to the International Maritime Organization’s International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS). Since our comments are general in nature and embody issues from several of the temporary interim rules, the SIU has chosen USCG-200314792, Implementation of National Maritime Security Initiatives, as the vehicle for submission of our comments. The SIU applauds the Coast Guard for its monumental effort in promulgating these extensive regulations in such a timely manner. The SIU generally endorses the precepts contained in the temporary interim rules dealing with the general implementation, vessel, port and facility security rules. However, there are select items within these rules that warrant concern and comment. The SIU will focus its comments on those issues, as follows: Access to Shore: The SIU advances that in promulgating its temporary interim final rules, the Coast Guard has failed to confront the current critical problem of seafarer access to shore. Shore leave is undoubtedly one of the most vital elements of a seafarer’s well being in terms of living and working conditions. Since seafarers live and work on a vessel for long periods of time, access to shore and access to the vessel by representatives of seafarers’ welfare and labor organizations is essential and should not be irresponsibly denied by ports and terminals. Unfortunately, widespread incidents have been reported where both U.S. and foreign merchant mariners have been denied access to shore at certain U.S. ports and terminals, even though the U.S mariner holds credentials that the Coast ITF’s Cockroft: Reexamine ‘Cozy Contract’ Between Taylor, Liberian Ship Registry The International Transport Workers’ Federation last month issued the following statement from ITF General Secretary David Cockroft. Commenting on Charles Taylor’s departure from Liberia, Cockroft said, “We’re more than glad to see the back of that villain and hope that his accomplices will also be swept from power. Any cleansing of the mire of corruption and violence that is Liberia must include the removal from their maritime posts of the justly UN condemned Benoni Urey and Agnes Taylor, and a reassessment of the cozy contract signed by [the Liberian International Ship and Corporate Registry] and the Liberian dictator.” He continued: “Putting aside September 2003 the joy of all decent people that Taylor is out, there are some issues about where the Liberian register goes from here that continue to concern us. These include the lack of any rule of law in Liberia and, by extension, the ships flying its flag. Compliance with international law and the rooting out of corruption must be one of the immediate tasks facing any new government, and the retention of FOC status does not bode well for that mission. “Liberia must develop sources of sustainable income generation and the $18 million provided by the flag, as well as being a drop in the ocean in terms of its reconstruction, humanitarian and developmental needs, does not meet that need.” Guard currently considers acceptable for access to waterfront facilities and port and harbor areas and the foreign-flag seafarer has been cleared by the Immigration and Naturalization Service. The inconsistency of various maritime port (facility) security measures and precautions in many instances preclude a mariner’s opportunity for shore leave. It appears that every terminal and berth is interpreting its security advice in an individualistic fashion, often denying both U.S. and foreign seamen port access. Security procedures in some ports go far beyond what is currently recommended/required by federal agencies. In different parts of the country, private port facilities have required that U.S. merchant mariners remain on their vessels, denying them shore leave and port access even though these mariners hold federally issued identification documents. Often, these security precautions are not equally applied to truck drivers and contract workers from outside. Moreover, as previously noted in submissions to the docket on maritime security by various entities, current U.S. law recognizes that shore leave is necessary for a mariner’s well being and the safe and efficient operation of the vessel, as enunciated in the 1943 United States Supreme Court decision in the case of Aguilar vs. Standard Oil Company: “The assumption is hardly sound that the normal uses and purposes of shore leave are exclusively personal and have no relation to the vessel’s business. Men cannot live for long cooped up aboard ship without substantial impairment of their efficiency, if not also serious danger to discipline. Relaxation beyond the confines of the ship is necessary if the work is to go on, more so that it may move smoothly. No master would take a crew to sea if he could not grant shore leave, and no crew would be taken if it could never obtain it. Even more for the seaman than for the landsman, therefore, the superfluous is the necessary…to make life livable and to get work done. In short, shore leave is an elemental necessity in the sailing of ships, a part of the business as old as the art, not merely a personal diversion.” Denial of shore leave is patently unfair to merchant mariners and may be interpreted as a basic rejection of their human rights and a degradation of their human dignity. As noted, merchant mariners are oftentimes aboard a vessel months at a time. They look forward to shore leave in order take care of certain personal needs that many of us onshore take for granted—a phone call to family, a haircut, purchase of reading material, a visit to a church or religious seafarers’ welfare organization, or just a walk on land. The SIU believes that shore leave is a fundamental seafarers’ right—a cherished right that authorities should deny only in compelling circumstances and for compelling reasons. However, when seafarers are properly credentialed and vetted or have cleared scrutiny by Immigration and Naturalization Service, shore leave should not be arbitrarily denied. Recognizing the seriousness of this problem and possible repercussions and retaliatory possibilities, delegates to the International Maritime Organization’s Diplomatic Conference on Maritime Security in December 2002 adopted language to the ISPS Code on this urgent issue, as noted in the preamble to Part A, as follows: “Contracting governments when approving ship and port facility security plans should pay due cognizance to the fact that ship’s personnel live and work on the vessel and need shore leave and access to shore based seafarer welfare facilities, including medical care.” In our view, this phraseology implies that shore leave provisions should be addressed in ship and port facility security plans. The essentiality for crew shore leave was also emphasized in the ISPS Code mandatory Part A under the provisions for a port (facility) security plan. The port (facility) security plan “shall address procedures for facilitating shore leave for ship’s personnel or personnel changes, as well as access of visitors to the ship including representatives of seafarers’ welfare and labour organizations.” Unfortunately, the temporary interim rules issued by the Coast Guard do not reflect this ISPS requirement. Essentially, the agency has abdicated its responsibility to address the crucial shore leave problem. The temporary interim rule merely “encourages both the vessel and the facility operators to coordinate shore leave for mariners, as well as procedures for access through the facility by visitors, including port chaplains and union representatives.” The temporary interim rule places the responsibility on the vessel and facility owner/ operator to “ensure coordination of shore leave for vessel personnel or crew change-out, as well as access through the facility of visitors to the vessel, including representatives of seafarers’ welfare and labor organizations, in advance of the vessel’s arrival.” The Coast Guard does not require crew shore leave procedures to be included in the facility security plan, as stipulated in Part A of the ISPS Code. Therefore, the SIU urges the Coast Guard to include shore leave provisions as mandated in Part A of the ISPS Code as a required provision in the facility security plan final rule. Further, the SIU strongly recommends that the Coast Guard deny approval of a facility security plan if it does not include shore leave provisions and procedures. Area Maritime (Port) Security Committees: The SIU endorses the Coast Guard’s objective as articulated in the discussion of the temporary final rule with regard to area maritime security (USCG-2003-14733) that Port Security Committees established prior to the promulgation of this rule and established under the guidelines of Coast Guard Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular 9-02 be considered Area Maritime Security (AMS) Committees. This determination provides the port and port community with a sense of continuity and further progression of the work initiated prior to the publication of a final rule. Moreover, in the discussion portion of this temporary interim rule, the Coast Guard enunciates its intent and lists specific groups that may be included in an Area Maritime Security Committee, including “…labor organizations, port managers, and vessel and facility owner/operator secuContinued on page 9 SIU Officials Discuss Maritime with Governor During last month’s meeting of the AFL-CIO executive council in Chicago, SIU President Mike Sacco (right) and SIU VP Great Lakes Tommy Orzechowski (left) chatted with Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich, who formally addressed the executive board. The trio discussed the importance of maintaining and creating good jobs for the working families of Illinois and the crucial role that the U.S. Merchant Marine plays in America’s national and economic security. Seafarers LOG 5 �Winning Combination Alaskans, School Benefit from State’s Joint Efforts with Paul Hall Center Alaska and the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, in conjunction with the SIU and its contracted employers, continue to help provide residents of America’s northernmost state with the opportunity to start careers in the U.S. Merchant Marine. Six years ago, the union began working with Alaska’s congressional delegation, the governor’s office and local officials to offer Alaska citizens an avenue to join the unlicensed apprentice program offered at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. More recently, the union and school partnered with Alaska Governor Frank Murkowski and his administration to recruit and train dislocated workers from Alaska for jobs in the merchant marine through a Ketchikan-based nonprofit agency called SEA Link. Additionally, a separate Anchorage-based program has helped Alaskans gain employment on “riding gangs” aboard SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company vessels taking North Slope crude to refineries on the West Coast. These efforts have been facilitated by the opening of the SIU hall in Anchorage, Alaska in May 1997. Since then, nearly 50 Alaskans have graduated from the unlicensed apprentice program, and many have returned to the Paul Hall Center to upgrade. Another 26 individuals currently are enrolled in different phases of apprentice training at the school, while three other Alaskans have Alaska native David Hammitt readies for the next hands-on exercise. completed the school’s program for military veterans. Through the program for displaced Alaska fishermen, which began only this year, 18 individuals have trained at Piney Point and subsequently shipped out aboard SIU-contracted vessels. A dozen more were ready to ship out as this issue of the Seafarers LOG went to press. Further, as of late August, 21 Alaskans were training at the Paul Hall Center via the SEA Link program. A dozen more were scheduled to start training this month, and 10 others are slated to begin their schooling in October. “With more work coming to Alaska through the movement of cargo and oil on U.S.-flag ships, it’s appropriate that Alaskans have the opportunity to work on these vessels,” said SIU President Michael Sacco. “Thanks to the cooperative work of the union, the school, the union’s contracted companies as well as government, these programs help give Alaskans the chance to travel to Piney Point and join others from around the country in learning what it takes to become a merchant mariner.” The apprentice program, substantially expanded in the 1990s, has been a staple of Piney Point training since the school opened in 1967. Trainees start with 12 weeks of basic seamanship schooling at the Paul Hall Center and then spend 90 days aboard a U.S.-flag ship alternately work- Eileen Lammers, the first Alaskan Indian female to graduate from the apprentice program, credits the school for encouraging and helping students. From apprentice training to upgrading, students from Alaska regularly take advantage of the vocational schooling opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center. Pictured above at the school are all the students from Alaska who were enrolled at Piney Point last month. ing in each shipboard department. Finally, they return to the school for another five weeks of safety and department-specific training. When Alaskans began entering the apprentice program in 1997, Alaska Senator Ted Stevens called it “a great opportunity for Alaskans to get the training they need for a maritime career. This program fills a void.” Harold Holten, SIU port agent in Anchorage, noted that Alaskans have flourished at the Paul Hall Center. “The individuals we’ve gotten from our recruiting efforts in Alaska have been exceptional,” he said. “They tend to be the leaders among their peers at the school.” He added, “This all started when Congressman Don Young (R-Alaska) visited a ship years ago while at port in Valdez and asked to speak to the Alaska hires. When the ship’s captain responded that there were no Alaskans on board and that he didn’t know of any crew members on other ships that were Alaskan, Congressman Young got the ball rolling with local marine businesses to sponsor schooling for Alaskans interested in seagoing jobs.” Since then, response from Alaskan students has been exceptionally positive. The remarks of Eileen Lammers, a recent graduate of the apprentice program, are very much representative of her follow Alaskans who have trained at Piney Point. “People at school want to help,” she said. “It’s tough love, but they really want us to succeed. I also was surprised by how much there is to learn. I started college when I was 17, was going into accounting but didn’t like it, and figured this (Piney Point) would be a way to figure out what I want. “I noticed a big difference right away,” she continued. “In college you’re in the books all the time. Here, if you need help, they take time out and show you how things are done. I see that with a lot of students here, including academics. In college, you’re on your own. Here, it’s more of a family organization. We help each other.” For more information about the Paul Hall Center, see pages 12-13. Gathering in the training and recreation center at Piney Point are the first displaced Alaskan fishermen to train at the Paul Hall Center. Joining them are (among others) SIU President Mike Sacco, Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan and SIU Anchorage Representative Harold Holten. SIU of Canada President Examines Simulators SIU President Mike Sacco (left in both photos above) last month joined Roman Gralewicz (center in top photo, right in photo directly above), president of the SIU of Canada, on a tour and demonstration of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s state-of-the-art simulators. With the union presidents in the top photo is Deck Department Instructor Larry Malone. The school’s simulators offer comprehensive training for mariners in the deck and engine departments. Alaskan students participate in lifeboat training. 6 Seafarers LOG September 2003 �Delta Queen Crew Completes Safety Training Instructor Mike Daras (above, left) of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education recently conducted shipboard safety training for Seafarers and officers aboard the passenger vessel Delta Queen in New Orleans. From June 19-26, 104 students completed hands-on training in CPR, automated external defibrillators, blood-borne pathogens and more. Among those who participated were SIU Lead Deckhands Glen Gross (above, right) and Miles Souders (right). In cooperation with the operators, Paul Hall Center instructors regularly conduct training aboard Seafarers-crewed vessels. Daras was at it again last month, offering safety training aboard the American Queen. MCTF Opposes Efforts To Repeal Jones Act The Maritime Cabotage Task Force (MCTF), to which the SIU is affiliated, recently announced it strongly opposes efforts by U.S. Rep. Ed Case (DHawaii) to repeal the Jones Act. Bills introduced by Rep. Case in the House of Representatives on July 24 would provide Jones Act exemptions for all non-contiguous trades, including Hawaii; Hawaii alone; and Hawaii agriculture and livestock. In announcing its vigorous opposition to efforts to weaken or repeal the Jones Act, the MCTF noted that the highly competitive trade to Hawaii and other non-contiguous destinations will be further enhanced in the next year or so by the addition of new, state-of-the-art containerships and auto carriers. “The Jones Act and related cabotage laws form the cornerstone of U.S. maritime policy,” the MCTF noted. “The pacesetting Jones Act fleet supports the nation’s military and economic soundness. So efficient is the fleet that it moves 24 percent of the country’s domestic cargo for less than 2 percent of the nation’s freight bill. The national security importance of the Jones Act was demonstrated most recently during Operation Iraqi Freedom, as domestic vessels, crewed by American seafarers, provided support for U.S. troops engaged in the conflict.” The task force, founded in 1995, arguably is the most broad-based coalition the maritime industry has ever assembled. Its 400-plus members span the United States and represent maritime labor, ship and barge owners and operators, shipbuilders and repair yards, marine equipment manufacturers and vendors, trade associations, pro-defense groups and companies in other modes of domestic transportation. “These widespread but allied interests have come together for one purpose—to promote U.S. maritime cabotage laws,” the MCTF pointed out. “Nationwide, 37,000-plus vessels compete in the various Jones Act trades and annually carry more than 1 billion tons of cargo and 100 million passengers. The Jones Act fleet generates nearly 125,000 jobs, 80,000 of which are aboard vessels.” SOCP to Meet in Piney Point The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md., is scheduled to host the next meeting of the Ship Operations Cooperative Program (SOCP). The meeting dates are Oct. 7-8. In announcing the conference, the SOCP noted that U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta has been invited to address the group, and U.S. Maritime Administrator Capt. William G. Schubert is a con- firmed speaker. A panel presentation on “short sea shipping” initiatives as well as technical presentations on Automatic Identification Systems in the barge industry, intermodal freight opportunities on the Great Lakes/St. Lawrence Seaway System and SE Michigan, GPS-based cargo tracking systems and cargo container advanced 3-D scanning will round out the first day’s agenda. The second day features updates on projects such as the SOCP’s mariner administrative card (MAC), ILO/IMO mariner credentialing activities, and more. More information is available at www.socp.org SOCP is a private/public partnership formed in 1993 to share resources and the application of technology to improve profitability, ship safety, training, and quality of operations, equipment reliability, productivity and competitiveness for its members. Welcome Home to a Hero UIW Member’s Son Returns from War in Iraq Life these days for Janet Thompson, a member of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW), is filled with joy. It is evident not only in the genuine smile she again wears on her face, but also in her outgoing cheerfulness, which for a spell was absent. The senior pension processor, who works in the Seafarers Pensions and Death Benefits office in Camp Springs, Md., has returned to “her old self” because her son James “Jamie” Thompson is safely home and out of harm’s way. The 21-yearold U.S. Army Specialist returned to his home base at Fort Benning, Ga. July 16 following a 192-day deployment in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He spent the following week home with his wife, Melissa, his mother and younger sibling Jeffrey. “I’m just so relieved to know that he is home and safe,” said Janet, who has been in the union for more than 20 years. “Now I don’t have to worry about him and whether or not he is all right. “We’re all so thankful that he returned uninjured,” she continued. “Our prayers go out to all the other families across America September 2003 and in allied countries who still have loved ones in Iraq. Our thoughts especially are with those who lost love ones during the hostilities.” A fire support specialist (aka artilliary forward observer), Thompson is assigned to the 3rd Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division. His job entails going on patrol, locating enemy forces and then calling back their positions to the main element along with requests for various types of indirect fire (artillery, mortars, close air support) to dislodge them. Jamie and his comrades arrived in Kuwait Jan. 8 and made final preparations for the mission at hand while other American and allied units (and equipment) arrived in theatre and established their predetermined positions. “We stayed in camps in various locations out in the desert when we first got in country,” recalled Thompson. On April 5, while sitting in the vicinity of the Karbala Gap, Thompson—along with thousands of his other brothers and sisters in arms—received the order they had been anticipating: Advance on Baghdad. Led by the 3rd Infantry Divi- sion, American and allied Forces spent the next four days moving toward Iraq’s capital city. They encountered major as well as minor battles along the way, paying for their advances with some loss of life and scores of casualties. “This was my first experience with combat,” Thompson shared. “In a word, it was interesting, but there were still many moments of sheer terror. I belong to a Field Artillery unit, but during combat operations, my platoon and I were attached to an infantry battalion—that we fought alongside—to provide fire support. During this time, we were a part of the Headquarters Company, which consisted of over 250 personnel. “We were all expecting it (Operation Iraqi Freedom) to be short like Desert Shield and Desert Storm,” Thompson continued, “but after the first couple of days we came to the realization that we were there for the long haul. We all were expecting a real fight . . . for the Iraqis to fight tooth and nail. That’s what we were expecting, but that’s not quite what we got.” American and allied troops SPEC James “Jamie” Thompson, center, met with SIU President Mike Sacco, left, and SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez recently following his return to the United States from Operation Iraqi Freedom. Thompson, the son of UIW member Janet Thompson, served in Iraq for 192 days. entered Baghdad on April 5 and ultimately took control of the capital city on April 9 as all major resistance collapsed. Saddam Hussein’s control was broken and the Iraqi people at long last were free. “Once we were in Baghdad, it was kind of weird driving down the streets and having people cheer for you,” Thompson said. “Mothers were coming up and thanking you because their children could now grow up and live a normal life. “It felt great knowing that we actually helped the Iraqi people out of a tough situation,” he continued. “We got rid of a dictator that has been oppressing them for a long time.” Although he now is back at his home base, Thompson and his comrades likely will see duty again in Iraq. “It’s nice to be home, but I think I’ll eventually have to go back and participate in our ongoing peace-keeping mission,” Thompson said. “It’s natural for relatives back home to worry about their sons and daughters in uniform when war breaks out,” Thompson concluded, “but I look at it as doing the job that the Army has trained me to do. I’ve been in for three years now and have three more to go before my enlistment is up. At that time, I’ll probably reenlist and make the Army my career.” Seafarers LOG 7 �WWII-Era American Victory, Ready to ‘Relive History,’ Seeks Volunteer Crew The American Victory, an historic Victory class ship of the World War II, Korea and Vietnam eras, is nearly ready to sail again. Since the American Victory arrived in Tampa, Fla. in September 1999 from the James River (Va.) Reserve Fleet, thousands of volunteer hours and nearly $4 million in private money have helped to restore the vessel to a world-class seagoing maritime museum. The American Victory Mariners Memorial and Museum Ship (AVMM&MS), located on board the American Victory, honors the men and women who served the United States in times of war and peace and portrays the historical and economic significance of the maritime industry in the development of the Tampa Bay region. Volunteer crew members, many of whom served aboard the American Victory or other similar ships, will be available on the vessel to answer questions and share stories about life at sea during the 1940s, ’50s and ’60s. The goal of the AVMM&MS is to provide a first-class, interactive maritime educational experience for visitors of all ages. Additionally, it plans to sail the ship one weekend each month for a “Relive History” cruise. Each of these 7-hour day cruises on Tampa Bay will provide a chance for up to 800 passengers to experience what life at sea was like on board merchant vessels of that era. The American Victory, a restored merchant vessel, will provide a complete maritime educational experience for visitors of all ages. The cruises will feature mock aircraft attacks by vintage planes, big band music, buffet style dining and memorial services honoring the men and women who lost their lives building, sailing and defending America’s merchant fleet. The ship already has undergone successful sea trials and, pending final approval from the U.S. Coast Guard, the cruises will begin sometime this fall. II, the American Victory served as a seagoing “good will ambassador” for the United States under the Marshall Plan, supplying food, vehicles and manufacturing machinery to the war-torn countries of Europe and the Near East. During the Korean War and in Vietnam, the American Victory and other merchant ships transported cargo, fuel and ammunition from all over the world. History Seeking Volunteer Crew Members Slightly longer, wider, faster and stronger than the Liberty ships, which were easy prey for submarines, a new class of vessels was commissioned in 1942. The American Victory was one of 534 Victory ships built between mid-1944 and mid-1946 to replace the Liberty class of merchant vessel. Immediately after World War One of the goals of the AVMM&MS is to staff the American Victory with volunteer crew members. Interested retired Seafarers who still are certified should call (813) 228-8766. They also may e-mail their interest to amvic@aol.com or online at www.americanvictory.org. ‘Father Matt’ Siekierski, SIU Friend, Dies at 53 The Seafarers International Union and the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education lost a good friend with the passing of Rev. Fr. Matthew Siekierski. Father Matt, as he was known, was the pastor of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in LaPlata, Md. He died Aug. 3 after a heart attack at the age of 53. In 1996, Father Matt presided over the funeral of Joseph Sacco, the late executive vice president of the SIU. Three years later, he delivered the invocation at the dedication ceremony of the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School in Valley Lee, Md. Pastor Siekierski was born in Goodman, Wis. He attended Sacred Heart Seminary in Oneida, Wis., St. Norbert College in DePere, Wis. and St. Mary’s College in Baltimore. He was ordained to the priesthood on May 14, 1977 at the Cathedral of St. Matthew in Washington, D.C. After several assignments in the Maryland area, Father Matt was named pastor at Sacred Heart in 1996. In 1989, he served a two-year term on the Priest Retirement Board; in 1999, he served three years as Dean, Charles County Deanery; and in December 2001, he was appointed Episcopal Vicar for St. Mary’s, Charles and Calvert Counties. Father Matt delivers the invocation at the dedication of the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School in 1999. He also served as an adviser to Cardinal Theodore E. McCarrick, archbishop of Washington. Father Matt was in the news last year when he helped rally the residents of LaPlata to rebuild after a deadly tornado tore through their community. The tornado, which killed five people, leveled entire blocks in the downtown area, including Sacred Heart’s 500-student Archbishop Neal School. Pastor Siekierski, who was the school’s administrator, took part in groundbreaking ceremonies for a new facility, which is scheduled to open in January. Interment took place at Sacred Heart Church Cemetery in LaPlata. Helping celebrate Father Matt’s life was Archbishop McCarrick. Survivors include his parents, Anne and Matthew Siekierski of Goodman; a brother; two sisters; five nieces and four nephews. Migrant Smuggling Scheme Involved Fake Mariner IDs A federal grand jury in Miami on July 24 returned an indictment charging five individuals with migrant smuggling and the use of fake seafarer documents. Accused of conspiracy to commit offenses or to defraud the United States, as well as encouraging or inducting an alien to come to, enter or reside in the United States—all violations of Title 18 United States Code— were Maria Machado Diaz, Larry Milton, Guillermo Vidaurre, Delber Diaz and Marvin Joseph Jr. In addition to migrant smuggling, Joseph also was charged with fraud and related activity in connection with identification docu- ments and information. Maria and Delber Diaz also were indicted for making false statements. The announcement of the indictments jointly was released by Marcos Daniel Jimenez, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida; Rear Adm. Harvey Johnson, commander, Seventh Coast Guard District, U.S. Coast Guard; and Jonathan Sall, special agent in charge, U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service. According to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), the defendants each face between five and 10 years’ imprisonment and Retired SUP Official Dooley Dies at 85 Jim Dooley, a retired official with the Seafarers-affiliated Sailors’ Union of the Pacific (SUP), passed away July 20 in Washington State. He was 85. Dooley started going to sea in 1935. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was aboard the USS Missouri from its commissioning through the Japanese surrender. After the war, he returned to the merchant marine. Dooley became a patrolman with the SUP in Seattle in 1949. He was transferred to Hawaii in 1956. During various points in the ensuing 10 years, he served as president of Honolulu’s Port Council of the Maritime Trades 8 Seafarers LOG Department and also as head of the AFL-CIO’s local committee on political education. Additionally, Dooley served as president of the local central labor council. From the mid-1960s until his retirement in 1988, Dooley worked as the SUP’s branch manager in Portland, Ore. He also served as president of the area central labor council. Dooley reportedly had been in failing health for a number of years. He was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years, Maureen. Funeral services took place at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Edmonds, Wash. multiple fines of $250,000 if convicted. Maria Diaz and her associates have been under scrutiny by the former agencies since October 2002. Undercover agents conducted frequent operations in which they kept tight surveillance on the subjects, purchased false mariner employment documents and obtained audio and video evidence on all of the suspects. Specifically, the indictment alleges that the defendants sent numerous letters to the U.S. government stating that certain aliens were guaranteed employment on ships docked in Miami. In each case, the aliens were not guaranteed employment on the vessels as stated by the defendants. All suspects arrested were placed in the custody of the United States Marshals. Maria Diaz is being held on a $50,000 corporate security bond. Milton and Vidaurre were both released on $50,000 personal security bonds. As of press time for the Seafarers LOG, Joseph Jr., and Delber Diaz were still fugitives. SIU President Welcomes AMMV SIU President Mike Sacco (above, left) last month addressed officials and members of the American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV) who visited the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. The SIU president brought AMMV members up to date on the effort to reauthorize the U.S. Maritime Security Program. Among other topics, he also discussed the latest training opportunities for mariners at the Paul Hall Center, and recapped the U.S. Merchant Marine’s performance during the combat phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Introducing Sacco is AMMV National President Hank Cap. Pictured below are a few of the other AMMV guests. September 2003 �Truly Special Mission ‘Warrior Foundation’ Helps Families of Fallen Patriots Occasionally, an idea comes along that is so decent, logical and humanitarian, it makes one wonder why no one thought of it sooner. That’s arguably the case when it comes to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, a 23-year-old non-profit organization dedicated to providing surviving children of Special Operations Forces (SOF) with the college education their fallen parent would have wanted for them. The concept is straightforward: not only helping the families of American patriots, but also not penalizing them for being part of an extended part of a high-risk force. Because of the SIU’s role as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense, Seafarers undoubtedly can appreciate both the importance of SOF missions as well as the risks involved. Further, in light of Operation Enduring Freedom—sometimes described by military officers as America’s first special operations war—the number of SOF personnel at risk inevitably will increase. In describing its mission, the foundation noted, “As the war on terrorism continues to unfold, Special Operations Forces will be facing new challenges all too frequently. In fact, there has never been a greater need for Special Operations Forces than right now—and Special Operations Forces will continue to be the force of choice time and time again during this tumultuous period. “Special Operations personnel are conducting more missions, in more places, and under a broader range of conditions than ever before. These missions entail high operational tempos, heavy and unpredictable deployment schedules, personal hardships and, by their very nature, inordinate casualties both in operations and training. Since the Iranian hostage rescue attempt in 1980, America’s Special Operations Forces have suffered casualties at more than 15 times the rate of conventional forces. Most of these casualties occur at an early age, at the beginning of their careers, thus leaving behind families who have yet to accumulate the resources to provide for their surviving children’s college education. “The Special Operations ‘Union Plus’ Offers Consumer Benefits Union Plus gives Seafarers and their families access to a number of cost-saving benefits programs. Union Plus (formerly Union Privilege) is a non-profit entity created in 1986 by the AFLCIO to provide union members and their families with valuable consumer benefits. Basically, the organization secures good rates for union members who are enrolled in the various programs, based on the potential collective purchasing power of all members of participating unions. In short, it’s a case of strength in numbers. The following is a list of Union Plus programs in which the SIU participates. For more information about a particular program, call the appropriate Union Plus telephone number or visit www.unionplus.org Credit Card Apply online at www.unionpluscard.com or call 1-800522-4000. Secured Credit Card Call 1-800-622-2580. Mortgage and Real Estate Call 1-800-848-6466. Life Insurance Call 1-800-899-2782. National Labor College Scholarship For more details, call 1-301431-5404. Loan Program Apply online at www.unionplusloan.com or call 1-888235-2759. Accidental Death Insurance Call 1-800-899-2782 or enroll online at www.unionplus.org. Family Savers Hotel Royal Plaza Call 1-800-248-7890. Car Rentals To find out more, visit www.unionplus.org; call Avis at 1-800-698-5685, ID# B723700 or Budget at 1800455-2848, ID# V816100. Union-Made Checks Call 1-888-864-6625. Flower Service Visit www.unionplus.org or call 1-888-667-7779 to place an order. North American Van Lines Call 1-800-524-5533. Health Savings Call 1-800-228-3523 for more details. Auto Insurance Program For comparison quotes, go to www.unionplus.org or call 1-800-294-9496 to apply. Your Credit Score For $11, you can get your credit score, credit report, and suggestions for improving your score. Visit www.unionplus.org. Education Services Vacation Tours Visit www.unionplus.org or call 1-877-881-1022. Call 1-800-590-1104 for more information. September 2003 Warrior Foundation strives to relieve Special Operations personnel of the one concern, their families, that might distract them from peak performance when they need to be—and when America needs them to be—at their very best.” Today, according to the foundation, more than 400 such deserving children exist who should not be denied the education their fallen parent would surely have wanted for them. With nearly 100 children eligible each year for college in the years 2003 through 2010, the Foundation’s estimated financial need through 2010 is $25 million. The foundation began in 1980 as the Col. Arthur D. “Bull” Simons Scholarship Fund. The Bull Simons Fund was created after the Iranian hostage rescue attempt to provide college educations for the 17 children surviving the nine men killed or incapacitated at Desert One. It was named in honor of the legendary Army Green Beret, Bull Simons, who repeatedly risked his life on rescue missions. Following creation of the United States Special Operations Command, and as casualties mounted from actions such as Operations “Urgent Fury” (Grenada), “Just Cause” (Panama), “Desert Storm” (Kuwait and Iraq), and “Restore Hope” (Somalia), the Bull Simons Fund gradually expanded its outreach program to encompass all Special Operations Forces. Thus, in 1995 the Family Liaison Action Group (established to support the families of the 53 Iranian hostages) and the Spectre (Air Force gunship) Association Scholarship Fund merged to form the Special Operations Warrior Foundation. In 1998 the Foundation extended the scholarship and financial aid counseling to also include training fatalities since the inception of the Foundation in 1980. This action immediately added 205 children who were now eligible for college funding. The forces covered by the Foundation are stationed in units throughout the United States and at overseas bases. Some of the largest concentrations of Special Operations Forces are at military bases at Fort Bragg, N.C.; Hurlburt Field, Fla.; Coronado Naval Station, Calif.; Dam Neck, Va.; MacDill AFB, Fla.; Fort Lewis, Wash.; Fort Stewart, Ga.; Fort Campbell, Kentucky.; Little Creek, Va.; Fort Carson, Col.; Royal Air Force Base Mildenhall, United Kingdom; and Kadena Air Base, Japan. To date, 48 children of fallen special operations warriors have graduated from college. Children from all military services have received or been offered Warrior Foundation scholarships, to include: 246 Army, 148 Air Force, 26 Navy, and 3 from the Marine Corps. As Fox News anchor John Wilson said in a recent commentary, “If you’re looking for a pressing need that will have real results in the future, there is no question that these children of fallen patriots deserve special help.” For more information, visit the web site www.specialops.org. U.S., China Resume Maritime Talks The United States and China on July 31 in San Francisco resumed ongoing talks on a new bilateral maritime pact. The previous such agreement between the two nations, which was finalized in 1988 and covered a 10-year period, expired in 1998. Captain William Schubert, U.S. Maritime administrator, led the U.S. delegation during the meeting, while Su Xiang, director general of the Department of Water Transport, headed the Chinese contingent. The San Francisco meeting marked the first time officials from the two nations had convened to discuss a new treaty since April. During the April summit, the two countries left several significant issues pertinent to a new agreement unresolved, but signed a memorandum of consultation that noted the progress of their previous negotiations and underscored their resolve to craft a new accord. “The resolution of all these issues in the context of a new package of commitments is the foundation of concluding a new maritime agreement,” the memorandum of consultation said in part. Among the matters unresolved that caused the U.S. concern, according to several sources, were restrictions imposed by China on carriers and nonvessel-operating common carriers (NVOCC), requirements that NVOCCs provide large financial deposits in China and the treatment of Chinese stateowned carriers under U.S. controlled carrier rules. As of press time for the Seafarers LOG, the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) had not released any particulars about the latest talks. Communications officials indicated, however, that indepth information pertaining to the meeting is forthcoming. Union Plus Announces Promotion To Win Union-Made Car, Other Prizes Union members may win a new union-made vehicle from the Union Plus auto buying service. Union Plus is a non-profit entity founded by the AFL-CIO to help union families secure various services at low and discounted rates. Last month, the organization announced that it’s “Win a Union Car” promotion gives members a chance to win a new Ford Mustang, F-150 or Freestar. Additional prizes of Bose and Koss stereo equipment will also be awarded. There is no cost to enter the promotion. For more information, members may call toll-free 1-877-800-2924, or they may enter online at www.winunioncar.com. Winners will be announced on December 31, 2003. The Union Plus auto buying program is a free service designed to help members find a new or used car, van or truck. The auto buying service will even negotiate the best price for members. According to Union Plus, “The service uses an extensive, up-to-the-minute database of vehicles and a network of authorized car dealers. Plus, if members support fellow members by purchasing a new union-made car, they’ll save another $100.” The toll-free number for the auto program is the same one listed earlier: 1-877-800-2924. SIU Responds to MTSA’s Interim Rules Continued from page 5 rity representatives.” As noted, labor organizations are specifically identified as stakeholders for membership on the committee. However, Section 103.305 Composition of an Area Maritime Security (AMS) Committee does not follow suit but instead advances that members may be generally selected from among “…(5) maritime industry; (6) other port stakeholders having a special competence in maritime security….” The SIU believes that labor representation on these committees is absolutely critical to effective port security for the information and knowledge that they may impart and, therefore, recommends that Section 103.305 in the temporary interim rule be clarified to specifically articulate that seafaring labor organizations be seriously considered in the selection process for these committees. It is our view that seafaring labor organizations are in a unique position to ascertain and address the vulnerabilities of ports their vessels traverse and in which their union hiring halls and officials reside…. Crew Screening: The SIU fully supports Section 104.265 (e)(4) of USCG-2003-14749, Vessel Security. This provision basically acknowledges the sensitivity of screening and crew searches by barring other vessel personnel from performing such screening, unless security clearly requires it. The provision further requires that such screening take into account a seafarer’s human rights and basic human dignity. The SIU trusts that the basic principles articulated in this provision continue to be recognized and adhered to by company and facility operators/owners in the implementation of security measures. The SIU anticipates that the Coast Guard will give our comments due consideration as the agency moves forward to the promulgation of the final rule implementing specific provisions of the MTSA and the ISPS Code…(End of letter) Seafarers LOG 9 �At Sea And Ashore With the SIU Among those receiving medals from Vice Adm. Brewer were Chief Steward Robert Firth (left), who sailed on the William R. Butler, and Steward/Baker Shirley Adkins (below) from the USNS Soderman. Firth sails from the port of Mobile, Ala.; Adkins ships from Norfolk, Va. Vice Adm. David L. Brewer III, USN, MSC commander, praised the nearly 1,400 commercial mariners assigned to 25 of MSC’s afloat prepositioning ships for their key role during Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom at a ceremony honoring these mariners held at MSC headquarters June 20. The galley gang aboard the Seabulk Arctic enjoys working together. This photo was taken when the ship arrived in Tacoma, Wash. From the left are Steward/Baker Chris Amigable, GVA Carlos Madayag and Chief Cook Evelina Barnes. Harry Wessel (right), who works as an electrician in the crane department at the Horizon terminal in San Juan, P.R., receives a safety award for his work during the first quarter of 2003. The SIU was well represented at a recent birthday party for Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii). From the left are QMED Joey Canlas, Crowley Tug Captain Ed Brooks and his wife, Alice, Sally Dietz, SIU Hawaii Port Agent Neil Dietz, Abercrombie, Chief Cook Lloyd Lawrence and Pensioner Beltran Pino. Darryl Alexander shows the medal he was awarded recently for his service during Operation Enduring Freedom. Alexander sailed as an AB aboard the USNS Charlton. He ships from the port of St. Louis. 10 Seafarers LOG The crew aboard the USNS Soderman was happy to return to Jacksonville after working hard in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. From the left are Chief Engineer Ron Vondracheck, QMED Nasser Aljahmi, Steward/Baker Shirley Adkins and Bosun Lynn Mallis. September 2003 �Future Seafarer Victor (Little Vic) Nuñez Jr. joins his father, SIU Port Agent Victor Nuñez, at the Santurce hall in Puerto Rico. On this page, we share with our readers some of the special days in the lives of Seafarers around the world. 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. SIU Wilmington Port Agent John Cox and his wife, Tausha, are the proud parents of Alexis Margaret. Born March 7, 2003, Alexis weighed in at 7 lbs. 8 oz. Congratulations to SIU member Carl E. Bridges, who graduated in August from Texas Southern University, where he majored in psychology (with a minor in African American history). Bridges shipped out of the Houston hall, sailing in the deck and steward departments as bosun, AB, steward and chief cook. He hopes to pursue a degree in admiralty law. Bridges says he is a “true union member for life.” Bosun Rick Bernard’s daughter joined him aboard the Cape Inscription during welcoming ceremonies in Long Beach, Calif. as Bernard and the other crew members were presented with Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medals and certificates from Captain Paul Foran and Captain Frank Johnston, western regional director of MarAd. It was wedding bells for AB George K. Marfo and his bride, Lethina, when they tied the knot July 2, 2002 in Garapan, Saipan. Marfo last sailed aboard the 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez. Josh Taylor (left), 5, and his brother, Nick, 10, caught some catfish in the pond at the Paul Hall Center while vacationing there this past summer. Their mother, Donna Taylor, a graduate of the trainee program at Piney Point who now sails from San Francisco, was upgrading her steward department skills by taking the advanced galley course. September 2003 Seafarers LOG 11 �STCW Demonstration of Compe The Paul Hall Center’s unlicensed apprentice program is packed with practical training, both at the school and aboard ship (phase 2). A lot of that hands-on schooling is required by STCW 95. Among other skills, apprentices learn steering, cargo handling, and STCW Basic Safety. They train in all three shipboard departments. The school offers dozens of U.S. Coast Guard-approved upgrading courses, virtually all of which include substantial hands-on components. In addition to department-specific training, the Paul Hall Center conducts safety specialty classes open to all eligible students, including the heavily attended STCW Basic Safety Training (BST). HAN TRAIN F or all the complexities of the amended STCW convention, much of its essence boils down to requiring mariners to maintain or advance their endorsements through practical demonstrations of skills, rather than taking written tests. That marked a big overall change for the industry throughout the world. But, at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, such practical displays are nothing new. “Hands-on training and the practical demonstration of shipboard competencies—that’s what the school has been doing for 36 years,” said J.C. Wiegman, assistant director of training at the Piney Point, Md. facility. “It’s old hat to us, and that background undoubtedly helped the school as we modified our curriculums to comply with STCW requirements.” He added that, on one hand, writing and implementing the new courses, as well as modifying some existing ones, was a lot of work. At the same time, much of the critical content already was in place, simply because the school has emphasized hands-on training since day one. “The STCW competencies themselves are not new to us. They just have new titles,” Wiegman noted. STCW is part of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for mariners. The original convention was adopted in 1978. The amended convention (known as STCW 95), signed by the U.S. and 119 other nations, clearly affects the training and upgrading of mariners. It established minimum standards for masters, officers and watchkeeping 12 Seafarers LOG September 2003 �etency at the Paul Hall Center NDS NING personnel on seagoing merchant ships and aboard some smaller vessels operating in near coastal waters. For example, all mariners employed or engaged in any capacity aboard a seagoing vessel, with designated safety or pollution-prevention duties in the operation of the ship, must provide evidence of having achieved or retained (within the previous five years) the required standard of competency in personal survival techniques, fire prevention and fire fighting, elementary first aid and personal safety and social responsibility before they are assigned any shipboard duty. These standards are taught in the Paul Hall Center’s STCW Basic Safety Training course. Similarly, ratings forming part of a navigational watch are required to demonstrate competencies such as steering, knot tying and lifeboat handling, while ratings forming part of an engineering watch must show certain skills on the steam, diesel or gas turbine simulator. The Paul Hall Center’s STCW-related courses—all approved by the U.S. Coast Guard—include basic safety training, basic fire fighting, advanced fire fighting, STCW proficiency in survival craft, STCW crowd management, STCW crisis management, STCW medical care provider, AB (ratings forming part of a navigational watch), oiler (ratings forming part of an engineering watch), QMED junior engineer and many, many others. September 2003 Seafarers LOG 13 �Cable Ship Crew Memorializes Bosun Libby Recertified Steward Shawn Fujiwara submitted the following article along with accompanying photos. Bosun Libby passed away May 9, 2002. He was 74. Bosun Herb Libby spent most of his years with the SIU sailing aboard the Long Lines. Seafarers and officers aboard the cable ship Tyco Decisive remembered the late Bosun Herb Libby on May 9, the first anniversary of his passing, when they scattered his ashes to sea. It was hoped that his home of 30 years, the cable ship Long Lines, would make one final voyage (and would be utilized for the ceremony), but the vessel was retired before that was possible. Known simply as Libby to all who sailed with him, Bosun Libby joined the U.S. Coast Guard in 1943, at age 15, because he wanted to be part of the war effort. He sailed in the North and South Atlantic, Pacific and Caribbean theaters. Libby was in two North Atlantic convoys, never losing a ship. He did see others go down, and said he was very fortunate. After the war, Libby joined the ranks of the SIU, becoming a bosun in 1951. Recertified Bosun Thor 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. As the flag flew at half mast, Seafarers and officers on the Tyco Decisive bid farewell to their friend and shipmate. Young recalls that when he and Libby sailed together aboard the Long Lines, “he told me that I was going to be a lifer. That was 15 years ago, and I’m still with the cable ships. Libby instilled in me pride in the union and taught me many of the practices that I still use today.” Bosun Libby and the Long Lines crew are featured in photographs at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. On Friday, May 9 at 1805 under dark clouds and setting sun, all hands gathered aboard the Tyco Decisive to pay their respects for a fallen shipmate. With the U.S. flag flying at half mast, Captain J.L. Sanders (who sailed with Bosun Libby on the Long Lines) gave last rites. Bosun Young reflected on their years of sailing with Libby, noting that he was a good shipmate and a great friend to all who knew him. All hands then joined in bidding Libby an eternal journey to the deep. With “Amazing Grace” playing, his ashes along with a small barley chain which came from the Long Lines were returned to the sea at 6 degrees 46.9N Lat 94 degrees 33.8W, followed by three short blasts of the ship’s whistle. Seafarers Are Active in Baltimore Continued from page 24 Baltimore last month was preparing for an important sea trial. Seafarers on the new cable ship Tyco Decisive were readying the 456-foot vessel for a practice run. Christened in Baltimore in June, the Decisive is a “Reliance Class” ship built and outfitted to provide outstanding undersea cable maintenance and new marine cable installations. A sister ship, the Tyco Dependable, was christened earlier this year in Honolulu. Overall, the port of Baltimore is vital to the local economy, generating an estimated $1.4 billion in annual revenue and employing nearly 126,700 Marylanders in maritime-related jobs. Pictured from left to right aboard the Tyco Decisive are (seated) AB Ruben Siclot, OMU Chris Corpuz, OMU Joselito Vicente, OMU Efren Redil, Chief Steward Dante Slack, Chief Cook Jorge Lanas, (standing) OMU Alfredo Mendoza, AB Harold Gierbolini, GUS Argelio Perez, AB Francisco Calit, SIU Port Agent Dennis Metz and OS Michael Widmark. Left: Chief Engineer Jim Varela, displaying his Piney Point class ring, says the Paul Hall Center helped him advance. AB Terrence Carmody (at wheel), Bosun Francisco Bravo USNS Denebola 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 14 Seafarers LOG Chief Cook John Cator signs a union report aboard the USNS Denebola as SIU Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz distributes forms to the crew. Electrician James Demoui checks gauges aboard the Wright. A view from the U S N S Denebola in Baltimore GUDE Mark Canada says the Wright and its crew remain ready to answer the nation’s call and continue fulfilling their role as part of America’s fourth arm of defense. September 2003 �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea JULY 16 — AUGUST 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 3 7 0 10 30 36 12 8 25 15 6 1 8 19 1 40 17 238 2 6 4 14 15 23 9 13 21 18 4 7 10 8 3 20 24 201 1 2 2 2 16 13 6 18 14 7 2 1 2 2 5 21 10 124 2 4 0 5 25 24 9 10 21 13 4 1 4 19 1 27 18 187 0 4 0 3 15 21 8 10 6 7 3 1 2 16 0 13 3 112 0 3 2 3 8 17 3 8 7 19 2 2 1 7 3 19 13 117 1 2 0 1 8 8 2 3 6 3 0 2 2 1 1 9 2 51 0 1 0 3 14 11 5 8 8 6 2 1 3 11 1 12 9 95 1 3 4 6 9 26 4 12 16 17 4 6 7 6 3 21 20 165 0 1 1 1 8 8 4 13 6 6 2 0 1 1 3 11 2 68 0 3 1 2 17 16 9 7 11 12 4 1 2 7 1 12 15 120 4 8 0 13 49 62 22 31 45 19 8 3 14 40 2 55 26 401 2 4 5 18 22 33 16 23 35 22 2 16 5 10 5 23 26 267 4 2 2 4 34 18 9 17 26 9 2 1 1 5 9 26 27 196 0 8 0 11 19 40 12 19 15 7 3 3 7 18 2 15 8 187 0 3 3 7 10 27 7 14 12 24 2 1 3 15 4 20 15 167 3 2 2 3 16 11 3 3 8 3 2 0 2 3 4 13 7 85 0 2 0 0 5 5 3 2 9 2 0 0 1 8 0 10 11 58 0 2 0 15 32 25 7 12 25 13 4 1 2 38 2 38 37 253 1 1 2 10 5 13 6 5 6 11 2 2 4 9 1 9 3 90 1 0 1 5 4 11 2 3 4 7 0 0 0 1 1 4 2 46 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 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 4 1 3 8 13 3 3 9 9 1 2 0 0 0 15 8 79 0 0 1 1 5 1 0 2 1 3 0 2 0 0 0 3 1 20 October & November 2003 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Piney Point .............Monday: October 6, November 3 Algonac ..................Friday: October 10, November 7 Baltimore ................Thursday: October 9, November 6 Boston.....................Friday: October 10, November 7 Duluth .....................Wednesday: October 15, November 12 Guam ......................Thursday: October 23, November 20 Honolulu .................Friday: October 17, November 14 Houston ..................Monday: October 13, November 10 Jacksonville ............Thursday: October 9, November 6 Joliet .......................Thursday: October 16, November 13 Mobile ....................Wednesday: October 15, November 12 0 1 0 3 7 8 1 5 7 0 1 2 0 3 0 7 3 48 New Bedford ..........Tuesday: October 21, November 18 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: October 14 ................................Wednesday: November 12* ................................*(change created by Veterans Day holiday) New York................Tuesday: October 7, November 4 Norfolk ...................Thursday: October 9, November 6 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: October 8, November 5 Port Everglades.......Thursday: October 16, November 13 San Francisco .........Thursday: October 16, November 13 San Juan..................Thursday: October 9, November 6 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 5 22 15 3 5 16 7 3 3 1 29 0 25 14 148 0 1 1 5 3 6 3 1 2 10 2 2 2 6 0 3 5 52 0 1 0 3 4 4 0 5 4 6 0 0 0 0 1 4 2 34 0 1 0 8 11 17 5 3 13 6 2 3 3 20 0 17 10 119 Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 4 2 5 0 2 5 0 0 0 4 7 0 1 3 33 3 2 4 10 17 14 3 7 27 4 2 9 4 15 0 15 8 144 1 7 0 6 15 18 2 8 30 11 1 10 1 5 2 19 11 147 0 0 0 3 3 4 0 1 5 0 0 0 0 4 0 2 1 23 2 2 2 2 10 9 5 5 23 2 2 11 3 9 0 10 3 100 0 4 0 3 2 8 2 1 8 10 1 14 0 3 1 6 6 69 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 4 2 6 1 2 4 0 1 0 5 8 0 7 5 47 1 3 4 21 25 24 7 12 42 7 2 14 3 23 0 38 12 238 1 4 0 15 37 31 4 14 54 16 3 11 2 11 1 33 20 257 Totals All Departments 531 514 356 424 380 178 226 888 762 584 Port 0 2 0 2 1 7 3 0 4 6 2 1 1 2 0 0 5 36 0 1 0 0 2 4 0 3 4 4 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 21 St. Louis..................Friday: October 17, November 14 Tacoma ...................Friday: October 24, November 21 Wilmington ...............Monday: October 20, November 17 ................................ Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals BRETT NEWSOME (or anyone knowing his whereabouts) Michelle “Chelle” Chapman would like to get in touch with you. You may contact her at 800 West Michigan Ave., Pensacola, FL 32505; telephone (850) 438-4264. Or you may e-mail her at etherealpheonix@aol.com. 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. September 2003 Celebrating 50 at Sea While at sea off the coast of Guam in June, a “50th birthday barbecue bash” was held on board the Horizon Enterprise to celebrate Recertified Bosun Roger J. Reinke’s special day. Enjoying the festivities are (from left) Messman/BR Hayel Omer, Reinke (festooned with leis), Recertified Steward Franchesca Rose and Chief Cook Alejo “Jun” Fabia. Seafarers LOG 15 �Seafarers International Union Directory NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report JULY 2003 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON 520 Dorchester Ave., Boston, MA 02127 (617) 269-7877 DULUTH 324 W. Superior St., Suite 705, Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 GUAM P.O. Box 23127, Barrigada, Guam 96921 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St., New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16½ Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norfolk San Pedro Tacoma Totals 3 10 6 15 3 9 4 50 3 0 4 2 0 2 1 12 0 2 1 2 0 0 0 5 4 1 2 11 2 6 2 28 0 0 1 0 0 5 0 6 4 0 0 3 0 0 0 7 Totals All Departments 3 1 3 4 3 3 2 19 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 0 0 0 4 0 16 5 8 0 12 2 43 7 8 7 27 3 29 40 121 12 0 4 6 0 21 14 57 0 7 9 6 0 0 6 28 0 4 1 1 1 9 0 16 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 4 2 0 0 0 0 0 6 5 4 1 1 0 10 0 21 0 4 7 15 3 29 26 84 0 1 1 13 0 4 9 28 1 20 3 10 0 0 6 40 1 2 1 3 0 10 0 17 1 3 2 4 1 35 8 54 1 0 2 8 0 10 5 26 0 1 3 11 0 6 2 23 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 2 2 3 6 2 6 1 22 0 0 2 0 0 2 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Port Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norfolk San Pedro Tacoma Totals REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norfolk San Pedro Tacoma Totals Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norfolk San Pedro Tacoma Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 4 0 0 1 2 8 0 15 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 5 0 4 0 7 2 18 0 3 0 8 0 14 3 28 0 4 0 5 0 0 0 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 6 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 7 2 4 0 3 1 17 2 10 3 15 0 132 3 219 19 6 4 19 0 66 15 129 4 5 11 43 0 11 20 94 118 50 21 50 8 14 98 478 240 185 PICS-FROM-THE-PAST These photos were sent to the LOG by pensioner Jack Curlew of Carson City, Nev. Both were taken aboard Waterman Steamship Lines’ Topa Topa in 1948. The photo (near right) was shot during the summer of that year. Curlew is in the front row on the right. The photo, he notes, “was taken during a break in the workday.” Jack Curlew, who last sailed in 1989 as a recertified bosun on the Sea-Land Patriot, is now 76. He says that “after sailing 45 years with the SIU, I retired to the high desert of Carson City, Nev. (alt. 4,620 ft.).” Below: In the winter of 1948, the deck members aboard the Topa Topa were standing by for a North Atlantic crossing. From the left are “Gus, Jack, Frenchy and Slim.” 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. September 2003 �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 MATO ANZULOVICH, 65, started his career with the Seafarers in 1989 in Houston. Born in Yugoslavia, his first ship was the USNS Silas Bent. Brother Anzulovich worked in the deck department and upgraded his skills in 1989 and 2001 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He last sailed on U.S. Ship Management’s Sealand Pride. Brother Anzulovich lives in Houston. HERBERT ATKINSON, 71, launched his SIU profession in 1961 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Brother Atkinson first sailed aboard the Steel Rover. The engine department member was born in Florida and last worked on the USNS Capella. Brother Atkinson lives in Jacksonville. WILLIAM E. CASSEL, 65, began his career with the SIU in 1987 in the port of New York. Born in Gary, Ind., Brother Cassel is a U.S. Navy veteran. His first ship as an SIU member was the USNS Dutton. The engine department member upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 2002 and is a resident of Edwards, Miss. Brother Cassel last went to sea on the Liberty Wave. RUDOLPH GRASSIA, 45, joined the Seafarers in 1976 in the port of Piney Point, Md. Brother Grassia sailed in both the inland and deep sea divisions, first working aboard a Crowley Towing & Transportation Co. vessel. A frequent upgrader at the union’s training school in Piney Point, Brother Grassia shipped in the deck department. His last voyage was aboard American Hawaii Cruises’ Independence. Brother Grassia was born in Philadelphia. He now makes his home in Turnersville, N.J. RUSSELL LUTHER, 72, joined the Seafarers in 1988 in Detroit. Born in Pennsylvania, Brother Luther worked in the deep sea as well as the Great Lakes divisions. His first ship was the Liberty Sea, a September 2003 Liberty Maritime Corp. vessel. The deck department member upgraded his skills on four occasions in Piney Point, Md. Brother Luther now lives in Trenton, Mich. He last went to sea aboard the Cpl. Louis J. Hauge Jr. RAMLI B. MOHAMMED, 70, started his SIU profession in 1966 in the port of New York. Brother Mohammed initially sailed on the Montpelier Victory. Born in Singapore, he worked in the deck department. Brother Mohammed’s last vessel was the LNG Taurus. He is a resident of Palmdale, Calif. MANUEL RIVAS, 63, joined the Seafarers in 1988 in Houston. Brother Rivas worked in both the deep sea and inland divisions, first sailing aboard the Sea-Land Quality. The Cuban-born mariner shipped in the deck department and enhanced his skills in 2001 at the Paul Hall Center. A resident of Houston, he last worked aboard a G&H Towing Co. vessel. ALVIN SMITH, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1990 in the port of Mobile, Ala. His first ship was the Cape Florida. Brother Smith worked in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the Seafarers training school in Piney Point, Md. He last went to sea aboard the SeaLand Motivator, a U.S. Ship Management vessel. Brother Smith calls Mobile home. PETER K. SCHULTZ, 64, joined the Seafarers in 1970. Brother Schultz initially went to sea aboard the J.T. Hutchinson, an American Steamship Co. vessel. Born in Germany, he worked in all three divisions and was a member of the steward department. Brother Shultz upgraded his skills often at the Paul Hall Center, completing the steward recertification course in 1989. The Oregon, Ohio resident last went to sea on the Sea-Land Developer. INLAND PETER BENOIT, 63, joined the Seafarers in 1984 in New Orleans. The Louisianaborn mariner worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Crescent Towing and Salvage Co. He shipped in the deck department and makes his home in his native state. DIXIE W. DANIELS, 62, joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. A native of North Carolina, Boatman Daniels initially worked aboard a Marine Oil Services, Inc. vessel. The deck department member shipped as a captain and last worked on an Interstate Oil Transport Co. vessel. Boatman Daniels lives in Wanchese, N.C. SAMUEL J. DIXON, 58, hails from Pennsylvania. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he joined the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Dixon initially worked aboard an Interstate Oil Transport Co. vessel. A resident of Philadelphia and a steward department member, he last sailed on a Maritrans Operating Co. vessel. WILLIAM C. DOUGHERTY, 63, began his career with the Seafarers in 1984 in the port of Philadelphia. A native of Pennsylvania, Boatman Dougherty worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Crowley Liner Services, Inc. The former deck department member calls Glenolden, Pa. home. JOSEPH A. ENNA, 56, joined the SIU in 1966 in New Orleans. Boatman Enna worked in the deep sea as well as inland divisions. His initial voyage was aboard Delta Steamship Lines’ Southwest Victory. The Louisiana-born mariner shipped in the deck department and last worked on a Crescent Towing & Salvage Co., Inc. vessel. Boatman Enna resides in his native state. CARL FOSTER, 60, was born in North Carolina. He began his vocation with the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. A deck department member, he shipped as a captain. Boatman Foster upgraded his skills frequently at the Seafarers training school in Piney Point, Md. The Belhaven, N.C. resident last worked on an Express Marine Inc., vessel. KAIERIK HANSEN, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Baltimore. Boatman Hansen initially worked aboard a Marine Towing & Transportation vessel. Born in Denmark, he shipped in the deck department as a captain. Boatman Hansen enhanced his skills in 1978 and 1981 at the Paul Hall Center. He last worked aboard a McAllister Towing of Philadelphia vessel. Liverpool, Pa. is his home. JOHN J. JOYCE, 58, began his SIU career in 1963 in the port of Philadelphia. A native of Pennsylvania, Boatman Joyce initially worked on a Moran Towing of Philadelphia vessel. He shipped in the deck department as a master. Boatman Joyce upgraded his skills frequently at the Seafarers training school, attending the institution seven times during his career. The Philadelphia resident last worked on a McAllister Towing vessel. WILLIAM R. McCORKLE, 63, hails from Philadelphia. Boatman McCorkle launched his career with the Seafarers in 1976. He worked in the inland as well as deep sea divisions, first sailing aboard the Overseas Aleutian. Boatman McCorkle last worked aboard a Crowley Liner Services, Inc. vessel. The deck department member now makes his home in Folcroft, Pa. CHARLES ROUGHTON, 64, launched his seafaring career in 1962 in the port of Norfolk, Va. after serving in the U.S. Air Force. A deck department mem- ber, he worked primarily aboard vessels operated by McAllister Towing of Virginia. Boatman Roughton lives in Chesapeake, Va. STEPHEN STRUVE, 62, was born in Kentucky. Boatman Struve joined the SIU in 1994 and worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Orgulf Transport Co. A steward department member, Boatman Struve lives in his native state in the city of Florence. Editor’s Note: The following brothers, all former members of the NMU and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, went on pension effective the dates indicated: Name Age EDP Albert Cox 62 June 1 Marciano DeGrace 65 July 1 Linwood Franklin 72 April 1 Mohamed Hafid 61 July 1 John Jacobson 75 June 1 Reginald Juzang 57 June 1 Horace Montgomery 66 June 1 James Pope 65 June 1 Bosun Las Sails into Retirement After 41 years with the union, Bosun/AB Ron Las (left) is ready for retirement. Last month, he stopped by the SIU’s new hall in Joliet, Ill. to submit his retirement papers—and was pleasantly surprised with a greeting from SIU President Mike Sacco (right) and SIU VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski. Brother Las sailed in both the deep sea and Great Lakes divisions. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA MILTON BEASLEY Pensioner Milton Beasley, 76, died May 13. Brother Beasley joined the Seafarers in 1945 in the port of Mobile, Ala. A U.S Army veteran, he shipped in the engine department, last sailing on Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Sam Houston. The Alabama resident began receiving his pension in 1986. WILLIAM BLANKENSHIP Pensioner William Blankenship, 62, passed away April 21. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Brother Blankenship joined the SIU in 1963 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. His first voyage was aboard the De Soto, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. Born in Richland, Mo., he worked in the engine department. Brother Blankenship last sailed aboard the Horizon Pacific and began receiving retirement payments earlier this year. He lived in Missouri. JOSEPH BROADUS Brother Joseph Broadus, 62, died April 19. He joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Broadus first shipped aboard a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. An Alabama native, he worked in the deck department. Brother Broadus’ final voyage was on the OMI Columbia. He made his home in Mobile. CARLOS H. CANALES Pensioner Carlos H. Canales, 65, passed away May 15. Brother Canales launched his career with the SIU in 1955 in Seattle. Born in Galveston, Texas, his first ship was the Del Mar. Brother Canales worked in the deck department and began receiving his pension in 1995. The Jacksonville, Fla. resident last sailed on the Mayaguez. CHARLES J. CLARK Pensioner Charles J. Clark, 78, died May 24. Born in Pennsylvania, Brother Clark was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He joined the Seafarers in 1948 in the port of New York. The deck department member began collecting stipends for his retirement in 1986. He last went to sea on the M/V Patriot. Brother Clark was a resident of Stoney City, Md. JAMES CUNNINGHAM Brother James Cunningham, 51, passed away May 9. Brother Cunningham started his career with the SIU in 1969 in San Francisco. His initial voyage was aboard the Sea-Land Long Beach. Born in 18 Seafarers LOG Lynwood, Calif., he shipped as a member of the deck department. Brother Cunningham last worked on the Cape Johnson. He lived in Everette, Wash. DAMASS DeJESUS Pensioner Damass DeJesus, 89, died June 5. Brother DeJesus launched his career as a charter member of the SIU, having joined the union in 1939 in the port of New York. He first sailed aboard the Yaka, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. A native of Fajardo, P.R., Brother DeJesus worked in the deck department. He began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1976. Brother DeJesus lived in Keystone Heights, Fla. and last sailed aboard the SeaLand Adventurer. a Waterman Steamship vessel. The Brooklyn, N.Y. native worked in the engine department and last shipped aboard the Sea-Land Developer. Brother Howison, who lived in Seattle, Wash., started receiving his pension in 1989. GEORGE ISRAEL Pensioner George Israel, 90, died May 8. Brother Israel began his career with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in San Francisco. The steward department member began receiving his pension in 1978. He called San Francisco home. GUSS A. JANAVARIS Pensioner Arlie Dillard, 68, passed away April 12. Born in Texas, Brother Dillard joined the Seafarers in 1962 in Houston. His first voyage was aboard the Cathy, a Sea Tramp Corp. vessel. Brother Dillard worked in both the steward and engine departments and lived in Houston. His last ship was the Overseas Anchorage. Brother Dillard began collecting his pension in 1999. Pensioner Guss A. Janavaris, 85, passed away May 23. He joined the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of New York. Brother Janavaris initially went to sea aboard an Alcoa Steamship Co. vessel as a member of the deck department. He last sailed on the Delaware. Brother Janavaris began receiving his pension in 1970. Born in Indiana, he made his home in Albuquerque, N.M. ALEX FRANCISCO EMMONS KIRCHHARR Pensioner Alex Francisco, 91, died May 3. Brother Francisco started his profession with the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of New York. Born in the Philippines, the steward department member began collecting stipends for his retirement in 1969. Brother Francisco lived in Metairie, La. Pensioner Emmons Kirchharr, 89, died May 30. Brother Kirchharr embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1964 in the port of Mobile, Ala. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he worked in both the deep sea and inland divisions. A native of Alabama, Brother Kirchharr shipped in the steward department, last working on the Sea-Land Long Beach. He made his home in Bay Minette, Ala. and began receiving retirement stipends in 1981. ARLIE DILLARD FRANCISCO GONZALEZ Pensioner Francisco Gonzalez, 86, passed away May 14. Brother Gonzalez initiated his SIU career in 1943 in the port of New York. He first sailed for the Seafarers aboard the A.H. Bull operated Mariana. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Gonzalez shipped in the steward department and last went to sea aboard the Eagle Traveler. A former resident of New York, he started collecting compensation for his retirement in 1963. CYRIL A. HENNING Pensioner Cyril A. Henning, 72, died April 12. Brother Henning joined the Seafarers in 1952 in New Orleans. He worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Delta Steamship Lines. Born in Louisiana, Brother Henning worked in the engine and deck departments and began receiving his pension in 1983. He made his home in Gretna, La. JAMES HOWISON Pensioner James Howison, 75, passed away April 27. A U.S. Army veteran, Brother Howison joined the SIU in 1947 in the port of New York. His initial voyage was aboard PHILIP LAMBIS Pensioner Philip Lambis, 62, passed away May 29. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he joined the SIU in 1952 in the port of Baltimore. The Pennsylvania-born mariner worked in the steward department and made his home in Livingston, Texas. He last sailed aboard the Overseas Harriette and started collecting his pension in 1992. RAYMOND LEONARD Pensioner Raymond Leonard, 80, died April 29. He launched his career with the Seafarers in 1952 in the port of Norfolk, Va. A U.S. Army veteran, Brother Leonard was born in Wake, N.C. He first sailed aboard A.H. Bull Lines’ Miscellaneo. Brother Leonard worked in the steward department and last went to sea aboard the HMI Defender. He lived in Henderson, N.C. and started receiving his pension in 1986. WILLIAM MCBRIDE Pensioner William McBride, 88, passed away May 24. Brother McBride initiated his SIU career in 1943 in the port of Baltimore. Born in Missouri, he worked in the deep sea as well as inland divisions. The deck department member made his home in Potosi, Mo. Brother McBride last worked aboard the Sea Coral, a Hudson Waterways Corp. vessel. He started receiving his pension in 1974. JAMES McNICHOL Pensioner James McNichol, 87, died May 26. Brother McNichol started his career with the MC&S in San Francisco. A member of the steward department, Brother McNichol began receiving his pension in 1968. He was a resident of San Francisco. KING SAW NG Pensioner King Saw Ng, 77, passed away April 25. Brother Ng started his career with the MC&S in 1968 in San Francisco. His first voyage was aboard the Santa Maria, a Delta Steamship Lines vessel. Born in China, Brother Ng shipped in the steward department. He last sailed aboard an American President Lines vessel. Brother Ng made his home in San Francisco and began receiving his pension in 1991. ROBERT OVERTON Pensioner Robert Overton, 81, died May 10. Brother Overton launched his SIU career in 1955 in the port of New York. Born in Florida, his first voyage was aboard a Sprogue Steamship Co. vessel. Brother Overton sailed in the engine department and worked in the deep sea as well as inland divisions. He last shipped on the Sea-Land Venture and began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1987. Brother Overton lived in Tampa, Fla. SHANE PETSCHOW Brother Shane Petschow, 34, passed away June 8. Brother Petschow joined the Seafarers in 2002 in the port of Piney Point, Md. Born in Winona, Minn. he shipped in the deck department. Brother Petschow worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Dyn Marine Services of Virginia and lived in his native state. HAROLD STEEN Pensioner Harold Steen, 69, died April 16. Brother Steen embarked on his profession with the Seafarers in 1958 in the port of New York. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Brother Steen was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. His first ship was the R. Semmes, a CSX Lines vessel. The deck department member made his home in Jacksonville, Fla. He last went to sea aboard the PFC Dewayne T. Williams and began receiving his pension in 1987. WILLIAM TRICE Pensioner William Trice, 83, passed away May 24. Brother Trice began his career with the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of New York. Born in Oklahoma, he was a veteran of the U.S. Army. The steward department member last went to sea on the Cove Liberty. Brother Trice started collecting retirement stipends in 1991. He resided in Big Spring, Texas. FLOYD J. VINCENT Pensioner Floyd J. Vincent, 74, died May 14. Brother Vincent launched his career with the Seafarers in 1949 in Galveston, Texas. Born in Lake Arthur, La., he was a veteran of the U.S. Army. He last sailed on the Sea-Land Quality. The deck department member made his home in Gueydan, La. He began receiving payments for his retirement in 1963. THOMAS VOTSIS Brother Thomas Votsis, 54, passed away April 29. He joined the Seafarers in 1980 in the port of Norfolk. Born in Greece, Brother Votsis sailed in the deep sea and inland divisions. A recertified bosun, he sailed in the deck department and first worked aboard an Allied Towing vessel. His final voyage was on the OMI Courier. Brother Votsis lived in Norfolk, Va. MELVIN R. WARD Pensioner Melvin R. Ward, 79, died May 6. Brother Ward joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of Baltimore. His first voyage was aboard the Coeur D’Alene, a Victory Carriers Inc. vessel. Born in Kentucky, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Ward made his home in Seattle and began receiving his pension in 1986. SHERMAN WRIGHT Pensioner Sherman Wright, 81, passed away May 28. Brother Wright began his SIU career in 1951 in Galveston, Texas. Born in California, he initially worked aboard an Interocean Management Corp. vessel. Brother Wright shipped in the steward department, last sailing aboard the Sea-Land Voyager. The Whitten, Calif. resident began receiving his pension in 1986. GREAT LAKES DANIEL HULL Pensioner Daniel Hull, 73 died April 18. Born in Alpena, Mich., Brother Hull launched his SIU career in 1956. The deck department member worked primarily aboard vessels Continued on page 20 September 2003 �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), June 29—Chairman Samuel L. Porchea, Secretary Samuel Raines, Deck Delegate Ray G. Johns, Engine Delegate James B. Long, Steward Delegate James E. Kelly Jr. Educational director urged crew members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He also advised everyone to check expiration dates on STCW and shipping documents. No beefs reported. Deck department requested additional OT for extra work performed, and crew asked for tank-cleaning rates onand off-watch. Clarification requested on which level medical plan crew members have. New washing machine to be used for white clothing only. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. ATLANTIC FOREST (Waterman Steamship Corp.), June 22—Chairman Mark S. Downey, Secretary Dulip Sookhiram, Deck Delegate Washington H. Williams Jr., Engine Delegate John R. Parkhurst, Steward Delegate Mohamed Abdelfattah. Chairman announced arrival June 28 in New Orleans. He reminded crew members to check expiration dates on all necessary shipping documents and upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center when possible. He asked those leaving ship in New Orleans to clean rooms for next person. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into pay raise. Request made for room fans. Steward department given vote of thanks for good meals and service. BRENTON REEF (Seabulk Tankers), June 29—Chairman Gregory A. Agren, Secretary William M. Simmons, Deck Delegate Richard W. Wittwer, Steward Delegate William M. Simmons. Chairman spoke about need for BST certificate when applying for STCW and advised everyone to make sure all papers are in order before going to Coast Guard. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for contracts department to raise benefits for older pensioners to help subsidize cost of living expenses. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. EXPLORER (USSM), June 16— Chairman George B. Khan, Secretary William R. Burdette, Educational Director Jimmie M. Robles, Deck Delegate Milton F. Caballero, Engine Delegate Fadel A. Mohamed, Steward Delegate Jimmy L. Williams. Chairman stated Coast Guard not yet set up to begin processing new type of merchant mariner’s documents. Payoff to be held June 18 in Los Angeles after meeting with patrolman. Chairman advised crew to read newest information on the need for visas when going to China. Fortunately, the Explorer crew was issued shore passes in Shanghai and Kwang Yang. Educational director talked about opportunities for upgrading skills September 2003 at Paul Hall Center. He also noted that if anyone is is doubt about their STCW documentation, they should have it checked before amnesty period expires. Treasurer stated $357 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made to check with patrolman regarding recent news about USSM and Maersk and to get e-mail address for SIU headquarters. Recommendation made to get copies of current events for SIU and maritime industry in order to get better handle of changes affecting the union. Next port: Oakland, Calif. GLOBAL MARINER (Transoceanic Cableship), June 29— Chairman Tony Sivola, Secretary Robert A. Brown, Educational Director Lucian Plesa, Deck Delegate John G. Salarda Jr., Engine Delegate Arthur Marshall, Steward Delegate Virginia P. Panoncillo. Chairman stated ship in layup in Charleston, S.C. Payoff scheduled July 1. He noted everyone pleased with outcome of company’s internal audit of safety management system. Secretary encouraged crew members to upgrade skills at Piney Point and to keep union dues up to date. He warned crew members to take care when coming and going from vessel in yard. Deck delegate asked that hard hats be worn on deck at all times while in yard. Information on how shipyard is to handle garbage to be discussed at later date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held about invalid BST documents. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great food. INNOVATOR (USSM), June 29—Chairman Stephen R. Kastel, Secretary Mose Peacock Jr., Educational Director Christopher L. Earhart, Deck Delegate James D. Morgan, Steward Delegate Mostafa Loumrhari. Chairman announced pay raise effective July 1. Requested restriction to vessel be lifted in Shanghai since SARS now under control. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center and making sure union dues are current. Treasurer stated $1,121 in ship’s fund. Captain took $500 to purchase DVDs for crew. Request made for new DVD player for crew lounge as well. No beefs or disputed OT reported. ITB GROTON (USS Transport), June 29—Chairman Tony Carvalho, Secretary Gene Von Flotow, Educational Director Alex Koroteyev, Deck Delegate Joshua A. Mensah, Steward Delegate Romarico D. Hinayon. Chairman announced payoff Aug. 1 in Wilmington, Calif. Educational director encouraged crew members to attend upgrading courses at Piney Point facility. Fifty percent of time spent at the school will apply toward pension. Treasurer reported pay raise effective July 1. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Deck delegate requested clarification on pay when signing on and off vessel. Communications read regarding invalid BST certificates. Suggestion made for drug prescription card to eliminate need for paying up front. Thanks to steward department for being good feeder. Heading to ports in Washington and California. LIBERTY GRACE (Liberty Maritime), June 15—Chairman Juan Castillo, Secretary Terry J. Smith, Deck Delegate Jonathan D. Stringer III, Engine Delegate Roger D. Phillips. Chairman informed crew members of payoff June 19 in Houston and explained need for up-to-date shipping documents and STCW training certificate. Secretary posted letter from headquarters about new vacation days starting July 1. Educational director advised everyone to make use of educational opportunities available at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Requests made for new ice machine and mattresses and repair to salad bar. Everyone asked to return movies when finished with them. Vote of thanks from crew to steward department for job well done. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Lines), June 27—Chairman Sonny Pinkham, Secretary Roger G. Griswold, Educational Director James T. McParland, Deck Delegate Oliver M. Balico, Engine Delegate Adam Noor, Steward Delegate Melvin W. Hite. Discussion held about need for port reliefs, especially after long foreign voyage. RMU George Rose left on medical emergency following the death of his mother. Educational director stressed need for verification of STCW certificates earned at facilities other than Piney Point. No beefs reported; some disputed OT noted in deck department. Recommendation made to increase pension and dental benefits. Discussion held about sailing board, collective bargaining agreement and mail. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good job. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. PERFORMANCE (USSM), June 30—Chairman Jimmie L. Scheck, Secretary Charles B. Collins, Educational Director Michael C. Martykan, Deck Delegate Bart Bridges, Engine Delegate Ali S. Mohsin, Steward Delegate Monell N. Liburd. Chairman announced payoff July 1 in Houston. Five lounge chairs and VCR to be brought aboard at that time. Crew members getting off should make sure room is clean and with fresh linen. Educational director spoke about upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $75 in SIU emergency fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department for job well done and for cleaning up after barbecue. Next ports: Algeciras and Cadiz, Spain. QUALITY (USSM), June 27— Chairman Tony Beasley, Secretary Franklyn J. Cordero, Educational Director Paul P. Pagano, Deck Delegate Rivas Simeon, Engine Delegate Anthony M. Lieto, Steward Delegate Anselmo A. Lopez. Chairman announced ship out of yard and things getting back to normal. He thanked crew for working safely and helping keep main house clean. Educational director advised those members who received STCW training at schools other than Piney Point send certificates for verification. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to increase dental plan benefits for members and dependents. Vote of thanks given to steward department and relief cook for job well done. CLEVELAND (Sealift Inc.), July 12—Chairman Fareed A. Khan, Secretary Miguel E. Vinca, Educational Director Thomas Koubek, Deck Delegate Cliff Lattish, Steward Delegate Ruben Ong. Chairman thanked everyone Life Aboard the USNS Pomeroy Left: ABs Chris Edyvean and Beverly Williams help apply non-skid paint to the stern section of the USNS Pomeroy. Right: Mark Coleman is the bosun aboard the Maersk Lines vessel. Left: Continuing to apply the non-skid paint are AB Tyler Laffitte and OS Rosita Livermon. Right: Steward department members recently took part in a day of survival suit training. Chief Cook Khaled Taffi and SA Beverly Stevens make it look kind of tricky. for great job cleaning cargo hold. He reminded crew members that when applying for vacation, be sure to include pay vouchers. Additionally, he advised them to keep STCW certificates up to date. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep mess hall clean and separating plastic items from regular garbage. He asked those getting off to make sure rooms are clean for next person. Educational director talked about upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center whenever possible. Beef reported in engine department; no disputed OT noted. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food, especially cookout. Next port: Houston. ENDURANCE (USSM), July 7— Chairman Romeo L. Lugtu, Secretary Jesse B. Natividad, Educational Director Grant W. Schuman, Deck Delegate Gerry A. Gianan, Engine Delegate Teddie H. Carter, Steward Delegate Thurman C. Johnson. Chairman announced smooth sailing from China on way to payoff in Los Angeles. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on certain aspects of shipping rules. 1st LT. ALEX BONNYMAN (Maersk Lines), Chairman Barry D. Hamm, Secretary Philip F. Lau, Educational Director John H. Westfall, Deck Delegate Lafe L. Fraley, Steward Delegate Marcus R. Rowe. Chairman thanked everyone for good job loading in Jacksonville and offloading in Kuwait. Secretary stressed number of issues: (1) crew members need to be sure union dues are up to date; (2) shipping documents should be renewed at least three months before expiration; (3) upgrading opportunities are available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Pay raise effective July 3. Request made that reliefs be available to those crew members whose time is up. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), July 6—Chairman Roger J. Reinke, Secretary Franchesca R. Rose, Educational Director Joseph J. Egan, Deck Delegate Erowin C. Udan, Engine Delegate Charles Johnson, Steward Delegate Alejo Fabia. Chairman announced payoff July 11 in Tacoma, Wash. No one should leave until ship has cleared customs and immigration. A barge will load small amount of bunkers at that time. Chairman also announced SARS restrictions lifted in Hong Kong and Taiwan. Crew may now go ashore in those ports. Secretary asked that pillows not be put in dirty laundry baskets. New pillows are on order. When they arrive, old ones may be tossed. Room inspections to be conducted by captain June 10. Everyone asked to return ship’s movies by arrival in Tacoma. Educational director urged crew members to upgrade skills and posted Paul Hall Center class schedule on bulletin board. He advised everyone to save pay vouchers which will be needed when applying for vacation benefits. Discussion held about new cruise ship operations in Hawaii area. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communications received regarding re-routing of LOGs to Tacoma and signing of ship’s minutes by delegates and committee members. Thanks given to steward department for three big barbecues held in past month. Turnout and food was fantastic. Vote taken on what to do with old VCR player from crew lounge. It was decided it should be returned to previous bosun, Robert Wilson, who donated most dollars toward its purchase. Next ports: Oakland, Calif; Honolulu; Guam. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Lines), July 10—Chairman Raymond Henderson, Secretary Thomas W. Milovich, Educational Director Donald D. Williams Jr., Deck Delegate Reuben M. Brown, Engine Delegate Frederick E. Petterson Jr., Steward Delegate Mario Clotter. Chairman read July headquarters report pertaining to new shipping rules. Secretary requested copies of both contracts. Educational director encouraged crew members to upgrade skills at Piney Point and not forget to renew z-cards. Recommendations made for company to enforce no smoking policy on bridge when pilot is on board and AB is in hard steering. Suggestion also made for there to be no working on watch. Juice machine needed for duty mess hall and ice machine for galley. Deck department was thanked for hard work, and vote of thanks given to steward department for great job. Next ports: Halifax, Canada; Newark, N.J.; Norfolk, Va. Seafarers LOG 19 �Final Departures Continued from page 18 operated by Inland Lakes Management. He began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1994. Brother Hull was a resident of Maple Ridge, Mich. NILES LOVEGROVE Pensioner Niles Lovegrove, 80, passed away June 2. After joining the Seafarers, Brother Lovegrove worked in the deck department. He started collecting compensation for his retirement in 1971. Born in Tennesse, Brother Lovegrove made his home in Elberta, Mich. ROBERT RADZIESKI Pensioner Robert Radzieski, 77, died April 16. Brother Radzieski started his career with the Seafarers in 1961 in Cleveland, Ohio. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, he first sailed aboard a Great Lakes Associates, Inc. vessel. Brother Radzieski was a native of Ohio and worked in the deck department. His final voyage was aboard the Paul H. Townsend, an Inland Lakes Management, Inc. vessel. Brother Radzieski lived in his native state and began receiving his pension in 1991. INLAND JAMES BRATCHER Pensioner James Bratcher, 77, died June 1. Born in Florida, Boatman Bratcher joined the SIU in 1960. The U.S. Navy veteran initially sailed aboard a G&H Towing Co. vessel. Boatman Bratcher worked in the inland as well as the deep sea division and shipped in the engine department. He last sailed aboard a Michigan Tankers vessel. The Houston resident began receiving his retirement pay in 1981. LARRY T. FULCHER Boatman Larry T. Fulcher, 57, passed away April 6. He joined the SIU in 1967. Boatman Fulcher was a member of the deck department and shipped as a captain. He last worked on a Maritrans Operating Co. vessel and lived in Willeston, N.C. RICHARD MOORE Pensioner Richard Moore, 81, died May 4. Brother Moore started his SIU career in 1971 in the port of Baltimore. Born in Ohio, Boatman Moore was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He shipped in the deck department and worked primarily aboard Moran Towing Co. of Maryland vessels. The Baltimore resident began collecting retirement stipends in 1987. 20 Seafarers LOG EDWARD PFRANG Boatman Edward Pfrang, 56, passed away May 9. He joined the Seafarers in 1975 in the port of Baltimore. A U.S. Navy veteran, Boatman Pfrang shipped in the engine department. He worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Moran Towing Co. of Maryland. Born in Jersey City, N.J., Boatman Pfrang made his home in Owings Mills, Md. RICHARD SOUZA Pensioner Richard Souza, 70, died April 2. Boatman Souza joined the SIU in 1974 in the port of Philadelphia afte serving in the U.S. Coast Guard. The Massachusettsborn mariner shipped in the deck department and worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Mariner Towing. Boatman Souza made his home in Westbrook, Maine. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1996. RAILROAD MARINE POWELL F. HUDGINS Pensioner Powell F. Hudgins, 89, died April 15. He began his career with the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Before joining the SIU, he served in the U.S. Coast Guard. Brother Hudgins was a member of the deck department and worked primarily aboard Pennsylvania Railroad/Norfolk vessels. He started collecting compensation for his retirement in 1970 and made his home in Matthews, Va. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN FRANK PALAZOLA Pensioner Frank Palazola, 91, passed away April 15. Brother Palazola started his career with the Atlantic Fisherman’s Union, an affiliate of the SIU before it merged with the AGLIWD in 1981. Born in Gloucester, Mass., the engine department member began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1976. He lived in Massachusetts. Know Your Rights Brother Demita launched his NMU profession in 1944. Sailing out of the port of New York, he initially went to sea on the Hawthorn. Brother Demita worked in both the steward and deck departments and last sailed on the Green Lake. He started collecting his retirement benefits in 1967. PHILIP ELDEMIRE Pensioner Philip Eldemire, 78, died June 6. Brother Eldemire started his vocation with the NMU in 1946. Born in the British West Indies, he initially shipped out of the port of Baltimore aboard the Carvale Victory. Brother Eldemire worked in the deck department and last went to sea on the Gulf Trader. He started receiving his pension in 1972. DAVID JOHNSON Pensioner David Johnson, 77, passed away July 15. The Hawaii-born mariner joined the NMU in 1945. Shipping out of the port of Honolulu, he initially went to sea aboard the Andree. Brother Johnson worked in the engine department and began receiving retirement pay in 1991. His final ocean voyage was on the Texaco Montana. MURVIN LANDRY Pensioner Murvin Landry, 71, died July 12. He commenced his NMU career in 1953. Brother Landry’s initial voyage was aboard the John Lykes. Born in Louisiana, he worked in the deck department. His final trip to sea was on the Marine Chemist. Brother Landry started collecting stipends for his retirement in 1984. JOHN McKELVY Editor’s Note: The following brothers, all former members of the NMU and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away: BENNIE ARKWRIGHT Pensioner Bennie Arkwright, 80 died June 24. Brother Arkwright joined the NMU in 1966. His first ship was the American Reporter. Born in Chatham County, Ga., Brother Arkwright sailed in the deck department. His final voyage was aboard the Shirley Lykes. Brother Arkwright began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1992. RALPH DEMITA Pensioner Ralph Demita, 79, passed away July 5. Born in Boston, Pensioner John McKelvy, 76, passed away July 3. Born in Abilene, Texas, his first ship was the Massachusetts. Brother McKelvy sailed in the deck department as a bosun and last worked on the Gulf Swamp. He began receiving his pension in 1968. LUIS SIERRA Pensioner Luis Sierra, 80, died July 13. Brother Sierra launched his career with the NMU in Puerto Rico, first sailing from the port of San Juan. Brother Sierra began receiving retirement stipends in 1972. 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. September 2003 �SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Engine Upgrading Courses Arrival Date Date of Completion Oiler September 8 November 3 October 17 December 12 Welding September 8 October 6 November 3 September 26 October 24 November 21 Engine Utility (EU) September 29 November 17 October 24 December 12 QMED Junior Engineer September 22 December 12 Course 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 Safety Specialty Courses Course Arrival Date Date of Completion November 3 November 7 Arrival Date Date of Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* – (5-day course) Able Seaman September 29 November 10 October 24 December 5 Advanced Fire Fighting – (2-week course) September 1 September 12 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) September 8 October 27 September 12 October 31 Basic Fire Fighting/STCW GMDSS (Simulator) September 15 September 26 Lifeboatman/Water Survival September 15 October 27 September 26 November 7 Radar October 13 October 24 September 1 September 15 September 28 October 13 October 27 November 3 November 10 November 17 December 1 December 8 September 5 September 19 October 3 October 17 October 31 November 7 November 14 November 21 December 5 December 12 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) October 13 December 1 October 24 December 12 Government Vessels September 1 October 20 November 3 September 5 October 24 November 7 Tanker Familiarization October 6 December 1 October 17 December 12 Tankerman (PIC) Barge* November 17 November 21 Course (*must have basic fire fighting) (*must have radar unlimited) Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week, most (*must have basic fire fighting) recently beginning August 18. 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 selfstudy. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. Recertification Bosun October 6 November 3 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Date of Birth ______________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB and JE applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ U.S. Citizen: ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Deep Sea Member Lakes Member Inland Waters Member If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Yes No Home Port _____________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? Yes No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? Yes No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? Yes No Firefighting: Yes No CPR: Yes No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ September 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. 9/03 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Engine Utility — Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 640 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 640. They are (from left, front row) Annie Walker, Stag Rye, Timothy Ross, Erick Toledo-Colon, Keith Smith, Kyle Byron, Eduardo Cruz, (back row) Damien Bautista, Robert Walter, Ryan Dauphin, Richard Nemanic, Joshua Kilbourn, Michael Fowler, Erik Bradley, Ricky Greenwood, Joseph Dupre and Donnlee Kivi. Completing the the engine utility class July 18 are unlicensed apprentices (in alphabetical order) Michael Harris, Regis Makowski, Carus Peet, Steven Ruppert, Nathan Slack, Justin Violanti, Edward Willis and upgrading Seafarers Isaac Diaz, Roger Nesbeth and Blas Robert. Their instructor, Ben Vernon, is at far left. Advanced Fire Fighting — Earning their advanced fire fighting endorsements Aug. 1 are (in alphabetical order) William Fontaine, Duane Givens, Judson Hand, Trinity Ippolito, Dvid James, Gregory May, Cameron Peterson, William Powell and John Zabielski. STOS and Lifeboatman/Water Survival — Receiving certificates for completion of the STOS course July 3 (above) are upgrading Alaskan fishermen (in alphabetical order) Gary Bell, Elpidio Caing, Rollin Crump, Calvin Edwards, Andrew Esteban, Sam Finley, Jeffrey Jenkinson, William Jones, Angel Manlunas, Kimberly Nathan, Robert Newcomb, Armando Olde, Laurence Ramirez and Thessolonian Smith. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, stands second from right. The same group completed the lifeboatman/water survival course (below) June 20. Able Bodied Seamen — Graduating from the AB course Aug. 1 are (in alphabetical order) Xavier Alfaro, Christopher Avila, Naomi Blount, Jonathan Eitz, Nathan Elliott, Eugene Evans, Charles Goodfellow, John Johnson, Denny Manns, Zacarias Suazo and Jerry Wilder. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. Computer Lab Recent graduates of the computer lab at the Paul Hall Center pose with their certificates. In photo at left are Roger Nesbeth (left) and Raul Napoles. Their instructor, Rich Prucha, stands behind them. In photo at right are (from left, front row) Rere Paiti, Edward Aperto, Zein Achmad, (second row) Rich Prucha (instructor), Nathan Elliott and Robert Banks. 22 Seafarers LOG 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. September 2003 �Paul Hall Center Classes ARPA — Under the instruction of Mike Smith (right) are upgrading Seafarers who completed the ARPA course Aug. 1. They are (in alphabetical order) Johnie Chavis, Vessislav Dyoulgerov, Ernie Hudgins, Miles Janecka, Robert Knowlton, Philip Perry, Kelly Stanford and Mark Tilly. GMDSS — Radar — Completing the radar course July 25 are (in alphabetical order) Margarete, Johnie Chavis, Miles Janecka, Robert Knowlton and Philp Perry. Their instructor, Mike Smith, is at far left. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Completing the tanker familiarization/assistance cargo (DL) course June 13 are (in no particular order) Laurence Ramirez, Kimberly Nathan, William Jones Sr., Calvin Edwards, Kevin Russell, Robert Scrivens, Sam Finley, Gary Bell, Randolph Patterson, Chris Chikwere, Armando Olde, Elpidio Cainag Jr., Andrew Esteban, Thessolonian Smith and Robert Newcomb. With their instructor, Brad Wheeler (left), are July 11 graduates of the GMDSS course. They are (in alphabetical order) Janet Baird, Jaime Baretty, Paul Jagger, Robert Murray and Keith Williams. STOS — Receiving certificates for completion of the STOS class July 18 are (in alphabetical order) Brian Delatte, Alexander Dodoo, Andrew Eastman, Jerry Guglielmello, William Mele, Aurelian Moise, George Peters and Michael Vankuiken. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Another June 13 graduating class from the tanker familiarization/assistant cargo (DL) course June 13 are (in no particular order) Arnold Neff Jr., John Shank, Eugene Perez Jr., David Denizac, Robert Funk, Gary Mann, David Turinski, Gary Ranne, Kenneth Lewin, Arnaldo Fernandez, Jeffrey Jenkinson, Gabriel Tomsah, Gabriel Arhin and Rollin Crump. Fast Rescue Boat — Under the instruction of Stan Beck (seated, right) are Seafarers who completed the fast rescue boat course July 25. They are (in alphabetical order) Brian Bowman, James Boyce Sr., Kevin DeLaittre, Reed Sarbou, William Shelley and William Travis. Celestial Navigation — Instructor Stacy Harris (right) poses with students who completed the celestial navigation course July 25. From the left are Bradley Burkart, Robert Boudreaux, Anthony Lowman, Leonard Lambert and Norman Skipper. September 2003 STCW — July 18: Faisal Abdo, Saleh Abdulrab, Darryl Bence, Alphonzo Berry, Glen Biddle, Victor Cooper, Bryce Flader, Harry Galdeira Jr., James Harris, John Henry, Gordon Hiltburner, Marjorie Mack, Homar McField, Walter Ott, Wilfredo Palacios, Steven Reed, John Regina, Sadig Saeed, Melvin Singletary, Jerome Slade, Saleh Soofi, Dwight Wuerth and Neil Warren. Seafarers LOG 23 �Volume 65 Number 9 September 2003 UNIONS BUILD A BETTER AMERICA Union Label Week Sept. 1-6 6, 2003 With Seafarers in Charm City SIU Members Undeterred by Summer Heat Around the port of Baltimore, SIU members are active aboard many different types of vessels. Cable ships, RO/ROs and a hospital ship are among the Seafarers-crewed vessels home ported in the town nicknamed Charm City. Earlier this summer, several shipboard ceremonies took place in Baltimore as SIU crews were honored by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) and the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) for their support of American and allied troops in Operation Iraqi Freedom. The Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ships Wright and Cape Washington After sailing with the SIU for nine years, John Fichter recently signed on aboard the U S N S Denebola as third engineer. and the hospital ship USNS Comfort were among those serving as backdrops for the ceremonies. Last month, on a more routine day, a visit to Maryland’s largest city found Seafarers steadily getting the job done despite very hot temperatures. Aboard the USNS Denebola, Chief Steward Julie Dvoroznak and Chief Cook John Cator cheerfully prepared lunch for their shipmates. Dvoroznak mentioned that she recently completed the chief cook course at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. “It was great—very informative, and the instructors were terrific,” she stated. Dvoroznak isn’t the only person aboard the USNS Denebola who recommends upgrading at the Paul Hall Center. Chief Engineer Jim Varela graduated from the trainee program in 1979, and returned several times for additional training. He still possesses a Piney Point class ring. “I sailed as a wiper in 1979. The LNG Gemini was my first ship,” Varela recalled. “I went from the bottom all the way to the top, and I’d advise any young Seafarers to take advantage of the opportunities at Piney Point. As you pursue your career, education is so important.” Pictured aboard the USNS Denebola are (from left) SIU Port Agent Dennis Metz, Chief Cook John Cator, Bosun Francisco Bravo, Chief Steward Julie Dvoroznak, Wiper Antonio Perez, OS Tavell Love, Wiper Brian Lusk and AB Terrence Carmody. The SIU-crewed Cape Washington (foreground) and Cape Wrath, seen from the deck of the Tyco Decisive, remain docked in Baltimore following their respective deployments for Operation Iraqi Freedom. Supporting the Troops Bosun Francisco Bravo sailed on the USNS Denebola throughout the combat phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom. “It was okay,” he said. “The military people, they were good fellows, very friendly. We had restrictions, but I didn’t want to go ashore anyway.” On another Baltimore-based, SIUcrewed vessel, GUDE Mark Canada recalled his experience serving aboard the Wright during the war. “We went straight through the Red Sea to the Persian Gulf,” he said. “We were close to the action, but not too close.” Canada pointed out that because of the Wright’s important role as an aviation logistics support ship, “If another war happens, we’ll be there.” During Operation Iraqi Freedom, the Wright was deployed for 145 days in support of U.S. troops. Its mission included transporting a helicopter platform, a complete repair shop, and equipment for fixed-wing and rotarywing aircraft. While the Wright just finished a big mission, another SIU ship in Chief Steward Julie Dvoroznak finishes preparing a tasty lunch on the USNS Denebola. Aboard the Tyco Decisive OMU Joselito Vicente Continued on page 14 Staying Current, Paul Hall Center Instructors Take Hands-On Approach with Shipboard Gear One way that instructors at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education help ensure that students receive the most up-to-date schooling is by staying familiar with the latest shipboard equipment. At left, Paul Hall Center instructor Tom Cessna examines fire fighting gear aboard the USNS Denebola last month in Baltimore as Bosun Francisco Bravo looks on. Cessna also checked out other safety equipment on the Denebola as well as aboard the Wright and Tyco Decisive. He then shared his findings with other instructors at the Piney Point, Md.-based school. The Paul Hall Center offers dozens of U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses, including numerous STCW classes. Chief Cook Jorge Lanas Chief Steward Dante Slack OMU Chris Corpuz OMU Alfredo Mendoza � 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 September 2003 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SEAFARERS CAN HELP PLAN CONTAIN MEDICAL COSTS SAFETY TEAM EXPLORES LATEST SECURITY, TRAINING ISSUES SIU FERRY CREWS COME THROUGH AGAIN JOLIET HALL SET TO OPEN NORTH STAR DELIVERED TO TOTE HORIZON HAWAII HELPS SAVE 3 ATLANTIC RESCUE TAKES PLACE IN ROUGH WEATHER JERSEY CITY MAYOR HOISTS MERCHANT MARINE EMBLEM SIU’S CORGEY, UIW’S ARMSTRONG ELECTED VPS OF TEXAS AFL-CIO SIU STANDS UP FOR MARINERS’ RIGHTS UNION BACKS MOST OF MTSA’S NEW REGULATIONS, BUT STRESSES NEED FOR FAIR RULES FOR SHORE LEAVE ITF’S COCKROFT: REEXAMINE ‘COZY CONTRACT’ BETWEEN TRAYLOR, LIBERIAN SHIP REGISTRY ALASKANS, SCHOOL BENEFIT FROM STATE’S JOINT EFFORTS WITH PAUL HALL CENTER MCTF OPPOSES EFFORTS TO REPEAL JONES ACT SOCP TO MEET IN PINEY POINT WELCOME HOME TO A HERO UIW MEMBER’S SON RETURNS FROM WAR IN IRAQ WWII-ERA AMERICAN VICTORY, READY TO ‘RELIVE HISTORY,’ SEEKS VOLUNTEER CREW ‘FATHER MATT’ SIEKIERSKI, SIU FRIEND, DIES AT 53 MIGRANT SMUGGLING SCHEME INVOLVED FAKE MARINER IDS RETIRED SUP OFFICIAL DOOLEY DIES AT 85 ‘WARRIOR FOUNDATION’ HELPS FAMILIES OF FALLEN PATRIOTS U.S., CHINA RESUME MARITIME TALKS UNION PLUS ANNOUNCES PROMOTION TO WIN UNION-MADE CAR, OTHER PRIZES STCW DEMONSTRATION OF COMPETANCY AT THE PAUL HALL CENTER CABLE SHIP CREW MEMORIALIZES BOSUN LIBBY WITH SEAFARERS IN CHARM CITY 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 09/01/2003 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. 9 2003 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/d3b8273c8aa03ba9f978a5e803624fe9.pdf 86ee2ec2eeda2bd4a557416fbb3bfbbe PDF Text Text 24133_PG1_3,12,13,19,18cx.qxd 8/27/2004 4:52 PM Page 1 Volume 66, Number 9 September 2004 SIU Gains New Jobs Seafarers to Crew Up ‘SBX’ Platform Page 3 Union, School Team Up for Effective Security Training As the entire U.S. maritime industry places unprecedented emphasis on vessel and port security, both the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education strongly have tackled their respective roles in helping promote safety aboard ship as well as in port. At left, Bosun’s Mate Tony Sivola assists Electrician Frank Coburn with safety gear during a shipboard and pier-side drill last month in Baltimore. Pages 12-13. Seafarers Continue Answering Call For Operation Iraqi Freedom Sealift Pomeroy photos by Capt. Michael F. Finnigan U.S. Coalition Urges Jones Act Protection Through the various stages of Operation Iraqi Freedom’s sealift mission, SIU members consistently have answered the call as part of America’s fourth arm of defense. Among the Seafarers-crewed vessels sailing in support of U.S. troops is the USNS Pomeroy. Pictured at left aboard the LMSR (left to right) are AB Adrian Jones, 3rd Mate and SIU hawsepiper Robert Swinburne and AB Kwesi Adu-Gyamfi. Above, the Pomeroy (foreground) passes near the Seafarers-crewed USNS Dahl. At right, U.S. troops are stationed aboard the Pomeroy. Page 3. Delta Queen Steamboats Offer Modern Convenience, Historic Atmosphere — Page 24 Page 2 Tax Bill Contains Maritime Provisions Page 5 SIU Family Photos Page 11 �24133_PG1_3,12,13,19,18cx.qxd 8/26/2004 7:50 PM Page 2 Senators, Congressmen, Task Force Urge Protection of Cabotage Laws President’s Report Remembering September 11 And Our Commitment Three years ago this month, our lives changed forever when terrorists attacked the United States on our own soil. Thousands of our fellow Americans—many of them also brother and sister trade unionists—were killed in the attacks in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania. Our economy suffered, and our confidence momentarily took a blow, too. Three years later, it’s hard to name any part of society that hasn’t been affected by September 11. Our emotions remain strong. Heightened security is a constant reminder. Our view of the world changed on September 11, as did the way we conduct our business. Throughout this entire time, the U.S. Merchant Marine— including thousands of SIU members—has answered the nation’s call. We responded immediately in New York when the attacks took place—our members helped transport tens of thousands of people to safety. And we’ve been supporting Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and our armed forces ever since, from Afghanistan to Iraq to wherever they are deployed. As the sealift mission for Operation Iraqi Freedom continues, I’m proud to say that Seafarers still play a vital role in this important task. And our commitment won’t end there. Since our founding in 1938, the SIU has proudly served as part of America’s fourth arm of defense. You name the conflict, and we were there, supporting our troops. World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and countless other military and humanitarian missions. The SIU was there. The SIU delivered. Today, I know that Seafarers remain proud of and serious about our role in protecting United States national and economic security. When I think back to the first few weeks after September 11, I remember Seafarers practically sprinting to our union halls because they were so eager to ship out and help defend America. Their determination was unmistakable. That same patriotism and eagerness is just as strong now. Of course, the U.S. Merchant Marine is best equipped to do its job as the fourth arm of defense when we have strong promaritime policies in place. Laws such as the Jones Act, and programs like cargo preference, the Maritime Security Program and its related Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement are vital to the entire industry. They help maintain a pool of well-trained, reliable, U.S. citizen mariners. They help keep the U.S. flag flying on the high seas. They give our government access to the extremely useful infrastructures of participating companies. In short, they make America stronger—and in an extremely costeffective manner. The anniversary of September 11 is bound to stir up lots of emotions. It’s a day for remembering the victims and their families. It’s a period to honestly look at what we as a nation have done and must do to prevent another attack. In our union, I know it’s also a time when Seafarers quietly will reaffirm their commitment to serving as part of the fourth arm of defense. That’s who we are. That’s what we do. May God continue to bless the United States of America. Volume 66, Number 9 September 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 Several congressmen and member organizations of the Maritime Cabotage Task Force (MCTF) recently voiced their intense concerns about the potential impact that a proposed USA/Panama free trade agreement (FTA) would have on the American maritime industry. Senators Trent Lott (R-Miss.) and John Breaux (D-La.) on July 7 wrote to President Bush requesting assurance “that the Administration will not compromise the continued ability of the United States to maintain and promote a U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed, U.S.-built fleet for national defense and economic security purposes.” The MCTF, in a July 22 letter from Chairman Philip Grill to U.S. Trade Representative Robert Zoellick, also articulated its resistance to attempts by the Panamanian government to change long-standing U.S. maritime cabotage laws in an FTA or by other means. After noting that maritime cabotage laws, such as the Jones Act, are the cornerstone of U.S. maritime policy, providing significant economic and national security benefits to the nation, the correspondence said in part: “Panama, with the world’s largest flag-of-convenience fleet, has repeatedly sought to gut U.S. cabotage laws through international trade negotiations in order to gain access to our domestic commerce. The U.S. trade representative has repeatedly and rightly rejected Panama’s efforts. Yet Panama is again seeking to weaken our maritime cabotage laws through the U.S.-Panama Free Trade Agreement negotiations. In addition, the Panamanian government made an unprecedented request to administratively amend U.S. passenger cabotage laws by re-designating its port classification from ‘nearby’ to ‘distant.’ Such a change would overturn decades of precedent, would provide no benefits to the U.S. and would create an enormous loophole in U.S. passenger cabotage laws, enabling foreign cruise lines to carry passengers between two U.S. ports simply by calling on Panama.” Continuing, the letter said: “The fact is Panama already benefits more from the open access accorded foreign vessels to U.S. ports than does any other single foreign nation. Panama already stands as the largest ship registry in the world—far ahead of any other nation in number of vessels and tonnage. Foreign vessel operators who fly the Panamanian flag enjoy enormous advantages when importing goods into and exporting goods from the U.S. Panamanian vessels operate in a world of essentially no income taxes, third world wages and other exemptions from laws that U.S. operators must live by. Yet Panama continues to believe that it should not be subject to our laws. “…The domestic U.S. maritime industry plays a vital role in the nation’s economic security and national defense… It is clear that Panama’s objective is to undermine U.S. maritime cabotage laws, the foundation of America’s maritime policy, whether through trade negotiations or other means, which is why this is a matter of such extraordinary concern. We strongly urge you to reject Panama’s current and ongoing efforts,” the correspondence concluded. Meanwhile, House Armed Services Committee Chairman Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) and ranking member Ike Skelton (D-Mo.) similarly expressed to Zoellick their concern that inclusion of maritime matters in a Panama FTA would not promote U.S. national interests. The congressmen noted that Panama’s request to be re-designated as a “distant foreign port” for purposes of the PVSA “would undercut our domestic maritime industry, which contributes significantly to our military defense by ensuring that the nation has an adequate pool of qualified seafarers to meet our military sealift requirements, among other things.” Under the PVSA, foreign vessels are prohibited from transporting passengers between ports or other places in the United States “either directly or by way of a foreign port.” In implementing this law, the U.S. government has allowed foreign vessels some latitude if they are traveling from a “distant foreign port,” according to the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO. In those cases, passengers can be dropped off in a different U.S. port as long as the foreign vessel stops at an intervening foreign port. But this is not allowed for voyages whose itineraries include stops at “nearby foreign ports,” which are defined by 9/11 Report Identifies Need to Invest in Maritime One of the findings in the 9/11 Commission Report, issued July 22, 2004, is that “major vulnerabilities still exist in cargo and general aviation security.” The non-partisan 9/11 Commission was established by Congress and President George W. Bush to investigate “facts and circumstances relating to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.” The final report made dozens of recommendations for changing U.S. policy and overhauling the management structure of federal agencies, especially within the intelligence community. But it also made a number of recommendations related to border and transportation security, particularly the need to invest more in maritime, surface transportation, air cargo, general aviation and rail security. The 567-page report notes that most of the federal response has focused on air passenger transportation, while leaving cargo security as a serious concern. “Opportunities to do harm are as great, or greater, in maritime or surface transportation,” it states. “Initiatives to secure shipping containers have just begun.” A specific recommendation set forth in the report is for the U.S. government to identify and evaluate the transportation assets that need to be protected and then select the most practical and cost- effective ways of doing so. It notes that while investments should be made for improvements in technologies (such as scanning), widespread use of these new technologies is still years away. With the United States as the primary target of terrorist activities, a number of actions were taken immediately after the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. The U.S Coast Guard established security zones in various major U.S. ports and has continued to mandate a variety of maritime security enhancements. Congress also got involved and enacted several security measures. The major legislation relating to the maritime industry is the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002. This Act, which created the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), now part of the Homeland Security Department, contains a number of provisions authorizing the Coast Guard and other agencies to establish maritime security standards and mandate certain security enhancements to be undertaken by the maritime industry. New security measures adopted by the United Nations in December 2002 to protect international shipping from the threat of terrorism went into effect July 1. As of last month, both ships Continued on page 9 and port facilities were approaching complete compliance (nearly 90 percent) with the new code, which requires all ships to be security-certified by the United Nations’ International Maritime Organization (IMO) before they are free to trade. When the Senate Commerce Committee met last month, following its summer recess, most of the testimony and discussion focused on aviation security issues. Thomas Kean, chairman of the 9/11 Commission, discussed maritime security near the end of his testimony. He acknowledged the Maritime Transportation Security Act and U.S. ports’ implementation of “some physical security measures to prevent terrorists from gaining easy access to ships, facilities or cargo,” but noted that, despite recent efforts, the majority of containers are not inspected, and “documentation requirements are easy to circumvent.” He also said, “The Commission believes that the Department of Homeland Security must continue to focus efforts on identifying, tracking and screening suspect containers,” but that maritime security will probably continue to see less of the funding many feel is needed to secure ports and cargo. The maritime sector is expected to get more attention during a hearing by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Coast Guard and Transportation Subcommittee. It was scheduled to meet Aug. 25, just before the LOG went to press. September 2004 �24133_PG1_3,12,13,19,18cx.qxd 8/26/2004 8:51 PM Page 3 SIU Gains More New Jobs SBX Is Latest Platform for Seafarers as Fourth Arm of Defense There’s nothing vague about the dozens of new jobs available to Seafarers on the union’s newest contracted vessel. At least, there’s nothing murky about the jobs themselves. The vessel is another matter, solely because of national security. For now, relatively few details are available about the Seafarerscrewed semi-submersible craft which is part of a U.S. operation called ground-based midcourse defense (GMD). The U.S. Missile Defense Agency is in charge of GMD—which, despite its title, includes a sea-based component. “This is another example of Seafarers serving as part of our nation’s fourth arm of defense,” said SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. “The SIU has delivered wide and diverse service to our country, including performing very well on other ships of this nature. The fact that we’re crewing up another one shows confidence in the membership’s professionalism and expertise.” While the government has been understandably cautious in releasing details about the waterborne craft, a few basics are known. The ship essentially is a mobile platform for an advanced radar system. It is 400 feet long and 237 feet wide, self-propelled and features a twin-hull design. For now, it is being called the SBX—an abbreviation for seabased X-Band radar. The SBX will be forward-deployed in the Pacific Rim. SIU-contracted Interocean Ugland Management is operating the SBX. Seafarers late last month were on site with the vessel in Texas and were scheduled to fully crew it soon. GMD contractor Boeing describes ground-based midcourse defense as follows. Additional information is available on line at www.boeing.com: “Although the Cold War has ended, the threat of attack on the United States by long-range ballistic missiles remains real—and is growing. In addition to the recognized nuclear powers of the world, numerous other countries have ballistic missiles, some of which are working on weapons of mass destruction: nuclear, chemical or biological. If any of these weapons was ever launched, thousands or even millions of lives could be lost. Yet despite this growing threat, many Americans erroneously believe our nation has a super-secret device to shield our country from ballistic missiles. “The purpose of the Department of Defense’s Groundbased Midcourse Defense (GMD) program is to develop and potentially deploy an efficient, effective system that detects, tracks and destroys incoming missiles before they enter our atmosphere. The program is in its development phase.” Boeing’s GMD program team and the Missile Defense Agency dedicated the nation’s first ballistic missile defense site at Fort Tanker Alaskan Frontier Delivered Greely, Alaska, on July 3. The dedication marked completion of construction of the first GMD missile field. “The progress made on the GMD program at the Fort Greely site over the past two years has been outstanding,” said Jim Albaugh, president and CEO of Boeing Integrated Defense Sys- Seafarers Still Support Troops Through Iraqi Freedom Sealift Seafarers continue to uphold their legacy as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense as they sail aboard U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessels that remain mobilized for the sealift component of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Based on well-publicized government projections of troop deployment in Iraq, it appears likely that a substantial number of U.S.-flag military support ships will remain involved in the sealift mission for the foreseeable future. As was the case during military support missions before and during the all-out combat phase of the war in Iraq and Operation Iraqi Freedom 2 (OIF2), Seafarers will be tasked to deliver the goods to U.S. armed forces in the Middle East. “They will answer the call with quiet, determined patriotism and a level of professionalism that’s second to none,” stated SIU President Michael Sacco. More than 2,000 SIU members crewed 100-plus vessels in support of U.S. troops during the first phase of OIF. As of May, approximately 60 SIU-crewed vessels remained active in the massive OIF2 resupply mission that commenced early this year. Among the SIU-crewed ships which sailed in OIF2 were SL-7s operated by AMSEA; Ready Reserve Force vessels operated by Crowley, Keystone, Mormac, Marine Transport Lines, Pacific Gulf Marine, and Patriot Contract Services; and LMSRs operated by Maersk Line, Limited. MSC also reported that U.S.-flag ships carried heavy volumes of combat service support gear for forces working to steady Iraq. Overall, approximately 24 million square feet of cargo belonging to nine units in the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Army and National Guard was moved by ship during OIF2. For Seafarers, the ongoing mission is the continuation of a patriotic duty. As U.S. Maritime Administrator Captain William Schubert recently noted in comments about OIF2, “Over a year ago, when we first learned that U.S. armed forces would Seafarers-crewed military support ships (including the USNS Watson, above) have been instrumental throughout the various sealift phases of Operaion Iraqi Freedom. again be relying on American sealift to bring freedom to the Middle East, we called on you (U.S. mariners). We knew there was the potential for danger, but we also knew that the U.S. Merchant Marine would ensure that equipment and supplies would get to where they needed to be and on time. “Together, we planned for many contingencies and we coordinated for months before the Army landed in Iraq. We met the challenge—over 7,000 mariners and over 130 U.S.-flag ships brought the military their tanks, Humvees and other critical equipment that led to the freedom of the Iraqi people and the capture of Saddam Hussein. The work continues, and the men and women of the merchant marine remain actively engaged in replenishing equipment and supplies as our troops rotate into and out of Iraq.” Schubert also said that the Iraq missions have “once again shown how invaluable the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine is to our national security. We have an opportunity to reinforce support for the merchant marine by demonstrating the economic value of a strong and vibrant U.S.-based maritime industry.” ITF Secures Back Wages For Flinternoord Mariners The SIU-contracted Alaskan Frontier leaves San Diego Bay last month. The SIU-contracted tanker Alaskan Frontier, operated by Alaska Tanker Co., was delivered last month. The ship is the first of four double-hull oil tankers being built for BP Oil Shipping Company, USA by San Diego-based National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO). As previously reported, the Alaskan Frontier is 941 feet long and has a beam of 164 feet. It has a capacity of 1.3 million barrels and will sail between ports in Alaska, Los Angeles and Cherry Point, Wash., among others. NASSCO noted that the Alaskan Frontier as well as the other three new builds feature the latest in international marine technologies, including twin-screw, medium-speed, diesel-electric propulsion that can achieve a speed of more than 15 knots. The environmentally friendly ships come fitted with the most modern machinery and cargo control systems and an integrated navigation system. The double hulls are designed to last 35 years, while the deck structures are made to last 50 years. “The diesel-electric propulsion system, with redundant engines, shafts and screws, significantly increases reliability and reduces air emissions and maintenance downtime,” NASSCO reported last month when it announced delivery. “The ships also use seawater instead of oil to cool and lubricate their propeller shafts, thus eliminating the possibility of accidental oil leaks. Their cargo piping, normally installed on the deck, is inside the cargo tanks, to reduce the risk of small spills.” The other three ships are scheduled for deliveries between now and 2006. September 2004 tems. “GMD is one of the first real system-of-systems programs and ranks among the most complex programs the country has ever undertaken.” An International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) inspector from the SIU, assisted by the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), recently secured more than $4,000 in back pay and transportation costs for the captain and bosun of a Gibraltar-flag ship. On July 13, ITF Inspector Don Thornton received a call from the ITF’s London headquarters, which was tracking the Noord due to a back-wage claim. “The ITF had been getting the runaround from the company,” Thornton said, referring to ship operator EMF ConBulk of Leer, Germany. “Because of the tools the ITF has in place, I learned that the ship’s name recently had been changed to Flinternoord. It was due in to Toledo, Ohio and then Cleveland.” Thornton contacted Cleveland-based ILA International Vice President John Baker, “who assured me that whatever the ITF needed, the ILA would provide. With the backing of the ILA, I was very confident.” When Thornton contacted EMS ConBulk, the company initially denied its obligation. However, faced with the prospect of ITF action, the case quickly was resolved July 15 when Thornton boarded the Flinternoord in Cleveland. In addition to the back pay and transportation reimbursement for the crew members, Thornton also recovered the costs for his expenses related to this case. “The ILA’s cooperation was crucial,” Thornton said. “It was a team effort and another successful outcome.” The SIU is affiliated with the ITF, a federation of more than 600 transport-worker unions in 140 countries. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel is vice chair of the ITF’s Seafarers’ Section. Left: ITF Inspector Don Thornton (center) credited ILA officials Jack Duff (left) and John Baker (right) with helping resolve the case of the Flinternoord. An SIU-crewed Great Lakes Towing Company tugboat assists the Flinternoord into Cleveland Seafarers LOG 3 �24133_P4,5,8,10,11,15_18,20,22,23.qxd 8/26/2004 6:20 PM Page 4 Committee Reviews Nomination Petitions For Union Election The credentials committee, composed of six rank-and-file SIU members, has reviewed all nominating petitions of SIU members seeking office in the 2004 district-wide elections in the union’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District. After meeting last month and studying the nomination applications to ensure each candidate had complied with the criteria spelled out in the SIU’s constitution, the credentials committee issued its report, which will be presented to the membership for its approval at the September meetings. Twenty-nine candidates for 27 ballot positions qualified to run in the election, which takes place Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, the committee reported. Members of the committee were elected at the August headquarters membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. Voted to the committee by their fellow Seafarers were: Representing the deck department, Anthony Maben (port of Norfolk) and David Martz (port of Baltimore); representing the engine department, Michael Joel (port of Philadelphia) and Michael Kirby (port of Philadelphia); and, representing the steward department, Edward Tull (port of Baltimore) and Bill Kelly (port of Philadelphia). Martz was selected by committee to serve as chairman. During the Aug. 2 membership meeting, Seafarers had to present their union books in order to be nominated to the committee. After the voting took place, results immediately were made known. The union constitution establishes guidelines for the credentials committee in Article XIII, Section 2. According to those rules, the committee must be elected at the port where headquarters is located (Piney Point). The credentials committee must comprise six full-book members, including two members from each of the three shipboard departments: deck, engine and steward. Additionally, no elected official or candidate for union office is permitted to serve on the committee. Members seeking the position of president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, vice president, assistant vice president, or one of 10 port agent posts had to submit nominating papers between July 15 and Aug. 15. The Seafarers who served on the credentials committee also were elected by their fellow members to serve on the constitutional committee, in accordance with Article XXV, Section 2 of the union’s constitution. They issued a separate report detailing the proposed constitutional amendments that will appear on the ballot. SIU President Underscores Unity in Maritime Labor SIU President Michael Sacco was a featured speaker early last month at the 80th convention of the Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P), which took place in Linthicum Heights, Md. He emphasized the exceptional cooperation among U.S. maritime unions—a theme echoed by Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association President Ron Davis and American Maritime Officers President Michael McKay in their respective addresses to the convention. U.S. Treasury Secretary John Snow, AFL-CIO SecretaryTreasurer Richard Trumka and U.S. Senator Paul Sarbanes (DMd.) were among the other guest speakers. “For a number of years now, the cooperation among American maritime labor has been outstanding,” Sacco stated. “We’re also working well with the rest of the industry, but our survival and our success really start with productive relationships among the unions. “That’s not to say that we agree on 100 percent of the issues, 100 percent of the time,” he continued. “But we’re doing a good job of finding common ground and generally speaking with one voice to the outside world.” He cited the new U.S. Maritime Security Program as “a great example of what we can achieve when we work together. You all know how complex the legislative process can be, and how much support it takes to pass a program like the expanded MSP. In this case, we had plenty of people to thank…. But the MM&P, the SIU and the other unions deserve credit, too. We’re 4 Seafarers LOG U.S. Treasury Secretary John Snow AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Rich Trumka the ones who got the ball rolling, and we were able to do it because we took a united approach.” Sacco said the unions also showed excellent teamwork during the buildup to Operation Iraqi Freedom, during the sealift mission itself and again during Iraqi Freedom 2. “As far as the U.S. Merchant Marine is concerned, everything about those operations was a great success.” Turning his attention to current events, the SIU president said more cooperation, effort and creativity are needed “as we tackle the biggest issue currently facing our industry: shipboard and port security. As you may have noticed, not everything was solved on July 1. The Maritime Transportation Security Act and the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code will be evolving for a while, in practice if not in writing. And of course, those aren’t the only security regulations affecting our members and our unions. “Here again, our best chance for success is working together,” he added. “That’s true on the Coast Guard’s port security committees. It’s true when it comes to protecting our members’ interests in the documentation process. And it’s true when it comes to ensuring fairness in the training regulations that impact licensed and unlicensed seamen.” Among other topics, Sacco also discussed the health care crisis and the joint efforts of several maritime union plans administrators to contain costs while continuing to provide good benefits. Secretary Snow, who once served as CEO of CSX Corp., stated, “We need to recognize we are in a world economy, but getting a level playing field for the U.S. maritime industry has to be a national priority.” Senator Sarbanes noted that one out of five jobs is dependent in some form on the maritime industry. He said that while the United States is one of the leading maritime trading nations, not enough of the cargo is carried on American-flag ships. Serving on the rank-and-file credentials committee as well as the constitution committee are Seafarers (from left to right) Anthony Maben, Michael Kirby, Edward Tull, David Martz, Bill Kelly and Michael Joel. Apostleship of the Sea Sends Prayers and Support To U.S. Merchant Mariners Earlier this year, the Apostleship of the Sea of the United States of America convened in Traverse City, Mich. for its annual membership meeting. During the meeting, a number of resolutions were passed, and a message to mariners was prepared. The texts of the message to mariners and the resolution for mariners follow. Message to all Merchant Mariners on Maritime Day, May 22, 2004 From the Apostleship of the Sea of the U.S.A. As you continue your journey across the waters, may we assure you that we recognize and thank you for: your service to God and Mankind. Your work is crucial to the well-being of economic progress and maritime safety in these troubled times. your work as bearers of God’s commodities. By bringing these gifts to others, you contribute to the well-being of the citizens of the world. your personal sacrifice of separation from family and loved ones. This sacrifice gives testimony to what is good and human. As you journey, remember that you are called: to be a lighthouse beacon to others. You are entrusted to bring a spark of divine light to those you come in to contact with on board and ashore. to be a fully responsible person showing the dignity of God within you. While the burdens of your life-style are not understood by most of society, we urge you to be fully responsible for your own personal actions, safety and well-being. You are a child of God, a member of a family, and a member of a community. You are important and unique and must treat yourself as such. to work toward spiritual and personal growth. Despite your limited time for spiritual reflection, we urge you to do your utmost in this regard, to ensure that God has a space in your life. He travels with you. Make a place for Him. Be assured that the Apostleship of the Sea of the United States of America: prays daily for your well-being, the well-being of your mates, and the well-being of your loved ones. stands in solidarity with you in these trying days of port security which may often leave you, or your mates with no access to shore leave, phones or communication with your loved ones. stands ready to serve you in the Mission of Christ, by caring for your spiritual, emotional and material needs while you are in port in a far away land. continues to be advocates for you and with you, as you face difficulties on unfamiliar shores. offers you the Sacraments of the Church. You are our brothers and sisters in Christ. Our most important gift to each other is the gift of Christ. A Resolution by The Apostleship of the Sea of the United States of America To the United States Merchant Mariners WHEREAS, the United States Merchant Marine has served the people of the United States valiantly since 1776; WHEREAS, courageous United States mariners constructed and sustained a steel bridge across the Atlantic and Pacific oceans to support American and Allied forces fighting for freedom for an oppressed Europe and Japan; WHEREAS, United States Merchant Mariners were instrumental to the success of our fighting forces on the Korean Peninsula, in Southeast Asia, and in myriad smaller conflicts throughout the world; WHEREAS, the United States Merchant Marine willingly places itself in dangerous and life threatening situations in order to deliver humanitarian supplies for our nation’s humanitarian efforts throughout the world; AND WHEREAS, the seafarers of the United States Merchant Marine courageously and unselfishly place themselves in harm’s way to support America’s fighting forces; BE IT RESOLVED that the Apostleship of the Sea of the United States of America in session at its 3rd Annual Conference at the Great Lakes Maritime Academy in Traverse City, Michigan, sends its prayers and support to our U.S. Merchant Mariners who are transporting humanitarian and military cargo to the war zones of the Middle East. May God carry you in the palm of His hands. May His seas be calm and His weather fair. And may Our Lady Star of the Sea watch over you, and through her intercessions, bring you safely home to your family and friends. September 2004 �24133_P4,5,8,10,11,15_18,20,22,23.qxd 8/26/2004 6:20 PM Page 5 Tighter Security Shouldn’t Mean Weakening Mariners’ Rights Heindel: ‘Human Element Must Not be Overlooked’ SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, participating in the seventh annual Worldwide Labor Officers’ Conference, said that increased shipboard and port security must not erode mariners’ rights. Representing both the SIU and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), on which he serves as vice chair of the Seafarers’ Section, Heindel delivered remarks July 22 at the U.S. Department of State, which hosted the conference in Washington, D.C. He spoke primarily about shore leave and crew-list visas, while also touching on the Consolidated Maritime Labor Convention and the need for fair implementation of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code when it comes to protecting workers’ rights and jurisdiction. “In a nutshell, the SIU’s position as well as that of the ITF is this: We fully and completely support maritime security, but we also firmly believe that security must be effectively balanced with seafarers’ rights,” Heindel stated. “The human element must not be overlooked.” He told the other officials that it is contradictory for mariners to have an important security role under the ISPS Code and at the same time be treated as a threat. “Policies or practices that deny shore leave are counterproductive to security objectives,” Heindel stated. “Along those lines, both the SIU and the ITF strongly support ILO Convention 185. As many of you know, Convention 185 was unanimously ratified last year by delegates to the ILO forum in Geneva. It calls for a universal mariner identification document. It also states the critical need for shore leave and further specifies that ‘seafarers shall not be required to hold a visa.’” As previously reported, all mariners must possess D-1 (nonimmigration) visas to go ashore in the U.S. After September 11, 2001, the Immigration and Naturalization Service ceased issuing crew-list visas. It also changed its rules regarding the INS agent issuing waivers for mariners to go ashore if they did not have a D-1 visa. Heindel mentioned that eliminating crew-list visas has led to concern that U.S. mariners may unjustly be denied leave overseas. Already, several other countries have indicated that they will implement regulations that parallel those of the United States, “which absolutely would impact American seafarers,” he noted. He added, “Still another concern—for all mariners—is that many consulates simply don’t have the resources to handle visa applications in a timely manner, if at all. Visas cannot be applied for by mail, and the waiting period to apply in person is often measured in months.” The new mariner identification document stipulated in ILO Convention 185 should be accepted as an ID for the mariner, and in place of the D-1 visa, Heindel said. Wrapping up his comments about shore leave, he cited a recent newspaper editorial which pointed out alienating foreign mariners by denying them shore leave is counterproductive to combating terrorism. “I also firmly Coast Guard’s Authority, Responsibilities Grow President Bush on Aug. 9 signed the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2004. The measure, the result of a House-Senate compromise, approves spending nearly $8.2 billion in the budget year beginning Oct. 1 for U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) activities, which include search and rescue missions, national defense, interdiction of contraband and maritime resource protection, as well as protecting the nation’s 95,000 miles of coastline. The legislation on July 21 passed on a 425-1 vote in the U.S. House of Representatives. On Aug. 5, the Senate approved the measure on a voice vote and sent it to the president for his signature. Prior to its arrival on the House American Jobs Creation Act Includes Maritime Provisions The U.S. House of Representatives on June 17 approved the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004, legislation some say could have significant effects on the U.S. maritime industry when and if it becomes law. The measure, described by a number of Washington insiders as a thick manuscript to create jobs for American workers by providing tax relief for U.S. companies, contains two provisions that could have important impacts on the U.S. maritime industry. It includes a stipulation that would allow U.S.flag vessel operators in the international trades the option of paying their income taxes based on vessel tonnage. Secondly, it adopts language contained in the Navy Vessel Delivery Method of Accounting Act (H.R. 1479), which has been endorsed by most segments of America’s shipbuilding industry. The shipbuilding provision of the act, said the Maritime Trades Department (MTD), AFL-CIO, would make a badly needed change to the U.S. tax code by eliminating discriminatory penalties on defense contractors requiring them to make tax payments on income before it is received. The Internal Revenue Service normally does not tax a foreign subsidiary’s income until it returns to the U.S. parent company as dividends. But the 1986 Tax Reform Act put ocean shipping under the IRS code’s Subpart F, which requires companies to pay taxes directly on selected foreign income. Before 1986, U.S. investors in foreign tonnage could defer taxes on capital accumulated to replace vessels or expand their fleets. Reform advocates say that the loss of the benefit is linked directly to the decline in the U.S.-owned share of the global commercial fleet. The shipbuilding provision, according to the MTD executive board, should be adopted as part of a larger federal commitment to preserving a domestic shipbuilding industry (other components should September 2004 believe that beyond the practical considerations, there’s an issue of compassion involved here,” Heindel said. “Voyages often last for weeks at a time, sometimes months at a time. Because of automation in ports, there’s usually very little time ashore to begin with. Now, even that small amount of shore leave is threatened or denied. It’s simply unnec- essary and unfair to confine mariners to their ships.” Lastly, he pointed out that the SIU and the ITF also stand together in support of the Consolidated Maritime Labor Convention, which ultimately promises to benefit seafarers around the globe. As the name suggests, the convention aims to bring together dozens of maritime treaties with the ultimate goal of a safer, better, more streamlined set of guidelines. “We’ve been involved in the discussions and we fully support moving forward,” Heindel concluded. “We will continue to work closely with the ILO tripartite body to help ensure proper, effective adoption and implementation of the Consolidated Maritime Labor Convention.” include more monies for the Title XI shipbuilding loan guarantee program and an increase in the U.S. Naval vessel construction building rate). During its meetings earlier this year, the board also endorsed the idea of a tonnage tax, noting that such a method had been adopted by a number of countries in Europe and elsewhere as a means of countering increasing international competition from so-called flags of convenience. “With a growing number of foreign-flag fleets benefiting from tonnage tax systems, it will become increasingly difficult for U.S.-flag ships to operate competitively in international trades without the same advantage,” the board said. “The harm will extend to U.S. flag vessels in our domestic trades…” While both provisions hold the promise of better things to come for U.S. shipping, there are no guarantees are on the horizon, various maritime industry news reports have noted. At most, the tax incentives give U.S. interests parity with foreign competitors. They could promote exports, enhance security and mitigate the need for government subsidies, the articles said. The measure moved through the House after being cleared on June 14 by the House Ways and Means Committee, chaired by Rep. William Thomas (R-Calif.). Rep. William J. Jefferson, (D-La.) urged Congressman Thomas to include a “tonnage tax” provision in a new version of the legislation. The tonnage tax is expected to provide additional employment for thousands of U.S. mariners and shoreside staff in Louisiana and elsewhere around the country. The tonnage tax provision will benefit U.S.flag vessel owners engaging in international trade, Jefferson said. The Joint Tax Committee estimates the proposed cost of the legislation over a 10-year period at $68 million. floor for action, the bill in early July had been scrutinized by a House and Senate conference committee. Published reports say the only sticking point between the two sides was over a Housepassed provision that would require the USCG to certify a security plan for every foreign vessel entering U.S. ports. Senate Commerce Committee Chairman John McCain (R-Ariz.) said the language would “detract” the agency from meeting its other maritime security missions, subject domestic vessels to similar requirements from foreign countries and cost the agency limited resources. U.S. Rep. James Oberstar (DMinn.), ranking member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure panel, offered a compromise proposal that would require the USCG to review the criteria for certifying a foreign vessel’s security plan. After a few rounds of debate between Congressmen McCain and Oberstar, the two agreed to table the proposal and retain current practice, which depends on foreign governments or designated private or quasi-government groups to approve a ship’s security plan. The USCG does employ targeting tools to analyze potential threats and intercept suspected vessels. The conferees agreed to staff recommendations that included a House measure, H.R. 4251, which would allow USCG officers to make arrests and carry handguns. Lawmakers also agreed to the House’s recommendation for $1.1 billion to the USCG’s 20-year initiative to modernize the agency’s information technology systems, infrastructure and assets. The Senate had proposed $708 million. House Transportation Committee Chairman Don Young (RAlaska) said he had concerns that some of the traditional functions of the USCG would suffer because of the stress on security operations, but was optimistic the legislation would “get the service back to an acceptable state of mission balance.” Senator Fritz Hollings (D-S.C.) said he had secured $300 million in the bill for port security measures that was not requested by the administration. “I believe the provision of these funds is essential to the security of our ports, our waterways and our maritime transportation industry,” he said. In addition to funding the USCG, the measure includes major provisions of interest to the U.S. maritime community, as follows: Gives the USCG broader authority regarding issuance, revocation and suspension of merchant mariner credentials and documents. For instance, it removes the mandatory revocation of MMDs for certain convictions in cases involving suspension or revocation. It also adds “security threat” as a basis for which the agency may suspend or revoke an MMD. Adds a new section to Chapter 701 of Title 46 USC to provide express authority to the USCG to carry a firearm, to seize property, and to make an arrest while at a maritime facility under guidelines to be approved by the Secretary of Homeland Security. Establishes liability for any vessel violating the Maritime Transportation Security Act, in order to recover financial penalties assessed following such violations, and certain costs related to compliance with lawfully issued orders. Authorizes the captain of the port to withhold clearance of any vessel if the owner or operator is suspected to be subject to a financial penalty resulting from violations of port security violations. Requires the USCG to develop a long-range vessel tracking system consistent with international treaties, conventions, and agreements to which the United States is a party, and allows the USCG to acquire vessel risk profiling data from the private sector. Also requires the secretary to develop a plan to improve the collection, collaboration, coordination, dissemination and use of maritime information by Federal agencies and requires the agency to submit this plan to Congressional committees. Directs the secretary to establish a grant program for implementation of the Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans and Facility Security Plans that will be reviewed by the Federal Maritime Security Coordinator and the Maritime Administration prior to a grant being awarded. In addition, the secretary is required to transmit a report and provide recommendations for the grant process. Continued on page 14 Seafarers LOG 5 �24133_Pg6,7,9,14,21,24.qxd 8/26/2004 8:25 PM Page 6 Credentials Approved for Candidates to 27 Union Offices Report of Credentials Committee On Candidates for 2004 Election of Officers, 2005-2008 SIUNA-AGLIWD/NMU We, the undersigned members of the Credentials Committee, were duly elected at the regular membership meeting held in Headquarters-Port of Piney Point on August 2, 2004. We have examined the credentials of candidates for elective office or job in the Seafarers International Union of North America-Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU for the years 2005-2008, in accordance with Article XI, Section 1, and submit the following report. Your Committee qualified or disqualified those members who submitted for office based upon the Union Constitution, particularly those provisions contained in Articles XII and XIII. The applicable constitutional provisions are as follows: ARTICLE XII, Qualifications for Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Port Agents, and Other Elective Jobs. Section 1. Any member of the Union is eligible to be a candidate for, and hold, any office or the job of Assistant VicePresident, or Port Agent provided: (a) He has at least three (3) years of seatime in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels. In computing time, time spent in the employ of the Union, its subsidiaries and its affiliates, or in any employment at the Union's direction, shall count the same as seatime. Union records, Welfare Plan records and/or company records can be used to determine eligibility; and (b) He has been a full book member in continuous good standing in the Union for at least three (3) years immediately prior to his nomination; and (c) He has at least one hundred (100) days of seatime, in an unlicensed capacity, aboard an American-flag vessel or vessels covered by contract with this Union or one hundred (100) days of employment with, or in any office or job of, the Union, its subsidiaries and its affiliates, or in any employment at the Union's direction or a combination of these, between January 1 and the time of nomination in the election year, except if such seatime is wholly aboard such merchant vessels operating solely upon the Great Lakes or, if such seatime is wholly aboard tugboats, towboats or dredges and contractual employment thereon is for fixed days with equal amount of days off, he shall have at least sixty-five (65) days of such seatime instead of the foregoing one hundred (100) days; and (d) He is a citizen of the United States of America; and (e) He is not disqualified by law. He is not receiving a pension from this Union's Pension Fund, if any, or from a UnionManagement Fund to which this Union is a party or from a company under contract with this Union; and (f) He has not sailed in a licensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels within 24 consecutive months immediately prior to the opening of nominations. Section 2. All candidates for, and holders of, other elective jobs not specified in the preceding sections shall be full book members of the Union. Section 3. All candidates for, and holders of elective offices and jobs, whether elected or appointed in accordance with this Constitution, shall maintain full book membership in good standing. ARTICLE XIII, Election for Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, and Port Agents. Section 1. Nominations. Except as provided in Section 2(b) of this Article, any full book member may submit his name for nomination for any office, or the job of Assistant VicePresident, or Port Agent, by delivering or causing to be delivered in person, to the office of the Secretary-Treasurer at Headquarters, or sending, a letter addressed to the Credentials Committee, in care of the Secretary-Treasurer, at the address of Headquarters. This letter shall be dated and shall contain the following: (a) The name of the candidate. (b) His home address and mailing address. (c) His book number. (d) The title of the office or other job for which he is a candidate including the name of the Port in the event the position sought is that of Port Agent. (e) Proof of citizenship. (f) Proof of seatime and/or employment as required for candidates. (g) In the event the member is on a vessel, he shall notify the Credentials Committee what vessel he is on. This shall be done also if he ships subsequent to forwarding his credentials. 6 Seafarers LOG (h) Annexing a certificate in the following form, signed and dated by the proposed nominee: “I hereby certify that I am not now, nor, for the five (5) years last past, have I been either a member of the Communist Party or convicted of, or served any part of a prison term resulting from conviction of robbery, bribery, extortion, embezzlement, grand larceny, burglary, arson, violation of narcotics laws, murder, rape, assault with intent to kill, assault which inflicts grievous bodily injury, or violation of Title II or III of the Landrum-Griffin Act, or conspiracy to commit any such crimes.” Dated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Signature of Member. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Book No. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Printed forms of the certificate shall be made available to nominees. Where a nominee cannot truthfully execute such a certificate, but is, in fact, legally eligible for an office or job by reason of the restoration of civil rights originally revoked by such conviction or a favorable determination by the Board of Parole of the United States Department of Justice, he shall, in lieu of the foregoing certificate, furnish a complete signed statement of the facts of his case together with true copies of the documents supporting his statement. Any full book member may nominate any other full book member in which event such full book member so nominated shall comply with the provisions of this Article as they are set forth herein, relating to the submission of credentials. By reason of the above self nomination provision the responsibility, if any, for notifying a nominee of his nomination to office, shall be that of the nominator. All documents required herein must reach Headquarters no earlier than July 15 and no later than August 15 of the election year. The Secretary-Treasurer is charged with safekeeping of these letters and shall turn them over to the Credentials Committee upon the latter's request. In order to ascertain the meaning of the term "member in good standing" which is used in Article XII, Subsection 1(b), the Committee referred to Article XXIV, Section 9 of our Constitution which reads as follows: “Section 9. The term ‘member in good standing’ shall mean a member whose monetary obligations to the Union are not in arrears for thirty days or more, or who is not under suspension or expulsion effective in accordance with this Constitution. Unless otherwise expressly indicated, the term 'member' shall mean a member in good standing.” Your Committee sought guidance from the Union's General Counsel and the Secretary-Treasurer as to whether this section would apply to a member who is unable to pay dues because of employment aboard an American flag merchant vessel as stated in Article III, Section 3(e). Your Committee was advised that, in keeping with past practice and constitutional interpretation, the same thirty (30) day grace period should be applied in these situations. Accordingly, when a member who is working on foreign articles leaves the vessel, the dues for the applicable quarter must be paid within thirty (30) days from the date of discharge in order to maintain good standing. Your Committee also referred to Article XXIV, Section 13 for the definition of the term "seatime". This section reads as follows: “Section 13. The term 'seatime' shall include employment upon any navigable waters, or days of employment in a contracted employer unit represented by the Union.” We also noted in Article XXIV, Section 14, the meaning of the term "in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels." This portion of the Constitution reads as follows: “Section 14. The term "in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels' shall include persons employed in an unlicensed or licensed capacity aboard dredges, tugboats, towboats and similar vessels used to tow, propel, or push barges or other conveyances or assist merchant vessels in docking or undocking, or persons otherwise employed in a contracted employer unit represented by the Union.” We also noted that Article XII, Section 1 (e) would preclude any otherwise eligible member from running for office if he or she was receiving a pension from an affiliated plan. We noted that this provision has already been interpreted by the Union's Executive Board and approved by the membership at membership meetings in a manner which would not disqualify an individual who is receiving such a benefit solely by virtue of having reached the age of 70 and ½. We further noted that this issue was referred by the Executive Board to the Constitutional Committee and the membership for their ratification during this election. Your committee sought guidance from the Union's General Counsel who advised us that we could qualify any otherwise eligible member to run for office based upon this interpretation. Accordingly, your committee decided not to disqualify any otherwise eligible individual from running for office if he or she is receiving a pension benefit from an affiliated plan solely by virtue of having reached the age of 70 and ½. After full and careful deliberations, the Committee made its decisions and sent appropriate notification to candidates. The ultimate decisions of this Committee are later set forth. In arriving at these ultimate decisions, the Committee was most concerned with carrying out a stated principle of our Union which is that “every qualified member shall have the right to nominate himself for, and, if elected or appointed, to hold office in this Union.” In connection with the foregoing, we have also consulted with the SecretaryTreasurer who, under our Constitution, has the obligation to insure appropriate election procedures as legally required (Article XIII, Section 7). Our Secretary-Treasurer has further consulted with the Union's Counsel as to the law applicable in Union nominations and elections. The following is a complete listing of all members who submitted their credentials to the Committee. Their names and the office or job for which they submitted such credentials are listed in the order in which this Committee feels they should be placed on the general ballot, that is, in alphabetical order under the office or job for which they run, and that the Ports, following the Headquarters offices, beginning with Piney Point, be arranged on the ballot geographically, as has been done in the past. After each man's name and book number is his qualification or disqualification, followed by the reason for that decision. PRESIDENT Michael J. Sacco, S-1288 Qualified Credentials in order. EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT John Fay, F-363 Qualified Credentials in order SECRETARY-TREASURER David W. Heindel, H-1443 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT Carl Sands, S-2296 Qualified Credentials in order Augustin Tellez, T-764 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST Patrick Joseph Lavin, L-1175 Disqualified—was not in continuous good standing for 3 years prior to time of nomination Joseph T. Soresi, S-2658 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Wade Cocek, C-5976 Disqualified - was not in continuous good standing for 3 years prior to time of nomination Dean E. Corgey, C-5727 Qualified Credentials in order Edward O'Connor, O-599 Nomination Withdrawn VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST Nicholas J. Marrone, M-2308 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS Thomas Orzechowski, Jr, O-601 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Kermett T. Mangram, M-2394 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENTS AT LARGE John Jaradat, J-15013 Disqualified - was not in continuous good standing for 3 years prior to time of nomination; did not have at least 100 days of seatime or Union employment between January 1 and time of nomination; and had sailed in a licensed capacity within the past 24 months René Lioeanjie, L-15000 Qualified Credentials in order Charles Stewart, S-15000 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT George Tricker, T-919 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST Nicholas A. Celona, C-1578 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Ambrose L. Cucinotta, C-1795 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST Don Anderson, A-5244 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS James P. McGee, M-5945 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Chester Wheeler, W-25058 Qualified Credentials in order PINEY POINT PORT AGENT Edward W. Morris, M-1358 Qualified Credentials in order John Sparks, S-2351 Nomination Withdrawn NEW YORK PORT AGENT Robert Selzer, S-1258 Qualified Credentials in order PHILADELPHIA PORT AGENT Joseph Mieluchowski, M-2933 Qualified Credentials in order BALTIMORE PORT AGENT Georg Kenny, K-1041 Qualified Credentials in order Michael Murphy, M-2483 Qualified Credentials in order MOBILE PORT AGENT Edward Kelly, Jr. K-5043 Qualified Credentials in order NEW ORLEANS PORT AGENT Steven W. Judd, J-5336 Qualified Credentials in order HOUSTON PORT AGENT Anthony M. McQuay, M-2735 Qualified Credentials in order SAN FRANCISCO PORT AGENT Vincent Francis Coss, C-8138 Qualified Credentials in order ST. LOUIS PORT AGENT Rebecca J. Sleeper, S-2497 Qualified Credentials in order DETROIT-ALGONAC PORT AGENT Donald A. Thornton, T-5501 Qualified Credentials in order As you will note in the foregoing sections of the Committee's Report, the provisions of the SIU Constitution governing election procedures made it mandatory that some of the nominees be disqualified. In light of these circumstances, the Committee wishes to call to the attention of all members the necessity of following all requirements and procedures which are established by our Constitution to govern eligibility for candidacy to Union office. However, at this time, the Committee particularly desires to point out the provisions of Article XIII, Section 2(c) of the Constitution, which spell out in detail the right of a disqualified candidate to appeal from the decision of the Credentials Committee and how he does it. In compliance with Article XIII, Section 2(b) of our Constitution, and in an attempt to give every nominee every consideration and to try to prevent any disqualifications by this Committee, David Martz, of the Credentials Committee, remained at the entrance of the Headquarters building of the Union until midnight of Sunday, August 15, 2004, to receive any credentials that might have been delivered by hand after the closing of business hours by the Union. Additionally, the Committee noted that it received copies of two (2) memoranda that were issued outlining additional procedures to be followed on Saturday, August 14, 2004 and Sunday, August 15, 2004 for overnight and regular mail delivery and for any member who should appear in person to submit his credentials. The Committee points out that in the President's Pre-Balloting Report approved by the membership as per the Constitution and published in the May Seafarers LOG the exact offices and jobs for which nominations were to be made was set forth. In passing upon the credentials for certain of the nominees, this Committee had to make three (3) disqualifications, and the following are the details relative to each of those disqualifications: 1. Patrick Lavin, L-1175 – Candidate for Vice President in Charge of Atlantic Coast. Your committee noted the receipt of a letter dated July 25, 2004, addressed to David Heindel in which Brother Lavin requested his name be placed on the ballot for election to the position of Vice President in Charge of the Atlantic Coast. Your committee also noted that David Heindel issued a letter dated August 4, 2004 via overnight mail requesting Brother Lavin submit his proof of citizenship and proof of seatime as required by Article XIII, Section 1 (e)(f) of the Constitution. Union records indicate that Brother Lavin was not in continuous good standing for three (3) years prior to the time of nomination which is needed to qualify for an elective job. Your committee noted that Union records show that Brother Lavin paid his Second Quarter 2002 dues on May 16, 2002 whereas they should have been paid no later than May 1, 2002. Based upon the provisions of Article XII, Section 1 (b), and further supported by Article III, Section 3; Article V and Article XXIV, Section 9 previously carried herein, the committee disqualified Brother Lavin for the job of Vice President in Charge of the Atlantic Coast. The Committee noted that Brother Lavin appeared at the Headquarters building on Tuesday, August 17, 2004 to submit his proof of citizenship and proof of seatime. The Committee accepted these documents and informed Brother Lavin of his disqualification for failing to remain a member in good standing. The Committee then gave Brother Lavin the opportunity to make an appeal regarding his disqualification. However, Brother Lavin was unable to provide a justifiable reason for the delinquent dues payment. The Committee upheld its decision to disqualify Brother Lavin and informed him that the next course of action would be to appeal his disqualification to the membership at a regular membership meeting no later than the October meeting. In accordance with the requirements of Article XIII, Section 2 (c) of our Constitution, and in order to assure adequate notice of its decision, the Committee informed Brother Lavin of his disqualification by Mailgram sent on August 17, 2004 to the address stated in his letter of nomination. Moreover, the Mailgram was followed by an overnight and certified letter dated August 17, 2004 from the Committee to Brother Lavin that set forth the reason for his disqualification. A copy of the Union Constitution was enclosed with the aforementioned letter so that Brother Lavin would have available the procedure to be followed in appeal from the disqualification decision of the Committee. 2. Wade Cocek, C-5976 – Candidate for Vice President in Charge of the Gulf Coast. Your committee noted the receipt of a letter dated August 3, 2004, addressed to David Heindel in which Brother Cocek requested his name be placed on the ballot for election to the position of Vice President in Charge of the Gulf Coast. Union records indicate that Brother Cocek was not in continuous good standing for three (3) years prior to the time of nomination which is needed to qualify for an elective job. Your committee noted that Union records show that Brother Cocek paid his Third Quarter 2001 dues on September 19, 2001 whereas they should have been paid no later than July 31, 2001. Union records also indicate that First Quarter 2002 dues Continued on page 7 September 2004 �24133_Pg6,7,9,14,21,24.qxd 8/26/2004 8:25 PM Page 7 REPORT OF CONSTITUTIONAL COMMITTEE We, the undersigned Constitutional Committee, were elected at the Headquarters membership meeting, on August 2, 2004, in accordance with Article XXV, Section 2 of our Constitution. We have had referred to us and studied, the proposed Constitutional Amendments Resolution submitted by our Executive Board. This Resolution, containing the proposed amendments, prior to its submission to us, was adopted by a majority vote of the membership at Headquarters and all ports. The provisions of the Resolution including its “WHEREAS” clauses, are summarized in this report and are attached in full so that all members will have available to them its full text for their review and study at the same time that they read this, our Report and Recommendation. Whereas, three changes were recommended. One which would amend the Constitution to enable otherwise active eligible members to fully participate in the affairs of the union by running for office even if such members were receiving pension benefits from an affiliated pension plan if such individuals were receiving these benefits as a result of changes in the Law which required the commencement of benefits due to age; the second would amend the Constitution to provide that the union's Credentials Committee could be elected at a regular or special membership meeting held in the month of August of an election year; and the third was simply a housekeeping change to delete the words “headquarters representative” anywhere that it may currently appear in the Constitution as this position has already been removed from the list of elected officers by prior membership action and voting; and Whereas, the Executive Board is aware of the fact that the union will be holding its general election for officers and jobholders this year as constitutionally mandated; consequently, it is suggested that, if this resolution is approved by the membership, the first two proposed Constitutional amendments should be included on the same ballot and be voted on simultaneously with the election for officers and jobholders; the third proposal which simply implements a prior membership mandate would not need to be included on the ballot; and Whereas, the union’s Executive Board unanimously concurred on all proposed constitutional revisions. The Executive Board hereby RESOLVES, that the following changes be made in the Constitution of the Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf Lakes and Inland Waters District/ NMU. A. Amend Article XII, Section 1(e) to read as follows: “e. He is not disqualified by law. He is not receiving a pension from this Union's pension fund, if any, or from a Union-Management fund, to which fund this Union is a party or from a company under contract with this Union; unless such individual commenced receiving a pension benefit from any such fund by virtue of having reached the age of 70½.” B. Amend the first sentence of Article XIII, Section 2. to read as follows: Section II, Credentials Committee, Section (a). “a. A Credentials Committee shall be elected at either the regular meeting in August of the election year or at a special meeting convened in August of the election year at the Port where Headquarters is located.” The remaining provisions of this Section 2 and of Article XIII do not need to be amended. C. Effective Date of these Amendments All of the proposed amendments, Credentials Approved for Candidates to 27 Union Offices Continued from page 6 were paid on April 15, 2002 whereas they should have been paid no later than January 31, 2002; Third Quarter 2002 dues were paid August 14, 2002 whereas they should have been paid no later than July 31, 2002; Fourth Quarter 2002 dues were paid on November 12, 2002 whereas they should have been paid no later than October 31, 2002; First Quarter 2003 dues were paid on February 21, 2003 whereas they should have been paid no later than January 31, 2003; Second Quarter 2003 dues were paid on May 16, 2003 whereas they should have been paid no later than May 1, 2003; Third Quarter 2003 dues were paid on November 10, 2003 whereas they should have been paid no later than July 31, 2003; Fourth Quarter 2003 dues were paid on November 10, 2003 whereas they should have been paid no later than October 31, 2003; First Quarter 2004 dues were paid on March 8, 2004 whereas they should have been paid no later than January 31, 2004. Based upon the provisions of Article XII, Section 1 (b), and further supported by Article III, Section 3; Article V and Article XXIV, Section 9 previously carried herein, the committee disqualified Brother Cocek for the job of Vice President in Charge of the Gulf Coast. In accordance with the requirements of Article XIII, Section 2 (c) of our Constitution, and in order to assure adequate notice of its decision, the Committee informed Brother Cocek of his disqualification by Mailgram sent on August 17, 2004 to the address stated in his letter of nomination. Moreover, the Mailgram was followed by an overnight and certified letter dated August 17, 2004 from the Committee to Brother Cocek that set forth the reason for his disqualification. A copy of the Union Constitution was enclosed with the aforementioned letter so that Brother Cocek would have available the procedure to be followed in appeal from the disqualification decision of the Committee. 3. John Jaradat, J-15013 – Candidate for Vice President at Large. Your committee noted the receipt of a letter dated August 4, 2004, addressed to David Heindel in which Brother Jaradat requested his name be placed on the ballot for election to the position of Vice President at Large. Union records indicate that Brother Jaradat was not in continuous good standing for three (3) years prior to the time of nomination which is needed to qualify for an elective job. Your committee noted that Union records show that Brother Jaradat paid his Third Quarter 2001 dues on September 16, 2002 whereas they should have been paid no later than July 31, 2001. Union records also indicate that Fourth Quarter 2001 dues were paid on September 16, 2002 whereas they should have been paid no later than October 31, 2001; First Quarter 2002 dues were paid on September 16, 2002 whereas they should have been paid no later than January 31, 2002; Second Quarter 2002 dues were paid on September 16, 2002 whereas they should have been paid no later than May 1, 2002; Third Quarter 2002 dues were paid on September 16, 2002 whereas they should have been paid no later than July 31, 2002; First Quarter 2003 dues were paid on March 3, 2003 September 2004 whereas they should have been paid no later than January 31, 2003; Third Quarter 2003 dues were paid on October 29, 2003 whereas they should have been paid no later than July 31, 2003; First Quarter 2004 dues were paid on April 5, 2004 whereas they should have been paid no later than January 31, 2004; Second Quarter 2004 dues were paid on June 18, 2004 whereas they should have been paid no later than May 1, 2004. Union records further indicate that the Third Quarter 2004 has not been paid whereas it should have if approved and voted on affirmatively by the membership, subject to the Constitution, would become effective immediately upon their passage. D. Housekeeping Amendment Remove the words “headquarters representative” from the Constitution anywhere that it may appear; and, specifically, in Article VIII, Article X, Article XI, Article XII, and Article XIII. It is therefore RESOLVED, as constitutionally provided, this Resolution be voted upon by the membership at the July 2004 Membership Meeting at the Constitutional Ports of New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, DetroitAlgonac, Houston, New Orleans, Mobile, San Francisco, St. Louis and Piney Point, and, in addition, at all non-constitutional ports, and if concurred in, a Constitutional Committee of six (6) book members shall be elected from the Headquarters Port at the August 2004 meeting to discharge their duties as constitutionally required and be it further RESOLVED, in the event that such Constitutional Committee’s report and recommendations are thereafter accepted by the membership for voting as constitutionally required, a referendum vote by secret been paid no later than July 31, 2004. Based upon the provisions of Article XII, Section 1 (b), and further supported by Article III, Section 3; Article V and Article XXIV, Section 9 previously carried herein, the committee disqualified Brother Jaradat for the job of Vice President at Large. Union records also indicate that Brother Jaradat did not acquire at least 100 days of seatime or Union employment between January 1 and time of nomination which is needed to qualify for an elective job. Based upon the provisions of Article XII, Section 1 (c), the committee further disqualified Brother Procedure for Absentee Ballots General elections for the union’s officers will take place this year. Voting will begin Nov. 1 and continue through Dec. 31. 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 designated 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 your name and book number on the second line. The mailing envelope is selfaddressed 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. ballot on the two substantive amendments shall be held as provided for in the Constitutional Committee’s report and recommendations. The procedure for such voting and the time thereof shall be held, to the extent possible, as part of the secret ballot voting for officers and jobholders scheduled for the months of November and December 2004. We further recommend, if it is reasonably possible, that a copy of our Committee’s Report, together with a copy of the proposed Resolution and membership action taken to date, be printed in the Seafarers LOG, October 2004 issue so that the membership will be kept abreast as to all facts at this time and copies of such LOG issue, to the extent possible, be made available to the membership at all Union offices and Halls during the months of November and December 2004. Your Constitutional Committee wishes to thank the Union, its officers, representatives, members and counsel for their cooperation and assistance during our deliberations and to assure all members that we believe the adoption of the proposed Resolution will serve the needs of the Union and the membership. Fraternally submitted, Constitutional Committee August 20, 2004 Jaradat for the job of Vice President at Large. The committee further noted that Brother Jaradat indicated that he had sailed in a licensed capacity within the last 24 months, which would also disqualify him based upon the provisions of Article XII, Section 1 (f). In accordance with the requirements of Article XIII, Section 2 (c) of our Constitution, and in order to assure adequate notice of its decision, the Committee informed Brother Jaradat of his disqualification by Mailgram sent on August 17, 2004 to the address stated in his letter of nomination. Moreover, the Mailgram was followed by an overnight and certified letter dated August 17, 2004 from the Committee to Brother Jaradat that set forth the reason for his disqualification. A copy of the Union Constitution was enclosed with the aforementioned letter so that Brother Jaradat would have available the procedure to be followed in appeal from the disqualification decision of the Committee. The Committee further noted that a conference call took place on Thursday, August 19, 2004 whereby Brother Jaradat was informed of his reason for disqualification and given the opportunity to appeal to the Committee. However, Brother Jaradat was unable to provide satisfactory evidence to overturn the Committee's decision. Therefore, the Committee upheld its decision to disqualify Brother Jaradat. 4. Edward O'Connor, O-599 – Candidate for Vice President in Charge of the Gulf Coast. Your committee noted the receipt of a letter dated August 9, 2004, addressed to David Heindel in which Brother O'Connor requested his name be placed on the ballot for election to the office of Vice President in Charge of the Gulf Coast. Your committee also noted the receipt of a letter dated August 17, 2004, addressed to SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel in which Brother O'Connor withdrew his nomination for Vice President in Charge of the Gulf Coast. Accordingly, the Committee determined that no further action is needed on Brother O'Connor's nomination. 5. John Sparks, S-2351 – Candidate for Piney Point Port Agent. Your committee noted the receipt of a letter dated July 20, 2004, addressed to Michael Sacco in which Brother Sparks requested his name be placed on the ballot for election to the office of Piney Point Port Agent. Your committee also noted the receipt of a letter dated July 27, 2004, addressed to Michael Sacco in which Brother Sparks withdrew his nomination for Piney Point Port Agent. Accordingly, the Committee determined that no further action is needed on Brother Sparks' nomination. All credentials received as of August 15, 2004, were turned over to the Committee in good order, and those received by mail subsequently, but not later than August 15, 2004, have similarly been furnished to the Committee in good order. All credentials have been examined in strict accordance with the Constitution. Any defect in the credentials disposed of by the Committee has been the sole responsibility of the sender and no person adversely affected by such defect has denied this to the Committee. Fraternally submitted, Credentials Committe August 19, 2004 Seafarers LOG 7 �24133_P4,5,8,10,11,15_18,20,22,23.qxd 8/26/2004 6:20 PM Page 8 SEATU Convention Focuses on Pride and Partnership Pride and a spirit of partnership took center stage at the third triennial convention of the Seafarers Entertainment & Allied Trades Union (SEATU), held Aug. 10-11, 2004 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. SEATU, an affiliate of the SIU, was chartered in 1995 with 169 members in Alton, Ill. Nine years later, with more than 4,000 members, this two-day meeting and election of officers was convened in the immediate aftermath of a recent organizing victory aboard NCL America’s Pride of Aloha, bringing thousands of new jobs for the rank-and-file membership. SIU President Michael Sacco, who also is president of SEATU, referred to this win in his opening remarks when he said, “The Pride of Aloha, in particular, was a great victory for us. The ship itself is big and beautiful, but the truly important thing is what the vessel represents: good jobs for Americans, a boost for the economy, and the rebirth of the U.S.flag deep sea cruise ship industry.” Good Relationships Following a DVD presentation on the christening ceremonies of the Pride of Aloha, Capt. William Schubert, the U.S. Maritime Ad- ministrator and a dedicated fighter for the U.S.-flag merchant fleet, talked about the demise of the U.S.-flag cruise ship industry after September 11, 2001 and how important partnership was in getting this ship (as well as two additional ships—the Pride of America and the Pride of Hawaii —which should be in service within the next two years) out of the shipyard. It was a cooperation between management and labor as well as bipartisan support in Congress that gave us the opportunity to sail these ships, he noted, “and we need to continue to work together to put more jobs on U.S. ships.” The necessity of maintaining good relationships with Congress on a bipartisan level was further addressed by Terry Turner, the union’s director of legislative affairs. To get a certain level of cooperation on the Hill, Turner reported, we need to support those who support us—whether they be Democrats or Republicans. He talked about the SIU’s SPAD program and challenged SEATU to start a similar voluntary donation system. “The only way to become a player,” Turner told the convention delegates, representatives and officials, “is to become a contributor.” Some At the conclusion of the successful two-day convention, SEATU delegates, representatives and officials pose for a group photo. industries are more heavily regulated than others, but the fact is that every job, one way or another, is affected by rules and regulations handed down by the government. By developing a relationship with congressional representatives and their staffs, he said, we are more welcome to meet with them to discuss how we can help promote and protect our members’ interests and jobs. SEATU Assistant Vice President Elizabeth Brown started her union career 12 years ago as an SIU member aboard the “White Ships”—the Independence and Constitution—and has played an important role in helping ensure the success of SEATU, most recently aboard the Pride of Aloha. While noting that everyone has worked very hard to get the newly re-flagged ship on its 7-day Hawaiian island itinerary, “the job will only be done when the second and third ships have arrived,” she stated. Brown suggested all the delegates go back to their halls and tell the members about what is going on in the industry. “Be proud,” she said, “of what your union is doing, not just for SEATU, but also for America.” The importance of pride, partnership and cooperation was further highlighted by Dick Glasier, president and CEO of Argosy Gaming Co. Argosy owns and operates six properties in which SEATU members work: Baton Rouge, La.; Joliet, Ill.; Lawrenceburg, Ind.; Sioux City, Iowa; Kansas City, Mo.; and Alton, Ill. Glasier informed the convention delegates that a big part of Argosy’s success is its link with organized labor in general and SEATU in particular. The union provided technical know-how, marine expertise and political support in helping them acquire their first casino, the Alton Belle, and the support from SEATU members and officials has never wavered, he stated. It’s Business as Usual in Boston Capt. William Schubert U.S. Maritime Administrator Richard Glasier President/CEO, Argosy Elizabeth Brown Assistant VP, SEATU Valerie Lilja AFL-CIO Union Plus Rep Revenues are up in the casinos, Glasier acknowledged, and that is because they are providing customers what they want. “Our employees are a large part of that,” he added, stating that the SEATU employees are very focused and take pride in excelling in their jobs. Competition is fierce in the gaming industry, the CEO explained. “But we have a relationship with SEATU, and that is a key part of our competitive advantage.” He thanked the union delegates and said he hoped to give them good news in the future about additional properties they hope to acquire and staff with SEATU members. “What’s good for the growth of Argosy is good for the SEATU membership,” Glasier said in his closing remarks. “We’ll work to make that happen.” Paul Hall Center, both in Piney Point and on site. John Mason is CEO of American Service Technology, Inc., the company that provides curriculums and educational guidance to the Paul Hall Center. He informed the convention delegates about the on-site training being given at Argosy and aboard the Pride of Aloha as well as other facilities and asked them to make sure their fellow employees sign up for the training. Mason presented a slide show and passed out booklets about the capabilities of the Paul Hall Center in providing any kind of training necessary, from cooking and personal safety to fire fighting and security to slot tech training and academic degrees—“everything to meet the needs of the members.” Another benefit of belonging to SEATU is participation in the Union Plus program. Valerie Lilja, the AFL-CIO Union Plus representative for SEATU and the SIU provided program information to the group about the cost savings available to union members through the program. The credit card program is the most popular, she noted, but also available are scholarship awards, educational loans, prescription savings, auto purchase and insurance, car rentals, movie tickets, and more. Lilja said that Union Plus is always on the lookout for quality programs and benefits designed to improve the lives of union members and save them money. New programs this year include a credit counseling program, health club discounts, home heating oil discounts, education services and a travel program. For more information, union members can visit www.unionplus.org. Organizing No time was lost when the New Bedford, Mass. union hall moved to a new location in central Boston recently. The computer system is up and running, a nearby clinic is on contract to help Seafarers get the medical testing they need to sail, and the staff is ready to assist the membership in any way they can. Clockwise from above left, Port Agent Gerard Dhooge (right) helps QMED Fred Doyle (left) and Bosun John O’Connell with some paperwork; Donna Massucco is the secretary at the hall; the front entry to the hall reflects the cars in the parking lot outside; and the magazine rack is filled with the latest maritime news. The Boston hall is located at 27 Drydock Avenue; telephone (617) 261-0790. SEATU Vice President Tom Orzechowski, who graduated from the SIU’s trainee program in 1991, has done a tremendous amount of work as an organizer to help ensure the success and growth of SEATU. He spoke about the persistence of a large low-wage labor market, the difficulty employees have in obtaining a voice in the workplace and the absence of a sustained and serious national debate about these concerns—and how more than 40 million non-union workers want a union in their workplace but can’t have one under current law. He said, “As foot soldiers of the labor movement, sometimes we organizers need help. Help from not only the employees or our current members, but from the federal government. The Employee Free Choice Act will give them a fighting chance.” He urged the delegates to return to their facilities or vessels and speak to their fellow employees and encourage them to help organize the unorganized, participate in union activities and become active advocates for the Employee Free Choice Act. Benefits One of the benefits of being a SEATU member is the training offered by instructors from the 8 Seafarers LOG Conclusion Before adjourning the triennial convention, delegates voted to approve 10 resolutions, read by SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, and to return the current officers to lead the union through the next three years. Reelected were President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President/ Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Tellez and Vice President Orzechowski. September 2004 �24133_Pg6,7,9,14,21,24.qxd 8/26/2004 8:25 PM Page 9 Basic Auxiliary Plant Ops Course Is Required to Step Toward FOWT The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education offers a 140-hour class called basic auxiliary plant operation. The course is separate from the FOWT class; basic auxiliary plant operation should be taken first. Engineering students in the unlicensed apprentice program who are considering becoming FOWTs must take basic auxiliary plant operation. Similarly, upgraders who are sailing as wipers and have acquired enough seatime must take basic auxiliary plant operation as the next step toward becoming FOWTs. The mariners then would return to sea, acquire the appropriate seatime and then take the FOWT course. Under the amended STCW convention, basic auxiliary plant operation meets the assessment requirement for ratings forming part of an engineering watch. (It essentially is the engine department equivalent of the specially trained ordinary seaman course.) For more information, contact the admissions office at the Paul Hall Center at 301 994-0010. Alex Rhodes runs a simulated test on an engine system. Health and Benefits Plan Weighs Network Options Left: Brian Leach and Connie Clemons train on the latest equipment during the basic auxiliary plant operation course. In an effort to continue providing generous health benefits to SIU members and their families—while at the same time combating the steadily rising costs of medical care—the trustees of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) are examining the possibility of entering an agreement with a national health network provider. If the SHBP signs on with a national network provider, one expected benefit is that Seafarers no longer would have to worry about doctors’ charges exceeding the “reasonable and customary” coverage limit. That’s because the network and its participating physicians agree to a set fee schedule. “The Plan continuously evalu- Right: Christopher Burke examines a test screen. Cabotage Laws Need to Be Protected Continued from page 2 the U.S. Customs Service as “any foreign port in North America, Central America, the Bahama Islands, Bermuda” or many parts of the West Indies. The MCTF is a coalition of more than 400 organizations and companies—including the SIU— joined together in support of the U.S. domestic marine shipping industry. Specifically, the coalition works to preserve cabotage laws which, among other things, govern the shipment of goods and services between any two domestic ports in the U.S. Negotiators for the United States and Panama on Aug. 9 launched their fourth week of talks in Tampa, Fla. aimed at completing the free trade agreement which is at issue. Both sides originally hoped to wrap up a deal by this fourth round of negotiations. But lingering disputes over hot-button issues—including Panama’s attempt to alter U.S. cabatoge laws—had officials dampening expectations. The two nations during the week of April 26 began FTA negotiations in Panama City, Panama. U.S. Trade Representative Zoellick in November 2003 met with the Panamanian president and trade minister during the Free Trade Area of the Americas ministerial meeting and announced the plan to undertake the current negotiations. In 2003, bilateral trade between the United States and Panama totaled $2.1 billion, with U.S. exports accounting for $1.8 billion of that amount. Between 2002 and 2003, U.S. exports to Panama grew over 30 percent. Nearly half of Panama’s total imports come from the United States. U.S. foreign direct investment in Panama already totals roughly $25 billion, in sectors including finance, maritime and energy. Register and Vote! The AFL-CIO suggests the following steps to help individuals ensure that they are eligible to vote in the Nov. 2 elections: Contact your local election office to check that you are registered to vote and find out where you should vote. Register immediately if you are not. If you do not receive a registration card within three weeks of registering, call the election office to see if there is a problem. If there is, follow instructions to correct the problem or reregister. It is particularly important to check your registration or reregister if you have moved, changed your name or have not voted in recent elections. Find out whether you can vote early. If early voting is allowed in your community, you may want to do it. Check with your local election office about any new voting procedures or ID requirements and opportunities to practice using voting machines. Also, the following links from the Federal Voting Assistance Program and the Federal Election Commission will help you register to vote and to obtain an absentee ballot for national and local elections: http://www.fvap.gov/ http://www.fvap.gov/links/statelinks.html http://www.fec.gov/votregis/where_can_i_register_to_vote02.htm http://www.fec.gov/pages/faqabsentee.htm September 2004 ates methods of reducing costs without placing any additional burden on our participants,” noted SHBP Administrator Bill Dennis. “At this time, the Plan is in discussions with a network provider that may provide relief in this time of grossly increasing medical costs. More information will follow at a later date.” Dennis emphasized that if an agreement is reached, it only will be with a network which features a very extensive participant list of providers and hospitals. He added that the health benefits plan of an SIU-affiliated union earlier this year joined a national health network, and the early returns have been quite favorable for that plan, its participating members and eligible dependents. Notice/Reminder Full Book Applications Seafarers who have at least 260 days of sea time in the past 24 months are eligible to apply for full book membership in the union. This of course includes members who were in the NMU when that union merged into the SIU’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (in 2001). Members are encouraged to apply at any SIU hall. Please bring discharges or pay vouchers (or both) verifying the required sea time, along with two passport-size photos. In order to apply for full book membership, dues must be current, initiation must be paid in full and the member must be in good standing. There is a $10 fee for each application; processing typically takes two to three weeks. Sea time for any member working on equipment that formerly was covered by an NMU agreement and now is covered by an SIU/NMU contract counts toward eligibility for application. Members are reminded that, among other potential benefits, full book membership helps allow Seafarers the right to vote for candidates for union office and the right to run for union office. This is an election year for the SIU. For more information, please contact your port agent. A list of SIU halls is on page 15. Reminder/CIVMAR News Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance Program Sets ‘Open Season’ As previously reported, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) in late May announced the first open season for the Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance Program (FEGLI) since 1999. The FEGLI 2004 Open Season will take place from Sept. 1 through Sept. 30, 2004, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the program. “The Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance Program is just one of the federal benefits that employees can use to plan for the future and to anticipate the fulfillment of essential responsibility to their families,” said OPM Director Kay Coles James in announcing the open season May 25. “This will give federal employees the opportunity to make any adjustments they need to better plan for the future.” The FEGLI program consists of basic life insurance coverage and three options that include cov- erage for up to five times an employee’s base salary plus coverage for family members. In most cases, a new federal employee is automatically covered by basic life insurance. The types and amounts of coverages available are not changing. During the open season, federal and U.S. Post Office employees in eligible positions may enroll in the FEGLI program or increase or change current coverage without having a physical or answering any questions about their health. The earliest that newly elected coverage will be effective is Sept. 1, 2005. OPM offers much more information on line at http://www.opm.gov/asd/htm/2004/04-203.asp. The federal government established the FEGLI program on Aug. 29, 1954. It is the largest group life insurance program in the world, covering over 4 million federal employees and retirees, as well as many of their family members. Seafarers LOG 9 �24133_P4,5,8,10,11,15_18,20,22,23.qxd 8/26/2004 6:21 PM Page 10 SIU-Crewed Tug Falcon Helps Sweeten Lives The SIU-crewed tug Falcon and its accompanying barge ATC 1800 load sugar in the Dominican Republic and West Palm Beach, Fla. and carry the cargo to refineries in Baltimore and Yonkers, N.Y. The tug and barge are owned by Allied Transportation Co., based in Norfolk, Va. Filled with sugar in its holds, barge ATC 1800 is towed by the tug Falcon. Ken Ford, the assistant engineer, replaces some gaskets. Keeping a fresh coat of paint on the tug’s railings is AB-Mate Calvin Mason. Cook George Irwin presents a seafood extravaganza (top photo) from the bounty of the sea. Capt. Lester Hallowell surveys operations on board the barge from the deck of the Falcon. AB Ken Mason is never at a loss for work aboard deck. Left: Making the tow connection are (from left) AB Ken Mason, Assistant Engineer Ken Ford and AB-Mate Calvin Mason 10 Seafarers LOG Todd E. Rich, the chief engineer aboard the tug Falcon, sent the photographs on this page to the Seafarers LOG. September 2004 �24133_P4,5,8,10,11,15_18,20,22,23.qxd 8/26/2004 6:21 PM Page 11 Piney Point is a great place for Seafarers and their families to spend a summer vacation. AB Woody Hoffman’s wife, Sharon, and son, Dylan, are enjoying their stay at the SIU-affiliated school and find fishing to be great fun. Dylan, at right, shows off his catch of the day. QMED Tyler Harden attended the June 2004 General Security Awareness course at the Mobile hall. With him are his son, Gunnar Harden (left), and friend Carson Reimers. Children, weddings, vacations . . . These are some of the images we all look forward to seeing—and sharing 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. Chief Steward Lonnie Jones Sr. and his wife, Denise, are proud to announce the marriage of their daughter, Lisa, to Ron Casto. The wedding ceremony took place June 26 in Columbus, Ohio. In the back row are Ron (left) and Lonnie Jones Jr. The Joneses are a seafaring family. Not only does Lonnie Sr. sail as a chief steward, Denise used to sail on the Great Lakes as a 2nd cook and baker, Lisa worked as a cocktail waitress on the Hawaiian cruise ships in the 1990s, and Lonnie Jr. is currently sailing as a chief cook. A Mother-Son Reunion: During Maritime Day celebrations last May at the Navy Yard in Washington, D.C., Unlicensed Apprentice John Ivey (class # 654) was among the representatives from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. His mother, Kimberli Ivey from Bowie, Md., is a D.C. police officer and was on duty that day at the Navy Yard as well, and was able to take a few moments to join her son for this snapshot. September 2004 Seafarers LOG 11 �24133_PG1_3,12,13,19,18cx.qxd 8/26/2004 8:49 PM Page 12 MARITIME SIU, Paul Hall Center Step Up To Promote Shipboard, Port Safety As vessel and port security in the United States are emphasized and scrutinized like never before, both the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education vigorously have tackled their respective roles in helping promote safety aboard ship as well as in port. The SIU and the school have answered this challenge on many fronts, including: Participating in shipboard anti-terrorism drills overseen by the government. Providing a one-hour anti-terrorism briefing to every student at the Paul Hall Center, located in Piney Point, Md. Requiring all students at the school to complete a general security awareness course. This two-hour curriculum, which complies with requirements spelled out in both the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS) and the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), also has been offered aboard ship and at numerous union halls including Houston; Mobile, Ala.; Jacksonville, Fla.; and Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Serving on U.S. Coast Guard Area Maritime Security Committees across the country. Offering an eight-hour vessel security officer (VSO) class. That course specifically covers responsibilities of VSOs, but also includes other shipboard security issues. As with general security awareness training, the VSO class has been conducted both at Piney Point and aboard ship. Crafting company-specific security training. Conducting small-arms training (including 21-hour and sevenhour courses) that is approved by the U.S. Military Sealift Command (M is the facility itself in Piney Point. Paul Hall Center Instructor Herb Wal noted, “Our security training covers not rorism and piracy issues, but also securit relates to personal and vessel safety. Wh made the VSO course in particular very is that we’ve integrated companies’ secu cies and procedures into the program. W a very positive response both from the c and the students.” Instructor Mitch Oakley pointed out th Paul Hall Center began offering security long before the July 1, 2004 implementat the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA), which the Coast Guard enforce the ISPS Code (also in effect as of July 1 “Our industry was prepared in part be what the union and school did,” Oakley Early last month, Seafarers participated in a major antiterrorism exercise in Baltimore. The photos along the bottom of these two pages were taken during that drill. 12 Seafarers LOG September 2004 �24133_PG1_3,12,13,19,18cx.qxd 8/26/2004 8:49 PM Page 13 SECURITY nd (MSC), as nt. Walling s not only terecurity as it y. What has very effective security polim. We’ve had the companies out that the urity training mentation of y Act forces through July 1). art because of kley said. “The students have been enthusiastic, the companies have stepped up to the plate and our people have stepped up.” In an Aug. 3 letter to the school, Edward Alford, corporate security director for SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime Corporation, noted that 220 Crowley mariners have completed VSO and general security awareness training conducted at various company sites. “I can’t say enough about the dedication, professionalism and diligence that Mitch displayed during this process and service,” Alford wrote. He also cited the leadership of the school “in providing this critical training to our vessel crew employees.” Tony McQuay, SIU port agent in Jacksonville, stated, “The security training that has been done throughout the ports has been great for the members. They got the training they needed, locally, and they seemed very happy with it. We’ve had a very good turnout—over 40 people per class, with two classes per week going back to May.” Both ISPS Code and MTSA implementation are evolving throughout the industry. The deep sea, Great Lakes and inland sectors all are affected. Walling observed, “Some companies are jumping aboard with the security training even if they are not yet required by regulation to do so. And regardless of whether or not a vessel is impacted by the regulations, the Coast Guard Captain of the Port can order vessel security inspections. No company is totally regulatoryfree, in practice.” While the VSO in most cases will be a licensed officer, he typically will assign shipboard personnel with specific security duties (for example, gangway watch). Those who don’t have security duties still are required to have an overall awareness of security issues. “What we have now is a foundation to build on,” said J.C. Wiegman, assistant director of training at the Paul Hall Center. “The Coast Guard continues to seek input from throughout the industry. “But it’s more than fair to say that the school and the SIU have taken a leadership role when it comes to security training,” he continued. “There’s a parallel here to the training record books which we began issuing in 1997, well ahead of the requirements of the amended STCW convention.” Walling concluded, “It comes down to awareness. With everyone who goes through that hall to secure a job, there should be a conversation relative to vessel security, reinforcing the importance of operational security issues—both generally and specifically to the ship they’re going to and the job they will have aboard that ship. The training we offer is an important part of that process.” September 2004 ABOVE: Seafarers at the Mobile, Ala. hall take part in a general security awareness course conducted by a Paul Hall Center instructor. RIGHT: Small arms training at Piney Point is aimed at boosting security aboard military support ships. ABOVE: Bosun’s Mate Tony Sivola (left) assists Electrician Frank Coburn with safety gear during a shipboard and pierside drill last month in Baltimore. BELOW: AB Jerry Costello stands gangway watch during the drill. ABOVE: Every student at the Paul Hall Center receives an anti-terrorism briefing. RIGHT: Pictured after the anti-terrorism exercise in Baltimore are (from left) Electrician Frank Coburn, Baltimore Mayor Martin O’Malley, SIU Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz and Baltimore City Fire Department Chief William Goodwin. Seafarers LOG 13 �24133_Pg6,7,9,14,21,24.qxd 8/26/2004 8:37 PM Page 14 Canadian Wal-Mart Goes Union Retailer May Fight Quebec Labor Board Accreditation A Wal-Mart store near Quebec may become the first facility owned by the world’s largest retailer to go union, according to the Canadian Press. The Quebec Labor Relations Board on Aug. 2 accredited the United Food and Commercial Workers Union (UFCW) to represent the workers at the Saguenay outlet, which is located some 124 miles north of Quebec City, the report said. The announcement of the accreditation was made by the Quebec Federation of Labor, with which the UFCW is affiliated. About 200 employees work at the facility. “The union represents the large majority of the store’s employees,” said Marie-Josee Lemieux, president of the UFCW local in that region. “We hope that Wal-Mart will accept this decision and negotiate a labor contract with the union.” The labor board was scheduled to conduct a meeting late last month to rule on the job descriptions of those who can be covered by negotiations. The request for accreditation was filed July 6. The employer had contested the type of employees to be covered by negotiations and may appeal on that basis. The local is expected to include all salaried workers except the store manager, assistant managers, department managers, office workers, auto shop employees, the night manager, customer service manager, human resources manager, security officers and those automatically excluded by law. There are no unionized WalMart stores, although a handful of meat workers at a Wal-Mart Super Center in Texas have joined the United Food and Commercial Workers. The world’s largest retailer is expected to fight this ruling, the union conceded following the accreditation announcement. In a related development, lawyers representing more than 200 illegal immigrants suing WalMart said last month they would press on despite efforts by the retail giant to settle a separate federal investigation into the use of illegal workers by the retailer. A report by the Federal Times said Wal-Mart is in talks with officials from the U.S. Department of Justice to settle the probe into whether it knowingly employed cleaning contractors in its stores that used illegal immigrants. A grand jury investigation in Pennsylvania was launched after more than 250 illegal workers, employed by outside clean- Authority, Responsibilities Increase for USCG Continued from page 5 Directs the USCG to conduct vulnerability assessments of waters adjacent to nuclear facilities in the United Sates. Requires Area Maritime Security Advisory Committees to include members from the port industry, terminal operators, port labor organizations, and other users of port areas. Requires the USCG to submit a report to Congressional committees of jurisdiction regarding the establishment of joint operational centers for port securi- ty, and an estimate of the number, location and costs of such centers that would be necessary to implement port security measures outlined in the Marine Transportation Security Act of 2002. Directs the USCG to conduct certain investigations and pilot projects to enhance the security at American ports. Authorizes an amount of $35 million for each of the next four fiscal years to award grants and to fund programs that would investigate or demonstrate methods of improving port security. Requires the USCG—within 180 days of the enactment of the act—to submit a number of vessel and intermodal reports, plans and evaluations to jurisdictional Senate and House committees and take action regarding the security of marine intermodal transportation, specifically the security of cargo containers. Authorizes the President to delegate the authority to issue rules and regulations under 50 USC 191 to the secretary of the department in which the USCG is operating. This stature allows for the emergency regulation of vessels in time of national emergency. Working on the Dodge Island ing contractors, were arrested in dawn raids last October at 61 Wal-Mart stores in 21 states. According to the report, the settlement talks have discussed a fine of about $10 million, with no admission of wrongdoing by WalMart. Criminal charges are not expected to be brought against any senior Wal-Mart executives. Elsewhere, a sex-discrimination case filed by current and former female employees against Wal-Mart in June was certified as a class action by a federal judge in San Francisco. Among other allegations, the petition claims that, since 1998, female employees at Wal-Mart have been paid less than men and have been offered fewer promotions. As a class action, the case covers about 1.6 million women. It is the largest civil rights class action ever certified against a private employer, lawyers for the employees said. They estimate that Wal-Mart could be liable for an award of more than $1 billion if the workers prevail in the case. “I am thrilled,” sources quoted attorney Joseph Sellers as saying following the ruling by Federal Judge Martin Jenkins. In his ruling, Judge Jenkins said the class can seek punitive damages as back pay for lost earnings and wage discrepancies. “This decision sets the stage for women at Wal-Mart to get their fair share of pay and promotions, which have been denied them for years,” the counselor added. Sellers is the attorney who represents plaintiffs in the case. He reportedly was among the first to file suit in June 2001 on behalf of a half-dozen women who claimed they were consistently held back from promotions and were paid less than their male counterparts. The suit prompted an outpouring of claims against Wal-Mart from women throughout the country. Wal-Mart in early July asked a U.S. appeals court to throw out the federal court ruling, denying that it discriminated against female employees. As of press time, no decision had been reached on the WalMart request by the U.S. Court of Appeals. Retail experts, however, already are weighing in on the situation. Sources say experts are of the opinion that a nationwide class-action sex-discrimination lawsuit against Wal-Mart could lead to changes within the world’s largest retailer and among competitors. “If the allegations are true, it will very fast lead to radical improvement of the situation,” said Kurt Barnard, president of Retail Forecasting LLC in Upper Montclair, N.J. “It is absolutely in (Wal-Mart’s) best interest to resolve this as fast as possible.” Another analyst noted that those changes may already have begun before the federal judge made his decision to grant classaction status to a suit filed three years ago. 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 AB Tommy Davis has his hands full as he works in Norfolk, Va. on the Dodge Island, a NATCO/Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Co. dredge. The heat was unforgiving, according to OS Brett Solle, who sent this photo to the Seafarers LOG. 14 Seafarers LOG 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. September 2004 �24133_P4,5,8,10,11,15_18,20,22,23.qxd 8/26/2004 6:22 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea October & November 2004 Membership Meetings JULY 16 — AUGUST 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 Totals 0 0 6 0 7 24 28 0 11 17 31 14 4 1 11 15 3 33 19 3 3 3 8 9 12 29 1 8 17 12 16 2 8 8 12 5 21 21 0 3 2 1 0 15 12 0 3 9 21 8 1 1 1 4 1 22 11 1 0 1 2 6 25 28 0 15 16 24 10 2 1 6 17 2 19 19 1 1 1 7 3 12 29 0 8 8 11 14 3 8 7 5 4 18 18 0 0 1 2 2 6 8 0 2 4 2 2 1 2 0 3 2 9 7 0 0 0 0 3 12 11 0 4 6 9 8 0 0 2 11 0 8 9 1 0 14 0 11 43 64 0 17 25 53 22 9 2 18 34 2 60 37 3 7 8 6 16 26 49 1 12 23 28 30 4 12 12 17 3 41 35 2 4 3 0 3 35 28 2 4 18 43 14 2 1 2 6 3 35 19 224 198 115 194 158 53 83 412 333 224 2 0 3 1 7 13 17 0 8 8 8 8 1 1 6 14 2 10 10 1 2 0 0 7 7 19 0 6 10 9 12 2 1 3 7 1 20 6 2 1 1 0 1 9 3 0 1 4 6 2 0 0 0 3 0 7 7 1 0 2 1 4 11 20 0 9 7 6 8 3 1 3 10 0 9 5 0 0 2 1 6 2 23 0 6 10 7 14 2 0 4 6 2 13 8 0 0 0 0 0 8 2 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 2 5 0 0 0 0 1 5 12 0 1 5 4 4 3 1 2 3 0 12 7 1 0 6 1 11 20 31 0 13 9 18 11 2 1 8 15 2 19 17 2 2 6 0 4 16 36 1 8 15 17 18 4 3 1 10 0 30 13 2 1 1 0 2 14 9 0 2 5 14 4 0 0 0 3 1 9 12 119 113 47 100 106 22 60 185 186 79 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals Totals All Departments Piney Point .............Monday: October 4, November 8 Algonac ..................Friday: October 8, November 12 Baltimore ................Thursday: October 7 ................................Friday: November 12* ................................*(change created by Veterans’ Day holiday) Boston.....................Friday: October 8, November 12 Duluth .....................Wednesday: October 13, November 17 Guam ......................Thursday: October 21 ................................Friday: November 26* ................................*(change created by Thanksgiving Day holiday) Honolulu .................Friday: October 15, November 19 Houston ..................Monday: October 11, November 15 Jacksonville ............Thursday: October 7 ................................Friday: November 12* ................................*(change created by Veterans’ Day holiday) Joliet .......................Thursday: October 14, November 18 Mobile ....................Wednesday: October 13, November 17 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: October 12, November 16 New York................Tuesday: October 5, November 9 Norfolk ...................Thursday: October 7 ................................Friday: November 12* ................................*(change created by Veterans’ Day holiday) Philadelphia ............Wednesday: October 6, November 10 Port Everglades.......Thursday: October 14, November 18 San Francisco .........Thursday: October 14, November 18 San Juan..................Thursday: October 7 ................................Friday: November 12* ................................*(change created by Veterans’ Day holiday) St. Louis..................Friday: October 15, November 19 Tacoma ...................Friday: October 22, November 26 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 3 0 11 17 23 0 4 6 13 11 4 3 0 25 0 19 15 0 0 3 1 6 5 14 0 6 6 7 11 0 1 1 6 0 5 7 0 0 0 0 0 7 5 0 1 2 3 3 0 0 0 2 1 4 4 0 0 2 0 15 12 20 0 10 6 12 4 3 3 4 19 0 18 18 0 0 1 0 4 2 5 0 5 4 3 5 1 0 2 1 1 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 5 7 0 3 3 6 2 1 1 1 3 0 10 6 0 0 5 0 15 28 29 0 4 13 30 16 4 3 0 40 1 26 25 2 0 2 2 9 9 23 0 7 8 13 14 1 2 2 13 1 11 14 1 0 0 0 1 9 12 0 1 2 4 5 0 2 0 4 0 7 9 154 79 32 146 39 8 50 239 133 57 0 0 0 0 2 3 3 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 2 7 0 2 2 1 2 1 0 10 13 17 0 8 9 27 4 3 4 2 13 0 19 8 3 4 3 0 6 16 18 1 2 12 31 8 1 22 2 8 2 18 8 0 0 0 0 2 2 3 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 4 0 6 2 0 1 1 1 6 10 9 0 6 6 14 2 3 11 2 5 0 5 3 1 1 0 0 3 5 6 0 2 4 1 6 0 29 1 3 2 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 7 5 5 0 0 3 7 0 0 0 5 7 0 10 5 3 2 3 0 18 21 36 0 5 12 52 11 1 7 5 32 0 36 16 3 5 7 2 14 41 40 1 2 21 80 17 2 36 1 14 2 49 31 24 141 165 22 85 66 0 54 260 368 521 531 359 462 388 149 193 890 912 728 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 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK 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 Trip Reliefs 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. September 2004 Wilmington ...............Monday: October 18, November 22 ............................................ Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals OGDEN W. “BUZZY” LAFYE Please contact Mary Jane at (707) 838-3669. VIRGINIA TAGLIABUE Jimmy Williams, an old shipmate of yours aboard the SS Independence, is trying to get in touch with you. Please call him at (808) 631-9216. Recognizing the U.S. Merchant Marine The memorial pictured above, honoring the U.S. Merchant Marine and the U.S. Navy Armed Guard is scheduled to be formally dedicated Sept. 18 in the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman, Ohio. The monument was purchased by the Canton (Ohio) Hall of Fame Chapter of the U.S. Merchant Marine and U.S. Navy Armed Guard Veterans of World War II. Thanks to Eli L. Rantanes, a U.S. Merchant Marine veteran and AMO retiree, for sending this photo to the LOG. Seafarers LOG 15 �24133_P4,5,8,10,11,15_18,20,22,23.qxd 8/26/2004 Seafarers International Union Directory 6:22 PM Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report JULY 16 — AUGUST 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 14 3 5 22 1 0 12 57 0 1 1 2 2 0 0 6 12 0 5 3 8 4 3 3 4 30 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 2 0 1 2 0 0 4 9 0 5 3 5 4 3 4 4 28 2 11 3 6 11 2 1 5 41 0 34 9 14 40 5 1 20 123 0 6 3 4 3 0 0 8 24 0 27 0 12 0 0 1 0 40 0 6 4 0 1 2 1 2 16 0 12 6 5 15 1 4 12 55 0 3 4 1 6 0 0 3 17 0 16 1 10 0 0 1 0 28 1 1 2 0 1 1 0 0 6 0 8 8 7 19 2 2 9 55 0 1 1 2 17 0 2 6 29 0 21 1 9 0 1 0 0 32 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 5 1 2 6 0 1 3 18 0 2 1 1 2 0 0 1 7 0 6 3 4 1 2 1 1 18 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 18 4 5 16 4 0 8 55 0 7 5 0 2 1 2 4 21 0 4 0 3 0 0 0 1 8 0 5 3 1 1 2 0 1 13 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 2 2 4 8 2 0 3 21 0 0 1 1 5 0 1 0 8 0 3 4 1 1 1 1 1 12 Port 0 6 1 3 3 1 1 1 16 0 6 1 0 4 0 1 0 12 0 0 4 1 1 1 1 1 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 1 2 0 1 0 0 2 6 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 126 27 60 92 29 50 69 233 70 100 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the LOG by Pensioner John Risbeck of Bellingham, Wash. It was taken at sea Nov. 29, 1949 aboard the SS Robin Locksley. Risbeck was sailing as a bosun aboard that vessel, which was en route to South Africa. In a note accompanying the photo, Risbeck says that he had “a very good life being a seaman and a member of the Seafarers International Union from 1941” until his retirement in 1981. And he is able to see the changes—for the better—in the lives of merchant mariners. Risbeck, who is now 83 and a computer user, requests that “anyone out there young enough or old enough who will know me” to get in touch with him by e-mail at: hansyr@aol.com 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. September 2004 �24133_P4,5,8,10,11,15_18,20,22,23.qxd 8/26/2004 8:43 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 RONALD BELCHER, 64, joined the SIU in 1986 in the port of Houston after serving in the U.S. Navy. His first voyage was aboard the Mayaguez. Brother Belcher was born in Flint, Mich. The engine department member, who upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., last sailed aboard the USNS Capella. He makes his home in Jacksonville, Fla. WILLIAM CRUICKSHANK, 64, began his seafaring career in 1962 in Seattle after serving in the U.S. Army. Brother Cruickshank’s first ship was the Mt. McKinley. He enhanced his skills on numerous occasions at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Born in Ohio, he sailed in the deck department, most recently on the Westward Venture. Brother Cruickshank currently lives in the Philippines. CESAR GUTIERREZ, 65, joined the union in 1970 in New Orleans. Brother Gutierrez first sailed on the Sulphur Enterprise. His last ship was the Steel Maker. The deck department member was born in La Ceiba, Honduras and now resides in Kenner, La. JOHN KELLY, 55, was born in Boston, Mass. and joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of New York. He first sailed aboard the Eagle Voyage. The deck department member was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center, completing his bosun recertification there in 1996. Prior to retiring, Brother Kelly worked on the Horizon Reliance. He makes his home in Puyallup, Wash. FRANK KRAEMER, 62, began his seafaring career in 1968 in New Orleans. The engine department member was born in New Orleans and upgraded his skills a number of times at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point. His most recent voyage was on the USNS Altair. Brother Kraemer is a resident of Metairie, La. ELIAS LIMON, 61, hails from Galveston, Texas. Brother Limon joined the SIU in 1965 in the port of New York, first sailing on the SeaLand Defender. He worked in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center. September 2004 A resident of Lamerque, Texas, Brother Limon last worked aboard the Del Alba. ROY MITCHELL, 61, joined the SIU in 1966 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Mitchell was born in South Dakota and is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. The deck department member enhanced his skills at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point. Brother Mitchell, who last sailed on the Independence, makes his home in San Francisco. BOB RACKLIN, 62, was born in Alabama and joined the SIU in 1970 in the port of San Francisco. He initially sailed aboard the Afoundria. A U.S. Army veteran, Brother Racklin shipped in the steward department. His last voyage was on the Maersk Alaska. Brother Racklin currently lives in Pittsburg, Calif. JOSE RAMOS, 65, began his SIU career in 1978 in the port of New York. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Ramos worked in the steward department, most recently sailing aboard the Horizon Producer. Brother Ramos is a resident of Patillas, PR. ADOLFO SCHULTZE, 72, joined the union in 1991 in the port of New York. Brother Schultze, who was born in Argentina, first sailed aboard the Senator. The engine department member last went to sea on the Commitment. Brother Schultze calls North Miami Beach, Fla. home. TERRY SMITH, 65, began his seafaring career in 1968 in the port of Houston. The steward department member was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center, completing his steward recertification training there in 1984. Brother Smith most recently worked on the Liberty Grace. He was born in La Porte, Ind. and now makes his home in Baytown, Texas. THOMAS TAYLOR, 66, joined the union in 1965 in the port of Philadelphia after serving in the U.S. Army. Brother Taylor initially sailed on the Globe Carrier. He enhanced his skills on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Born in Norfolk, Va., Brother Taylor worked in the engine department. His last ship was the Sam Houston. Brother Taylor resides in Virginia Beach, Va. worked in both the Great Lakes and deep sea divisions. Brother Weaver first shipped aboard the Buck Monitor. The deck department member last went to sea on the Endurance. Brother Weaver makes his home in Oscoda, Mich. SUZANNE VAN SCHOOR, 68, began her career with the SIU in 1989 in Puerto Rico. Sister Van Schoor, who was born in Germany, shipped in the steward department. She first sailed aboard the Independence. A resident of Honolulu, Sister Van Schoor last worked on the Tyco Dependable. GREAT LAKES RAFAEL VEGA, 64, joined the SIU in 1964 in his native Puerto Rico. Brother Vegas initially sailed on the Western Plant. The deck department member last sailed aboard the Horizon Discovery. He continues to live in Puerto Rico. LARRY VOUGA, 63, started his SIU career in 1963 in the port of New York after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. Brother Vouga was born in St. Louis and shipped in the deck department. His first vessel was the Adventurer; his last was the Horizon Hawaii. Brother Vouga calls Tampa, Fla. home. ROGER BLIX, 64, joined the union in 1991 in the port of Duluth, Minn. Brother Blix first sailed aboard the Kinsman Independent. Born in Wisconsin, he shipped in the steward department. Brother Blix’s last voyage was on American Steamship’s Indiana Harbor. He was born in Minnesota and now lives in Superior, Wis. INLAND HARVEY BRYAN, 65, was born in Maryland and began his SIU career in 1962 in the port of Baltimore. Boatman Bryan, who worked in the engine department, is a U.S. Navy veteran. He resides in Pineville, W.Va. RAMON DIAZ, 65, joined the SIU in 1976 in Puerto Rico, sailing primarily aboard Crowley Towing vessels. The Puerto Rican-born mariner shipped in the deck department as a captain. Boatman Diaz calls Bayamon, P.R. home. WALTER WEAVER, 60, hails from Detroit, Mich. Brother Weaver joined the SIU in 1965 in San Francisco. He AUDREY HARBOR, 69, launched her seafaring career in 1988 in her native New Orleans. She worked in Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1943 The Recruitment and Manning Organization, a division of the War Shipping Administration, guaranteed the SIU that all steamship companies having contracts with SIU have been directed to secure all personnel through the hiring halls of the union. Craig S. Swenson, regional representative of the Recruitment and Manning Organization, told the SIU by letter that they would call the union halls for unlicensed personnel and he assured the SIU that his organization would not try to go around the union hall but would do everything they could to assist the union in recruitment of manpower. 1956 GERALD MILLER, 60, hails from Gretna, La. Boatman Miller joined the union in 1967 in New Orleans. He was a member of the engine department, last working aboard a Crescent Towing Co. vessel. Boatman Miller makes his home in Ponchatoula, La. Editor’s Note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension and Trust, recently went on pension. EUGENE JONES, 55, began sailing with the NMU in 1969 from Port Authur, Texas. Brother Jones was born in Mobile, Ala. The steward department member’s initial voyage was aboard the Texaco Connecticut. Brother Jones last went to sea on the Howell Lykes. ANGEL SOTO, 65, was born in Puerto Rico. Brother Soto embarked on his career with the NMU in 1967. He first sailed on the Exilona out of the port of New York. Brother Soto worked in the steward department. His final voyage was aboard the Endeavor. JAMES WILLIAMS, 62, joined the NMU in 1978. He first sailed from the port of Philadelphia on the Coronado. Brother Williams worked in the steward department. and fuel oil for delivery to the East Coast. About half of the 30-man unlicensed crew was on shore leave when the explosion ripped the ship. In addition to the 12 SIU men, the skipper, chief mate, second mate, radio operator and bosun were missing and presumed lost. This Month In SIU History Twelve SIU men were lost after an explosion and fire aboard the Salem Maritime, a Cities Service tanker, at Lake Charles, La. The explosion took place while the tanker was completing loading of 130,000 barrels of high-octane gasoline, kerosene the steward department, primarily aboard Delta Queen Steamship Co. vessels. Sister Harbor continues to reside in Louisiana. 1967 Seafarers at regular monthly meetings in all constitutional ports enthusiastically voted to endorse and support the newly formed Maritime Defense League. In approving the purposes of the new organization, the membership called for maximum publicity in support of the league by all Seafarers. The new organization is a voluntary body set up to assure that maritime workers, faced with legal problems or charges threatening their personal liberties, are assured their fundamental American rights to counsel and other assistance. Robert A. Matthews, SIU vice president in charge of contracts and contract enforcement, has been selected chairman of the Maritime Defense League, and offices have been established on One Hanson Place in Brooklyn, N.Y. Seafarers LOG 17 �24133_PG1_3,12,13,19,18cx.qxd 8/26/2004 8:06 PM Page 18 Final Departures Deep Sea PAUL LABORDE Pensioner Albert Ayler, 84, died May 15. Brother Ayler began his career with the SIU in 1943 in the port of New York. The Alabama-born mariner first sailed aboard the Alcoa Patriot. He shipped in the steward department and last worked on the Cove Navigator. Brother Ayler called Whistler, Ala. home. He started receiving his pension in 1984. Pensioner Paul Laborde, 69, died May 26. Brother Laborde began sailing with the SIU in 1951 in New Orleans, after serving in the U.S. Army. He was born in Louisiana and worked in the deck department. Brother Laborde first went to sea aboard the Duchess. He last shipped on the Las Vegas Victory. Brother Laborde resided in his native state and began receiving his pension in 1994. SANTIAGO CADIZ WAYMON LEE Brother Santiago Cadiz, 66, passed away June 6. He joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of New York. Brother Cadiz first sailed on the Wild Ranger in the steward department. His last voyage was aboard the Sea-Land Quality. Brother Cadiz was born in Puerto Rico and lived in Brooklyn N.Y. Pensioner Waymon Lee, 75, passed away June 24. Brother Lee began sailing with the SIU in 1947 in the port of New York. Born in Georgia, he worked in the deck department, last sailing on the OMI Ranger. Brother Lee made his home in Roseville, Calif. He went on pension in 1987. SIXTO CHARNECO WALTER LINDBERG Pensioner Sixto Charneco, 78, died June 10. Brother Charneco launched his seafaring career in 1951 in the port of New York. Born in Puerto Rico, he worked in the steward department, initially sailing aboard the Rebel. Prior to retiring in 1982, Brother Charneco worked on the Aguadilla. He resided in his native commonwealth. Pensioner Walter Linberg, 72, died April 15. Brother Lindberg joined the SIU in 1966 in the port of Philadelphia, after serving in the U.S. Army. Born in Minnesota, he initially worked aboard the Santa Emilia. Before retiring in 1997, the engine department member worked on the Santa Magdalena. Brother Lindberg resided in Clearlake, Calif. ALBERT AYLER RAMON DELAPAZ Pensioner Ramon DeLaPaz, 74, passed away July 7. Brother DeLaPaz joined the SIU in 1957 in the port of Philadelphia. Born in Puerto Rico, the steward department member first sailed on the Steel Apprentice. Brother DeLaPaz began receiving his pension in 1996. He made his home in New York. CANEY GRANGER Pensioner Caney Granger, 81, died April 24. Born in Louisiana, Brother Granger began his seafaring career in 1953, first sailing aboard the Ft. Hoskins. Brother Granger worked in the deck department. His last voyage was on the Sea-Land Consumer. Brother Granger called Oberlin, La. home. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1990. ERNEST KAM Pensioner Ernest Kam, 92, passed away May 16. Brother Kam joined the SIU in 1955 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. He worked primarily aboard Delta Steamship Lines vessels as a member of the steward department. Brother Kam was born in Hawaii and lived in Walnut Creek, Calif. He started receiving retirement stipends in 1986. 18 Seafarers LOG PHILIP LIVINGSTON Pensioner Philip Livingston, 78, passed away June 23. Brother Livingston began his career with the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He first went to sea aboard the Margarett Brown. Brother Livingston was born in Massachusetts and worked in the steward department. His last voyage was on the Manulani. Brother Livingston made his home in Palmdale, Calif. and started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1990. MARCO MORA Pensioner Marco Mora, 82, died April 21. Brother Mora was born in Costa Rica. He joined the union in 1959 in New Orleans. Brother Mora originally sailed on an Alcoa Steamship Co. vessel in the deck department. Prior to retiring in 1987, he sailed with Michigan Tankers. Brother Mora called Costa Rica home. EVA MYERS Sister Eva Myers, 45, passed away June 3. She embarked on her seafaring career in 1982 in Piney Point, Md. A member of the steward department, She initially went to sea aboard the Sea-Land Producer. Sister Myers was born in Annapolis, Md. and made her home in Stevensville, Md. She last sailed on the Integrity. career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MC&S) in 1962 in San Francisco. The U.S. Army veteran initially worked on the Santa Mercedes. Brother Porales was a member of the steward department. He last worked aboard the President McKinley. Brother Porales began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1981. He was born in Honolulu and resided in Kent, Wash. JACK RHODES Pensioner Jack Rhodes, 71, passed away April 14. Brother Rhodes launched his profession with the SIU in 1955 in the port of New York. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Brother Rhodes was born in Maryland and shipped in the deck department as a bosun. He last sailed on the LNG Virgo. Brother Rhodes began receiving retirement stipends in 1997. He called Glen Burnie, Md. home. FRANK SCHANDL Pensioner Frank Schandl, 76, died June 2. Brother Schandl joined the SIU in 1944 in the port of New York after serving in the U.S. Navy. Born in New York, his first voyage was aboard the Hastings. The deck department member last sailed aboard the Cape Washington. Brother Schandl went on pension in 1983 and called Walker, Texas home. GREGORIO TROCHE Pensioner Gregorio Troche, 80, passed away June 8. Brother Troche embarked on his seafaring career in 1942 in New Orleans. Born in Puerto Rico, the deck department member initially shipped on the Alcoa Pegasus. Brother Troche’s last voyage was on the Buyer. He began receiving his pension in 1987 and made his home in Mobile, Ala. EUSEBIO VELAZQUEZ Pensioner Eusebio Velazquez, 91, died May 28. Brother Velazquez became an SIU member in 1951 in New Orleans. The engine department member first went to sea on a Pan Shipping vessel. Prior to retiring in 1977, Brother Velazquez worked on a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. He was born in Puerto Rico and made his home in Metairie, La. INLAND HENRY ELBOURNE Pensioner Henry Elbourne, 76, died June 5. Born in Maryland, Boatman Elbourne joined the SIU in 1962 in the port of Baltimore. The deck department member worked mainly aboard Maritrans vessels. Boatman Elbourne began receiving retirement compensation in 1993 and lived in his native state. ANACLETO PORALES HARRY CONSTANTINE Pensioner Anacleto Porales, 81, died June 12. Brother Porales began his Pensioner Harry Constantine, 86, passed away July 18. Boatman Constantine began his career with the SIU in 1974 in the port of Philadelphia. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, he shipped in the steward department and worked primarily on Maritrans vessels. Boatman Constantine was born in Chester, Pa. and went on pension in 1988. He resided in Boothwyn, Pa. ORVILLE PRUITT Pensioner Orville Pruitt, 81, passed away June 8. Boatman Pruitt joined the SIU in 1966 in Baltimore. Born in Virginia, he was a veteran of both the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard. Boatman Pruitt initially worked on a Maritrans vessel. The deck department member shipped in both the inland and deep sea divisions. Before retiring in 1979, Boatman Pruitt sailed aboard a Michigan Tankers vessel. He called Accomack, Va. home. CHARLES RETHERFORD Pensioner Charles Retherford, 79, died May 22. Boatman Retherford was born in Newton, Texas. He joined the SIU in 1964 in Port Arthur, Texas. Boatman Retherford worked primarily aboard Higman Barge Lines vessels. He sailed in the deck department as a captain. Boatman Retherford started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1984. He made his home in Orange, Texas. LEE SCOPOLITES Pensioner Lee Scopolites, 93, passed away June 14. A veteran of the U.S. Army, Boatman Scopolites launched his career with the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of Mobile, Ala. The Alabama-born mariner originally worked on the Steel Survey. Boatman Scopolites shipped in both the steward and deck departments. He last worked aboard a Red Circle Transport vessel. Boatman Scopolites went on pension in 1985. He resided in Mobile. 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. ROBERT ALBRIGHT Pensioner Robert Albright, 86, passed away July 1. He joined the NMU in 1969 and first sailed aboard a Victory ship. Brother Albright was born in Mississippi and worked in the steward department. He last went to sea on the Keystoner and began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1980. BERT BARRETT Pensioner Bert Barrett, 75, died June 25. Born in Michigan, Brother Barrett first sailed from the port of Toledo, Ohio in 1962. His first ship was the Jay C. Morse. The engine department member’s final voyage was on the John Lykes. Brother Barrett went on pension in 1995. MITCHEL BLAND Pensioner Mitchel Bland, 77, died June 7. Brother Bland began his seafaring career with the NMU in 1966, initially shipping from the port of Seattle. Born in Mississippi, he worked in the deck department. Brother Bland’s last trip to sea was aboard the Chestnut Hill. He started receiving his pension in 1992. MANUEL DAVILA Pensioner Manuel Davila, 89, passed away June 4. Brother Davila started sailing with the NMU from San Francisco. The engine department member was born in Honduras. Brother Davila most recently worked aboard the Texaco Connecticut. He went on pension in 1995. CHARLES GRAY Pensioner Charles Gray, 81, died May 12. Brother Gray began his career with the NMU in 1945 in the port of Baltimore. Born in Virginia, he first sailed aboard the Cornelius Harnett. Brother Gray worked in the steward department and began receiving his pension in 1969. LEOTHA JENKINS Pensioner Leotha Jenkins, 76, passed away June 21. Brother Jenkins joined the NMU in 1946, initially sailing from Galveston, Texas. His first ship was the Bradford Island. Brother Jenkins worked in the engine department. Before retiring in 1968, he shipped aboard the Hess Voyager. ANDREW MONIZ Pensioner Andrew Moniz, 82, died July 9. Born in Hawaii, Brother Moniz joined the NMU in 1946 in the port of Honolulu. He first sailed aboard the T.P. Leathers in the engine department. Brother Moniz’s last trip to sea was on the Cape San Martin. He went on pension in 1968. GABINO PAGAN Pensioner Gabino Pagan, 87, passed away June 28. He joined the NMU in 1947 in the port of Philadelphia. Born in Hatillo, P.R., Brother Pagan worked in the engine department, last sailing aboard the Santa Clara. He started receiving his pension in 1968. LISTON PETERSON Pensioner Liston Peterson, 74, died Continued on page 20 September 2004 �24133_PG1_3,12,13,19,18cx.qxd 8/27/2004 4:53 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. AMERICAN TERN (Osprey Ship Management), June 28—Chairman Robert S. Vazquez, Secretary Christopher B. Amigable, Deck Delegate Erick F. Toledo Colon, Engine Delegate Edward H. Thompson. Chairman announced July 13 arrival in Charleston, S.C. Educational director urged crew members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communications received from headquarters read and posted on bulletin board. Suggestions made to improve dental plan and to check with contracts department regarding hazardous duty pay for sailing to Iraq. Next ports: Charleston; Norfolk, Va.; Greenland. GREEN LAKE (Central Gulf Lines), June 27—Chairman David C. Shawglass, Secretary Alan J. Wolansky, Deck Delegate Ralph A. Holzinger, Engine Delegate Vernal R. Marshall, Steward Delegate Roosevelt L. Allen. Chairman thanked crew for great trip. Treasurer stated $800 in ship’s fund with no decision yet as to how to spend it. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department given vote of thanks for good job. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Lines), June 20—Chairman Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director John A. Collins, Deck Delegate Juan I. Arzu, Engine Delegate James R. Oling, Steward Delegate Mohamed A. Ahmed. Chairman announced July 2 payoff in Charleston, S.C. as well as a crew change and additional payoff July 6 in Newark, N.J. He thanked all departments for excellent job on security. Crew members reminded to make sure relief crew has fresh linen and that rooms are clean. Educational director stressed importance of making sure all necessary shipping documents are current and to allow plenty of time for renewing them. Treasurer stated $1,491 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification read to crew from standard freightship agree- ment regarding tours of duty and sailing board postings. Request made to get refrigerators for rooms. Recommendation made regarding security training of ABs. DEFENDER (USSM), July 11— Chairman Robert S. Wilson, Secretary Raymond S. Garcia, Educational Director Daniel P. Gibbons, Deck Delegate Kermitt Q. Bengtson, Engine Delegate Romeo N. Rivera, Steward Delegate Arthur L. Edwards. Chairman thanked crew for safe trip and for keeping rooms clean. Secretary reported smooth sailing. Educational director informed crew members to notify U.S. Coast Guard if they lose STCW certificates and that, when filing for passports, to get the one with extra pages for unexpected visa entries. No beefs or disputed OT reported. EXPLORER (USSM), July 4— Chairman Robert Pagan Jr., Secretary William R. Burdette, Educational Director Jimmy M. Robles, Deck Delegate Milton A. Seril, Engine Delegate Samuel Garrett. Chairman reported smooth trip with no problems. He thanked Chief Cook James Boss for excellent food and announced payoff July 6 in Los Angeles. Educational director encouraged members to utilize resources of Piney Point as a vacation site. Treasurer stated $447 in joint ship’s fund. The engine department reported several beefs. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward department delegates. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into change of shipping rules. Next ports: Los Angeles and Oakland, Calif. INDEPENDENCE (USSM), July 11—Chairman Edward J. O’Conner Jr., Secretary Jonny Cruz, Educational Director Carlos M. Perez, Deck Delegate Joel H. Fahselt, Engine Delegate Daniel F. Avery, Steward Delegate Husain Salah. Chairman informed crew to expect new security procedures in port and reminded them to abide by new trash plan. Secretary requested everyone make sure all doors are secured in port. He also encouraged them to vote in this Cookin’ on the Overseas Philadelphia Members of the steward department aboard the Overseas Philadelphia are (from left) Chief Cook Teofilo Blanco, Steward/ Baker Ivan Salis and GSTU Saleh Saleh. September 2004 year’s national election to ensure that we have people in Congress who support maritime issues. Educational director advised members to take advantage of upgrading at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Ship to receive second washing machine and e-mail upon arrival in U.S. Vote of thanks given to steward department for wide selection of meals prepared and for great 4th of July barbecue. Next ports: Elizabeth, N.J.; Miami; Houston. INNOVATOR (USSM), July 25— Chairman Steve R. Kastel, Secretary Jose M. Bayani, Educational Director Chris L. Earnhart, Deck Delegate Eric Lund, Engine Delegate Bryan T. Field, Steward Delegate Mostafa Loumrhari. Chairman announced payoff July 31 in Los Angeles and thanked crew for job well done. Secretary thanked bosun and all departments for helping keep ship clean. Educational director read president’s report from LOG to inform everyone of new security classes offered at school in Piney Point. He also reminded crew members to keep all documents current. Treasurer stated $243 in movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Los Angeles. ITB BALTIMORE (USS Transport), July 8—Chairman Richard A. Szabo, Secretary Pedro R. Mena, Educational Director James L. Geoffrey, Deck Delegate Hussein Mohammed, Engine Delegate Ahmed S. Salim, Steward Delegate Elsayed T. Amasha. Chairman complimented crew membes on job well done. Treasurer informed crew that movie fund gets $200 each month for new purchases. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to Steward Amasha for his delicious daily baking. ITB JACKSONVILLE (USS Transport), July 4—Chairman John R. Lamprecht, Secretary Warren G. Lombard, Educational Director Stanley M. Sporna, Deck Delegate Abedon P. Lujan, Engine Delegate Abdulaziz S. Ahmed. Chairman announced vessel is end of contract and looks to headquarters for gains in negotiating new one. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report read; crew declared they were proud of all President Sacco’s achievements. Suggestions made regarding various items in new contract. Next port: Houston, Texas. LIBERATOR (USSM), July 7— Chairman Daniel J. Teichman, Secretary Guillermo F. Thomas, Educational Director Elwyn L. Ford, Deck Delegate William P. Foley, Engine Delegate Si I. Hughes. Chairman announced 35day trips in effect. Educational director encouraged crew to keep all documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made to purchase new lounge chairs for crew members’ rooms. LIBERTY EAGLE (Liberty Maritime), July 18—Chairman Thomas W. Lasater, Secretary Pablo C. Alvarez, Educational Director Jimmy Sabga. Chairman announced next payoff in Galveston, Texas. Secretary encouraged members to upgrade skills at Piney Point facility and also to use it for summer family vacations. Educational director put in request for new movies, magazines and exercise equipment. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for next contract to cover prescriptions for depen- dents. Chairman thanked crew for safe, smooth trip around African continent. LIBERTY SEA (Liberty Maritime), July 11—Chairman William D. Leachman, Secretary Fausto D. Aranda, Educational Director Lamar A. Parker, Deck Delegate Lloyd F. Stock, Engine Delegate Guadelupe A. Campbell, Steward Delegate William M. Simmons. Chairman advised crew members to read Seafarers LOG to keep informed of current union and maritime issues. Secretary thanked wipers and unlicensed apprentice for good work. Educational director recommended everyone suggestions. Recommendation made to replace sofas in crew lounge. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif.; Valdez, Alaska. PERSEVERANCE (Maritrans), July 28—Chairman James E. Bishop, Secretary Patricia J. Geras, Educational Director Kenneth W. Pinchin, Deck Delegate Casey B. Coddington, Engine Delegate Milton L. Israel, Steward Delegate Luis M. Caballero. Educational director advised crew members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew Meeting Held Aboard the USNS Shasta Chairman Billy Bushey sent the LOG this photo of a shipboard union meeting on the USNS Shasta. The Shasta, whose home port is on the West Coast, is one of the Military Sealift Command’s six ammunition ships. Bushey reported a good turnout for the meeting and even recruited four new members in the last month to join the CIVMAR crew. upgrade skills and ratings at Paul Hall Center whenever possible. He advised them to renew MMDs. No beefs or disputed OT reported. TRB memorandum was read to crew. Request made for new washing machine and heavy-duty beverage dispenser. Crew was reminded to recycle and not to smoke in lounge. Thanks given to steward department for excellent food and service. Next ports: Corpus Christi, Texas; Russia. OVERSEAS PHILADELPHIA (OSG), July 11—Chairman Lawrence H. Zepeda, Secretary Ivan R. Salis, Educational Director Murray W. Roberson, Deck Delegate Ismael Manley, Steward Delegate Teofilo G. Blanco. Educational director advised crew members to upgrade at Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to improve pension benefits and to have direct deposit available for vacation benefits. Next port: Los Angeles. OVERSEAS WASHINGTON (ATC), July 11—Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, Secretary Gregory G. Keene, Educational Director Kevin E. Hall, Deck Delegate John M. Kannuck, Engine Delegate Antonio N. Liboon, Steward Delegate Gary W. Lofton. Chairman stressed importance of contributing to SPAD to help union maintain strong voice on Capitol Hill. He also reminded departing crew members of room inspection form that needs to be signed off by steward or bosun. Educational director pointed out delay currently being experienced when renewing Coast Guard documents—so allow plenty of time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman reminded members that contract negotiations for 2006 agreement will be starting shortly and that now is a good time to start making reminded to check on new company policy. Next port: Los Angeles. SULPHUR ENTERPRISE (Sulphur Carriers), July 17— Chairman Neftali Santana, Secretary Darryl K. Goggins, Educational Director Alfred G. Lane, Deck Delegate Tibby L. Clotter, Steward Delegate Robert Sutherland Jr. Chairman advised crew members to upgrade skills at Piney Point. Secretary reminded crew to return dirty dishes to galley and asked those members departing ship to make sure rooms are cleaned and with fresh set of linen. Educational director said he thought satellite television was very helpful to crew in keeping them informed on current events. He also stated training videos were very informative. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made to raise pay scale and increase medical and pension benefits for members and spouses. Request made for additional washer in laundry room. Vote of thanks given to chief cook, steward and SA for jobs well done. Ship heading to Texas. WESTWARD VENTURE (IUM), July 4—Chairman Edwin Rivera, Secretary Stanley J. Krystosiak, Educational Director Randy T. Pearson, Deck Delegate Steven J. Kendrick, Engine Delegate William T. Drummond, Steward Delegate Adele George. Chairman stated all is well in deck department. Secretary reported good, safe trip and reminded crew members to clean rooms and remove dirty linen before disembarking. Educational director urged everyone to increase knowledge and upgrade skills by attending union’s affiliated school in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department for job well done and for Independence Day barbecue. Seafarers LOG 19 �24133_P4,5,8,10,11,15_18,20,22,23.qxd 8/26/2004 6:22 PM Page 20 Petersburg Prepositions Petroleum Products The Petersburg is a transport tanker, one of the Military Sealift Command’s prepositioning ships carrying petroleum products. It operates out of Guam, where these photos were taken by SIU Guam Port Agent Jeff Turkus. The pictures show some of the hard-working ABs, including (below, foreground) Bosun Jim Martin and (directly behind him) AB Jerome Wong. Union Label Week Is September 6-11 The AFL-CIO Union Label and Service Trades Department recently announced that Union Label Week is Sept. 6-11. During this period, and under the slogan: “Support Good Jobs—Buy Union!” union families will be underscoring the key role that good jobs play in sustaining the viability of our communities. Later this year, from Nov. 26 to Dec. 5, union families will observe Buy Union Week to encourage shoppers to specify their preference for the quality and value that union-made goods and services carry. During that busiest week of the pre-holiday season, consumers spend as much as 60 percent of their annual shopping budget. Just imagine the powerful impressions that 14 million union families could create on merchants. In promoting both Union Label Week and Buy Union Week, the Union Label and Service Trades Department observed, “There’s simply no denying it—union goods and services are everywhere. If you can eat it, drink it, wear it or ride it. . . .If you can sit on it, play on it, work in it, or stay in it. . . .If you can tell time with it, build with it, cook with it…If you use it for work, or just to have fun. . . .You can find one made by union workers. “But, did you also know that union members: Treat you when you are sick and help you stay well, Teach kids and help them stay safe, Make candy and cookies, medicine and machines, rubber tires, bikes and toys, Fight fires, fly airplanes, drive buses and trucks, Build houses and buildings, churches and schools, Make trains, airplanes and boats and the engines that move them, Final Departures Continued from page 18 July 11. Brother Peterson launched his career with the NMU in 1951 in the port of New York. Born in the Virgin Islands, Brother Peterson first went to sea aboard the Fort Charlotte. The engine department member’s last voyage was on the Cape Knox. Brother Peterson began receiving retirement stipends in 1998. RAUL RODRIGUEZ Pensioner Raul Rodriguez, 82, passed away June 9. Brother Rodriguez began his profession with the NMU in 1945 in Puerto Rico. He worked in 20 Seafarers LOG Build autos and trucks and the roads that they follow, Run railroads and subways, and ships big and small, Make glasses to wear as well as the kind you drink from, Keep you warm in the winter and cool in the simmer, Connect you to family by phone or mail, Make music and movies and film television news, Write newspapers and print them, take pictures and tint them, and Harvest your food and staff stores where it is sold. “Union members do thousands of things to make life more secure. So look for the union label and buy and promote union-made, American–made products and services.” As the department pointed out, the union label shows that labor and management have signed a binding contract, with each side guaranteeing their best—their best work, their best compensation, their best benefits. It’s a win-win arrangement for everyone—labor, management, consumers and the community, where the economy benefits from the paychecks and taxes of workers who earn a fair wage. Unfortunately, it is not always easy to find a union-made or American-made product. Sometimes, it requires a little extra effort on our part, but that effort is well worthwhile. So look for the union label. If you can’t find a union-made product, at least buy American. The job and community you save may be your own. the steward department, most recently aboard the Santa Luisa. Brother Rodriguez went on pension in 1973. WARREN WILCOX Pensioner Warren Wilcox, 82, died July 14. Brother Wilcox embarked on his career with the NMU in 1944 in the port of Baltimore. He was a member of the steward department. Before retiring in 1974, Brother Wilcox worked on the Silver Dove. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following NMU brothers and sisters, all of whom were pensioners, passed away on the dates indicated. Name Age DOD Anchustegui, Miguel Ayers, Harvey Basler, R.J. Blanco, Carmelo Bjelland, Otto Crisanto, Loreto 62 84 78 79 75 88 7/11 6/28 6/1 7/7 6/25 7/3 Czapla, Stefan Donahue, Floyd Durrett, Lester Ebanks, Raymond Garcia, Rene Habersham, Charlie Hayney, Wellington Huertas, Pablo Jackson, Curtis Kalasanckas, Joseph Kandyloitis, Demetrios Kitchen, Garvin McIsaac, Joseph Morrow, William Murphy, Jr., David Musil, Arvin Nordstrom, Gerald Nutter, Edwin Prokopowicz, Kasmitz Redding, Kenneth Rodriguez, Gabriel Rodriguez, Victor Tynning, Sverre Uribe, Honorato Walters, Mahlon Wilson, Robert 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. 78 82 81 80 78 93 85 82 76 78 6/21 6/1 7/15 7/1 7/15 5/7 5/23 5/19 4/28 5/28 84 79 80 78 86 76 61 81 3/17 6/5 6/20 4/22 7/15 4/24 4/28 7/9 75 78 80 85 88 70 4/12 7/2 7/1 5/24 7/15 6/30 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. 91 67 5/21 3/10 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. September 2004 �24133_Pg6,7,9,14,21,24.qxd 8/26/2004 8:26 PM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Engine Upgrading Courses The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through the end of 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 Start Date Date of Completion Basic Auxiliary Plant Operation September 20 November 15 October 15 December 10 FOWT October 25 December 17 QMED - Junior Engineer September 27 December 17 Welding October 4 November 1 October 22 November 19 Course Safety Specialty Courses Start Date of Course Date Completion September 20 November 8 October 1 November 19 Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* Able Seaman September 27 November 8 October 22 December 3 Government Vessels September 13 October 1 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) September 13 November 15 September 17 November 19 Tankerman (PIC) Barge* October 4 October 8 Celestial Navigation September 27 October 22 GMDSS (Simulator) September 27 November 1 October 8 November 12 Lifeboatman/Water Survival September 13 October 25 September 24 November 5 Navigation Fundamentals November 29 December 10 Radar November 1 November 12 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) October 4 November 29 October 15 December 10 Course (*must have basic fire fighting) (*must have basic fire fighting) *(must have radar unlimited) 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. 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 August 23, 2004. Recertification Bosun October 11 November 8 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Date of Birth ______________________ . . . at the Paul Hall Center With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB and JE applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ U.S. Citizen: ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Deep Sea Member Lakes Member Inland Waters Member If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Yes No Home Port _____________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? Yes No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? Yes No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? Yes No Firefighting: Yes No CPR: Yes No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ September 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. 9/04 Seafarers LOG 21 �24133_P4,5,8,10,11,15_18,20,22,23.qxd 8/26/2004 6:23 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 652 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 652 (in alphabetical order) Craig Artice, Timothy Bauer, Tedrick Blackstone, Robin Bourgeois, Paul Brown, Norman Dize, Christopher Eide, Aaron Ford, Brian Freme, William Hunt, Sean Moore, Ahmed Mused, Jonathan Nielson, Steven Owens, Omar Richard, Jamey Russell, Brian Saba, Earl Scott, Douglas Shores, Abraham Straughter, Timothy Taylor, Joshua Wilson, Christopher Wyman. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Fast Rescue Boat — July 16 was graduation day for those in the fast boat rescue course. They are (in alphabetical order) Felix Alfonso, Paul Hendrix, James McCroskey, William McLaughlin, John Neal, Michael O’Brien, James Olsen, Jeff Ryoza and Brian Stowe. Their instructor, Tony Sevilla, is at far right. Fast Rescue Boat — Upgraders who completed the fast boat rescue course July 30 are (in alphabetical order) John Brantly, Douglas Crawford, Jay Crossman, Kim Duplantis Jr. and Charles Gale. Their instructor, Tony Sevilla, is at far right. Lifeboatman/Water Survival — Earning their lifeboatman/water survival endorsements July 2 are (in no specific order) Ruben Gonzalez, Korron Richardson, Dionisio Bermudez, Robert White, Brian Delatte, Randolph Sutton, Arthur Quinney, Jimmy Pruitt Jr., Simien James, Jennifer Doty, Natalie Nunes, Allen Cole, Joe Reynolds and William Britton. Their instructor, Tony Sevilla, stands in the center with arms folded. Able Seaman — Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending July 30 are (in alphabetical order) Mohamed Abdelwahab, Dionisio Bermudez, William Britton, Allen Cole, Brian Delatte, Ruben Gonzalez, Todd Keith, Arthur Quinney, Joseph Reynolds, Korron Richardson, Stag Rye, Angelo Schiraldi, Nicholas Smithling, Greg Tojong and Robert White. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. Any student who has registered for a class and finds—for whatever reason—that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions Advanced Fire Fighting — Under the instruction of instructor Tom Cessna (far right) are July 30 graduates of the advanced fire fighting course. They are (in alphabetical order) John Cronan, William McLaughlin, Niko Monsales, James Reece, Lino Remorin, Raymond Ryan, Anthony Sanchez, Marc Simpson, Jerry Sobieraj and Olie Webber. (Note: Not all are pictured.) department so that another student may take that place. Tankerman (PIC) Barge — Graduating July 30 from the tankerman (PIC) barge course are (in no specific order) Louis Barra, Bruce Heath, Steven Medina, Richard Parks, Albert Bharrat, Wilson Yanson, James Hoffman, Brent Anderson, James Olsen Jr, Lamar Nelms, Peter Jenks, J. Rocco Macari, Cole Mather, Brian Bascom and Duane Evans. Their instructor, Herb Walling, is fifth from right. Computer Lab Classes Left: Showing off his certificates of achievement for completion of several computer classes at the Paul Hall Center is Rigoberto Ruiz. With him is his instructor, Rick Prucha. In the center photo are (from left) Prucha, Alberto Castillo, Beata Rigoberto and Leonard Soriano. At right are (seated, from left) Simien James, Forrest McGee, (back row) Charles Garrett, Ivan Vallejo and Prucha. 22 Seafarers LOG September 2004 �24133_P4,5,8,10,11,15_18,20,22,23.qxd 8/26/2004 6:30 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes GMDSS — Completing their GMDSS training July 23 are (in no particular order) Loren Wolfe, Basil D’Souza, Duane Evans, Charles Gale, Kiah Pinto, Jermaine Williams, Brent Anderson, Louis Barra, Thomas Stead and Raymond Henderson. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is second from left. Navigation Fundamentals — Upgrading deck department members who successfully completed the navigation fundamentals course July 30 are (in no specific order) DeGutenberg Poitevien, Basil D’Souza, Lawrence Richardson and Karl Mayhew. Their instructor, Stacey Harris, is at far right. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — Hawaii: Marmionett Bright, Brock Maples, Chris Burkhart, Troy Ridgeway, Frank Akhay, Nicole Jones, Nicholas Hajek, Lane Martell, Michael Stinson, Katie Martin, Ryan Hughes, Michael Sentigar, Jason Frost, Karen Thomasson and Eduardo Marquez. STCW — July 23: Roy Brooks, Raphael D’Ambrosio, Edward Gavagan, Donald George, Robyn Hughey, Brent Morris, Frank Ortiz, Richard Williams and Vasile Daogaru. Instructor Tony Sevilla is at far right. Vessel Safety Officer — Graduating from this course July 27 are Express Marine boatmen (in no specific order) Riley Johnson Jr., Thomas Crockett, Michael Daniels, Mark Faust, Steven Jones, Miles Ireland Sr., Edward Garner, Garnett Leary, William Carter and Douglas Covil. Their instructor was Herb Walling, far right. Vessel Safety Officer — Boatmen from Express Marine who completed the vessel safety officer course July 13 are (in no specific order) Dennis Gaskill Jr., James Dixon, Bradley Thomas Jr., Richard Rotella, James Kruger, Nicholas Grassia, Donald Ivins, Keith Kirkeide, Gil Pruitt, Oswald Smithwick, Foster Watts, Parran Keane, Ernest Parks, William Hudnell and Robert Batson. Their instructor was Herb Walling (third from right). Tanker Familiarization Assistant Cargo (DL) — Unlicensed trainees completing this course July 16 are (in no specific order) Connie Clemons, Russ Wall, Keesha Smith, Mario Torrey, Lon Maduro, Alex Rhodes, Ben Anderson, Gilberto Quiñones, Nelton Rodriguez, Jon Carrico, Djuan Wright, Matthew Wright, Christopher Wheeler, Travis Zeller and Yamil Sanchez. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is at far left. September 2004 Tanker FamiliarizationAssistant Cargo (DL) — A second tanker assistant class graduated July 16, this one under the instruction of Herb Walling (far left). The students are (in no specific order) Shawn Sayers, Gregory Ralston, Chris Oding, Brian Leach, Jonathan Miller, David Gibson, Drew Hardiman, Cody Stasch, Forrest Cornelison, Jose Nuñez, Orlando Caro, Aaron Barnes, Chris Burke, Dameon Cooler, Terry Chance, Christopher Chever, De’Shanna Sherrod and Brandon Jones. Seafarers LOG 23 �24133_Pg6,7,9,14,21,24.qxd 8/26/2004 8:56 PM Page 24 Volume 66, Number 9 September 2004 2=E D ... ... ... I n this era of speedy travel, high tech communications and fast food meals, Delta Queen Steamboat Co.’s three SIU-crewed paddlewheelers hearken back to a more gracious and leisurely time in American history. “The steamboats were finer than anything on shore,” stated Mark Twain in his book “Life on the Mississippi.” “Compared with superior dwelling houses and first-class hotels in the valley, they were indubitably magnificent, and were ‘palaces.’” Much has changed since 1883 when Twain wrote those words, but steamboating along America’s rivers—including the Mighty Mississippi—has remained pretty much the same as in his day. From about 1850 to1880, riverboats brought young families to their new homes in the Heartland and transported traders to prosperity. More than 10,000 paddlewheel steamers once traveled America’s waterways. Now, the only ones remaining that have overnight accommodations are the Delta Queen, Mississippi Queen and American Queen, and the SIU members who crew them in the engine, deck and steward departments help make the experience a memorable one for those passengers who want to savor the riverboat life of old. The Delta Queen Steamboat Company (a Delaware North Company), based in New Orleans, La., offers 3- to 11-night river cruises aboard the three vessels, which all feature plush, Victorianstyle staterooms and suites, as well as working paddlewheels powered by steam. On this page are photos of the three riverboats as well as some of the SIU galley gang who help make shipboard dining a true delight. Anthony Dezara Busser Fabian Brooks Second Cook Left: The three SIU-crewed Delta Queen Steamboat Co. paddlewheelers cruise on the Mississippi, Ohio, Cumberland, Tennessee, Atchafalaya Kanawha and Arkansas rivers; on the TennesseeTombigbee Waterway and the Intracoastal Waterway in Louisiana, Texas, Alabama and Mississippi. At left, the three Queens are a spectacular sight as they steam by the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. The American Queen is the world’s largest steamboat, rising six decks high, 418 feet long and the ability to accommodate 436 passengers. Described as a “floating palace,” the American Queen is filled with fine antiques and beautiful Victorian furnishings. With more than 75 years on the rivers, the Delta Queen is a National Historic Landmark, a veteran of World War II, the only steamboat to transit the Panama Canal and the only one to host three presidents and a princess. The paddlewheeler was inducted into the National Maritime Hall of Fame in 2004. Ronald Peterson, Second Cook The Mississippi Queen visits river towns, bustling cities, antebellum plantations, Civil War battlefields, gardens, and the boyhood home of Mark Twain, among other sites. The Mississippi Queen was launched for America’s Bicentennial in 1976. Bruce Brice Busser � 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 September 2004 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SENATORS, CONGRESSMEN, TASK FORCE URGE PROTECTION OF CABOTAGE LAWS 9/11 REPORT IDENTIFIES NEED TO INVEST IN MARITIME SIU GAINS MORE NEW JOBS SBX IS LATEST PLATFORM FOR SEAFARERS AS FOURTH ARM OF DEFENSE ITF SECURES BACK WAGES FOR FLINTERNOORD MARINERS COMMITTEE REVIEWS NOMINATION PRETITIONS FOR UNION ELECTION APOSTLESHIP OF THE SEA SENDS PRAYERS AND SUPPORT TO U.S. MERCHANT MARINERS SIU PRESIDENT UNDERSCORES UNITY IN MARITIME LABOR TIGHTER SECURITY SHOULDN’T MEAN WEAKENING MARINERS’ RIGHTS HEINDEL: ‘HUMAN ELEMENT MUST NOT BE OVERLOOKED’ COAST GUARD’S AUTHORITY, RESPONSIBILITIES GROW AMERICAN JOBS CREATION ACT INCLUDES MARITIME PROVISIONS CREDENTIALS APPROVED FOR CANDIDATES TO 27 UNION OFFICES SEATU CONVENTION FOCUSES ON PRIDE AND PARTNERSHIP BASIC AUXILIARY PLANT OPS COURSE IS REQUIRED TO STEP TOWARD FOWT HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN WEIGHS NETWORK OPTIONS MARITIME SECURITY SIU, PAUL HALL CENTER STEP UP TO PROMOTE SHIPBOARD, PORT SAFETY CANADIAN WAL-MART GOES UNION DELTA QUEEN CO. CRUISES INTO HISTORY 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 09/01/2004 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. 9 2004 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/70d2005be9935217080dcbb51cbde267.pdf 96064effe025581c0f134df30846375a PDF Text Text 29230_P01,2,6.qxd 8/26/2005 9:44 AM Page 1 Volume 67, Number 9 September 2005 MarAd Contracts Awarded SIU Members Will Sail Aboard Ready Reserve Force Ships The U.S. Maritime Administration recently announced the award of operating contracts for the U.S. Ready Reserve Force (RRF)—a development that helps ensure the job security of Seafarers for years to come. Seafarers-contracted companies will operate all 54 ships in the RRF fleet, including the Cape Vincent, pictured above at anchor in the harbor off Souda Bay, Crete, Greece. The decks of the ship are loaded with heavy military equipment to supply troops mobilizing in support of the continuing war on terrorism. Page 3. Maritime Progress Spotlighted by MTD CIVMARS Save Lives in Separate Incidents Members of the union’s Government Services Division recently participated in separate rescues at sea. Above, a rescue boat from the Seafarerscrewed Military Sealift Command combat stores ship USNS San Jose retrieves a Pakistani fisherman stranded off the coast of the United Arab Emirates. Seafarers from the Oscar Sette later were involved in a rescue in Hawaii. Pages 4, 5. Convention also Highlights Need for Labor Solidarity Guest speakers at the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO 2005 quadrennial convention July 21-22 in Chicago offered passionate words of support for U.S. maritime labor and also stressed the importance of solidarity throughout the union movement. Pictured at right (from left) are MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco, AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Rich Trumka and MTD Secretary-Treasurer Frank Pecquex. Some of the delegates and guests are pictured above. Pages 3, 11-14. Federation Vows To Persevere Page 2 Ships Activated Due to Hurricanes Page 4 Recertified Stewards Share Many Insights Page 7 2 �29230_P01,2,6.qxd 8/26/2005 9:46 AM Page 2 Sweeney: Federation Will Persevere President’s Report United We Stand John Sweeney said it best. When it comes to division within the labor movement, only our enemies are rejoicing. Sweeney, the president of the AFL-CIO, made that comment just before three major unions left the federation in late July. The departures of the Service Employees, Teamsters and United Food and Commercial Workers coincided with the AFL-CIO convention in Chicago. In the wake of their leaving, media types Michael Sacco across the country—many of whom don’t understand or could care less what unions do—offered lots of talk about what it all means for the AFL-CIO, for rank-and-file union members and for working families in general. Some said there may be a silver lining, in that the division could spur changes in the approach to organizing campaigns that lead to growth in union membership. Others said it might signal the beginning of the end of the union movement in the United States. Still others took a more cautious view, acknowledging that no one knows for sure what it’ll mean in the long run. For the time being, I think it’s clearly a step in the wrong direction. Solidarity is such a fundamental concept in the labor movement, I’m skeptical that anyone honestly views disaffiliations as a positive step for any union or for any worker. But I’m equally confident that this won’t be a fatal blow to our movement. Unions have come and gone throughout America’s history. The American Federation of Labor can trace its roots to the 1880s. In fact, as many of you know, the American Federation of Labor and the Congress of Industrial Organizations weren’t even in the same federation for about 20 years, from the mid1930s until 1955. The CIO started out as a splinter group from the AFL. Eventually, the officials and members of that day relearned the old lessons of solidarity, and the AFL-CIO was formed. I don’t know how long it will take this time, but there’s no reason why we cannot reunite somewhere along the line. After all, the working people in the grocery stores, or moving cargo on trucks, or cleaning the floors are still union members—like us, fighting for better conditions for all. In the SIU, we know all about the benefits of unity and the drawbacks of standing apart. We learned a hard lesson for 40some years fighting the old NMU. Employers enjoyed pitting us against each other. All of that changed when the NMU merged into the SIU four years ago. I don’t know anyone who could say with a straight face that we’re not stronger today than we were before merger. It’s really very simple: In unity, there is strength. I remain on record as fully supporting John Sweeney along with AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Rich Trumka and AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Linda Chavez-Thompson. I believe they have done outstanding jobs under extremely challenging circumstances. They are friends to our union and, more importantly, they are hard-working, effective people of integrity. Along those lines, I deeply feel that our union is stronger as an affiliate of the AFL-CIO. The AFL-CIO is the greatest friend of America’s working families. I’m proud that the SIU is part of such an organization. In fact, among all the words written and said about organized labor during the AFL-CIO convention, I was pleased to see a decent amount of acknowledgment of just how much unions have done for American workers. Like the ad says, the labor movement brought workers the weekend. We’re also the folks who brought pensions, overtime, vacations, health insurance, safe work rules and many, many other benefits to the people who form the backbone of the United States: the rank-and-file workers. The things that have always been good and important about unions remain good and important today. We absolutely have an ongoing vital role to play in today’s society, and we will continue to meet that obligation, no matter what obstacles lay ahead. Regardless of the actions of any other union, we in the SIU will survive and move forward. Volume 67, Number 9 September 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 AFL-CIO President John Sweeney—despite the July defections of three major unions and resulting loss of more than 3 million members—has vowed to hold the federation together and continue to guide its crusade for the future of America’s working families. The ditching of the federation by the International Brotherhood of the Teamsters, Service Employees International Union and United Food and Commercial Workers coincided with the labor organization’s convention in Chicago July 25-28. During that conference, which marked the 50th anniversary of the federation’s formation, Sweeney and members of his team (Secretary-Treasurer Richard Trumka and Executive Vice President Linda Chavez-Thompson) were reelected as the AFL-CIO’s top leaders. They initially were elected to their respective offices in 1995. Sweeney learned that the defectors formally had quit the federation just prior to the delivery of his keynote address to the convention delegates. He pulled few punches on how he viewed the actions of the rebel unions. He also left little doubt about how he viewed the federation’s future. In part, the AFLCIO president said, “One of my greatest responsibilities as your president is to be honest with you when things go wrong, and this morning is one of those times. Despite the best efforts of a lot of good people, several of our largest unions have decided not to join us at this historic convention—this crucial convention. I am deeply disappointed my own union is among them. “One of the film clips you saw in the preamble presentation was from the 1936 strike that launched my union—SEIU Local 32BJ in New York City. Those men and women literally had to kick their way into the AFL—the federation didn’t want them because they were only lowly janitors and elevator operators. They got a charter, but the AFL revoked it after their first organizing campaign failed. But with the help of the typographers and the garment workers and dozens of other unions, they won a huge strike for recognition. Within 10 years they had 40,000 members and they became the flagship of SEIU—a sturdy financial and spiritual base for the leaders who followed. “After that history of struggle to get into the AFL, pulling out of our convention dishonors the founders and the members of my union.” Sweeney described the fractures as “a tragedy for working people. Because at a time when our corporate and conservative adversaries have created the most powerful anti-worker political machine in the history of our country, a divided movement hurts the hopes of working families for a better life. “And that makes me very angry. The labor movement belongs to all of us—every worker—and our future should not be dictated by the demands of any group or the ambitions of any individual. “But it is also my responsibility to hold our movement together, because our power is vested in our solidarity. So I want you to know I will overcome my own anger and disappointment and do everything in my power to bring us back where we belong—and that’s together…” Two weeks after the convention, during an appearance before the delegates and guests of the 67th Convention of the AFL-CIO Building and Construction Trades Department in Boston, Sweeney stated, “We don’t have time to wring our hands in anguish over the internal difficulties we’re facing because the external challenges we’re confronting grow more urgent every day. So when it comes to the unions that have disaffiliated, let me paraphrase an old labor challenge. Let’s pause and say a prayer for the dead, but let’s get back up and put on the armor of solidarity and keep fighting like hell for the living.” Sweeney and members of his team developed a plan to improve the ability of the union movement at all levels to organize and mobilize its members for political action. The team’s plan, adopted by AFLCIO convention delegates, calls for major structural changes in the federation to better enable the union movement to fight back against 30 years of corporate assault, abetted by lawmakers who frequently do the bidding of big business and compounded by massive global economic changes. It also provides extensive new resources for organizing and creates a yearround political mobilization. Delegates approved raising the per capita tax for each national and international union and organizing committee to 65 cents per member per month, up from 53 cents. They supported convention action on Resolution 61, which establishes a special fund to provide emergency support to state and central labor bodies, to combat raids by disaffiliating unions and to assist trade and industrial departments. Report: 77 Million Americans Struggle with Medical Bills The high cost of health care and inadequate health insurance coverage are undermining the financial security of millions of Americans, says a new study by The Commonwealth Fund. According to a report from that organization, nearly two of five adults ages 19 and older in the U.S.—an estimated 77 million people—struggle with medical bills and have recent or accrued medical debt, or both. Sixty-three percent of those reporting medical bill problems or medical debt went without needed care due to cost, compared with 19 percent of adults without medical bills or debt. The study further revealed that even those who have health insurance are not immune: three of five (62 percent) working-age adults were insured at the time their medical bill or debt problem occurred. The study, Seeing Red: Americans Driven into Debt by Medical Bills, by Commonwealth Fund staff members Michelle M. Doty, Jennifer N. Edwards, and Alyssa L. Holmgren, is a new analysis of data from the organization’s Biennial Health Insurance Survey. It sheds light on the health care experiences of both insured and uninsured adults. “We are beginning to see in the United States that, for some, it’s becoming harder and harder to distinguish the insured from the uninsured,” Doty said last month during an interview. She added that the trend toward highdeductible health plans may mean more people who have insurance will face increased medical debts. Companies throughout the country over the past two years have been using plans that require employees to pay higher deductibles and more out-of pocket costs to help combat rising health premiums. These costs may surge by 11 percent next year, a survey by PriceWaterhouseCoopers said. Doty added that the year “2003 was just the beginning of the trend of high-deductible plans. We suspect it will be worse in our next survey.” Insured adults with less comprehensive coverage are more likely to face medical bill or debt problems than those with more comprehensive coverage, according to the report. Nearly half (48 percent) of insured working-age adults whose insurance does not include prescription drug coverage reported medical bill or debt problems, compared to one-third with prescription drug coverage. Nearly two-thirds of working-age adults who reached the limit of what their insurance plan would pay for a specific treatment or ill- ness experienced medical bill problems, medical debt, or both, compared to 30 percent of those who did not reach their insurance limit. “The trend toward higher deductibles in employer plans may have gone too far,” said Commonwealth Fund President Karen Davis. “Greater care should be taken to ensure that health care is affordable for lower-wage workers if all Americans are to get the care they need and preserve savings they will need in retirement.” “We should be concerned not only about growing numbers of uninsured Americans, but the underinsured—those who are insured but still lack financial and health security,” said Doty, senior analyst at the Fund and lead author of the report. “Facing unmanageable medical bills and debt, and forgoing medical care because of cost defeats the purpose of health care coverage.” Other findings of the study include: Americans over 65 are better protected against medical bill problems than working-age adults. A wide majority—71 out of the 77 million reporting medical bill problems or debt problems—are ages 19 to 64. Two of five (41 percent) adults ages 19 to 64 report medical bill and/or debt problems, compared Continued on page 6 September 2005 �29230_P3,4,5,15,16.qxd 8/25/2005 9:31 AM Page 3 SIU to Sail Aboard 54 RRF Ships In an announcement that helps ensure job security for SIU members for years to come, the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) in late July announced the award of operating contracts for the U.S. Ready Reserve Force (RRF). Seafarers-contracted companies will operate all 54 ships in the RRF fleet. On 43 of those vessels, SIU members (including members of the old NMU) will fill all of the unlicensed positions. On the other 11 ships, SIU members exclusively will sail in the steward department. “The MarAd announcement says a lot about the reliability of both SIU members along with the union’s contracted operators,” stated SIU President Michael Sacco. “The new contracts are a great opportunity for Seafarers, and I know that the RRF crews will continue doing an excellent job as part of our nation’s fourth arm of defense.” MarAd announced that most of the new ship management contracts “are built on a four-year base period and include two three-year extension options that will be based on the company’s performance.” The contract awards for the military support ships are as follows: Crowley Liner Services, Inc. (11 ships)—Cape Washington, Cape Wrath, Wright, Cape Taylor, Cape Texas, Cape Trinity, Cape Intrepid, Cape Island, Cape Inscription, Cape Isabel, Curtiss Pacific Gulf Marine (10 ships)—Diamond State, Cape Henry, Cape Horn, Cape Hudson, Keystone State, Gem State, Grand Canyon State, Alatna, Chattahoochee, Nodaway Patriot Contract Services, LLC (8 ships)—Admiral William M. Callahan, Cape Orlando, Cape Gibson, Cape Girardeau, Cape Fear, Cape Florida, Cape Flattery, Cape Farewell Keystone Shipping Services, Inc. (7 ships)—Cape Race, Cape Rise, Cape Ray, Cape Victory, Cape Vincent, Cape Kennedy, Cape Knox Marine Transport Lines (6 ships—Cape Edmont, Cape Ducato, Cape Decision, Cape Douglas, Cape Diamond, Cape Domingo Interocean American Shipping Corp. (5 ships)— Gopher State, Flickertail State, Cornhusker State, Petersburg, Chesapeake Matson Navigation Company (3 ships)—Comet, Meteor, Cape Jacob Ocean Duchess, Inc. (2 ships)—Cape May, Cape Mohican Horizon Lines, Inc. (2 ships)—Cape Lambert, Cape Lobos Seafarers will sail in the steward department aboard the Matson and Patriot ships. MarAd estimated the total value of the contracts at $1.9 billion over 10 years. “We have seen firsthand that the Ready Reserve Force provides a vital link to the men and women of the armed services by carrying thousands of military vehicles, aircraft and other materiel to support operations in Afghanistan and Iraq,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta said. “This is an extremely cost-effective and well-run program that keeps us prepared to rapidly respond to the military’s needs.” As of late July, there had been 91 RRF ship activations since December 2002. According to MarAd, those vessels have carried nearly 15 million square feet of cargo, or roughly the equivalent of 310 football fields of material. “The Ready Reserve Force has moved an extraordinary amount of cargo over the past several years and our nation’s maritime industry has kept this fleet in good working order and worked diligently to show its value,” Acting Maritime Administrator John Jamian said. The agency further noted that U.S. Maritime Industry’s Progress Highlighted at MTD Convention Speakers also Emphasize Need for Labor Solidarity Guest speakers at the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO 2005 quadrennial convention offered strong words of support for U.S. maritime labor and also emphasized the crucial need for solidarity throughout the union movement. In order of appearance, the following individuals addressed the convention, which took place in Chicago July 21-22: John Sweeney, president, AFL-CIO; Margaret Blackshere, president, Illinois AFL-CIO; Richard Trumka, secretary-treasurer, AFL-CIO; Colin Veitch, president and CEO, Norwegian Cruise Line; Captain Michael Seifert, chief of staff, U.S. Military Sealift Command; Governor Rod Blagojevich (DIll.); Linda Chavez-Thompson, executive vice president, AFLCIO; Dave Meehan, president and CEO, Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard; and Chris Koch, president and CEO, World Shipping Council. Convention delegates re-elected MTD President Michael Sacco to a four-year term. They also reelected MTD Vice President Ernie Whelan and MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Frank Pecquex. The MTD is composed of 24 international unions and 24 port maritime councils in the United States and Canada representing millions of working men and women. In his opening remarks, Sacco noted the U.S. maritime indus- September 2005 MTD President Michael Sacco (left) welcomes Chris Koch, head of the World Shipping Council, to the department’s convention July 22 in Chicago. try’s considerable progress since the prior convention four years earlier. That sentiment was consistent with the convention’s theme: Blueprints to Blue Seas, a reflection of the numerous new U.S.-flag ships that have been christened since 2001. “When you reflect on the last four years, it’s no stretch at all to say we’ve made a number of substantial gains,” the MTD president stated. “American commercial shipbuilding has been moving forward—and most of it is in union shipyards. Members of MTD unions have built new containerships, new tankers, new ATBs and other vessels. More are on the way. “Earlier this year, the unionized Philadelphia-Kvaerner Shipyard announced that 10 new U.S.flag tankers will be built there. Ten! If that’s not proof that we’re headed in the right direction, I don’t know what is.” He also noted both the rebirth of the deep sea U.S.-flag passenger ship industry—a development that means thousands of jobs for our The Gopher State (above) and Cape Diamond (left) are two of the 54 Seafarers-contracted ships in the U.S. Ready Reserve Force. RRF ships “are kept in a high state of readiness at fifteen ports located on the Atlantic, Pacific, and Gulf coasts of the United States. Some ships also are kept in a prepositioned status overseas.” members—and the enactment of the new Maritime Security Program that expands the U.S.flag MSP fleet from 47 to 60 ships. Turning his attention toward the U.S. Merchant Marine’s role as part of America’s fourth arm of defense, he observed, “We’ve answered our nation’s call in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. As I’ve stated before, regardless of anyone’s individual feelings about the war itself, the bottom line is that many of our members are in Iraq and Afghanistan and elsewhere, doing their jobs and making sacrifices to protect our freedom. We support them and we support our troops.” Besides hearing from the guest speakers, convention delegates passed a number of resolutions designed to help map out the department’s agenda for the next four years. Those topics included health care, the Employee Free The RRF was established in 1976 and was significantly strengthened after the Gulf War in 1991 in order to ensure the military’s continued access to cargo capacity. Many of the ships have unique capabilities and have been used for humanitarian missions such as carrying aid to Haiti and participating in the December 2004 tsunami relief efforts. For complete coverage of the MTD convention, see pages 11-14. Choice Act, retirement security, towing vessel inspections, the Maritime Security Program, dredging, dock worker safety and more. Additionally, they passed a statement titled “Standing with Transportation Workers” that was introduced in the wake of the attacks in London. “The Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO, its affiliates and its Port Maritime Councils salute the transportation workers of the world and mourn the loss of each and every innocent life from these cowardly attacks,” the resolution read in part. Delegates and guests listen to Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich during the MTD convention’s opening day. Seafarers LOG 3 �29230_P3,4,5,15,16.qxd 8/25/2005 9:01 AM Page 4 CIVMARS Rescue 23 in Hawaii Oscar Sette Picks up Sailors after Mysterious Grounding Seafarers aboard a National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) vessel recently came to the aid and assistance of 23 sailors whose vessel ran aground in the Northern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI). The Oscar Elton Sette— crewed by members of the union’s Government Services Division—on July 3 rescued the crew and passengers from the 145-foot American-flagged Casitas, which, one day earlier and for reasons unknown, had run aground some 86 miles from Midway Island on Pearl and Hermes Atoll, Hawaii. The atoll is located or about 1,000 miles northwest of Honolulu. No one was injured when the accident occurred, but the Casitas sustained major damage to its hull. Crew members loaded themselves into small boats and waited for assistance. They later were extracted from the sea by the crew from the Sette. In addition to the ship’s sevenmember crew, 16 divers—scientific personnel—from the NOAA/ University of Hawaii Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research also were aboard the Casitas. All 23 initially were transported to Midway Atoll aboard the Sette. On July 5, they were flown to Oahu, Hawaii aboard a U.S. Coast Guard C-130 Hercules aircraft. The unlicensed crew aboard the Sette during the rescue included Kenneth Motoyama, Jonathan Saunders, Bruce Mokiao, Kevin Sund, Huntly Brownell, James McDade, James Scott Jr. and Isreal Caldwell. At the time of the grounding, the Casitas was laden with approximately 30,000 gallons of diesel fuel, 3,000 gallons of gasoline, 200 gallons of lube oil, and 14 metric tons of marine debris on board. Because of this cargo, steps were taken by the appropriate authorities to manage any NOTICE Electrical Maintenance Course Offered The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is offering a new two-week course titled Marine Electrical Maintenance Refresher. This class is open to QMED-Any Ratings and those possessing an electrician’s endorsement. Please note that the class cannot be used to raise an individual’s QMED classification rating. The course’s purpose is to enhance the electrical skills and education of those individuals interested in sailing as electricians. The class will focus on hands-on electrical training with a minimum of classroom sessions. Students will review the most common electrical troubleshooting, maintenance and repair techniques required to successfully perform the duties of a marine electrician on the latest shipboard equipment. Upcoming course dates are as follows: October 3-14 October 17-28 October 31-November 11 November 28-December 9 Each course is limited to a maximum of 10 students. For additional information please contact the Paul Hall Center admissions office at (301) 994-0010, extension 5210 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. U.S. East Coast time. It is the instructors’ intent that at the end of the course each student will satisfactorily be able to: Troubleshoot and replace bad florescent fixture ballasts Replace burned-out florescent lamps Install new florescent lighting fixtures Perform handheld equipment cord and plug maintenance Perform motor resistance to ground (megger) checks and record properly Locate and replace blown fuses Locate and correct loose electrical connections Locate and properly wire a three-phase motor for correct direction of operation Replace motor bearings Troubleshoot and repair/replace bad switches. 4 Seafarers LOG potential spill. Immediately following the accident, U.S. Coast Guard aircraft continually monitored the situation via flights over the scene. A dive company conducted hull assessments on the grounded ship and shipboard assessments were initiated by the Coast Guard National Strike Force Team—a team specializing in marine environmental response. The Coast Guard Cutter Walnut, which is equipped with a spill recovery system, also was dispatched to assist in cleanup efforts should the need arise. In the days that followed, most of the potential environmental pollutants were transferred from the Casitas to a barge. The Casitas on Aug. 4 successfully was removed from the reef where it had rested for more than a month. The vessel—owned and operated by Seattle, Wash.-based F/V Northwind Inc and valued at $1.2 million—was judged by res- cue crews to be too damaged to salvage. It therefore was scuttled at sea. Equipment and personal gear were removed from the Casitas prior to sinking. Because of safety concerns, however, some 15 tons of marine debris Photo courtesy of NOAA The Oscar Sette, crewed by members of the union’s Government Services Division, rescued 23 people whose vessel had run aground in the Northern Hawaiian Islands. SIU Credited for Quick, Smooth Activations 2 Hurricanes Prompt Many Mobilizations The presidents of two SIUcontracted companies recently thanked Seafarers and SIU officials for quickly and efficiently crewing up nine vessels that were mobilized because of hurricanes. SIU members turned to aboard seven ships operated by American Overseas Marine (AMSEA) because of Hurricane Dennis in early July, then crewed up two vessels operated by 3PSC under the threat of Hurricane Irene in August. AMSEA President Peter Lawrence wrote in a letter to SIU President Michael Sacco, “I would personally like to thank the Seafarers International Union for crewing three of the LMSR and four of the fast sealift vessels that were layberthed in the New Orleans area during the Hurricane Dennis sortie. We received the call at noon on Wednesday, July 6 and in less than 36 hours the vessels were crewed and commenced sailing on Friday morning, July 8…. The task required tremendous cooperation and organization to accomplish such an expeditious crewing effort. “AMSEA would like to and other trash were left aboard the vessel but stowed in sealed, double-hulled holds. The Casitas was sunk in 7,200 feet of water about six miles north-northwest of its grounding. NOAA had chartered the Casitas to assist in the removal of marine debris in the remote island chain. Reports say the members of the vessel’s crew were picking up fishing nets and other debris when the mishap occurred. express our appreciation and a heartfelt well-done to the SIU team.” Lawrence also specifically credited SIU New Orleans Port Agent Steve Judd and the rest of the officials and staff at the New Orleans hall along with the SIU crew members. The following vessels were mobilized from New Orleans: USNS Bellatrix, USNS Altair, USNS Algol, USNS Brittin, USNS Bob Hope, USNS Pollux and the USNS Fisher. 3PSC President Gary King, writing to SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez about the BP, Crowley Honored BP Shipping, Inc. and Crowley Marine Services were presented with the prestigious 2005 Legacy Award at the annual meeting of the Pacific States/British Columbia Oil Spill Task Force, held July 27 in Anchorage, Alaska. The Task Force gives Legacy Awards for projects, accomplishments or leadership that demonstrate innovation, management commitment and improvements in oil spill prevention, preparedness or response resulting in enhanced environmental protection. The 2005 Annual Legacy Award was given to BP Shipping, Inc. in acknowledgment of its “sustained superior performance in the prevention of petroleum spills along the West Coast,” according to the Pacific States/British Columbia Oil Spill Task Force. BP Shipping is involved in operating SIU- activations of the USNS Gordon and USNS Gilliland from Norfolk, Va. on August 11 noted, “Both ships were fully manned less than 55 hours later, achieving FOS status at 1600 on August 13th. I would like to thank and congratulate the SIU for their contribution to our success in this activation. With the Norfolk hall in the lead, we were also directly supported by the Jacksonville, New Orleans, Piney Point, Tacoma and Wilmington port agents and dispatchers. On our first occasion of activating both ships simultaneously, we were very gratified to know that we can count on the SIU to support us when ‘the chips are down.’” King added, “We would like to particularly acknowledge the significant contribution made by Sam Spain and Georg Kenny in the Norfolk hall.” Seafarers recently mobilized the USNS Fisher and other vessels to sail away from potential harm caused by hurricanes along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts. crewed tankers that carry Alaska crude oil to West Coast refineries; oil spill prevention is a daily and central aspect of their business practices. Crowley received the award specific to their operation their Seafarers-contracted subsidiary Marine Transport Corporation (MTC), which operates a fleet of four articulated tug and barges (ATBs) transiting Alaska, Hawaii and the North American Pacific Coast. MTC has loaded and discharged more than 44 million barrels of oil in 1,031 transfers in the TAPS trade without a single oil spill. According to the Oil Spill Task Force, the Legacy Award Program began in 1999. The Task Force has since given awards in the following categories: tanker operators, cargo vessel operators, tug and barge operators, oil spill response organizations, public interest organizations, state agencies, federal agencies, private citizens, public agency employees, response industry employees, and government/ industry teams. September 2005 �29230_P3,4,5,15,16.qxd 8/29/2005 10:46 AM Page 5 Legislators Cite Civilian Mariners’ Unique Role in National Defense Senator, Congressional Reps Urge Exclusion from NSPS A United States senator and eight U.S. Congressional representatives recently urged U.S. Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld to exclude civilian mariners from all provisions of the new Department of Defense (DoD) National Security Personnel System (NSPS). “The existing civilian mariners system has served this nation well, and including these individuals in the NSPS may have the unintended consequence of impairing our military sealift capability,” wrote Senator Rick Santorum (R-Pa.) in a letter dated July 26. A month earlier, the following Congressional representatives expressed similar sentiments in a joint letter to Rumsfeld: Jim Saxton (R-N.J.), Don Young (RAlaska), Chris Smith (R-N.J.), Frank LoBiondo (R-N.J.), Candice Miller (R-Mich.), Charles Boustany (R-La.), Walter B. Jones (RN.C.) and Jo Ann Davis (R-Va.). “CIVMARS have played a critical role as an adjunct and a resource to our Nation’s war fighters by placing themselves in harm’s way while serving on U.S. Military Sealift Command ammunition ships, combat stores ships, hospital ships and ocean tugs as well as U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ vessels and Navy pilot vessels,” the representatives noted in their communication to Rumsfeld. “The existing CIVMAR system has a proven record of providing the DoD with a ready pool of well-trained, highly skilled, experienced U.S. seafarers who are able to achieve cost and operational efficiencies through innovative commercial crewing models. But that could change dramatically” if they are included in the new NSPS. The representatives hit on a key element of this situation when they pointed out, “Many of those directly involved have serious concerns that the introduction of the NSPS will cause a disconnect between CIVMARS and the commercial maritime industry leading to a reduced pool of qualified CIVMARS, and potentially impairing DoD’s ability to crew ships in time of need or national emergency. “Given the potential consequences to our military sealift and our CIVMARS, particularly at a time when we are relying heavily on sealift to support our troops worldwide, we would strongly encourage DoD to seriously consider excluding CIVMARS from the NSPS.” Santorum observed that due to their “unique circumstances,” civilian mariners “have historical- CIVMARS Save Fisherman The keen eyesight of a naval aviation electronics technician and a ship lookout, complemented by the swift response of the crew from an SIU-contracted Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessel in June fused to save the life of an Arab fisherman on the high seas. The USNS San Jose, crewed by members of the SIU’s Government Services Division, on June 25 had just departed its home port in Apra Harbor, Guam for its fifth fleet deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Shortly after noon, AT2 Scott Lattin from the San Jose’s embarked helicopter detachment, reported sighting black smoke off the ship’s starboard quarter. Justin Griffin, the mate on watch, after notifying the ship’s master, Capt. Steven M. Perdue, reversed course to close in on what later was identified as an ablaze fishing vessel. Capt. Perdue brought the San Jose close to the boat, which now was engulfed in flames and billowing a large amount of black smoke. As the San Jose rapidly approached, the captain ordered the vessel’s rescue boat to launch and search for survivors. Shortly thereafter, the San Jose’s lookout reported sighting an object in the water some 100 yards upwind of the smoke source. The vessel’s rescue boat crew sped toward the object. As they got closer, they discovered that the object was, in fact, a man clinging to a blue plastic container. The rescue boat then darted in and recovered the lone survivor— later identified as Pakistan national Mamad Ali—from the ocean. Meanwhile, the burnt hulk of Ali’s fishing boat slowly began its plunge beneath the waves. After being taking aboard the San Jose, Ali was examined by Aaron Jackson, the ship’s medical services officer. The rescued fisherman later was given food, water and dry clothes. Senior Chief Petty Officer Art Jocson and Chief Mate Jim Moree attempted to interview the survivor who spoke virtually no English. After Moree said the names of several coun- September 2005 Photo courtesy MSC The Seafarers-crewed Military Sealift Command combat stores ship USNS San Jose retrieved a Pakistani fisherman stranded off the coast of the United Arab Emirates. tries which were geographically located in the area, the fisherman identified himself as a Pakistani. “I had to say my name a few times to him and placed my hand over my chest until he finally got it,” said Jocson. “He then said his name was Mamad Ali.” Supply Utility Katherine Spohn gave Ali a San Jose polo shirt and ball cap. “He looked frightened and confused,” said Spohn. “I just wanted to let him know that he was amongst friends.” Crew members later learned that the vessel they watched sink in fact was the very same craft they had happened upon the previous night while off the coast of Fujairah, United Arab Emirates. Ali had been shining lights at the ship and in the water around his fishing boat in what San Jose had assumed was an attempt to make the presence of fishing nets in the area known. In response, the San Jose steered clear of the area to avoid running over the nets. Ali, who did not know any international distress signals, spent another night aboard his broken-down boat. The next morning, in an act of desperation, he lit his boat on fire in an attempt to draw attention to his plight. The San Jose got the message and responded immediately. From start to finish, it took the San Jose’s crew less than 14 minutes to complete the operation and recover the wayward sailor. When asked about the rescue, Able Seaman German Garcia said, “As a crew member of USNS San Jose and team member of the ship’s rescue boat, I’m very proud to have helped save a man’s life. When we saw the man drowning, immediately we made all possible efforts to save him. He was extremely lucky because there were no other ships around but us for as far as the eye could see. He was truly given a second chance at life.” “I didn’t know what to think until I saw him clinging to a blue five-gallon plastic can, his only means of flotation,” said rescue boat crew member, Able Seaman Franklin Finona. “From that point on we did everything we could to get him to safety.” The next day when San Jose pulled into port, Ali was met by an embassy official who took him to the Pakistan Consulate Office. As the rescued fisherman walked down the ship’s ladder, he turned around, gave a big wave and smiled. In a message to the ship, Capt. Thomas D. Goodwin, commander, Task Force 53, said, “Your can-do attitude, enthusiasm and superb flexibility guaranteed mission success.” ly been treated differently under DoD personnel rules, most notably as legally exempted service employees. The Department has acknowledged this uniqueness, saying that civilian mariners’ working conditions more closely resemble those of active duty military personnel than most other Federal employees….” There is extremely urgent concern throughout the labor movement regarding the new and proposed personnel rules. Unions have filed lawsuits in federal court to block implementation of the NSPS and Department of Homeland Security personnel regulations. On August 12, a federal judge rendered a decision regarding the Department of Homeland Security new personnel system regulations. These regulations are similar to those issued by DoD for the new NSPS. The decision was 57 pages in length. The judge held that the HR system does not lead to enforceable contracts because the DHS secretary can unilaterally declare contracts null and void without prior notice to the unions or employees. The court also found that the regulations unlawfully changed the functions of the Federal Labor Relations Authority. A lawsuit is expected to be filed concerning the NSPS. Visit uniteddodworkerscoalition.org for more information. CIVMAR-Crewed USNS Bridge Delivers In War on Terrorism It has been slightly more than a year since the combatant U.S. Navy ship USS Bridge transformed into the fast combat support ship USNS Bridge—a vessel crewed by members of the SIU’s Government Services Division. The ship changed a great deal to prepare for its new job with the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC). It spent several months in the shipyard getting ready for a new crew. Weapons were removed, a new navigation suite was installed, and the cargo fuel system was upgraded. In early May 2005, the Bridge deployed with a carrier strike group for the first time as a noncombatant. “The Supply-class fast combat support ships are the only logistics support ships that can keep pace with the strike groups, making them ideal for deployment,” said Al Edkins, a representative from MSC’s Naval Fleet Auxiliary Force Program. The Bridge and its sister ships —the USNS Arctic, USNS Supply and USNS Rainier, also crewed by SIU CIVMARS—have a top speed of 25 knots. A fast combat support ship is a “triple product” ship carrying fuel, ammunition and stores. MSC describes the fast combat support ships as being ideal for strike group operations because, by delivering multiple products, they reduce the overall number of ships needed to support the strike group. The Bridge deployed with the USS Nimitz carrier strike group in May to conduct operations in the central and western Pacific Ocean as well as in the Persian Gulf in support of the global war on terrorism. During the first two months of its deployment, the Bridge delivered more than 10 million gallons of fuel and more Photo courtesy MSC than 75,000 square feet of supplies. The Bridge will continue to resupply the Nimitz and the other four ships in the strike group— destroyers USS Higgins and USS Chafee, cruiser USS Princeton and submarine USS Louisville—as well as other coalition ships during the remainder of the current sixmonth deployment. Although this is its first official deployment, the Bridge has been supporting the fleet since it completed its modifications in late February. It has participated in anti-submarine exercises and ship boarding operations and has provided logistical support to several different fleet components along the way. The Bridge’s first deployment is a landmark for MSC in more than one sense. In addition to supporting its first strike group as a noncombatant, the agency reports that the Bridge also is the first MSC ship to carry United Kingdom Royal Fleet Auxiliary officers as part of a pilot officer exchange program between the RFA and MSC. The two commands have had an exchange program on the headquarters level since the 1980s, but the Bridge brought the program to the shipboard level this year. According to MSC, the RFA officers were placed on a Supplyclass ship because MSC’s fast combat support ships operate the same way the U.K. Navy would like their future ships to operate. In exchange, an engineering officer from MSC will spend time on board an RFA Wave Knight-class tanker to gain experience in diesel electric propulsion systems and procedures—a system that will be used on board MSC’s new Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo/ammunition ships. Crewed by members of the union’s Government Services Division, the USNS Bridge (right) conducts a replenishment operation alongside the nuclearpowered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz. Seafarers LOG 5 �29230_P01,2,6.qxd 8/26/2005 9:47 AM Page 6 Federation Posts Labor Day Q&A The AFL-CIO recently posted the following “Q&A” on its web site, www.aflcio.org. It offers general information and background about Labor Day. Additional information is available on the federation’s web site. The SIU, an affiliate of the AFL-CIO, normally participates in Labor Day events throughout the country. Q: When is Labor Day? A: Labor Day is celebrated on the first Monday in September. For 2005, Labor Day falls on Sept. 5. Q: Why do we celebrate Labor Day? A: Labor Day is the one day that honors the contributions of working men and women to America’s social and economic life. Q: When was Labor Day first celebrated in the United States? A: On Sept. 5, 1882, when about 20,000 working people marched in New York City to demand an eight-hour workday and other labor law reforms. In a parade up Broadway, sponsored by New York’s Central Labor Union, they carried banners reading, “Labor Creates All Wealth” and “Eight Hours for Work, Eight Hours for Rest, Eight Hours for Recreation.” About a quarter million New Yorkers turned out to watch. Q: When did Labor Day become a national holiday? A: After the first Labor Day in New York City, celebrations began to spread to other states as workers fought to win workplace rights and better working conditions and wages at a time when they had little power. In 1893, New York City workers took an unpaid day off and marched around Union Square in support of a national Labor Day. The following year, 12,000 federal troops were called into Pullman, Ill., to break up a huge SIU Contract Briefs MSC Awards Contract To Ocean Shipholdings SIU-contracted Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. recently was awarded an agreement by the U.S. Military Sealift Command to continue operating four T-5 tankers for the agency. The award, a small business set-aside charter, means that SIU members will continue sailing aboard the USNS Paul Buck, USNS Lawrence Giannella, USNS Richard Matthiesen and USNS Samuel Cobb. New Matson Agreement Features Many Gains Seafarers recently approved a new three-year contract covering steward department mariners sailing aboard vessels operated by Matson Navigation. The agreement, retroactively effective July 1, calls for annual wage increases and also boosts monthly pension rates. Additionally, the pact calls for yearly increases into the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan, including a 6 percent increase the first year. It also maintains Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan coverage at the Core Plus level. Intrepid ATB Pact Increases Wages Seafarers sailing aboard articulated tug-barge units (ATBs) operated by Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning recently okayed a new three-year contract. Ratified in mid-July, the agreement is retroactive to April and applies to four ATBs—the Sea Reliance, Ocean Reliance, Coastal Reliance and Sound Reliance. The contract calls for annual wage increases in addition to other gains. It also provides for Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan coverage at the Core Plus level, the top level available under the SHBP. Report on Medical Bills Continued from page 2 with 17 percent of adults ages 65 and older. African-Americans are at high risk for medical bill and debt problems. Half of African-American workingage adults have medical bill problems, compared with one-third of Hispanics and 28 percent of whites ages 19 to 64. Working-age women are more likely to report medical bill problems than men ages 19 to 64 (39 percent vs. 25 percent). 6 Seafarers LOG Two-thirds of insured adults with annual premiums that are 10 percent or more of their income reported bill or debt problems, compared with about one-third of those with comprehensive benefits. The self-stated mission of The Commonwealth Fund is to promote a high-performing health care system that achieves better access, improved quality, and greater efficiency, particularly for society’s most vulnerable, including low-income people, the uninsured, minority Americans, young children, and elderly adults. The organization carries out this mandate by supporting independent research on health care issues and making grants to improve health care practice and policy. strike against the Pullman railway company and two workers were shot and killed by U.S. deputy marshals. In what most historians call an election year attempt to appease workers after the federal crackdown on the Pullman strike, shortly after the strike was broken, President Grover Cleveland signed legislation making the first Monday in September Labor Day and a federal holiday. Cleveland lost the election. Q: Who founded Labor Day? A: That’s a matter of dispute among historians. Some say Peter J. McGuire, general secre- tary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and a co-founder of the American Federation of Labor, first suggested a day to honor workers. Others credit Matthew Maguire, a machinist who served as secretary of the Central Labor Union in New York. Q: Is Labor Day just about unions? A: No. The U.S. Department of Labor describes Labor Day this way: “It is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity and wellbeing of our country.” Q: What international holiday is Labor Day’s closest relative? A: May Day. In 1889, a workers’ congress in Paris voted to support the U.S. labor movement’s demand for an eight-hour workday. It chose May 1, 1890, as a day of demonstrations in favor of the eight-hour day. Afterward, May 1 became a holiday called Labor Day in many nations. It resembles the September holiday in the United States. NOTICE Coast Guard Offers Pointers To Avoid Application Delays The U.S. Coast Guard has posted the following “Top Ten Reasons Coast Guard Licensing Applications are Delayed.” Avoid these pitfalls and follow the tips listed below to help facilitate the application process. (This information is listed on the agency’s web site at http://www.uscg.mil/STCW/new_top-ten-reasons.htm). 1. Applications—If the application is not completed, it will be returned for correction. Three signatures are mandatory: Section III (“Have you ever...?” questions), Section V (consent of National Driver Registry check), and Section VI (application certification). When the “Applying for:” block is left blank or is incomplete, the REC is left to guess what you want. 2. Drug Screen—A drug screen is often rejected because it does not contain the Medical Review Officer’s (MRO) signature, it is a photocopy, or a company compliance letter is not written to meet the requirements of the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 46, Part 16, Section 220. 3. Photographs—Merchant Mariner’s Documents (MMDs) and STCW certificates cannot be printed without a photograph. Two passport-size photos are needed when applying for an MMD or STCW. 4. Physical Exam—If the Merchant Marine Personnel Physical Examination/Certification Report is not complete, it will be returned for correction. Particular attention is paid to the “competent,” “not competent,” and “needs further review” boxes, which are frequently blank. Often, the type of color vision exam given in Section IV is not indicated. or mariners who wear glasses and/or contacts submit exams without their uncorrected vision listed in Section III. 5. Original Certificates—Photocopies of essential documents, even if notarized, are not accepted. Only original signatures, those documents signed by the issuing authority (e.g., course completion certificates) or official custodian (e.g., birth certificates) are acceptable. Original certificates will be returned when the evaluation is com- pleted and the REC mails the newly issued credentials to the applicant. 6. User Fees—No or incorrect fees are included with the application. Licensing user fees changed as of Oct. 4, 1999. Current fees are published in the most recent Code of Federal Regulations, Title 46, Part 10, Section 109 and on the web at: http://www.uscg.mil/STCW/l-userfees.htm. 7. Current or Past License, Document, and/or STCW—A mariner who is holding, or has held, a license, MMD and/or STCW certificate who does not indicate it in the history (Section II of the application) or does not include a copy of their credentials (front and back) with the application package. This especially applies for renewals and mariners with past transactions at other RECs. 8. Sea Service—Missing or conflicting information on the sea service letter (e.g., not including tonnage or horsepower, the position listed does not agree with other documents in the application package, or conflicting waters). Service should be documented with discharges, letters from marine employers, or small boat sea service forms. If a small boat service form is used, it must be certified and signed by the owner or proof of individual ownership is required. 9. Written Statement—If an applicant marks “Yes” in any block of Section III, a written statement is required. Note that all questions beginning with “Have you ever...” include all past convictions, even ones that may have already been disclosed. Simply stating “on file” will not suffice, statements should include the what, when, where, and penalties assessed for each incident, if it has already been disclosed to the REC, and whether there have been any new incidents. The applicant must sign and date the statement. 10. Medical Condition—Additional medical information is required whenever a medical condition is identified on the Merchant Marine Personnel Physical Examination Report. Seafarer’s Shipboard Snapshots GUDE John Cooper (left in photo at left) recently sent in these photos from two voyages earlier this year. At left, he is pictured with Unlicensed Apprentice Jimmie Williams aboard the El Morro in Jacksonville, Fla. in late May. At right, pictured aboard the Maersk Integrity back in March are Chief Cook Saundra Leonard (left) and Recertified Steward Stephanie Sizemore. September 2005 �29230_P7_14,17_24.qxd 8/22/2005 3:18 PM Page 7 Recertified Stewards Work Hard to Advance To Top Galley Rating The climb up the culinary department ladder has been one of hard work and many sacrifices, but it recently paid off for nine Seafarers who, at the August membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., were rewarded with graduation certificates for completion of the steward recertification program. As their names were read, Mohamed Abdelfattah, Barry Alviso, Louins Johnson, Howard Lewis, George Monseur, Ernest Polk, John Rapoza, Glenn Taan and Terry White each approached the podium to say a few words to the union’s officials, representatives, fellow Seafarers, instructors and assembled guests. Each also had a bit of wisdom to impart to the current group of unlicensed apprentices present at the meeting who, one day, may find themselves in a similar position of having reached the highest level of training within their chosen department offered at the Paul Hall Center. Some of the graduating students joined the union in their teens; others joined much later. But all have witnessed the changes, not only in themselves as they worked hard to get where they are today, but also in the Seafarers International Union as it continues to evolve in order to continue providing the best trained seafarers in the world. Barry Alviso stirs up a sauce to complement his baked entrée. Born in Egypt, Mohamed Abdelfattah joined the SIU in 1978. He credits President Michael Sacco and Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, as well as the late Executive Vice President Joe Sacco, with encouraging him to learn cooking from the bottom up. And, he believes, he owes his life today to their friendship and concern. Abdelfattah, who has upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center 10 times previously, stated that each course has helped him become a better seaman. He encouraged the trainees to take advantage of the school to get a better education and also reminded them of the importance of contributing to SPAD for their own job security. Barry Alviso joined the SIU in 1987 in Honolulu. He had no idea when he first started working aboard the SS Independence that it was the start of his career (and of his married life, since he met his wife—a passenger—in 1991 aboard that vessel). His first goal was to be a bartender, which he achieved after working as an assistant waiter, waiter and cocktail server. He then upgraded to assistant cook/baker and chief cook, eventually becoming a chief cook and steward. Alviso, who ships from the port of Wilmington, Calif., said that seafaring life is probably not for everyone, but those who do find they like the work have many opportunities available to them at the school. This was his fourth visit to the facility to upgrade his skills, and he particularly enjoyed learning about the political activities of the union as well as the many demonstrations put on by the culinary staff. During the last 10 days of his steward recertification training, Alviso was joined by his wife, Machele, and daughters Hannah and Christa. Louins Johnson, who joined the union in 1989 in New Orleans and who continues to sail from that port, said that joining the SIU Lewis’s Rewarding Experience Howard Lewis has been sailing for 10 years, but his most memorable experience occurred in January of this year in Maputo, Mozambique (on the southeastern coast of Africa). He was aboard the SS Chilbar as it was being taken to India to be scrapped. When the vessel stopped in Mozambique, the ship was still loaded with stores and galley equipment that would no longer be needed. So with the captain’s permission, Chief Steward Lewis donated many items to an orphanage there on behalf of Keytone Shipping. The recertified steward noted that it was the most rewarding experience of his lifetime as he watched the smiles on the faces of the children as they received the goods. Included in the gift to the orphanage were coffee mugs, assorted cereals and cookies, brooms, bread boxes, muffin pans, roasting pans, sponges, cranberry sauce, jams and jellies, Howard Lewis will never forget mattresses, scrub pads, mixing the smiles on the faces of the bowls, in addition to other food- orphans in Mozambique when they received the ship’s extra stuffs and cleaning material. stores. September 2005 Following the graduation ceremony, the nine new recertified stewards and some family members joined SIU officials on stage for a group photo. From the left are SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez, George Monseur, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Mohamed Abdelfattah, Louins Johnson, Glenn Taan, SIU President Michael Sacco, Terry White, John Rapoza, Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan, Machele Alviso (with daughters Hannah and Christa), Barry Alviso, Ernest Polk, Susan Lewis, Howard Lewis and Assistant VP Contracts George Tricker. was one of the best moves he ever made. It has allowed him to travel the globe and see places that some people will never visit in a lifetime, and it has “made me a better man,” he said. “Nothing in life comes easy,” Johnson admitted. And by returning to the Paul Hall Center numerous times and learning different aspects to the job, he has worked his way up to recertified steward. He recommended that the unlicensed apprentices study hard, listen to their instructors, learn from the more seasoned members and be team players when they work aboard a ship. Howard Lewis joined the NMU in 1995 and is now “proud to be a part of the SIU membership.” He sails from the port of Wilmington, Calif. His career as a seaman has taken him to all parts of the world, he stated, but one of the most memorable trips was early this year to Mozambique (see box below). Lewis has attended upgrading classes at the school before but found this time particularly interesting, especially learning about new standards for sanitation and cooking temperatures as well as the important role that the union plays in the political arena. He told the trainees that by returning to the school to upgrade, “everyone comes out a winner—you, your family, the union.” Lewis thanked his wife, Susan, “for being there for me and understanding my not being home six to eight months a year.” Susan was able to spend some time with Howard at the school before his graduation. George Monseur began sailing with the SIU more than 20 years ago. He has upgraded from 3rd cook to 2nd cook/baker to chief cook and chief steward and now to recertified steward. He thanked the staff and instructors at the Recertified stewards take turns with a chain saw, pick and other carving tools, turning a solid block of ice into a decorative scupture. school for helping him achieve his education. “They have adapted to the changing needs of the industry, as we all have,” he noted. Monseur, who sails from Philadelphia, said that being a member of the SIU has afforded him the opportunity to visit and live in many places, including Hawaii, California and Florida. He told the trainees that as their journey with the SIU begins, the most important idea they should take with them is to respect themselves, and “let that overflow in how you respect your shipmates and supervisors.” He advised them to get all the education the school has to offer. Sometimes, the seafaring life is in one’s blood. Ernest Polk joined the SIU in New Orleans in 1968 as a young man of 17. After two years, he decided to try working on the beach. “That wasn’t a good experience,” he said. “That’s when I knew where my heart lay: at sea.” Polk, who ships from the port of Wilmington, has always sailed in the steward department, starting at the bottom as a GSU and moving up to chief cook and now to recertified steward. He still has an original pay voucher from 1968, which reminds him of how much stronger the union has become over the years. He thanked the union and its officers as well as the Paul Hall Center staff and instructors. “Without them,” he said, “none of this would be possible.” Polk went on to say that being a member of the SIU has affected his life in a positive way. It has enabled him to provide well for his family, purchase a home and send some of his children to college—all thanks to the SIU. “Ask a lot of questions at sea,” he told the trainees. “Study hard, listen and learn, and work together as a team.” “The sky’s the limit when you continue upgrading,” said John Mohamed Abdelfattah adds a little seasoning to the dish he’s preparing. Rapoza, who joined the SIU in 1986 in Honolulu. Rapoza, who has attended upgrading classes at the school a number of times, said that the information he will take away from his studies in the steward recertification class will be put to good use aboard ship. Being a member of the SIU has been a very gratifying experience, and he has enjoyed his travels around the world. Now sailing from the port of San Francisco, Rapoza urged the unlicensed trainees to work and study hard and to take advantage of all the opportunities they have as members of the union. Originally from the Philippines, Glenn Taan joined the SIU in 1983 in the port of Honolulu. Through hard work and many sacrifices, Taan said that his life has changed for the better. “With that in mind, I thank and appreciate what our president, Mike Sacco, is doing to protect our jobs as the number-one maritime union in the world.” He urged his fellow Seafarers to continue contributing to SPAD for the sake of job security. And to the trainees, “who are the future of the SIU,” he asked that they do a good job when they get aboard a vessel. “Learn the things you need to know, observe, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.” Starting as a pot washer at the age of 18 aboard the SS Monterey, Terry White has worked his way up with the help of the training he received at Piney Point and by learning from some of the oldtimers with whom he has sailed. Continued on page 9 Seafarers LOG 7 �29230_P7_14,17_24.qxd 8/22/2005 3:18 PM Page 8 Left: The Mississippi Queen rounds the bend, in sight of the SIU/ SEATU-crewed Alton Belle riverboat casino. Mississippi Queen Stops Off in Alton The SIU-crewed Mississippi Queen stopped off at the river town of Alton, Ill. July 8 on a cruise from St. Louis to St. Paul. The majestic sternwheeler docked along the riverbank just downstream from the SIU/ SEATU-contracted Argosy riverboat casino, the Alton Belle. While in the historic port, located some 30-odd miles upriver from St. Louis, passengers disembarked for a day of tours, museum-going and shopping. Crew members took the opportunity to visit with the union’s business rep, Kevin McDonald, and also had time left over for some sightseeing. The Mississippi Queen and its sister ship, the Delta Queen, are scheduled for several more visits to the Alton riverfront during the summer. (The other vessel in the Delta Queen Steamboat Co. fleet, the American Queen, primarily makes round trips from New Orleans.) The city of Alton has plans to redevelop the riverfront park, including an amphitheater and improved docking facilities, which will better accommodate these large and historic paddlewheelers. Right: A deckhand from the Mississippi Queen totes a line up the rocky bank in Alton to tie up the paddlewheeler. Crew members aboard the Mississippi Queen include (clockwise, from top left): Oiler Allan Bigner, Porter David Williams, Oiler Arturo Martinez and Waitress Shelia Beauchamp. Passengers from the SIU-crewed Mississippi Queen disembark in Alton, Ill. for a day of tours and sightseeing. Working Aboard the Bonnyman AB Mitchell Gately has safety in mind as he works high above the ship’s deck. QEE Sean J. Jones Bonnyman crew members are ready to go ashore. The 1st Lt. Alex Bonnyman, one of the Military Sealift Commmand’s roll-on/roll-off containerships, is crewed by SIU members, including members of the union’s Government Services Division. It was one of the civilian-crewed MSC fleet vessels that earlier in the year supported a 10-day U.S. relief effort in the Republic of Maldives for victims of the earthquake and resulting tsunamis that struck in Asia and Africa. The 755-foot vessel is prepositioned in the Guam/Saipan area, where these photos were taken. 8 Seafarers LOG ABs Jesse A. Toves and Edward A. Mitchell work in tandem to keep everything aboard the Bonnyman in proper working order. September 2005 �29230_P7_14,17_24.qxd 8/22/2005 3:19 PM Page 9 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.) Retiree Remembers Paul Hall, Piney Point On August 20, all SIU members and headquarters and Piney Point personnel will celebrate the 91st birthday of one of the greatest leaders in the American labor movement: our Paul Hall. This holiday also includes those members aboard ships at sea and in ports all around the world. We should never permit the memory of this great man to be forgotten. I am enclosing a clipping of an article that I wrote to the LOG 27 years ago. I have read it many times because I was proud of what I had written and that it was printed. Only a longtime friend and former shipmate, Red Campbell, outdid me, I believe. I am hoping you will agree that it is fitting for this clipping to appear in the next issue of the LOG, in honor of Paul’s legacy. There have been many changes at our school since the year I wrote this article. Even the name has been changed. It has been greatly enlarged, and many new courses have been added. This school just keeps getting bigger and so much better for those beginners to take advantage of. But all of this is Paul’s way of doing things. I feel certain that as he is looking down on what he left for us, he must feel very pleased at what he sees, and he must feel certain that the leadership that has taken over has fulfilled his wishes. With my very best wishes and kindest regards to all. Support your union—it will never let you down. Charles Lee Camp Verde, Ariz. Brother Lee’s original letter from 1978, which discusses the late SIU President Paul Hall, follows: Pensioner Is SIU Top to Bottom Two years ago I received a letter which I believe was to be the most important letter I have ever received in all my life. Had I been told 40 years ago that someday I would get a letter like this, I surely would have believed that someone was trying to play a cruel joke on me. It just didn’t seem possible back in those days that someday a seaman would be able to retire with a pension. This very important letter was from the Board of Trustees of the Seafarers Pension Plan informing me that my application for a pension had been approved. During the past two years of my retirement, many of my evenings have been occupied with memories of my seagoing days. And what fond memories these are. Believe me, it wasn’t easy trying to live ashore in one place day in and day out after having spent more than 40 years of my life knocking around this world. But what I found to be even more difficult was having to admit to myself that I shall never again be able to go back to any one of theses places that I had been to and seen. Therefore, I must find contentment in my memories. September 2005 What better place is there to celebrate my first two years of retirement than at this beautiful and peaceful setting on the shores of the Potomac River in Maryland which all of us Seafarers know as Piney Point. Seven years ago I promised myself that before I die I must come back to this place and stay a few days in these peaceful surroundings. I am a most fortunate man indeed, as that promise has now been fulfilled. Seven years ago I came here as a delegate from the port of New Orleans to attend an educational conference. I was very impressed with all that I saw and learned here. But what impressed me most of all was listening to those speeches of our president, Paul Hall. I had no idea that this man was such a great speaker as this was my first opportunity to hear him speak before an audience. So every morning I would look forward to listening to him talk to us at our afternoon sessions. I also learned that this man has many other fine qualities about him besides being a great speaker. Of all the men in the history of organized labor in these United States, Paul Hall certainly stands out as one of the most dedicated to that which he represents, the maritime industry. This man for many years has given so much of his time, so much of himself in the fight to make a better way of life for those of us who go to sea. And he has succeeded. His record speaks for itself. The speeches that this man has made on our behalf in Congress, at labor conventions and before many other gatherings of people would fill volumes of books. We pensioners, active Seafarers and especially those young men who are now coming up, are very fortunate indeed in having Paul Hall at the helm of our organization, always steering on a course to higher achievements and toward a more secure future. Unfortunately there have always been and still are those (and too many of them) in Washington who always make it quite difficult for him, but that has never discouraged him. On the contrary, he comes back fighting harder for us. I believe that the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship must be the greatest of his many achievements and I feel certain that there must be countless others who feel the same. This place shall always remain a legacy to those young men in the future who will come here to begin their seagoing careers, and to those who sail on the Great Lakes and inland waterways. The many courses for advancement to better-paying jobs, which are available in all three departments along with the most up-todate equipment, and most important of all, a staff of instructors and all of the other personnel here who are completely dedicated to their professions and students have no equal in any other school anywhere. This school can very well be compared to an institution of higher learning due to the advanced and specialized training it offers for the highly skilled jobs aboard these new automated ships today. In this union, any member is welcome, and encouraged, to come here, at no cost to him, learn what he came here to learn, and leave here with the assurance that his training has qualified him for a better-paying job, thereby assuring him of a bet- ter way of life for himself and his family. I ask you, where else can a man get a better shake than this? So in conclusion let me just say this: that most men’s greatness is not acknowledged in their lifetime, but only after they are gone. Paul Hall is fortunate, and deservingly so, that he is today a living part of his many achievements and dreams which have become a reality. And his greatest accomplishment is right here in Piney Point. This place shall be a living monument to him always, not only as that of a man whose life was dedicated to the betterment of those men who go down to the sea in ships, but also to a truly great fighter in the long and turbulent history of the maritime unions in their long struggle for survival and for a better way of life for their members, the American seamen. Therefore, I should like to title this effort of mine: Some Words of Tribute to a Great Labor Leader. Written on this 23rd day of August 1978 in Piney Point, Md. Retiree Points Out Health Care Option This is an open letter to all SIU pensioners who live in Louisiana. My name is Paul Lightell. I’m a retired deep sea member. I sailed for 40 years and I’m grateful for all the union has done for me. I’m hoping that this information I’m supplying will help give something back to the union and help my fellow retirees at the same time. I became aware of a medical plan for individuals who are 65 or older. It’s called Tenet Choice 65 and it is available to Louisiana residents. The program works like this: The amount that comes out of your Social Security check that is earmarked for Medicare goes directly to Tenet Choice 65. This is the total you pay. There is a $5-$10 copay for generic drugs and the doctor’s copay is also $5. My wife signed up for this plan more than seven years ago. She had three surgeries and they all were 100 percent covered. I just recently joined, and it only took five days and I was in the system. So now the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan receives no medical bills or prescription bills regarding me or my wife. This works out well for all. I urge all retirees living in Louisiana to contact Tenet Choice 65 at (504) 461-9800 or 1-800-6318443 and request the information. You won’t regret it. Paul Lightell Metairie, Louisiana Lupinacci’s Family Offers Note of Thanks Dear President Sacco, Executive Staff, Don Nolan, Port Agents and friends of Romeo V. Lupinacci: Your kind expressions of sympathy on the death of our father and beautiful floral arrangements were most appreciated. You were my father’s home away from home and were closest to him for many years. A good portion of Romeo’s life and some of his greatest achievements happened there at the Lundeberg School, where he dedicated his life to his work. We hope you all hold a special spot in your hearts in remembrance of him. He truly loved you all! A special thanks of appreciation to John (Hetmanski) and the food service staff who made a special trip to visit Romeo’s grave. Sincerely, The families of Ronald Lupinacci and Roseann Davis (The letter is printed here at their joint request.) Seafarer Garrett Has Fond Memories of Chef Romeo My name is Samuel Garrett. I am an A seniority member in good standing. It hurt my heart to read about Chef Romeo Lupinacci’s untimely death. I know he touched thousands of people’s hearts. I met Chef Romeo in 1992 while upgrading at the training center. He walked up to me, said hello and asked how I was doing, all with a larger-than-life smile on his face. My very first thought was that this is a good feeling when a person of his status stops to say hello. Chef Romeo told me he had been around for a while and enjoyed helping at the school. On many occasions I sat down with him and listened, learning more about how to conduct myself aboard a vessel. He became one of the people that I wanted to be like—true friend, big brother, father figure to those members who needed it. I can remember going to his house to watch sports, eating snacks that he had made for the upgraders, and during the breaks sharing his sea stories and life stories. Every time I came back to the school he guided me through any rough patches I was having in life. I truly believe that without his support, loyalty, great friendship and true kindness, that many of the things I achieved would have taken me a lot longer to attain. One thing that I regret is that in all the many years I got to know Chef Romeo, I never took a picture with or got a picture of that one person who did so much for me. My family’s prayers are with him on his great journey to heaven. My heartfelt prayers go out to loved ones and family. His moral fiber, strength, character and force will always be within each of us that knew his heart. Samuel Garrett Jacksonville, Fla. Veteran Urges Support For ‘Belated Thank You’ I am a U.S. Army veteran of World War II and an SIU recertified steward, and I’m writing about the Belated Thank You to the Merchant An older photo of Pablo Lopez Mariners of World War II Act of 2005. The purpose of this bill is to compensate the WWII Merchant Marine veterans who were denied their rights under the G.I. Bill, given to other veterans. That wasn’t fair. During the war, the mariners risked their lives for the welfare of the United States, just like any other veterans who fight for this country. May our Good Lord bless our merchant marine veterans and guide our senators and congressmen to cosponsor the bills, S. 1272 and H.R. 23 and have the majority of both houses pass them. I urge all SIU brothers and sisters to contact their own senators and congressional representatives to cosponsor this legislation. Pablo Lopez Seattle, Washington Looking at Pictures Brings Back Memories I stopped going to sea years ago in 1985 and settled down in my homeport of Massachusetts. Reading about the Harry Lundeberg School and looking at the pictures of the school brings back a lot of old and fun memories. The training I received there as a trainee and upgrader (FOWT, QMED and Third Assistant Engineer) proved to be valuable to my career both at sea and on land. Even today, I still miss the sea and at times I wish I could jump back aboard a ship. There are times when, if it weren’t for my two sons, I would go back to sea, but I don’t think they would like that too much. I would like to thank the SIU for the opportunity to go to sea and to the Harry Lundeberg School for the training I received there. Lee Cook West Yarmouth, Mass. Nine Stewards Complete Recertification Program Continued from page 7 Now shipping from the port of Tacoma, Wash., White joined the SIU on Dec. 7, 1976 in San Francisco. “I love the union and the sea,” he told those assembled at the meeting, and the upgrading courses he has taken at the Paul Hall Center, “have helped me to become a better cook and steward and help in the way I communicate with people. I am proud to be a Seafarer.” Throughout White’s 29-year seafaring career, he has been around the world 17 times and seen many changes over the years. He told the trainees that after working aboard their first ship, they will know whether or not they are cut out for the life of a Seafarer. And if they are, he said, the sky’s the limit. They can go as far as they want with the training they will continue to receive at the Paul Hall Center. In additional to their culinary training over the month-long course, which consisted of demonstrations and hands-on training in the culinary lab (sauces, garde mange, ice sculpture, cake decorating, nutrition in 2005, menu planning, pulled sugar, bread demo, etc.), the nine recertified stewards attended classes on alcohol and drug awareness, communication and leadership, computer labs, union education, first aid/CPR, galley fire training, as well as study skills. They also traveled to the headquarters building in Camp Springs, Md. to listen to presentations from the plans, vacation/ records and pension departments as well as from the Transportation Institute and the Seafarers LOG. They particularly enjoyed their opportunity to sit down and talk with President Sacco and VP Contracts Tellez and learn firsthand about the workings of the union and how the support of the membership helps them protect the jobs of the union’s members. Seafarers LOG 9 �29230_P7_14,17_24.qxd 8/22/2005 4:19 PM Page 10 Seafarers At Sea and Ashore A Well-Deserved Retirement On the Job in Illinois Capt. Dave Wendle Capt. Frank Bock (left) comes aboard the Alton Belle Casino II to relieve Capt. Dave Wendle and take charge of the crew for the night shift. The two photos above and one below left are of SIU officers on board the Alton Belle Casino II, a riverboat casino in Alton, Ill. The captains and chief engineers have been with the SIU since 1991 when the Alton Belle I first opened. Since then, the business has changed and the vessel no longer cruises the Mississippi River, but it still holds a U.S. Coast Guard certificate of inspection and maintains a marine crew. Chief Engineer Dan Smith Chad Partridge (right), safety director in the port of Joliet, visits with Assistant Engineer Andrea Carpiere on board the Winstar, a gaming boat operated by Resorts Casino in East Chicago. Working for Maritime After 27 years of faithful service to Express Marine, Inc., SIU member Jesse Gardner (right) finally called it quits. His last day of work was June 22, 2005. Donald R. Ivins, vice president of fleet operations at Express Marine, presented Gardner with a plaque on which is a picture of the tug Russell B. Murray. Gardner also was given a ship’s clock with a plaque, thanking him for his hard work over the years. Left: Andrew Linares (left), SIU safety director in the port of Wilmington, Calif., is sworn in as a representative of labor on the Port Hueneme Harbor Safety Committee. The committee, whose members reflect the makeup of the local maritime community, is mandated to prepare a harbor safety plan for the safe navigation and operation of tank ships, barges and other vessels within its harbor. Good Shipmate Award Aboard Penn Maritime’s Tug Victory Above: OS Ardale Crim, Chief Mate Don Walsh and OS Larry Williams get ready to go on the tow wire. Below left: OS Larry Williams hones his navigation skills with help from Capt. Pat David. Below right: AB/Tankerman Leo Batiste poses with the “catch of the day.” These photos were sent to the LOG by OS Larry Williams of Odessa, Fla. 10 Seafarers LOG The “Seafarers 2005 Good Shipmate Award” is presented to Cadet Rolando Dawang by SIU Honolulu Port Agent Neil Dietz during June 12 graduation ceremonies at the Campbell High School Maritime Academy. Cadet Dawang, who has participated in training exercises held at the Seafarers Training Center in Hawaii, is the first recipient of what is to be an annual award. He was selected by students and staff for the honor. Campbell High School is located at Ewa Beach, Hawaii. September 2005 �29230_P7_14,17_24.qxd 8/22/2005 3:19 PM Page 11 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Convention Kvaerner Philadelphia, NCL America Highlight U.S. Fleet’s Growth, Potential A nyone who doubts the growth potential of the U.S.-flag fleet should have listened to the heads of Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard (KPS) and NCL America, respectively, as they addressed the Maritime Trades Department convention. KPS CEO and President Dave Meehan and NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch related separate accounts of two different segments of the maritime industry and two different companies. But the bottom line is the same for both. Working with maritime labor, which provided a skilled manpower pool and critically important political support, two businesses invested in the U.S. maritime industry and won. In the process, they created employment opportunities for nearly 30,000 American workers, generated hundreds of millions of dollars worth of federal and state tax revenues and added billions more to the national economy. Both speakers praised the skilled, unionized U.S. workers who helped make it all possible. MTD President Michael Sacco cited both businesses as prime examples of the excellent progress that has been made since the previous convention four years earlier. Kvaerner recently announced it will build 10 SIU-contracted double-hulled tankers for the Jones Act fleet with an option for two more such vessels. The five-year effort, known as the Product Tanker Program, is estimated to be worth at least $1 billion. According to recent studies, it will maintain some 800 shipyard jobs at Kvaerner over the next five years and create at least 6,000 related jobs in Philadelphia and nearby communities. The Product Tanker Program comes in the wake of the three containerships that Kvaerner has built for Matson (a fourth is on the way). According to Meehan, the project wouldn’t have been possible without the political support of maritime labor. By working with maritime labor and Pennsylvania politicians like then-Governor Tom Ridge (R) and then-Philadelphia Mayor Ed Rendell (D), Kvaerner revived the historic Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, which had shut its doors in 1986 at the loss of more than 8,000 local jobs. Meehan stressed that Kvaerner was willing to take this risk because it knew that as long as the Jones Act, the nation’s freight cabotage law, was on the books, there AFL-CIO Officers Point to Maritime As Model of Success M aritime labor’s impressive gains over the past four years are a reminder of what can be accomplished by getting the basics right. That was the assessment of the top leaders of the AFL-CIO, who addressed the Maritime Trades Department’s 2005 convention in Chicago July 21-22. All three— President John Sweeney, Executive Vice President Linda ChavezThompson and Secretary-Treasurer Richard Trumka—singled out solidarity, organizing, political action and progressive leadership. “Most of our maritime unions have your primary jurisdictions highly organized, and our union density is probably greater than in any other industry,” Sweeney said. “Members of maritime unions are working steadily and enjoying very good pay, defined benefit pensions and fully paid health care. And there’s more union and American shipbuilding going on right now than in many, many years. “But I remind you that these advantages exist because of the character of your leadership and the power of your solidarity.” Citing a spate of new shipbuilding projects, preservation of the vitally important Jones Act and the reauthorization and expansion of the Maritime Security Program, Chavez-Thompson noted, “The Maritime Trades AFL-CIO Executive VP Linda Chavez-Thompson AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Richard Trumka September 2005 MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco NCL America President/CEO Colin Veitch Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard President/CEO Dave Meehan would be commercial opportunities. “Like you, we share a strong belief in the Jones Act as an essential part of our nation’s security, and my job and the jobs of those 800 men and women employed at the shipyard depend on the continued existence of the Jones Act in its present form,” he stated. He also credited all concerned with focusing on their goals rather than on obstacles. “The KPSI story has truly been a joint effort of labor, management and government parties simply refusing to listen to the naysayers, the critics and the prophets of doom,” he said. “As recently as last year at this time, the predictions of our demise were widespread in the industry and certainly throughout the media. And yet, today we find ourselves turning the corner in our journey to long-term stability.” Half a world away, in Hawaii, there has been a remarkable revival of the U.S.-flag deep sea passenger vessel industry. Speaking of the recent christening of NCL-America’s SIUcrewed Pride of America, Veitch observed, “This is the revival of the sector of the merchant marine that was completely dead after September 11th. There wasn’t a single U.S.-flag deep sea passenger ship left in existence.” Department is exactly what the union movement is all about.” Fifty years after the historic merger between the American Federation of Labor and the Congress of Industrial Organizations, organized labor stands at a crossroads, said Trumka. The solution? Solidarity. “What we’ve built together needs to be strengthened and not weakened,” he stated. “I think that what we’ve built together is worth not just maintaining, but defending. And I’m especially proud of what we’ve done to strengthen our movement” in the past 10 years.” He recalled in detail the national labor federation’s numerous accomplishments during President Sweeney’s tenure, and then turned his focus toward the challenges currently facing America’s working families. If left unmet, those challenges “truly threaten our future…. We can’t let any employer, any politician or anybody else tear down what we’ve built…. What we must do instead is to keep standing up together, keep fighting together—all of us together. Our obligation as trade unionists in the year 2005 is to take up the fight for every last man, woman and child, and we do that best when we’re united and fighting together. That is what we shall do—fight together and win together in 2005.” American workers are confronted with a different world and different challenges than their parents and grandparents faced, Sweeney observed. As a result, the federation—at its own convention the following week— AFL-CIO President John Sweeney adopted a series of reforms that will lead to a restructuring of the labor movement. According to Sweeney, there will be a renewed emphasis on political action and organizing. For the first time in its history, the AFL-CIO will rebate part of its dues to unions that devise strategic plans for organizing. Also, it will be “building a yearround, year-in, year-out grassroots membership mobilization for legislation and politics.” American workers are worried about their economic future, said Chavez-Thompson. While they realize that “one of the very best paths to the middle class is union membership,” they haven’t joined up more numbers “because their freedom to join has been compromised.” Trumka said that organized labor will fight for enactment of the Employee Free Choice Act to help correct the situation, and for other pro-worker issues, including better health care and retirement security. The 81,000-ton Pride of America is NCL-America’s second U.S.-flag ship, joining the Pride of Aloha, which began interisland Hawaii cruising in July 2004. The company also plans to add a third vessel to the Hawaii trades starting in 2006. According to Veitch, the restoration of this industry was made possible by the enactment of legislation introduced by Sen. Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii), the Hawaii Cruise Ship Initiative. Veitch told delegates to the MTD convention that the project is off to a great start “because we have a partnership” with maritime labor. “We have approached this partnership knowing that if it doesn’t work for you, it won’t work for us.” Thanking MTD President Michael Sacco and others, Veitch said that the three new U.S.-flag cruise ships mean jobs. “The [shipboard union] membership will have been expanded significantly; but also shore-side unionized employment will have been expanded,” he observed. “The bulk of new employment from this venture is not on ships. It’s on shore with taxi drivers, hotel workers, tour guides, airport workers, dockworkers—the kinds of people that support the operation of a ship and entertain travelers when they come to take our cruises.” He also pointed out that NCL America’s parent company is accustomed to working with organized labor. “We have an entirely unionized international fleet,” he noted. “We have had ITF agreements on all of our ships for decades, and so we are not one of the foreign-flag, flag-of-convenience, run-away-from-organizedlabor shipping operations. From the outset this is a responsible, upstanding company.” Additionally, he credited the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education for helping provide vital preparation and schooling for NCL America crews, and further noted that those crews help strengthen U.S. national defense. “There are not only people serving cocktails and making beds on these ships,” Veitch said. “There are literally hundreds and hundreds of deck and engine officers and ratings. The ready reserve of our nation is significantly strengthened by having that kind of workforce trained and in service.” Seafarers LOG 11 �29230_P7_14,17_24.qxd 8/22/2005 4:27 PM Page 12 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades D elegates to the 2005 Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO convention called on Congress and the administration to support a strong U.S. Merchant Marine along with workers’ rights. They also noted the U.S.-flag fleet’s many accomplishments during the past four years. Those accomplishments are captured in the image at left, which shows the convention’s theme: Blueprints to Blue Seas. MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco (second from left, photo at far right) chaired the conference, which took place July 21-22 in Chicago. The MTD consists of 24 affiliated international unions and a network of 24 port maritime councils in the United States and Canada. The main purpose of the MTD is to stand up for the working people of the U.S.-flag and Canadian-flag maritime industry —from the shipbuilders to the mariners to the longshoremen to all of their suppliers and associates. Coverage of the convention begins on page 3 and continues on pages 11-14. Many delegates and guests are pictured on these two pages. Paul Booth Asst. to President AFSCME Kermett Mangram Vice President SIU Augie Tellez, Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer SIU Jerry Abell VP, Local 25 Operating Engineers Mike Goodwin President OPEIU Capt. Tim Brown President MM&P Howard Randolph Secretary-Treasurer TCU John Conley President ITPE Bob Scardelletti President TCU Richard Lannigan Vice President OPEIU Richard Hughes, Vice and John Bowers, Pres Ron Davis President MEBA George Tricker Asst. Vice President SIU MTD Honors CWA President Bahr The MTD honored retiring CWA President and MTD Executive Board Member Morton Bahr at the department’s 2005 convention. “When Morty announced his retirement from the labor movement, there was a sense that an era was passing. Here is a man who embodies all of the old virtues, most notably loyalty and commitment. Yet he’s married those qualities to build a new vision of the future,” said MTD President Michael Sacco. Bahr, who is the last member of the AFL-CIO executive council to have sailed during World War II, couldn’t attend because of family medical needs. Accepting the award on his behalf, CWA Political Director Mike Grace noted, “This award is special because it represents a time when he, like many of (today’s civilian mariners), put his life on the line in the defense of our country.” MTD President Michael Sacco (left) and MTD Executive SecretaryTreasurer Frank Pecquex (right) present an engraved ship’s wheel and “Battlin’ Pete” World War II-era patch to CWA Political Director Mike Grace, accepting on behalf of CWA President Morton Bahr. 12 Seafarers LOG Dewey Garland Director, Railroad and Shipyard Dept. SMWIA Elizabeth Brown, Asst. VP, SEATU Todd Brdak Representative, SIU Anthony Poplawski President MFOW Bill Ellis Vice President UIW Dan Smith Vice President AMO Lynn Tucker, General VP, IAM Warren Mart, Sec-Treasurer, Machinists Jim McGee, VP, SIU and SIU Port Agents Steve Judd, Ed Kelly and Kenny Moore Nick Celona Asst. VP SIU September 2005 Jo Po B �29230_P7_14,17_24.qxd 8/22/2005 4:13 PM Page 13 s Department Convention Vice President, ILA nd President, ILA Roman Gralewicz President SIU of Canada Stuart Applebaum, President, Jack Wurm, Secretary-Treasurer RWDSU/UFCW Charles Stewart Vice President SIUNA John Cox Port Agent SIU Bernie Hostein Asst. to Pres. USWA Bill Lucy Secretary-Treasurer AFSCME Chico McGill Busines Manager IBEW Eugene Irish Asst. Vice President UIW September 2005 James Williams, President, Painters Vincent Bollon, Sec-Treas., Fire Fighters Harold Schaitberger, President, IAFF Mike McKay President AMO John Ryan President GMP Taking the oath of office following their respective re-elections are (from left, starting second from left) MTD President Michael Sacco, Executive Secretary-Treasurer Frank Pecquex and Vice President Ernie Whelan. Dean Corgey Vice President SIU Tom Orzechowski Vice President SIU John Spadaro National Director UIW David Durkee Secretary-Treasurer BCTGM Don Nolan, Vice President, Paul Hall Center Bryan Powell, Port Agent, SIU Mike Grace Political Director CWA Nicholas Marrone Vice President SIU Ron Carver Nat’l Port Coord. Teamsters John Fay Executive VP SIU René Lioeanjie Vice President SIUNA Robert Roach General VP IAM Herb Perez Vice President UIW Ambrose Cucinotta Asst. VP SIU Walter Wise Treasurer Ironworkers Joseph Thibodeaux Executive VP BCTGM Sam Davis SecretaryTreasurer, Local 1458, ILA Don Marcus, VP, MM&P Gunnar Lundeberg, President, SUP, Bud Jacque, VP, MEBA Seafarers LOG 13 �29230_P7_14,17_24.qxd 8/29/2005 10:56 AM Page 14 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Convention MSC Official Credits Mariners, Predicts Substantial Job Growth O utlining the critical role that the American maritime industry has played in the war against terror and praising the support that U.S. civilian mariners have given the military’s humanitarian relief efforts in areas like Southeast Asia, a highranking representative of the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) used the Maritime Trades Department’s 2005 convention in Chicago to thank maritime labor for its hard work, professionalism and “can-do” spirit. Noting that MSC is part of the military responsible for global waterborne logistics, Capt. Michael Seifert, MSC’s chief of staff, praised maritime labor and predicted substantial job growth MSC Chief of Staff Michael Seifert for unionized civilian mariners over the next few years. Specifically mentioning SIU President Michael Sacco, MEBA President Ron Davis, MM&P President Tim Brown, AMO President Michael McKay and ILA President John Bowers by name, Seifert said, “When you look at the MSC, you’re looking at America’s unions. That is our strength, and that is why you are part of the national defense team. “Without the mariners, boilermakers, sheet metal workers, shipping company clerks, longshoremen, truck drivers and all the other highly skilled workers who bring the industry to life, the MSC couldn’t complete our mission.” Seifert explained that MSC is the largest single employer of civilian American mariners. Since September 2001, U.S. civilian mariners have delivered 77 million square feet of vehicles, helicopters, supplies and munitions to U.S. forces in the Middle East. Seifert was impressed with the way that U.S. civilian mariners handled themselves during the tsunami relief efforts. “We supplied medical care and services, fresh water and a can-do volunteer attitude that helped the victims in the area begin to rebuild their homes, businesses, hospitals and roads,” he said. Outlining a number of new missions and projects that MSC will be involved in, including operating Navy salvage ships, Seifert predicted that the agency will see significant growth. “In fact, by 2009 our afloat civil service workforce alone will grow by 55 percent,” he observed. “That’s more than 1,200 new jobs that will be filled by men and women represented by the Maritime Trades Department.” Seifert relayed that the U.S. military is looking into ways of making greater use of prepositioned MSC vessels. Unlike supplies stored at foreign land-based facilities, prepositioned MSC ships give the military immediate access “without (the need for) a permission slip,” he said. He concluded, “The bottom line here is we’re committed to providing more jobs for American maritime workers. We are growing, and we want you to grow along with us. The future of MSC and our Maritime Trades partners is bright. Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient America, one that can respond to any crisis or contingency and stay strong, committed and ready. “Every time we’re told ‘Well Governor, State Fed President Emphasize Grassroots Action D uring the MTD convention, Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich and Margaret Blackshere, president of the million-member Illinois AFL-CIO, offered numerous examples from their own state as to why grassroots political action remains vitally important to union members across the country. Despite major challenges faced by labor organizations throughout the United States, Blackshere and Blagojevich outlined the proworker progress that has been made in Illinois over the past few years. Citing hard work, perseverance and solidarity as the cornerstones of an effective grassroots strategy, Blackshere explained how the rights, wages and benefits of public employees have been protected at a time when the state has been trying to reduce a $5 billion deficit. She discussed improvements in health care, prescription drug coverage, education and labor protections, including longoverdue adjustments to the state’s minimum wage rate and enactment of state laws shielding Illinois workers from changes in the nation’s overtime regulations. Acknowledging that “they make decisions in Washington that we can’t affect,” Blackshere said trade union activists can make a difference at the state and local levels. And, in Illinois, to a large extent they have succeeded. She gave a great deal of credit to Blagojevich, a three-term congressman who has carried his passion for workers’ issues, especially health 14 Seafarers LOG care, to the governor’s office. Noting that his parents were immigrant workers who found middle-class respectability through the trade union movement, Blagojevich stressed, “Now that I’m governor of Illinois, I think about their challenges and their struggles, and I try to make decisions that would make the lives of people like my parents better.” Blagojevich addressed a major obstacle facing today’s workers when he pointed out, “Unlike the labor movement more than 100 years ago, nowadays the jobs of hard working people in this country are being shipped and exported to places where they don’t pay people fair wages. And while we have policies that come from Washington that are unfair to the labor movement and unfair to working people, in Illinois I’m proud to say we’ve gone in another in direction.” He added that people who care about working families must do more than simply electing proworker representatives. “You need to have organizations across the country that are strong, that fight the fight for men and women who do the work of the world. That’s why supporting labor has been a big priority of this administration. My mother and father were able to raise their kids in a family where they could afford to one day send them to college, because whatever money they earned and put aside and saved, they were able to do it because they had benefits and they had wages that were fair. And they had those things because they had Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich done’ by anyone, from the chief of naval operations, to the secretary of the Navy, secretary of Defense Mariners Deliver … and Deliver In describing the amount of materiel transported aboard U.S.-flag ships since the start of Operation Enduring Freedom, MSC Chief of Staff Capt. Michael Seifert put it in easily understandable terms. The 77 million square feet of cargo carried to U.S. war fighters in the Middle East “equates to about 812,000 SUVs,” Seifert explained. “If we placed them bumper to bumper on America’s highways, they would stretch from Washington, D.C. to Chicago, Illinois, and from here on to Boise, Idaho, all with union drivers behind the wheel, of course. “At the same time, you’ve helped us deliver more than 7.3 billion gallons of fuel for our war fighters. That much fuel would fill the Empire State Building more than 26 times or it would make a swimming pool almost 2 miles on a side and 10 feet deep. That’s the visualization of the combat cargo your union members have helped us deliver for the war on terrorism—no small job and a job that couldn’t have been done without you.” Shipping Council President: U.S. Port Security Improving, But Still Needs Enhancement T wo weeks before the Maritime Trades Department met for its 2005 convention, a series of bombings hit the London transit system. It was a vivid reminder that terrorism remains one of the central issues of our time. The MTD took up the subject of terrorism at its convention, expressing its admiration and support for the people of London and passing a resolution aimed at enhancing safety in the maritime sector. One of the guest speakers to the convention was Chris Koch, president and CEO of the World Shipping Council (WSC), which is an association of 40 liner companies. Koch also serves as chairman of the National Maritime Security Advisory Committee, a group appointed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. He outlined the progress that has been made in the maritime sector since September 11. Since that tragic day, the U.S. Coast Guard has taken the lead in drawing up a series of security plans. According to Koch, “Today, any ship above 100 gross tons coming into the United States has to have an approved and effective vessel security plan.” Koch also said that under fairly new domestic and international security regulations, U.S. personnel “travel around the world to ports that send vessels to the U.S. to monitor how those ports are doing” in terms of combating terrorism. Congress passed the Illinois AFL-CIO President Margaret Blackshere labor unions that fought for them.” The MTD executive board also heard updates about the department’s own grassroots successes, including securing the go-ahead for port modernization projects in New York, gaining local support for non-contiguous Jones Act protections in Hawaii and working with local politicians and leading community figures to preserve jobs at the Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard. or even the president, it’s a tribute to you at the Maritime Trades Department as well.” World Shipping Council President Chris Koch Maritime Transportation Security Act, which, among other things, requires the Department of Homeland Security to issue transportation workers identification cards. Despite this progress, Koch believes that U.S. ports remain highly vulnerable, especially since more than 10 million containers are imported into the United States each year and the nation has tens of thousands of square miles of inland waterways. Koch believes that technology can make a big difference. He said we may not be too far away from the day when U.S. ports will be able to scan every vessel. Unfortunately, nowadays fewer than five percent of all containers are being inspected. Moreover, he predicts that the Department of Homeland Security soon will enhance inspection requirements on all ocean carriers that load containers in foreign ports. Praising maritime labor for all it has done to enhance maritime security, Koch outlined where North Americans stand today. “We’re caught with this interesting dynamic our generation is facing for the first time, which is this global terrorist threat. We know our vulnerability. We know we have to address it.” He concluded, “We’re making really good progress. We are more secure today than we were last year and certainly more secure than we were on 9/11. But a candid reflection would say we aren’t where we need to be. So we have to keep moving ahead…. The maritime industry and maritime labor community are very much on the same page when it comes to enhancing maritime security. We both want to see a more effective cargo security regime so we can be confident that our ships, our seafarers and the legitimate cargo on those ships are protected.” In a similar vein, the MTD passed a resolution on port security calling for more federal funding. Over the past three years, airports have received more than $18 billion to combat terrorism. September 2005 �29230_P3,4,5,15,16.qxd 8/23/2005 7:54 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea October & November 2005 Membership Meetings JULY 16 — AUGUST 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 1 0 6 12 1 10 29 32 0 8 23 18 16 5 2 6 17 0 22 16 224 0 0 2 1 1 6 11 14 0 5 6 14 7 0 3 3 12 1 11 7 2 8 6 12 2 6 23 26 2 9 15 22 19 3 12 12 7 7 30 18 241 1 5 2 5 1 5 11 18 1 4 11 11 12 1 4 5 7 4 18 11 1 2 2 3 1 3 22 6 0 5 8 18 8 1 1 0 6 1 14 6 108 1 5 1 3 0 2 8 8 0 4 2 8 8 1 0 1 2 0 5 4 104 137 63 1 0 2 5 2 10 7 17 1 4 7 7 10 3 1 2 19 0 17 23 1 0 4 7 0 4 7 10 0 3 3 7 9 0 3 1 2 2 8 10 0 0 0 2 1 1 3 6 1 2 4 1 5 0 0 0 1 1 4 4 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 1 0 2 6 1 8 22 27 0 13 14 22 16 2 0 5 14 0 16 6 175 Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 0 3 4 1 2 5 14 18 0 9 11 17 18 4 13 6 11 1 23 13 173 1 0 0 2 1 1 11 3 0 2 6 5 5 1 0 0 3 0 5 5 51 0 0 3 0 0 3 14 22 0 7 15 15 7 1 3 4 11 0 25 7 137 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 3 1 1 7 10 12 0 4 7 8 8 3 2 3 10 1 11 4 95 0 1 4 2 3 4 6 15 1 4 6 10 10 2 3 5 7 2 11 10 106 1 6 0 2 1 0 4 4 0 4 0 2 7 1 0 1 2 2 3 4 44 0 0 0 0 0 3 5 8 0 4 3 9 6 2 1 3 6 0 8 9 67 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 3 0 12 4 11 1 6 6 9 6 2 0 2 19 0 12 14 138 81 36 107 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 3 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 7 0 3 3 1 1 3 4 0 7 12 23 1 5 7 28 8 0 4 2 11 1 16 5 2 2 2 5 4 8 20 12 0 2 11 23 18 1 14 1 10 0 19 7 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 1 0 0 5 3 0 0 0 0 2 0 6 1 0 0 4 2 3 3 3 5 0 1 2 4 8 0 3 0 3 1 8 8 58 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 0 0 2 1 1 3 0 0 0 1 2 3 2 0 0 1 1 0 2 6 6 0 2 1 7 7 0 2 1 8 1 12 10 19 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 1 0 2 0 5 9 5 0 6 4 19 2 0 7 2 5 0 12 2 0 3 2 1 0 2 6 5 0 0 3 4 13 0 4 0 4 0 7 5 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 2 0 13 6 2 15 46 53 0 11 27 49 28 8 2 17 31 0 62 42 5 10 9 11 6 13 37 62 2 8 25 36 27 5 12 13 9 13 50 34 3 4 3 1 2 4 34 21 0 8 14 26 11 0 1 1 9 1 25 20 414 387 188 0 0 2 0 1 10 20 35 0 6 17 21 9 4 2 8 21 1 16 17 2 4 0 3 2 10 15 36 0 4 8 11 14 3 7 3 10 5 32 10 3 2 1 1 1 2 11 13 0 2 6 12 7 0 2 1 4 0 8 12 190 179 88 2 0 5 2 2 16 25 34 1 7 17 29 11 4 6 1 37 1 33 38 4 0 3 5 2 8 6 18 0 8 6 7 18 2 4 3 6 1 11 17 1 0 0 1 0 1 4 10 1 0 6 3 4 0 0 1 1 1 6 7 67 271 129 47 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 4 7 6 0 1 1 3 0 0 0 1 11 0 9 4 3 0 4 2 0 12 26 33 1 8 13 58 13 2 16 2 20 1 28 17 6 4 3 4 7 11 36 40 0 3 17 58 22 2 26 2 10 4 38 18 22 139 161 23 81 59 0 48 259 311 488 598 368 400 418 173 271 923 954 634 *“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. September 2005 Piney Point .............Monday: October 3, November 7 Algonac ..................Friday: October 7 ................................Monday: November 14* ................................(*change created by Veterans Day holiday) Baltimore ................Thursday: October 6, November 10 Boston.....................Friday: October 7 ................................Monday: November 14* ................................(*change created by Veterans Day holiday) Duluth .....................Wednesday: October 12, November 16 Guam ......................Thursday: October 20 ................................Friday: November 25* ................................(*change created by Thanksgiving Day holiday) Honolulu .................Friday: October 14, November 18 Houston ..................Monday: October 10, November 14 Jacksonville ............Thursday: October 6, November 10 Joliet .......................Thursday: October 13, November 17 Mobile ....................Wednesday: October 12, November 16 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: October 11, November 15 New York................Tuesday: October 4, November 8 Norfolk ...................Thursday: October 6, November 10 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: October 5, November 9 Port Everglades.......Thursday: October 13, November 17 San Francisco .........Thursday: October 13, November 17 San Juan..................Thursday: October 6, November 10 St. Louis..................Friday: October 14, November 18 Tacoma ...................Friday: October 21, November 25 Wilmington ...............Monday: October 17, November 21 ................................. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. If you have written any stories or poems or kept a diary of your life at sea that you think other Seafarers would be interested in reading, send them along. Photogaphs (digital or prints) of shipboard life also would be welcomed. Send your items to: Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. LOG-A-RHYTHM Challenges for Seafarers by BR Natarajan Latitudes to go Longitudes to come Straits to pass Oceans to cross Ships to operate Tankers to control Cargoes to load Glories to unload Miles to log before you anchor Nautical miles to log before you anchor O cadet, go and conquer. (Dr. Natarajan is a professor and dean of distance learning programs at BITS Pilani (Rajasthan), India. He wrote this poem and recited it at an awards ceremony at the Tolani Maritime Institute in Induri, India in August of last year.). Seafarers LOG 15 �29230_P3,4,5,15,16.qxd 8/23/2005 7:59 PM Page 16 Seafarers International Union Directory NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report JULY 16 — AUGUST 15, 2005 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 DULUTH 324 W. Superior St., Suite 705, Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 8 5 7 5 16 1 0 3 45 1 3 0 0 2 0 1 0 7 2 2 8 8 2 2 4 4 32 REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 7 10 7 3 19 2 1 1 50 1 1 0 1 4 0 0 0 7 2 3 9 3 2 3 4 4 30 1 4 4 5 16 1 2 4 37 8 35 11 18 28 3 1 12 116 1 6 7 8 12 0 1 5 40 0 4 5 20 2 0 4 0 35 0 2 3 0 0 2 0 0 7 9 14 6 6 15 2 1 2 55 0 4 9 3 10 0 1 1 28 0 5 5 12 0 1 1 0 24 0 1 6 0 0 2 0 0 11 6 11 7 5 10 1 0 4 44 2 8 4 2 14 0 0 2 32 0 3 1 10 0 1 2 1 18 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 5 5 5 2 1 1 0 0 19 0 1 4 2 2 0 1 0 10 0 0 6 5 2 0 0 0 13 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 2 7 3 0 1 1 0 0 14 0 2 2 0 1 0 0 0 5 0 0 6 1 2 0 0 0 9 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 6 2 1 1 3 0 0 0 13 3 1 3 1 4 0 0 0 12 0 0 2 4 2 1 0 2 11 Port 2 2 3 3 4 0 1 0 15 3 1 5 0 1 0 0 0 10 0 0 1 1 2 1 0 2 7 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 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 77 29 56 79 22 46 55 215 100 77 PICS-FROM-THE-PAST These photos were sent to the Seafarers LOG by Andrew Boney of South Hill, Va. The ship is the Keystone State during military J-LOTS exercises off the coast of Norfolk, Va. in 1984; the other photo is of the first deck department aboard that vessel (which also worked together on other crane ships for nine years). Accompanying the photos was a copy of a letter from former SIU President Frank Drozak, thanking Boney and the rest of the crew for the “excellent manner in which you represented the profesionalism and experience of SIU crews” during the exercise. From the left (standing) are Andrew Boney, Dave Novogratz, Paul Lewis and (seated) Lou Fladge. Boney, now 77, sailed as a recertified bosun, last working in 1990 aboard the Cape Flattery. 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. September 2005 �29230_P7_14,17_24.qxd 8/26/2005 12:13 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 JOHNNY CRINER, 65, became an SIU member in 1986 in the port of Norfolk, Va. His first ship was the USNS Assurance. Brother Criner upgraded in 2001 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. The steward department member’s most recent voyage was aboard the USNS Impeccable. Born in Haskell, Okla., Brother Criner resides in Norfolk. JOHN FUNK, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1964 in the port of New York after serving in the U.S. Navy. Brother Funk initially shipped on the Sea Pioneer as a member of the engine department. He was a frequent upgrader at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Funk was born in New York. His last ship was the Cape Trinity. Brother Funk is a resident of Laporte, Texas. BILLY HILLIARD, 66, was born in Louisiana. He began his seafaring career in 1967 when he sailed on the Halcyon Panther. Brother Hilliard worked in the engine department and enhanced his skills in 2000 and 2004 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Hilliard last shipped aboard the Horizon Reliance. He makes his home in Madera, Calif. KEITH O’BRYAN, 50, joined the SIU in 1973 in Piney Point, Md. Brother O’Bryan’s first voyage was on the Sea-Land Market. Born in Richland, Wash., he sailed in the deck department. Brother O’Bryan most recently worked aboard the Atlantic. He attended the Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions to upgrade his skills. Brother O’Bryan calls St. Petersburg, Fla. home FRANK SISON, 66, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1970 from the port of Seattle. Brother Sison first sailed aboard a Michigan Tankers vessel. He was born in Washington and worked in the steward department. Brother Sison upgraded his skills on several occasions at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His last ship was the Maj. Bernard F. Fisher. Brother Sison lives in his native state. INLAND ROBERT ALBURTUS, 68, joined the union in 1987. During his seafaring career, Boatman Alburtus was employed by NY September 2005 Waterway. The deck department member was born in New Jersey and resides in Toms River, N.J. JOHN DANIELS, 62, embarked on his SIU career in 1961 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Daniels initially worked in the deck department aboard an Interstate Oil Transport vessel. He was born in North Carolina. Boatman Daniels is a resident of Belhaven, N.C. His last voyage was aboard a Maritrans vessel. JOHN KAHRIGER, 62, is a native of Pennsylvania. Boatman Kahriger began shipping with the Seafarers in 1962 from the port of Philadelphia. He first worked aboard a Moran Towing vessel. Boatman Kahriger shipped in the deck department. He last sailed on a Taylor Marine Towing Co. vessel. Boatman Kahriger makes his home in Laurel Springs, N.J. ERNEST LARSEN, 70, joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He enhanced his skills at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. The Texas native first sailed with Steuart Transportation. Prior to retiring, Boatman Larsen shipped aboard a Penn Maritime vessel. He calls Jasper, Texas home. RICHARD SIMON, 65, was born in New York. Boatman Simon launched his career with the SIU in 1977 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He primarily shipped aboard Moran Towing of Va. vessels. Boatman Simon is a resident of Urbana, Va. GREAT LAKES CLEYON DART, 65, began his seafaring career in 1967 in the port of St. Louis. Born in Wisconsin, Brother Dart worked in the engine department. His first ship was the John Roen IV. Brother Dart lives in Sturgeon Bay, Wis. ANTHONY WILLOUGHBY, 59, became a Seafarer in 1968. Brother Willoughby initially shipped on a Zenith Dredge Co. vessel. He was born in Duluth, Mich. and resides in Superior, Mich. Brother Willoughby last worked on a Great Lakes Towing Co. vessel. 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. HERBERT ADOLPH, 68, joined the NMU in 1989. During his seafaring career, Brother Adolph worked in both the steward and engine departments. He was born in New Orleans. FRANK COLON, 64, became a member of the union in 1967, initially shipping from the port of San Juan. Brother Colon sailed in the steward department. The Puerto Ricoborn mariner last shipped aboard the Cape Vincent. FRANK DEMETRO, 56, began sailing with the NMU in 1965. Brother Demetro’s first ship was the American Veteran. He was born in Philadelphia. During his seafaring career, Brother Demetro worked in all three departments. He is a veteran of the U.S. Army and last sailed on the Cape Henry. NED McWILLIAMS, 55, started shipping with the NMU in 1977, initially sailing from San Pedro, Calif. Brother McWilliams’s first voyage was on the Texaco Florida. He is a native of Mexia, Texas. LUIS SANTIAGO, 67, hails from Puerto Rico. Brother Santiago joined the NMU in 1967. The steward department member initially shipped from the port of Baltimore. Brother Santiago’s most recent trip to sea was aboard the Cape Decision. EDWARD WALLACE, 63, commenced his career with the union in 1969 in Norfolk, Va. Brother Wallace was born in Lumberton, N.C. and shipped in the steward department. His first ship was the Export Courier; his last was the Cape Rise. SALIH YAFAI, 75, joined the NMU in 1964. Born in Yemen, Brother Yafai worked in the engine department. He most recently sailed aboard the Export Patriot. With Seafarers on the Sulphur Enterprise SIU Representative Kevin Marchand (standing, far left) submitted this photo taken after a recent meeting aboard the Seafarers-crewed Sulphur Enterprise in Tampa. During the Aug. 1 meeting, crew members discussed the importance of shipboard safety, the ongoing need for political action and the SIU’s role as part of America’s fourth arm of defense. Pictured with Marchand are (standing, from left) Seafarers Larry Griffin, Stefon Otey, Sonny Pinkham, Kenny Roetzer, (front) Carlos Colon and Anthony Grant. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1944 One of the most modern union halls in the country was officially opened last week by the SIU. The sixstory building at 51 Beaver Street will house both the New York Branch and the Atlantic & Gulf District offices. The union occupies the top five floors with the shipping hall taking the entire second floor. The lounge, complete with card and writing tables, takes the third floor. The stewards’ offices and the baggage room, which offers free baggage checking for members in good standing, are on the fourth floor, and branch offices, including the office of the Seafarers LOG, take up the fifth floor. Atlantic & Gulf District headquarters comprises the top floor. The reaction of the membership to their new home has been very favorable. Commenting on the new building, one Seafarer said, “From now on we don’t have to take off our hat to nobody.” averted a strike against the company’s 13 vessels a scant few hours before the expiration of the “cooling off” period, set as a result of a federal court injunction on July 3. Alcoa was the only major SIU-contracted operator which was unsigned when the injunction was issued. The SIU had signed most of its contracted operators before the June 15 strike deadline, but shipping was tied up for 18 days by strikes of other unions involved before the injunction was issued. This Month In SIU History 1961 On the eve of the expiration of an 80-day TaftHartley Injunction, the Alcoa Steamship Company reached agreement with the SIU on outstanding contract issues. The agreement on September 21 1995 Seafarers, pensioners, their families and friends are plunging into the fight by urging Congress to enact maritime revitalization legislation. Through letters, telephone calls, petitions and personal meetings, union members, retirees and others are telling members of the House of Representatives and the Senate to pass legislation that would provide funds to help operate up to 50 militarily useful U.S.-flag containerships over the next 10 years. At hearings in both the House and Senate, the SIU has stated its support for maritime revitalization legislation. Meanwhile, SIU members have found other ways to let Congress know the importance of the U.S.-flag merchant marine. Seafarers LOG 17 �29230_P7_14,17_24.qxd 8/22/2005 5:28 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA JOSEPH ARCH Pensioner Joseph Arch, 90, passed away May 18. Brother Arch was born in Honduras and joined the SIU in 1951. He first sailed on the Jefferson City Victory. A member of the deck department. Brother Arch retired in 1978. He called Chalmette, La. home. ALBERT BLAZIO Pensioner Albert Blazio, 85, died May 28. Brother Blazio became a Seafarer in 1945 in the port of Baltimore, Md. His first ship was the Alcoa Pennant; his last was the Robert E. Lee. Brother Blazio worked in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in 1982. Brother Blazio was born in New Orleans and made his home in Metairie, La. JOSEPH CASTELLANOS Brother Joseph Castellanos, 69, passed away March 31. He started his seafaring career in 1978 in San Francisco, initially sailing on the Santa Maria. Born in California, Brother Castellanos shipped in the steward department. His last voyage was aboard the Kauai. Brother Castellanos made his home in La Habra, Calif. MILTON COX Pensioner Milton Cox, 76, died May 27. Born in Mississippi, Brother Cox joined the SIU in 1951 in New York. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and sailed as a member of the steward department. His last trip to sea was aboard the Falcon Champion. Brother Cox resided in Gulfport, Miss. and went on pension in 1991. ROMOLO DeVIRGILEO Pensioner Romolo DeVirgileo, 80, passed away April 22. Brother DeVirgileo joined the SIU ranks in 1949 in New York, first sailing on a Sprogue Steamship Co. vessel. The deck department member last worked aboard the Sea-Land Integrity. Brother DeVirgileo was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. He started collecting his retirement pay in 1989. Brother DeVirgileo resided in his native state. RAUL FIOL Brother Raul Fiol, 73, died May 4. He embarked on his seafaring career in 1970 in the port of San Francisco after serving in the U.S. Army. Brother Fiol’s first trip to sea was on the Santa Maria. The Puerto Ricoborn mariner worked in the steward department. Brother Fiol last shipped on the President Roosevelt. He was a resident of San Francisco. LEO GILLIKIN Pensioner Leo Gillikin, 78, passed away May 16. Brother Gillikin began his employment with the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of Norfolk, Va. A member of the deck department, Brother Gillikin was born in North Carolina. His final trip to sea was aboard the Sugar Islander. Brother Gillikin began 18 Seafarers LOG receiving his retirement compensation in 1982 and called Morehead City, N.C. home. receiving his retirement compensation in 1982. He was a resident of Bakersfield, Calif. JERRY GLOVER NEMESIO QUINONES Brother Jerry Glover, 78, died April 24. He joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in San Francisco. Brother Glover was born in California and shipped in the steward department. He resided in his native state. Pensioner Nemesio Quinones, 78, passed away May 9. Brother Quinones joined the Seafarers in 1951 in his native Puerto Rico after serving in the U.S. Army. The steward department member last sailed on the Empire State. Brother Quinones, who called Bronx, N.Y. home, went on pension in 1988. SCOTT HUNG Brother Scott Hung, 79, passed away March 22. He joined the MC&S in the port of San Francisco, working in the steward department. Born in China, Brother Hung made his home in San Francisco. HOLGER JENSEN MANUEL RIAL Brother Holger Jensen, 82, died April 8. Born in Denmark, he began sailing with the MC&S from the port of San Francisco. Brother Jensen was a steward department member and a resident of Carson City, Nev. Pensioner Manuel Rial, 87, died April 20. Brother Rial began his SIU career in 1943 in New York, sailing as a member of the engine department. He was born in Spain and lived in Brooklyn, N.Y. Brother Rial went on pension in 1984. HENRY JONES JR. ANTHONY SKILLMAN Pensioner Henry Jones Jr., 69, passed away May 31. Brother Jones started shipping with the SIU in 1964 in the port of San Francisco. He first sailed on the Del Sol, where he worked in the steward department. Brother Jones was a native of Jonesville, La. Brother Jones, who last sailed on the LNG Leo, went on pension in 2000. He lived in Seattle, Wash. Pensioner Anthony Skillman, 85, passed away June 2. Brother Skillman was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. and joined the union in 1944 in the port of Baltimore, Md. He first shipped in the deck department aboard the Elizabeth. Brother Skillman was a veteran of the U.S. Army. His last trip to sea was on the Gallaway. Brother Skillman resided in Wyoming and started collecting his retirement pay in 1978. WILLIAM MORRIS JR. Pensioner William Morris Jr., 81, died May 24. Brother Morris joined the union in 1943 in the port of Baltimore, Md. Born in Tennessee, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Morris was born in Tennessee. Before retiring in 1986, he shipped on the Overseas New York. Brother Morris called Crosby, Texas home. LEO PARADISE Pensioner Leo Paradise, 78, passed away May 18. Brother Paradise embarked on his seafaring career in 1947 in New York. Born in Fall River, Mass., Brother Paradise worked in the deck department. His last voyage was on the Duchess. Brother Paradise retired in 1992 and made his home in New Hampshire. SHERMAN PHILLIPS Pensioner Sherman Phillips, 89, died May 20. Brother Phillips joined the SIU in 1955 in New Orleans. Brother Phillips was born in Texas and sailed in the steward department. He last sailed aboard the Leader. Brother Phillips began THOMAS SNEAD Pensioner Thomas Snead, 74, died Dec. 22. Brother Snead became an SIU member in 1964 in New Orleans after serving in the U.S. Army. Prior to retiring in 1988, the Georgia native worked on the Horizon Producer. He made his home in New Orleans. MAURICE STOVER Pensioner Maurice Stover, 88, passed away April 13. Brother Stover launched his seafaring career in 1968 in the port of Seattle, Wash. His first voyage was aboard the Falmouth. A native of Berkeley, Calif., Brother Stover was a member of the engine department. He was a resident of Shelton, Wash. and retired in 1982. ULUS VEACH Pensioner Ulus Veach, 74, died March 25. Brother Veach began sailing with the SIU in 1948 in New York. The deck department member was born in North Carolina. Brother Veach’s first trip to sea was aboard a Transeastern Shipping Co. vessel; his last was on the LNG Taurus. He lived in his native state and went on pension in 1995. SADAK WALA Pensioner Sadak Wala, 76, passed away April 27. Brother Wala joined the ranks of the SIU in 1953 in New York. The Indonesian-born mariner shipped in the engine department, initially aboard the Fairland. Before his retirement in 1989, Brother Wala worked on the Kaimoku. He called Brooklyn, N.Y. home. INLAND MICHAEL FALCONE Pensioner Michael Falcone, 95, died April 20. Boatman Falcone joined the union in 1967 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He worked in the engine department and began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1974. Boatman Falcone resided in New York. BERNARD FREBURGER JR. Pensioner Bernard Freburger Jr., 82, passed away April 2. Boatman Freburger became a Seafarer in 1957 in Baltimore, Md. after serving in the U.S. Navy. He worked in the deck department, primarily aboard McAllister Towing of Baltimore vessels. Boatman Freburger was born in Maryland and called Glen Burnie, Md. home. He went on pension in 1984. marily on vessels operated by McAllister Towing of Baltimore. Boatman Mach was a native of Maryland and shipped as a member of the deck department. He called Baltimore home. JAMES MARTIN Pensioner James Martin, 70, died Feb. 4. Born in Louisiana, Boatman Martin first donned the SIU colors in 1960 in New Orleans. He went on pension in 1996 and resided in his native state. PEDRO MORET Pensioner Pedro Moret, 65, passed away Feb. 22. Boatman Moret joined the union in 1976 in his native Puerto Rico. He worked in the deck department, shipping primarily on Crowley Towing and Transportation vessels. He continued to live in Puerto Rico and began receiving his retirement stipends in 1998. MARION PEOPLES Pensioner Marion Peoples, 62, died Feb. 22. Boatman Peoples joined the SIU in 1988 in the port of Houston. Born in Texas, he lived in Fulton, Ky. Boatman Peoples retired in 2004. BENJAMIN GRIGGS JR. WILLIAM PETTIS Pensioner Benjamin Griggs Jr., 83, died Feb. 1. Boatman Griggs started his SIU career in 1963 in Port Arthur, Texas. His first ship was the Seabulk Tanker. A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Boatman Griggs shipped in the deck department. He was born in Knight, La. and made Kirbyville, Texas home. He retired in 1983. Boatman William Pettis, 53, passed away Dec. 27. He became an SIU member in 1975 in New Orleans. Boatman Pettis worked in the deck department. A native of Wiggins, Miss., he resided in Gretna, La. SIDNEY GUIDRY Boatman Sidney Guidry, 62, passed away Dec. 25. A native of Louisiana, he commenced his seafaring career in 1990 in New Orleans. Boatman Guidry was a member of the steward department. He last sailed aboard the Dodge Island. He made his home in his native state. RAYMOND HUDSON Pensioner Raymond Hudson, 80, died Jan. 22. Boatman Hudson joined the Seafarers in 1957 in the port of Philadelphia. The U.S. Navy veteran shipped in the deck department. Born in Pennsylvania, he last sailed with Moran Towing of Philadelphia. Boatman Hudson retired in 1984. He was a resident of Salisbury, Md. LEON MACH SR. Pensioner Leon Mach Sr., 77, passed away Dec. 15. Boatman Mach began sailing with the SIU in 1957 in the port of Baltimore. He worked pri- JAMES SEBASTIAN Boatman James Sebastian, 61, died Dec. 10. Born in Ocean Port, N.J., he started sailing with the Seafarers in 1994 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Boatman Sebastian was a member of the deck department and worked primarily aboard Alabama Pilot vessels. He called Mobile, Ala. home. 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. MELVIN BELLAMY Pensioner Melvin Bellamy, 80, passed away Feb. 9. Brother Bellamy joined the NMU in 1943 initially sailing from the port of New York. He first went to sea aboard the Christy Payne. Brother Bellamy was born in Baltimore and shipped in the steward department. His last voyage was on the Independence. Brother Bellamy began collecting his retirement pay in 1967. Continued on page 20 September 2005 �29230_P7_14,17_24.qxd 8/22/2005 5:32 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. CLEVELAND (Sealift), June 12— Chairman Fareed Khan, Secretary Miguel E. Vinca, Educational Director Victorino G. Labrilla, Deck Delegate Leon Curtis, Steward Delegate Ruben C. Ong. Chairman thanked deck department members for great job cleaning cargo hold and expressed appreciation to all departments for job well done. Secretary asked those members departing ship to clean rooms for next person and also requested everyone separate plastic items from regular trash. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food and barbecue. Next port: Houston, Texas. BRENTON REEF (Seabulk), June 22—Chairman Thomas W. Lasater, Secretary Norman A. Jackson, Educational Director Charles H. Kennedy, Deck Delegate Joseph S. Merriweather, Engine Delegate Ron Westerfield, Steward Delegate Norman A. Jackson. Chairman lead discussion on job security and importance of SPAD as well as changes to health benefit plan. He advised Seafarers to keep dues paid up and notify headquarters of address and/or dependent changes. Educational director urged crew to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made to reduce seatime requirements for full pension benefits and raise monthly pension amounts. Bosun praised all hands for working well together. Mariners were reminded to clean lint filter in dryer due to potential fire hazard. Crew requested e-mail access. Next ports: Los Angeles and San Francisco, Calif. HORIZON SPIRIT (Horizon Lines), June 30—Chairman Howard W. Gibbs, Secretary Edgardo G. Ombac, Educational Director Roger M. Wasserman, Engine Delegate Thomas V. Hastings, Steward Delegate Henry J. Commanger. Chairman announced payoff at sea. He stated he would discuss medical benefit changes with patrolman in next port, Tacoma, Wash. and report back to them. He thanked everyone for following safety procedures during trip. Secretary reported new coffee machine, dryer and pillows to arrive in Tacoma. Food stores will be received in Oakland, Calif. Educational director reminded crew to keep movie cabinet locked while in port. He advised them to check document expiration dates and upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point. Treasurer stated $233 in movie fund; new movies to be purchased in Tacoma. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was praised for good food, lots of cookies and putting on a great BBQ. Next ports: Oakland; Honolulu; Guam; Hong Kong. LIBERTY GLORY (Liberty Maritime), June 19—Chairman Timothy J. Jackson, Secretary Matthew Scott, Educational September 2005 Director Mike Kifle, Deck Delegate Zinnonnon Jackson, Steward Delegate Joel P. Crow. Chairman announced payoff July 1 in Houston. He thanked crew members for a smooth voyage. Secretary urged Seafarers to apply months in advance for MMDs. Educational director encouraged upgrading skills at Piney Point as “the way to go.” No beefs or disputed OT reported. Galley dishwasher and ice machine are to be fixed in next port. Suggestion made to reduce age requirements for full retirement benefits and increase wages across the board. Crew thanked Bosun Jackson and Steward Scott for displaying great leadership skills on this trip. OVERSEAS HARRIETTE (OSG Ship Management), June 19— Chairman Clyde C. Smith, Secretary George Quinn, Deck Delegate George A. Giraud, Engine Delegate John R. Bodden, Steward Delegate Charles Atkins. Chairman announced ship to dock in Houston on June 20; payoff to take place next morning. Ship will remain in Houston approximately six days before next voyage. Secretary thanked crew members for helping keep mess and lounge clean. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Phone service aboard vessel in need of repair. Suggestions made regarding lowering age and seatime requirements for full pension benefits. Crew requested new dryer in laundry room. Next port: Massawa, Ethiopia. PATRIOT (Maersk Line Limited), June 14—Chairman George B. Khan, Secretary Robin D. Ballard, Educational Director Philip A. Curtis, Deck Delegate Chad Chivrell, Engine Delegate Sjarifudin Noor, Steward Delegate Carmelo B. Dela Cruz. Chairman announced reflagging of vessel to take place Aug. 19. He noted that relief list was e-mailed to Wilmington hall. Secretary reminded crew members to help keep ship neat and clean. Educational director let mariners know that class schedules for courses available at Paul Hall Center are listed in monthly Seafarers LOG. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held pertaining to letter from headquarters regarding staying aboard ship. Next port: Ensenada, Mexico. PERSEVERANCE (Maritrans), June 27—Chairman Thomas R. Temple, Secretary Louie L. Perez, Educational Director Leonel S. Lazo, Deck Delegate David R. Harvey, Engine Delegate German C. Valerio, Steward Delegate William B. Young. Chairman advised mariners to start six months in advance when renewing z-cards. Pay raise announced effective June 1. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held about new memorandum of understanding and about changes to payroll agreement. Next ports: Galveston and Houston. QUALITY (Maersk Line Limited), June 26—Chairman John J. Williamson, Secretary Alexander Banky, Educational Director Timothy E. Pillsworth, Engine Delegate Lawrence Banks. Chairman announced July 2 payoff in Newark, N.J. Secretary requested cardiovascular gym equipment be moved to central location for all crew members to use. Educational director talked about the opportunities available at Paul Hall Center to upgrade skills. Treasurer stated $1,300 in ship fund. No beefs; disputed OT reported in deck department. Discussion held about weekly drill and training issues. Next ports: Norfolk, Va.; Charleston, S.C.; Freeport and Houston, Texas. USNS DAHL (Maersk Line Limited), June 27—Chairman Herman L. Reynolds, Secretary James H. McLeod, Educational Director Alexander Zharkoff, Deck Delegate Harry C. Downey, Engine Delegate Keith A. Bailey, Steward Delegate Abraham A. Mills. Chairman announced June 27 arrival of ship in Sasebo, Japan and several days later will leave for Saipan. He reminded crew members to stay in good standing by keeping dues paid up and making sure all documents are current. Secretary reported smooth trip from Charleston, S.C to Sasebo. He congratulated ship’s crew on successful sanitary inspection. Special thanks to bosun and deck department for always lending a helping hand. Educational director stressed importance of education and spoke about opportunities available at Piney Point school. He encouraged everyone to attend upgrading classes and reminded them that course dates are listed in Seafarers LOG. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held about benefits of investing in Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan (SMPPP). Crew requested more information on Coast Guard and STCW status as well as about changes made to Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Crew voted to purchase new barbecue grill for cookouts. Recommendation made to purchase fishing gear (rods, reel, tackle) for recreational purposes. DVD player and DVDs for crew lounge should arrive soon. Steward department was recognized for professionalism while preparing and serving food. Next port: Sasebo. WILLIAM B. BAUGH (Maersk Line Limited), June 6—Chairman Ralph F. Schneider, Secretary William H. Kane, Educational Director Louis A. Santiago, Deck Delegate Howard A. Arrington, Engine Delegate Justin L. Bing, Steward Delegate Sheng-Jen Hsieh. Secretary reminded crew of change in medical benefits plan. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Moment of silence was observed for departed union brothers and sisters. Washing machine in need of repair. Thanks given to everyone for helping keep messhall, house and lounge areas clean, along with special thanks to steward department for baking great cheesecakes. Next ports: Malta, Spain, Italy and Greece. CHEMICAL PIONEER (USS Transport), July 10—Chairman Kelvin S. Cherington, Secretary Ronald D. Jones, Educational Director Terry T. Smith, Deck Delegate Francis W. Dover, Engine Delegate Antonio F. Simon. Chairman talked about changes to medical plan and urged Seafarers to become familiar with them. He also spoke about renewing shipping documents and/or passports as well as about new tools for deck department and how to maintain them. Secretary thanked crew for keeping ship neat and tidy. He said it was a pleasure working with them for 60 days as a relief, however permanent steward to return in next port. Educational director encouraged everyone to take advantage of Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point. Treasurer stated $260 in ship’s fund, in which $40 was used to purchase CD player for gym. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made to reduce sea time needed for full retirement and increase monthly pension. Clarification requested on shuttle service to and from ship. Next port: Bayonne, N.J. upgrading classes at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Treasurer stated more than $200 in ship’s fund. Three new chairs have been ordered for crew mess hall. Bosun reminded members contract negotiations are coming up soon and now would be good time to make any recommendations they may have. Suggestions made regarding pension plan. Next ports: Jacksonville, Fla.; San Juan, P.R. EXPLORER (Maersk Line Limited), July 3—Chairman Doyle W. Ellette, Secretary William R. Burdette, Educational Director Eugene T. Bedard, Deck Delegate Thomas W. Walker, Engine Delegate Gerardo A. Vega, Steward Delegate Robert Sutherland Jr. Chairman verified rumors about reflagging, which is to take place Aug. 8 in Hong LIBERATOR (Maersk Line Limited), July 17—Chairman Jose F. Caballero, Secretary Brandon D. Maeda, Educational Director Michael S. Kirby, Deck Delegate Edwin Ortega, Engine Delegate Jeffrey E. Roddy, Steward Delegate Sukirman B. Suraredjo. Chairman announced July 20 payoff in Newark, N.J. He reported enjoyable voyage, with excellent Meeting aboard the USNS Hayes SIU Representative Kevin Marchand submitted these photos of Seafarers aboard the USNS Hayes. The photos were taken last month in Cape Canaveral, Fla. The Hayes is an acoustic survey ship that is part of the U.S. Military Sealift Command fleet. Kong. The scheduled run is to Mexico and Panama and then Hong Kong via Chiwan, China. He noted all previous safety items have been taken care of. Any new items should be reported right away. Those persons getting off vessel should get clean linen for next person. Secretary advised Seafarers to check crew list to confirm name and book number are correctly typed. Treasurer stated $220 in ship fund. No beefs; disputed OT reported in deck department. Recommendations made regarding wording of freightship agreement. Next ports: Ensenada and Lazardo Cardenas, Mexico. HORIZON CHALLENGER (Horizon Lines), July 11—Chairman William J. Card, Secretary Donald B. GaNung, Educational Director Hiawatha J. Williams. Chairman stated payoff to take place when cleared by patrolman. He warned crew to expect anywhere from two to six months when renewing MMDs. Educational director stressed importance of staying educated in maritime field and by attending crew. Educational director advised crew members to contribute to SPAD. Bosun to speak to patrolman at payoff concerning money in crew’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman urged crew to read Seafarers LOG to get better understanding of what’s happening in maritime industry. Next port: Newark; Baltimore; Newport News, Va.; Charleston, S.C. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line Limited), July 3—Chairman Kadir P. Amat, Secretary James H. Rider, Educational Director Mohamed Y. Abdullah, Deck Delegate Abdul Q. Gharama, Engine Delegate Adam M. Noor. Chairman encouraged all mariners to read president’s report in each issue of Seafarers LOG, enhance their skills at Piney Point facility and donate to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made regarding retirement requirements. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Norfolk, Va.; Elizabeth, N.J. Seafarers LOG 19 �29230_P7_14,17_24.qxd 8/22/2005 5:37 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: Final Departures Continued from page 18 CHESTER DUGAR Pensioner Chester Dugar, 79, died April 25. Brother Dugar started his seafaring career in 1967, shipping first from Galveston, Texas on the R.E. Wilson. The steward department member was born in Texas. Before retiring in 1986, Brother Dugar worked aboard the Shirley Lykes. JOHN MARKOVIC Pensioner John Markovic, 81, passed away April 10. Brother Markovic became an NMU member in 1943 in New York. His first vessel was the Markay. Brother Markovic was born in New York and sailed in the engine department. He last shipped on the Leslie Lykes. Brother Markovic started receiving his pension in 1985. BERNARD TOR Pensioner Bernard Tor, 77, died April 30. Brother Tor first donned the NMU colors in 1963 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. His first voyage 20 Seafarers LOG was aboard the Twin Falls Victory. Brother Tor was a member of the steward department. His last voyage was on the Austral Rainbow. Brother Tor went on pension in 1983. JOSEF WALTERS Pensioner Josef Walters, 77, passed away April 27. Brother Walters was born in Germany. He began his seafaring profession in 1962 in New York. His first ship was the Atlantic. A member of the steward department, Brother Walters last sailed on the Puritan. He began collecting his retirement compensation in 1988. EMANUEL WEAVER JR. Pensioner Emanuel Weaver Jr., 83, died April 30. Brother Weaver began shipping with the NMU in 1944. His first ship was the Alexander. Born in New Orleans, which is also where he joined the union, Brother Weaver last sailed on the Thompson Lykes. He retired in 1988. 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 Alexander, Frank Artis, William Brown, James Buffham, Ernest Carmona, Juan Cizewski, Walter Dinko, Andy Ewens, Ralph Felt, Eddie Filas, Frank Freeman, Richard Frenette, Joseph Galamb, Michael Gant, Henry Garza, Ricardo Goodson, Ralph Jackson, Henry King, Alcee Lacayo, Isidoro Moore, Max Morena, Antonia Oakes, Douglas Price, William Ramos, Herminio Ramos, Miguel Rivers, Reno Roberts, Edward Ruble, Cleva Ryan, Walter Sandoval, Joseph Seaton, Charles Shepherd, Donald Snowden, Arthur Stejr, Dennis Threatt, Dudley Tirzo, Pablo Wiltshire, William Wyman, Howard AGE DOD 88 75 75 82 93 87 80 77 79 83 70 87 86 83 81 61 73 84 70 86 86 78 76 89 88 76 72 84 75 80 81 77 88 62 77 81 62 85 May 31 May 8 March 19 Dec. 28, ’04 June 18 June 20 April 17 Feb. 13. May 28 May 21 June 2 May 7 May 26 March 26 May 20 June 3 March 26 April 2 May 12 June 1 May 23 April 19 June 2 Feb. 19 June 15 June 4 April 14 April 12 March 28 May 14 May 26 Feb. 3 May 5 June 2 May 23, ’03 May 26 April 7 June 2 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. September 2005 �29230_P7_14,17_24.qxd 8/23/2005 8:15 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. Course Start Date Date of Completion FOWT September 19 November 11 Welding October 24 November 11 Safety Specialty Courses Course Government Vessels Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* Start Date Date of Completion September 26 October 31 November 14 September 30 November 4 November 18 September 26 October 7 October 17 October 21 (*must have basic fire fighting) Deck Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman October 3 November 14 October 28 December 9 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) October 24 October 28 GMDSS (Simulator) October 31 November 11 Lifeboatman/Water Survival September 19 October 29 September 30 November 11 Radar October 10 October 19 Radar Renewal (1 day): October 31 Course Engine Upgrading Courses Tankerman (PIC) Barge* (*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. Look for additional upgrading course dates in an upcoming issue Steward Upgrading Courses of the Seafarers LOG. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning September 5, 2005. � 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 ________________________________________________ September 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. 9/05 Seafarers LOG 21 �29230_P7_14,17_24.qxd 8/22/2005 5:49 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 664 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 664. Kneeling (from left) are Kevin Tyson, Alexander Ward, Stephon Thompson and Terrance Dunn. Standing are Robert Hayes, Richard Wright, William Clifton, Brandon Tanton, Robert Newcomb II, Elmer Marko, Ricardo Nuño, Dustin Schultz, Philip Smith, Daniel Manning, Stravon Jordan, Sterling Cox, Willie Frink and Ismael Garayua. Marine Electrician — Successfully completing the marine electrician course June 10 are (in alphabetical order) Philip Ayotte, Daniel Borden, David Castro, Alfonza Davis, Milan Dzurek, Stanley Golden, Sammy Montana, Matthew Redlinger, Albert Riollano, Neil Warren and Quincy Wilson. Their instructor, Jay Henderson, is second from right. Advanced Fire Fighting — With their instructor, Joe Zienda (far right), are upgrading Seafarers who completed the advanced fire fighting course May 27. They are (in no specific order) Miguel Rivera, Jeff Hawkins, Mark Hummel, Roland Guity, William Parker, Seth Rockwell, Thomas Burke, Lawrence Soulier, Darrel Koonce Jr., Jason Lee, Paul Kucan II, John Barnard III, Robert Lee and Gary Ranne. Medical Care Provider — June 3 was graduation day for students in the medical care provider course. They are (in alphabetical order) Weston Beres, Thomas Burke, William Farmer, Robert Lee, Paul Lind, Marc Marcus, Gary Ranne, Miguel Rivera and John Zabielski. Their instructor, Mark Cates, is at far left. Computer Lab Classes Left: May 13 — (from left) Gary Ranne, Sean Farra, Instructor Rick Prucha and Gerry Davis. Congratulations to all the students who recently received certificates of achievement for completing various computer courses offered at the Paul Hall Center. 22 Seafarers LOG Graduating from this course June 10 under the instruction of Stan Beck (far left) are (in no specific order) Vess Dyoulgerov, Lindsey Sikora, Alvin Moore, Jason Varner, Rodolfo Antonio, Willie Jones, Antoine Jennings and James Buckowski. FOWT— Completing the FOWT course May 20 are (in no specific order) Kyle Byron, Rodolfo Cunanan, Bernard Corbett, Lawrence Guerrero, Carlo Johnson, Michael Alexander, Darryl Churchill, Clinton Betties, Alex Rhodes, Nicholas Doffoh, Travis Zeller, Chris Burke, Paula Gomez, Daniel Gaffney, Dameon Cooler, Ryan Neathery, Ernie Smith and Hashiem Pittman. Their instructor, Eric Malzkuhn, is at left in the back row. Galley Ops — Working their way up the culinary ladder are students in the galley ops course that ended June 10. From the left are Thurman Johnson, Robert Brown, Ed Graver, Fatir Mohammed, Chef Robert Johnson and Michael Munoz. May 27 — From left: Instructor Rick Prucha, Latoya Nix, Michael Smorowski, Benjamin Medrano, Michael Ratigan and Darryl Churchill. Fast Rescue Boat — Below: June 3 — (standing, from left) Thomas Leong, Darrel Koonce Jr., Instructor Rick Prucha, Alexander Rhodes, (seated) Fred Forsythe and William Britton. Left: May 20 — (from left) Yamil Sanchez, Instructor Rick Prucha, David Garcia and Daniel Fields. September 2005 �29230_P7_14,17_24.qxd 8/22/2005 6:03 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — May 13 graduates of this course are (in no specific order) Philandar Walton, Andre Anderson, Richard Gonzalez, Randon Robinson, William Price, Sherrod Cutter, Travis Kirkland, Ian Chin, Kemer Rojas, Luis Segui, Abraham Straughter, Jeffery Griffin, John Yi, Tiimothy Eide, Edward Johnson and Oscar Pena. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Another group of May 13 graduates of this course are (in no specific order) Thomas Guthrie IV, Scott Jones, Damaine Thorne, Remington Aldrete, Kathy Lakoduk, Michael Moerbeek, Alexander Hil, Kendrick Mincey, Healther Buskey, Marc Maffia, Geoff Hall, David Spangler, Danny Faidley, Josh Sypolt, Kyle Parson, Kenny Potts, David Spaulding and Samuel Thatcher. Welding — Graduation certificates for comple- tion of the welding course were given May 27 to (in alphabetical order) William Boyd, William Britton, Scott Heginbotham, Michael Kirby, Eric Mentzer, Jerry Naya and Rick Worthington. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is second from right. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — NCL, May 27: Minerva Adams, Gary Aragon, Humberto Badillo III, Sara Beedy, Robert Bell, Jay Biggerstaff, Barbara Boyd, Carrie Bradfute, Andrzej Brzozowski, Carolyn Carlock, Sean Castiglione, Melanie Cole, Albert Crawford, Casey Cronin, Teodoro Cuyugan, Brian Dana, Polly Daugherty, Mindy Delagrange, Richard Doral, Benjamin Dugas, Jonathan Ebbs, John Eisner and Dana Freddie. STCW — NCL, May 27: Stephanie Maddox, Susana Martinez, Keith Maxey, Brittany McCormick, Joel McLean, Meredith McNutt, KaSondra Middleton, Daren Mitchell, Terence Moe, Matthew Molesky, Robert Niccum, Miguel Olvera, Fabielle Orta, Lyudmila Puchalsky, Rosss Ramsey, Phillip Reed, Lindsy Roberson, Elizabeth Robertson, George Rodrigues, Yael Roller, Christopher Romero, Amanda Rowe, Carlos Saldana Jr., Gerard Schuler Jr., Lawrence Guerrero and Michael Ratigan. STCW — NCL, June 3: Bernardine Lazaro, Ryan Lefever, Michael McWilliams, Maureen Mikan, Jessica Neville, Laralynne Olayiwola, William Owens III, David Petty, Carl Reaves, Melissa Roberson, Steven Robinson, Daniel Rohdenburg, Supakit Sakarindr, David Savage, Sean Singleton, Cristina Slagter, Sonja Staves, Stephanie Stockwell, Justin Talbert, Rebecca Tomak, Harold Valderama, Maryana Vardanyan, Robert West, Christopher Williams and Jill Williamson. STCW — NCL, May 13: Arnulfo Aguilar, Mario Alfaro, Melanie Allen, Nicolas Ayala, Christopher Baird, Zach Balise, Brian Barnetti, Ellen Barriga, Carl Bost, Anthony Brost, Jamion Brunsting, Dion Buford, John Burleson, Ronald Calimlim, Salvador Cardenas, Melissa Carpenter, Brent Clayton, Mark Connolly and Cody Cousins. STCW — NCL, May 27: Bethany Seay, Roosevelt Sellars, Julie Shanley, Claudia Silver, Michael Simpson, Brian Smith, Corey Splonick, Garrett Stephens, Steven Stewart, Robert Sumner, Melissa Swift, Jonda Tanner, Vanessa Thompson, Svetlin Vajarsky, Heather Van Til, Richard Venair, Irene Volonakis, Seth Walker, Star Walters, Derome Washington, Brian Weeks, Andrew Wells, Sheila Winslow, Andrew Wiseman, Denise Wright, Tom Posely and Ibrahim Yahya. STCW — NCL, May 13: STCW — NCL, May 27: Joseph Freddie III, Robert Fries, Robert Frye, Kenneth Gielda, George Gooden, Karen Gordon, Heather Gray, Robert Hacker, Karen Harley, Anissa Harvey, Judy Hatfield, Lora Hendrickson, Jeffery Jarvis, Kyle Jensen, Jarrad Johnson, Tenea Jones, Kevin Kelly, Matthew Koresko, John Korhel, Linda Koyama, Jason Kuhn, Deleandre Leandre, Cathy Lenihan, Rembo Li, Kristin Lodginski and Bernard Corbett. September 2005 Jay Woodward, Mark Putnam, Melody Rathbun, Michael Spinks, Troy Spinner, Christopher Pérez, Shelley Renfro, Carol Poulton, Joseph Reid, Rachael Williams, Philip Redmond, Cassondra Ott, Stephen Pettit, Alicia Saunders, Rene Pugh, John Ray, Matthew Phillips, Arminta Thompson, Adrienne Taylor, Zachery Olsen and Julie Sidor. Seafarers LOG 23 �29230_P7_14,17_24.qxd 8/22/2005 6:03 PM Page 24 Volume 67, Number 9 September 2005 September 11, 2001 We will never forget. Editor’s note: This article first was published September 25, 2001 by the National Review—two weeks after the terrorist attacks in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania. In light of the recent attacks in London, and subsequent threats against the U.S., the article once again seems timely. The author, Peter Ferrara, is the general counsel and chief economist for Americans for Tax Reform, which describes itself as the nation’s largest grassroots taxpayer advocacy group. He gave the LOG his permission to reprint this piece. Y ou probably missed it in the rush of news last week, but there was actually a report that someone in Pakistan had published in a newspaper there an offer of a reward to anyone who killed an American, any American. So I just thought I would write to let them know what an American is, so they would know when they found one. An American is English . . . or French, or Italian, Irish, German, Spanish, Polish, Russian or Greek. An American may also be African, Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Australian, Iranian, Asian or Arab, or Pakistani or Afghan. An American is Christian, or he could be Jewish, or Buddhist, or Muslim. In fact, there are more Muslims in America than in Afghanistan. The only difference is that in America they are free to worship as each of them chooses. An American is also free to believe in no religion. For that, he will answer only to God, not to the government or to armed thugs claiming to speak for the government and for God. An American is from the most prosperous land in the history of the world. The root of that prosperity can be found in the Declaration of Independence, which recognizes the God-given right of each man and woman to the pursuit of happiness. An American is generous. Americans have helped out just about every other nation in the world in their time of need. When Afghanistan was overrun by the Soviet army 20 years ago, Americans came with arms and supplies to enable the people to win back their country. As of the morning of September 11, Americans had given more than any other nation to the poor in Afghanistan. An American does not have to obey the mad ravings of ignorant, ungodly cruel, old men. American men will not be fooled into giving up their lives to kill innocent people, so that these foolish old men may hold on to power. American women are free to show their beauti- ful faces to the world, as each of them chooses. An American is free to criticize his government’s officials when they are wrong, in his or her own opinion. Then he is free to replace them, by majority vote. Americans welcome people from all lands, all cultures, all religions, because they are not afraid. They are not afraid that their history, their religion, their beliefs, will be overrun, or forgotten. That is because they know they are free to hold to their religion, their beliefs, their history, as each of them chooses. And just as Americans welcome all, they enjoy the best that everyone has to bring, from all over the world. The best science, the best technology, the best products, the best books, the best music, the best food, the best athletes. Americans welcome the best, but they also welcome the least. The national symbol of America [the Statue of Liberty] welcomes your tired and your poor, the wretched refuse of your teeming shores, the homeless, tempest tossed. These, in fact, are the people who built America. Many of them were working in the twin towers the morning of September 11, 2001, earning a better life for their families. So you can try to kill an American if you must. Hitler did. So did General Tojo and Stalin and Mao Tse-Tung, and every bloodthirsty tyrant in the history of the world. But in doing so, you would just be killing yourself. Because Americans are not a particular people from a particular place. They are the embodiment of the human spirit of freedom. Everyone who holds to that spirit, everywhere, is an American. So look around you. You may find more Americans in your land than you thought were there. One day they will rise up and overthrow the old, ignorant, tired tyrants that trouble too many lands. Then those lands, too, will join the community of free and prosperous nations. And America will welcome them. � 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 September 2005 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SWEENEY: FEDERATION WILL PERSERVERE REPORT: 77 MILLION AMERICANS STRUGGLE WITH MEDICAL BILLS U.S. MARITIME INDUSTRY’S PROGRESS HIGHLIGHTED AT MTD CONVENTION SPEAKERS ALSO EMPHASIZE NEED FOR LABOR SOLIDARITY CIVMARS RESCUE 23 IN HAWAII OSCAR SETTE PICKS UP SAILORS AFTER MYSTERIOUS GROUNDING SIU CREDITED FOR QUICK, SMOOTH ACTIVATIONS BP, CROWLEY HONORED LEGISLATORS CITE CIVILIAN MARINERS’ UNIQUE ROLE IN NATIONAL DEFENSE SENATOR, CONGRESSIONAL REPS URGE EXCLUSION FROM NSPS CIVMARS SAVE FISHERMAN CIVMAR-CREWED USNS BRIDGE DELIVERS IN WAR ON TERRORISM FEDERATION POSTS LABOR DAY Q&A MISSISSIPPI STOPS OFF IN ALTON SEAFARERS AT SEA AND ASHORE KVAERNER PHILADELPHIA, NCL AMERICA HIGHLIGHT U.S. FLEET’S GROWTH, POTENTIAL AFL-CIO OFFICERS POINT TO MARITIME AS MODEL OF SUCCESS AFL-CIO MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT CONVENTION AFL-CIO MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT CONVENTION MSC OFFICIAL CREDITS MARINERS, PREDICTS SUBSTANTIAL JOB GROWTH GOVERNOR, STATE FED PRESIDENT EMPHASIZES GRASSROOTS ACTION SHIPPING COUNCIL PRESIDENT: U.S. PORT SECURITY IMPROVING, BUT STILL NEEDS ENHANCEMENT WHAT IS AN AMERICAN? Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 09/01/2005 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. 9 2005 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/f576a507daf16168d3223a9bd010a01c.pdf 2c0d14d4bd16f499c2fa2f50fe579f17 PDF Text Text 37824_pg1,2,10,12,13,19X.qxp 8/30/2006 7:35 PM Page 1 Volume 68, Number 9 September 2006 Seafarers-contracted U.S. Shipping Partners L.P. last month joined with General Dynamics NASSCO in announcing an agreement to build nine double-hulled product carrier tankers in San Diego. An artist’s conception of one of the tankers is shown below. The contract is valued at $1 billion and includes options for five additional ships. Construction of the first tanker is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2007, with delivery slated for 2009. Page 3. Agreement Includes Option for 5 More Ships 4th Alaska-Class Tanker Delivered The Seafarers-contracted Alaskan Legend (lower right photo) was delivered to BP Shipping on Aug. 18, six days after its official naming ceremony in San Diego. Pictured at the ceremony are SIU officials (from left) Executive VP Augie Tellez, VP West Coast Nick Marrone, Port Agent John Cox and President Michael Sacco. Page 3. Construction Starts On 5th T-AKE Ship Construction began recently on the fifth ship in a new class of vessels to be crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division. General Dynamics NASSCO on July 20 announced the start of construction on the USNS Robert E. Peary, a dry cargo-ammunition ship that is part of the U.S. Navy’s T-AKE program. The T-AKE class of ships includes the USNS Alan Shepard (above), the third such vessel being built in San Diego. Page 3. Pension Plan Funding Notice Page 10 Important Update Oakland Hall on SHBP Eligibility Officially Opens Page 4 Page 8 �37824_pg1,2,10,12,13,19.qxp 8/28/2006 7:47 PM Page 2 ITF Conducts 41st Congress President’s Report More New Ships In case anyone thought that last year’s order to build 10 new American-flag tankers in Philadelphia was a fluke, check out our lead story this month. SIU-contracted U.S. Shipping has ordered nine U.S.-flag tankers for construction in San Diego—an agreement which includes options for five additional ships. The first order back in April 2005, by Seafarers-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group, was reported as the largest commercial tanker purchase in our nation’s history. And here Michael Sacco we are, just over a year later, with a similarly large contract. Brothers and sisters, I’m not saying it doesn’t get any better than this, but 19 ships ordered by SIU-contracted companies in a year-and-a-half is reason to reflect. Of course, those aren’t the only new vessels either on order or recently delivered that are being crewed by SIU members. Last month the fourth Alaska-Class tanker was delivered—a vessel that will be operated by SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Co. This month, the first of the 10 new OSG tankers is scheduled for float-out in Philadelphia. Construction recently began in San Diego on the fifth of 10 T-AKE ships, a fleet crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. And of course, a few months ago we welcomed the big, beautiful Pride of Hawaii to NCL America’s fleet of SIU-crewed cruise ships. It’s impossible for me to look at those developments and feel anything but optimism for our union. It’s also impossible to view them without giving credit where it’s due—namely, to you, the rank-and-file Seafarer. Some of you have heard me say it before, but the truth is that companies wouldn’t invest in new ships if they weren’t extremely confident in having well-trained, reliable manpower for those vessels. When you think of the financial investment, not to mention the potential liabilities, that go along with building and operating new ships, it only makes sense that professional, safe, efficient crews are a must. (Companies also won’t invest without a stable set of laws and regulations, which the Seafarers Political Activity Donation or SPAD helps to ensure.) You are protecting the investment and delivering the goods. You have proven yourselves time and time again throughout all segments of our industry, whether sailing on commercial tankers and containerships or Lakes self-unloaders or military support RO/ROs or tugboats or passenger ships or ATBs or any of the other vessels operating under SIU contract. Your work inspires confidence, and the proof is splashed all over our front page, month after month. Of course, in this industry our work is never done. One of the key challenges we’re currently tackling involves the governmentmandated Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and its associated Merchant Mariner Qualification Credential (MMC). I addressed this subject in more detail last month, and a separate update also appears in this issue of the LOG, but let me just reemphasize that the SIU is sparing no resource in keeping up with, if not staying ahead of this development. We will do absolutely everything in our power to help make sure that U.S. mariners’ rights are protected and that we are treated fairly. At the same time, we remain committed to working in cooperation with government and industry to help ensure proper shipboard and port security, as we have been throughout our history. We won’t always agree on every detail of how to best protect the people associated with our vessels and ports and port cities, but we are all on the same side. That’s something that shouldn’t be overlooked as we sort through the many particulars of the latest federal regulations to affect the U.S. Merchant Marine. Volume 68, Number 9 September 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 Unions from around the world, including the SIU and several other affiliates of the AFLCIO Maritime Trades Department, took part in the 41st International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) Congress Aug. 2-9 in Durban, South Africa. The gathering brought together mariners, dockers, truck drivers, airline crews, rail workers, fishermen, bus drivers and others to debate and confer on the many challenges affecting workers in these industries. The theme of the convention was “Organizing Globally, Fighting for Our Rights.” Among the many resolutions passed were those calling for a continuation of the ITF’s signature “Flag of Convenience” (runaway flag) campaign, a unified effort by longshore and maritime workers to identify poorly run and maintained “Ports of Convenience,” and renewal in the war against AIDS/HIV virus which is afflicting many of Africa’s transport workers. This meeting was the first ITF session held on African soil. The London-based federation, found- ITF General Secretary David Cockroft The ITF Congress took place Aug. 2-9 in Durban, South Africa under the theme “Organizing Globally, Fighting for Our Rights.” ed in 1896, is comprised of more than 600 unions from more than 130 nations. The MTD affiliates who sent delegates to the congress were the SIU, SIU of Canada, AMO, MEBA, MM&P, CWA, Machinists, ILA and TCU. During the meetings, the ITF announced Randall Howard— general secretary of the South African Transport & Allied Workers’ Union—was elected president of the federation. Howard, who replaces outgoing president Umraomal Purohit, stated that his union “recognizes that our international work has strategic importance for our movement. There is recognition that the most effective way to challenge global capital is through global organizing and trade union work.” Referring to the ITF’s commitment to a worldwide antiAIDS/HIV campaign, he con- Participants in the ITF Congress tackled many important subjects, including mariners’ rights. ITF President Randall Howard cluded, “The resolution we have adopted builds on our previous work on HIV/AIDS, and we must now intensify our efforts. In 2010, we must be able to report back to the next congress about what we have done, not on why we didn’t do it. The ITF must invest a lot more into that struggle, as effectively as we can.” Earlier in the ITF Congress, the federation voted to launch a worldwide “Ports of Convenience” campaign to help ensure that decent standards apply across the world’s ports. According to the ITF, which includes more than 200 unions representing dock workers, the campaign’s first focus will be on the world’s largest global network terminal operators or GNTs. Frank Leys, secretary of the ITF’s Dockers’ Section, explained, “Our first calls will be on the ‘big four’ GNTs, because we believe they are standard setters. They have it in their power to make a huge difference to dockers’ work across the world. This Continued on page 5 SIU’s Heindel Elected to ITF Post During the recent ITF Congress, SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel was elected to a four-year term as first vice chair of the federation’s Seafarers’ Section. He previously served as second vice chair. The ITF Seafarers’ Section provides internation- al coordination for, and support to, affiliated unions and individual mariners through involvement with the International Labor Organization, International Maritime Organization and other international bodies; maintaining a network of more than 100 ITF inspectors around the world; ITF agreements for runaway-flag ships which specify minimum conditions of employment for crews, including wages; policymaking through committees where affiliated unions are represented; and the provision and dissemination of information. Heindel is only the second U.S. citizen to hold a top post in the Seafarers’ Section. The late SIU Executive Vice President John Fay was the first, having served as second vice chair from 1992-95 and then as section chair until December 2000. Additionally, SIU Vice President at Large René Lioeanjie last month was reelected to the North American Seafarers’ SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (left) is pictured at the Section Committee, while SIU RepreITF Congress with (from left) SIU VP at Large René Lioeanjie, sentative Tracey Mayhew was elected chair SIU of Canada Executive VP Michel Desjardins and Gerald of the federation’s North American FishLackey of the American Maritime Officers. eries Section Committee. September 2006 �37824_pg3,7,9,11,14,18,21,22,24X.qxp 8/30/2006 7:37 PM Page 3 Nine Tankers Ordered SIU-Contracted U.S. Shipping Has Options for 5 More Vessels A little more than a year ago, the SIU joined others in the U.S.-flag maritime industry in celebrating the announcement of an unprecedented contract for 10 new American-flag commercial tankers to be built in Philadelphia. Last month brought a similarly large dose of good news as Seafarers-contracted U.S. Shipping Partners L.P. joined with General Dynamics NASSCO in announcing an agreement to build nine double-hulled product carrier tankers in San Diego. The contract is valued at $1 billion and includes options for five additional ships. Construction of the first tanker is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2007, with delivery slated for 2009. “This announcement is further proof that the U.S. Merchant Marine can and will have a bright future,” said SIU President Michael Sacco. “Also, as with any new order for U.S.-flag tonnage, it is good news for our nation’s security, partly because the ships can be militarily useful and most importantly from my perspective because they will sail with loyal, well-trained American crews.” Word of the then-tentative agreement trickled out in late July, but on Aug. 7, U.S. Shipping (USS) and NASSCO (National Steel and Shipbuilding Co.) officially announced that financing was in place for the nine-ship order. They reported that the new tankers each will be 600.4 feet long, with a beam of 105.6 feet and a design draft of 38.7 feet. The ships will weigh 49,000 deadweight tons (DWT) and will have a cargo capacity of 331,000 barrels apiece. “USS is committed to building and operating the largest, most technologically advanced deep water fleet in the United States,” said Paul Gridley, chairman and CEO of SIU-contracted and New Jersey-based U.S. Shipping Partners L.P. “These new ships will allow us to add the needed new capacity that the domestic energy market is demanding. Additionally, given the regulatory requirements to upgrade the fleet operating under the Jones Act, General Dynamics NASSCO is a tremendous partner to provide us with a superior product that meets these requirements, in a timely fashion. These new ships will allow USS to expand our domestic shipping business, while providing our customers with the high-quality, reliable transport they require for their petroleum and chemical products.” “NASSCO is the leading builder of U.S. Navy auxiliary ships and has delivered more Jones Act ships than any other shipyard in the country today,” said Frederick J. Harris, president of General Dynamics NASSCO. “This contract is the largest commercial shipbuilding contract in NASSCO’s history and positions this shipyard to remain the premier builder of Jones Act ships.” USS operates a fleet of 10 deep sea vessels that carry refined petroleum and chemical products among customer facilities along the U.S. coastlines and has five double-hulled articulated tug barges on order or under construction. The majority of the USS fleet is on long-term time charters or contracts of affreight- Seafarers-contracted U.S. Shipping has ordered nine tankers to be built in San Diego, beginning next year. Shown here is an artist’s conception of one of the new vessels. ment with major oil and chemical companies based in the United States. According to a jointly issued news release from USS and NASSCO, financing for the 4 Alaska Tanker Delivered th The Alaskan Legend is the name that has been given to the fourth and final Seafarers-contracted double-hulled tanker built for BP Shipping Ltd. by the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO). The newest member of the BP Shipping fleet on Aug. 12 was dubbed during an official naming ceremony at the NASSCO shipyard in San Diego and was delivered six days later. Shirley Anne Massey, wife of Morehouse College President and BP Board Member Dr. Walter Massey, was the honoree at the ceremony and is the ship’s sponsor. As ship’s sponsor, Mrs. Massey named the vessel and broke the traditional bottle of champagne against its starboard bow. SIU President Michael Sacco and Executive Vice President Augie Tellez attended the ceremony. The vessel was delivered to BP on Aug. 18. Construction of the Alaskan Legend began in October 2004. Four years earlier in September 2000, NASSCO received a contract from BP to build three other tankers. The first three Alaskaclass ships—each of which is crewed by Seafarers and operated by Alaska Tanker Co.—are already in service: the Alaskan Frontier, Alaskan Explorer and Alaskan Navigator. The state-of-the-art doublehulled Alaskan Legend (as well as its sister ships) has a length of 941 feet and a beam of 164 feet. The design of the 1.3-millionbarrel-capacity tankers in the Alaska Class will allow maximum flexibility for oil deliveries from Alaska to West Coast ports, including BP refineries in Los Angeles and Cherry Point, Wash. According to the shipyard, each of the vessels employs the latest in international marine technologies, including twinscrew, medium-speed, dieselelectric 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. Both BP and NASSCO describe the new double-hull vessels as the most environmentally friendly tankers ever built. The Alaskan Legend joins three sister ships operated by SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Co. September 2006 Shirley Anne Massey breaks the traditional bottle of champagne against the side of the Alaskan Legend. Pictured with her are General Dynamics NASSCO President Fred Harris, Celeste Bolea, Gary Brashears, Dr. Walter Massey and Acting Chief Executive of BP Shipping Ltd. John Ridgway. Construction Starts On 5th T-AKE Ship Construction began recently on the fifth ship in a new class of vessels to be crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division. General Dynamics NASSCO on July 20 announced the start of construction on the USNS Robert E. Peary, a dry cargo-ammunition ship that is part of the U.S. Navy’s T-AKE program. The vessel is being built at the NASSCO shipyard in San Diego and is scheduled for delivery in early 2008. The keel of the fourth of its sister ships, the USNS Richard E. Byrd, was laid July 28. Both vessels were named to honor American explorers who became famous for their Arctic and Antarctic explorations. NASSCO has been awarded contracts to build nine T-AKE ships. Two additional ships are expected to be ordered by the Navy over the next two years—for a total class of 11 ships. The first ship of the class, the USNS Lewis and Clark, was delivered to the Navy June 20. The second vessel, the USNS Sacagawea, was launched on June 24 and is scheduled to be delivered in the first quarter of 2007. The third ship, the USNS Alan Shepard, is scheduled to be launched Dec. 5, 2006, and delivered in the summer of 2007. The T-AKE class of ships is designed to operate independently for extended periods at sea while providing replenishment services to U.S. and NATO vessels. Each of the vessels directly will contribute tanker construction is being provided by a joint venture among affiliates of the Blackstone Group; USS Product Carriers, a wholly owned subsidiary of USS; and other investors. Investment banking services were provided by Lehman Brothers and CIBC World Markets, with Sterling Investment Partners, a controlling partner of USS, providing advisory services negotiating and structuring the transaction. The tankers are based on an existing design from DSEC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering of Seoul, South Korea. NASSCO entered into an agreement with DSEC last March to produce ships for the U.S. market under the Jones Act, in which DSEC will provide detail designs and services related to construction of the ships. All of the ships will be constructed at the NASSCO shipyard in San Diego. to the ability of the Navy to maintain a forward presence by providing logistic lift from sources of supply either in port or at sea. These vessels transfer cargo to station ships and other naval warfare forces at sea, including ammunition, food, fuel, repair parts and other materiel. The T-AKE ships are 689 feet long and have beams of 105.6 feet, with a design draft of 29.9 feet and a displacement of 41,000 metric tons. NASSCO has incorporated international marine technologies and commercial ship-design features into the ships, including an integrated electric-drive propulsion system, to minimize operating costs over their projected 40-year service life. Because of their multiple capabilities, vessels in this class of ships will replace the current capability of vessels in the T-AE 26 class (ammunition ship), the T-AFS 1/8 class (combat stores ships) and, when operating in concert with a T-AO class ship (oiler), the AOE class (fast combat support ship). To conduct vertical replenishment, the ships will support two military logistics helicopters apiece. Like the legendary explorers, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, for whom the first ship in the class was named, Rear Adm. Robert Edwin Perry and Adm. Richard E. Byrd bravely volunteered to explore the most remote and harshest places on earth. As a result of their unquenchable thirst for exploration, both men provided substantial contributions to the world’s understanding of the Arctic and Antarctic circles. Peary is credited as the first person to reach the geographic North Pole, while Medal of Honor recipient Byrd led the first aerial expedition over the North Pole. Seafarers LOG 3 �37824_PG4_6,8,15_17,20,23.qxp 8/28/2006 8:58 PM Page 4 Notice The U.S. Coast Guard on Aug. 21 issued the following news release concerning mariner credentials. Please note that the extension does not apply to STCW certificates. Copies of the two-page Federal Register notice that is mentioned in this release are available at the Coast Guard RECs and also may be downloaded from the SIU web site (in PDF format) at: http://www.seafarers.org/members/mmdtemp.pdf MERCHANT MARINER CREDENTIALS EXTENDED IN THE GULF REGION WASHINGTON—The Coast Guard is extending the expiration dates of licenses, merchant mariners’ documents and certificates of registry held by merchant mariners impacted by the effects of Hurricane Katrina. The authority for this temporary relief measure was included in the Coast Guard Maritime and Transportation Act of 2006. Details are contained in the notice published Aug. 16, 2006 in the Federal Register. This measure applies to certain mariners holding any of the above credentials that have expired on or after Aug. 29, 2005, or will expire before April 1, 2007. The requirements are as follows: „ Credentials are automatically extended for one year from the expiration date for mariners whose home of record is listed as Alabama, Mississippi, or Louisiana on their merchant mariner credentials. To serve under the authority of their existing credentials, these mariners must carry a copy of the Federal Register notice with their existing credentials. „ Credentials issued by Regional Examination Center New Orleans are automatically extended for one year from the date of expiration. To serve under the authority of their existing credentials, these mariners must carry a copy of the Federal Register notice with their existing credentials. „ Other mariners who believe their ability to renew their credentials in a timely manner has been adversely impacted by Hurricane Katrina National Maritime Center Opens in West Virginia; New Orleans REC Reopens The U.S. Coast Guard last month announced that its National Maritime Center (NMC) opened its first office in Martinsburg, W.Va. on Aug. 7. The agency described the event as “a milestone in its mariner licensing and documentation program restructuring and centralization project.” The NMC office in West Virginia will initially evaluate applications and issue credentials for mariners applying through New Orleans. The transfer of remaining divisions and functions from Arlington, Va. to the Martinsburg area will continue over the next year, the agency reported. “When a permanent facility is completed during the summer of 2007, all evaluation and issuing functions will take place in Martinsburg as part of a project to improve customer service to mariners,” the Coast Guard announced. “The mission of the Coast should contact any regional examination center to establish their eligibility for an extension. If credentials were lost or damaged due to Hurricane Katrina, mariners may apply to any regional examination center to receive a duplicate credential that will bear the same expiration date and information as the lost or damaged one. Due to international obligations, the endorsement certificates issued under the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, as amended (STCW) cannot be extended. Mariners holding a license, certificate of registry, or merchant mariner’s document that is eligible for extension and an STCW endorsement certificate that has expired, or will expire, should apply for renewal of their STCW endorsement certificate at any regional examination center. All mariners whose credentials are within one year of expiration are encouraged to submit renewal applications as early as possible. Mariners may contact any regional examination center with questions regarding these temporary measures, to obtain a copy of the Federal Register notice, or for any other assistance. The regional examination center locations and phone numbers are: Anchorage, Alaska – (907) 271-6736 Baltimore – (410) 962-5132/5147 Boston – (617) 223-3040/41/42 Charleston, S. C. – (843) 720-3250 or (800) 826-1511 Guam – (671) 339-2001 Honolulu – (808) 522-8264 Houston – (713) 948-3350/51 Juneau, Alaska – (907) 463-2458 Los Angeles/Long Beach, Calif. – (562) 495-1307 Memphis, Tenn. – (901) 544-3297 or (866) 777-2784 Miami – (305) 536-6548/49/6874 or (800) 982-9374 New Orleans – (504) 846-6190 New York – (212) 668-7492/7864/4970/6395 Portland, Ore. – (503) 240-9346 Oakland, Calif. – (510) 637-1124 San Juan, Puerto Rico – (787) 729-2376 Seattle – (206) 220-7327 St. Louis – (314) 539-3091 Toledo, Ohio – (419) 418-6010 Guard’s regional examination centers (RECs) will also change to focus on providing direct service to mariners, including fingerprinting, establishing identities, administering testing, and providing course oversight.” In its mission statement, the NMC describes itself as a Coast Guard headquarters field unit that actively pursues “new and innovative ways to assist the maritime community in gaining and using the services of the Coast Guard…. NMC’s primary function is to initiate and execute various marine safety programs at a national and international level.” Additionally, the Coast Guard’s REC in New Orleans reopened Aug. 9. The facility’s contact information is: Regional Examination Center 201 Old Hammond Hwy. Metairie, LA 70005 (504) 846-6190 A complete list of RECs may be found on line at http://www.uscg.mil/STCW/mmic-regions.htm Meeting with Horizon Officials SIU Port Agent Bryan Powell (second from left) recently met with representatives of Horizon Lines at the union hall in Tacoma, Wash. They discussed general hiring hall operations, the new Horizon vessels scheduled to join the fleet later this year, and the proposed regulations pertaining to the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and Merchant Mariner Qualification Credential (MMC). Pictured from the left at the Tacoma hall are Horizon Lines Vessel Superintendent Jay Hess, Powell, Fleet Administrator Carolyn Petit, VP and General Manager Joe Breglia, Vessel Superintendent Don Watters, and recently retired VP and General Manager Glenn Moyer. 4 Seafarers LOG Important Notice New Date for SHBP Eligibility Change In July, a change in the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan’s (SHBP) eligibility rules was announced. Upon the effective date of the change, in order to remain eligible for benefits, a Seafarer must have 150 days of covered employment in the previous calendar year in addition to the current requirement of one day of covered employment in the six months prior to a claim. The Trustees of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan—acting on the recommendation of the SIU Trustees—have decided to postpone this change to the eligibility rule. During 2007, the eligibility rule will remain the same as it is this year. This means that in order to be eligible for claims in 2007, a Seafarer must have 125 days of covered employment in 2006, in addition to the one day of covered employment in the six months prior to the claim. The eligibility rule will change on January 1, 2008. Beginning on that date, in order to remain eligible for benefits, a Seafarer must have 150 days of covered employment in the previous calendar year, in addition to the current requirement of one day of covered employment in the six months prior to the claim. For example, in order to be eligible for benefits in 2008, a Seafarer must have 150 days of covered employment in 2007, in addition to the one day of covered employment in the six months prior to the claim. The 150-day rule’s impact on work rotations will be studied by the union. SIU-Contracted Companies Among Those Receiving Safety Awards from AMS A number of SIU-contracted companies are among those selected to receive safety awards this month from American Maritime Safety, Inc. (AMS) at their annual membership meeting and dinner event in New York. The AMS consortium is a nonprofit trade association established in 1988 to facilitate the maritime industry’s compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations and international protocols. It currently administers a chemical testing program for 380 U.S.flag deep sea, tug and barge and Great Lakes vessel operators as well as a significant number of international flag vessel companies. As of 1993, the group has been 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’s SIU-contracted award recipients are: „ The Cruise Ship Vessel Safety Award—Norwegian Cruise Line, Ltd./Orient Lines/NCL America. „ Quality Ship Management Award—Horizon Lines, Inc. „ American Maritime Safety Award—U.S. Shipping Partners, LP „ Maritime Safe Working Practices Award—Overseas Shipholding Group, Inc. September 2006 �37824_PG4_6,8,15_17,20,23.qxp 8/28/2006 8:59 PM Page 5 TWIC ‘Security Vulnerabilities’ Cited by DHS; Requirement for Card Readers Pushed Back After receiving more than 1,900 comments on a notice of proposed rulemaking concerning the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration apparently will make at least two changes. According to a mid-August communication from the TSA’s office of legislative affairs, many of the comments “voiced concern regarding card and reader technology, analysis of economic impact, potential negative impacts to commerce, and uncertainty as to how TWIC requirements for facilities and vessels could be met. After a review of these comments, TSA and the Coast Guard have concluded that facility and vessel owners and operators will not be required to purchase or install card readers during the first phase of the TWIC implementation. The requirement to purchase and install card readers will not be implemented until the public is afforded further opportunity to comment on that aspect of the TWIC program, and the details of this approach will be explained in the next rulemaking.” Indications last month were that the comment period will only be extended for this particular component of the proposed regulations. Meanwhile, the DHS recently released portions of a report stating that following an audit of various potential parts of the TWIC system, the agency has “determined that significant security vulnerabilities existed relative to the TWIC prototype systems, documentation and program management. Furthermore, we are raising a number of additional program and security-related concerns that we identified during the course of our fieldwork. Due to the number and significance of the weaknesses identified, TWIC prototype systems are vulnerable to various internal and external security threats. “The security-related issues identified may threaten the confidentiality, integrity and availability of sensitive TWIC data,” the report continues. “Until remedied, the significant security weaknesses jeopardize the certification and accreditation of the systems prior to full implantation of the TWIC program.” A PDF version of the report, in redacted form, is available on the internet at the following address: http://www.dhs.gov/interweb/ass etlibrary/OIGr_06-47_Jul06.pdf Despite the concerns, the federal government intends to issue a follow-up rulemaking providing guidelines for the background check process and TWIC issuance so that the first credentials may be issued by the end of this year. (Under the proposed rulemaking, mariners wouldn’t be required to secure a TWIC until 18 months after the final rules are issued. The final regulations had not been published as of late August, as this issue of the Seafarers LOG was going to press.) Less certain is the fate of the proposed Merchant Mariner Qualification Credential (MMC), which is intended to eventually take the place of a z-card or merchant mariner document (MMD). The MMC—as proposed, a paper document—was outlined in a concurrent proposed rulemaking in May, at the same time the proposed regulations were issued for the TWIC. As reported in detail in last month’s LOG, the SIU formally submitted comments on both proposed rulemakings. The union emphasized that it fully supports the goal of effective security aboard ship and in port, but has serious concerns about certain aspects of the proposals for both the TWIC and the MMC. Essentially, the SIU—both individually and also along with other maritime unions including the AMO, MEBA and MM&P— recommended that a biometric identifier be added to the existing merchant mariner document, in accordance with requirements of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002, and that such a modified card should be recognized as both a TWIC and an MMC. The rationale for such a proposal is simple: Mariners already undergo strict background checks equal to or greater than those proposed for the TWIC and MMC programs, and the merchant mariner document itself is a proven, time-tested credential. In a joint statement to Congress July 20, the aforementioned unions recommended that the proposed revised MMD should allow mariners access to their vessels docked at any port facility in the United States; that the Coast Guard should continue to be the sole agency responsible for vetting and credentialing merchant mariners; and that licensed deck and engine officers should still receive a license that may be displayed aboard ship for inspection purposes. Supporting Senator Akaka SIU Honolulu Port Agent Neil Dietz submitted this recent photo of individuals showing support for U.S. Senator Daniel Akaka (DHawaii). The photo was taken in front of the Hawaii State Capitol. Pictured from left to right are SIU Representative Frank Iverson, SEATU Representative Hazel Galbiso, Dietz and Seafarer Robert Borro. Dietz noted Senator Akaka’s strong backing of the Jones Act and Hawaii’s working families. Demonstrating with AFSCME Connaughton Confirmed As Maritime Administrator The Senate on Aug. 3 confirmed Sean Connaughton as the new administrator of the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd). President Bush had nominated Connaughton in late June. Connaughton is a 1983 graduate of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He served on active duty in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1983-86 and later earned his law degree, specializing in maritime and international law. He most recently served as chairman of the Prince William County (Va.) Board of Supervisors, a position to which he had been re-elected for a term beginning in 2004. SIU President Michael Sacco sent a congratulatory note to Connaughton following his Senate confirmation. “On behalf of the Seafarers International Union as well as the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department, I look forward to working with you in the very near future so that we may continue promoting a vibrant, growing U.S. Merchant Marine,” Sacco wrote. Charles (Chuck) Raymond, CEO and president of Horizon Lines, stated, “We at Horizon believe Sean Connaughton will be a decisive leader at MarAd. He has the ideal background as a graduate of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, having served both in the U.S. Coast Guard and September 2006 the U.S. Navy and having practiced law for several years at Troutman and Sanders, LLP.” During his confirmation hearing, Connaughton said, “America is the world’s largest maritime trading economy. The maritime industry in all its aspects on land and sea—the people and the hardware, the terminals and the landside connectors—is squarely in the frontline of the advancement of the American economy and the defense of the United States. The efficiency, safety and security of our domestic and international marine transportation system from origin to destination is a matter of paramount importance to the welfare of every citizen of this nation. “If confirmed by the Senate, I will, of course, continue to implement MarAd’s statutory mandates to ensure the availability of efficient water transportation service to American shippers and consumers; an adequate shipbuilding and repair base; efficient ports; effective intermodal water and land transportation connections; and sufficient intermodal shipping capacity for use by the Department of Defense in times of national emergency. I will also strive to ensure that the industry and all the persons who serve it directly or indirectly are recognized, honored and appreciated for all that they have done and all that they will continue to do Sean Connaughton every day to support our economy, to protect our waterways and to preserve the marine environment.” Connaughton said he expects that U.S. military to “increase its reliance on commercial transportation systems.” He added, “The Maritime Administration must focus its efforts on the strategic areas of commercial mobility and congestion relief, maritime and port development, national security, and environmental stewardship…. One of our greatest challenges is to increase our national transportation options in order to support our nation’s economic growth. Greater use of the maritime transportation system, through elements such as short sea shipping and multi-modal port development, offer the potential to reduce congestion while increasing efficiency of our ports and waterways.” SIU President Michael Sacco (left in photo at right, with AFSCME Secretary-Treasurer Bill Lucy) participated in a rally Aug. 9 in northwest Chicago in support of workers at Resurrection Hospital. AFSCME members, including a large number from nearby Local 88, called attention to the plight of the hospital workers who have spent the past four years fighting for union representation. AFL-CIO President John Sweeney and AFL-CIO Executive VP Linda Chavez-Thompson spoke at the rally and vowed that the workers ultimately will win their battle to join a union. ITF Congress Held in South Africa Continued from page 2 is an exercise in dialogue and cooperation to ensure across-theboard good conditions. Working with the GNTs we aim to develop global framework agreements which national unions will know set certain basic standards they can rely on when negotiating locally.” Delegates of the Dockers’ Section Conference, meeting at the ITF Congress, authorized the ITF to begin the construction of these networks, produce educational and campaigning materials, and to approach the first of the GNTs. The ITF Seafarers’ Section spent a large portion of time addressing mariners’ rights, including shore-leave rights. The Seafarers’ Section adopted several key resolutions and laid out plans to immediately ramp up specific efforts to guard mariners’ rights. Seafarers LOG 5 �37824_PG4_6,8,15_17,20,23.qxp 8/28/2006 8:59 PM Page 6 SIU-Crewed Wheat Participates in Multinational Military Drill An SIU-crewed vessel recently played a significant role in a 12-day military training exercise involving maritime resources from nine countries, according to the Military Sealift Command (MSC). The U.S. Navy MSC cargo ship USNS Lance Cpl. Roy M. Wheat from June 6-18 linked with maritime forces from nine countries in the Baltic Sea for the 34th annual military exercise Baltic Operations. The Seafarerscrewed Wheat, a member of the European theater’s Maritime Prepositioning Ship Squadron One (MPSRON One), was used as a critical training platform for military teams from the North American Treaty Organization and other nations. The Wheat during the maneuvers played the role of a merchant vessel suspected of carrying contraband. Teams from Germany, Denmark, Poland, Russia and the United States practiced intercepting and The prepositioning ship USNS Lance Cpl. Roy M. Wheat (black hulledship) participates in a formation as part of multinational military exercise Baltic Operations 2006. Other ships participating included, from left to right, Latvian ship LVNS P-03 Linga leading in front, USS Robert G. Bradely, German ships FGS Frankfurt and FGS Hessen and Great Britain’s HMS Edinburgh. boarding the ship via speedboats and helicopters. Once aboard, the teams searched the ship for illicit cargo. Overall, the USNS Wheat was boarded and searched 13 times during the exercise. In addition to acting as a contraband-laden merchant vessel, the Wheat on June 14 was involved in training maneuvers with German, Swedish, Danish, Scottish, U.S. and Russian warships. This phase of the exercise involved a minesweeping scenario. The Wheat posed as a ship being escorted through a “mine danger area” by a convoy of United Nations peacekeeping force warships. After being “hit” by mines during the drill, the Wheat’s crew simulated containing flooding aboard ship, rescuing injured crewmen and abandoning ship. Seafarers aboard the USNS Wheat during the exercise were: Bosun Charles D. Haggins; ABs Dorkucho Tanihu, Matthew L. Jesmer, Glenn P. Davis, Christopher N. Paul and Eric J. Moreira; Electrician Frank J. Michalaski, ET Mark Marier, Storekeeper Anthony E. Simon; Oilers Francis Yapching, Victor Chance and DeShanna A. Sherrod; Cook Darryl Johnson, and GVAs Suree Farrell, George Jenkins, Maner Omar and Bradley Rakoce. “This exercise helps NATO and Partnership for Peace nations hone their maritime interdiction skills, which contributes to the overall maritime security of the region,” said Navy Capt. Edward K. Zurey, commander, MPSRON One. “It also helps the nations involved strengthen the already steadfast partnerships that unite us.” The captain added that MPSRON One ships have been regular participants in the exercise since the squadron was established in the mid-1980s, and particularly since it was forwarddeployed to the European Command area of operation in 1995. The UNSN Wheat is named for Medal of Honor recipient Lance Cpl. Roy M. Wheat, USMC, who valiantly threw himself on an exploding mine to save the lives of his fellow Marines during the Vietnam War. The vessel is one of MSC’s 16 civilian-crewed, noncombatant Maritime Prepositioning Ships that boost combat readiness by strategically prepositioning U.S. Marine Corps combat cargo and equipment at sea. Operated by Keystone for MSC, the vessel is 864 feet long. Red Cloud, Chesapeake Sail in ‘JLOTS’ A pair of Seafarers-crewed vessels recently played crucial roles in Joint Logistics Over-TheShore 2006, a U.S. Department of Defense transportation exercise off Fort Story in Virginia Beach, Va. The ships, the Military Sealift Command (MSC)-owned USNS Red Cloud and the U.S. Maritime Administration’s (MarAd) USNS Chesapeake each figured prominently in the execution of the training operations which took place June 11-21 and involved some 1,800 active and reserve members from each of the military services. JLOTS is the process by which rolling stock and containers of military cargo are moved from ship to shore without the benefit of a port. The technique was used in Operation Iraqi Freedom to increase port capacity in Kuwait. SIU members aboard the USNS Red Cloud during the exercise were: Bosun Terry Evins, ABs Christopher Johnson, William Fogarty, King Scott, Keith Gibney; and Steven Dieken; Ordinary Seamen Demorio Wilcox, Erin O’Toole and John Jackson; QEE Donald Clyburn, QMEDs Cornell Knox, Lee Dresselhaus and Rance Hadaway; Wiper Charles Murray, Chief Storekeeper Charles Renthorpe, SB Mark Simpson, Chief Cook Samuel Washington, and Steward Assistants Shawn Cannon and Marcelo Race. The USNS Chesapeake crew during the exercise included: Bosun Ferdinand Gongora, QMED John Morrison, SB Laura Deebach, OS Hipolito Flores, ABM Roberto Flauta and SAs Brad Stephenson, George Miller and Lamont Steward. The exercise brought together multi-service, multi-agency partners who pooled their expertise and trained jointly to improve the nation’s combat readiness and the military’s force projection capability. Military units during the exercise provided humanitarian assistance to an area simulated as devastated by a natural disaster. The cavernous Red Cloud, which measures 960 feet and boasts more than 300,000 square feet of cargo-carrying capacity, shipboard cranes and steel-reinforced interior and exterior ramps, was the primary off-load platform for the exercise. Cargo was discharged from the ship, which was anchored just one-half mile off the beach at Fort Story, onto smaller vessels or barges, called lighterage, for movement to shore. The actual movement of cargo from ship to shore required several carefully orchestrated steps. The ship’s on-board 114-ton twin-pedestal cranes lowered a side ramp to connect the port side platform to the roll-on/roll-off discharge facility moored below. Rolling stock was driven off the side ramp onto the lighterage, and containerized cargo was lifted via shipboard cranes to the lighterage. For the final seagoing leg of the trip, Navy and Army watercraft pushed the lighterage to shore, where the vehicles were driven off the lighterage and containers were lifted by crane onto trucks for movement to shorebased facilities. During the exercise, about 150 containers and 30 military vehicles were moved ashore. MarAd’s Chesapeake satisfied requirements for another key element of the defense transportation exercise. The 736-foot Ready Reserve Force ship, which is currently on long-term activation and under MSC’s operational control, demonstrated its unique off-shore petroleum discharge system, also called OPDS. The OPDS delivers petroleum Retired NMU Official Martinez Dies at 88 Retired National Maritime Union Secretary-Treasurer Thomas Martinez quietly passed away during the early morning hours of June 2 in the Birch Park Convalescent Hospital in Chula Vista, Calif. He was 88. Brother Thomas Martinez June 23, 1917 - June 2, 2006 6 Seafarers LOG “Tom was one of the NMU’s pioneers and visionaries,” said SIU Vice President at Large René Lioeanjie, who also served as president of the NMU. “He spent a great many years of his life fighting for the union and the men who were in it. “He was known as a person of action who possessed a very sharp mind,” Lioeanjie continued. “There was no quit in him when it came to getting positive things done for the union and its membership. We all owe him a debt of gratitude for his many contributions. Tom will be greatly missed.” “Tom spent his life with and for the union,” said SIU Vice President at Large and former NMU Vice President Charlie Stewart. “I came to know him initially in 1961, and we worked together a great many times over the years. Tom was what I call a seaman’s seaman. No matter what the problem was, he was always there for you and willing to listen. We all have lost a very fine union man and a great friend.” Brother Martinez joined the NMU in 1947 in New York and immediately began to make his mark. Recognizing the importance of politics and the role it played in organized labor, Martinez helped establish the NMU’s first political action committee. Not long thereafter he met then NMU Secretary-Treasurer John MacDougal who encouraged him to run for office within the union. Although he did not spurn MacDougal’s suggestion, Martinez felt that at the time, he could do more for the union at the grass roots level. In the years that followed Martinez occupied positions of U.S. Navy Photo by Christine Albert Army vehicles roll off the SIU-crewed USNS Red Cloud onto a floating barge. The process is used when port facilities are not available. products within 48 hours of arriving on station, discharging up to 1.4 million gallons of fuel per day, from up to four miles offshore and at a water depth as shallow as 200 feet. During the exercise, the Chesapeake used water to simulate fuel, pumping approximately 720,000 gallons of water through the system in a single day to shoreside facilities more than a mile from the ship. According to MSC, the joint military training maneuvers aided by merchant mariners provided an impressive demonstration of how U.S. military equipment and supplies can be quickly moved ashore when port facilities are increasingly greater responsibilities and, as a result, moved rapidly up the NMU ladder. He worked as a patrolman from December 1957 to June 1960; field patrolman from July 1960 to June 1966; port agent from June 1966 to February 1970; organizer from March 1970 to January 1971; port agent from January 1971 to March 1973; and assistant to the president from June 1975 to October 1977. Martinez served as NMU vice president on two occasions: from March 1973 to June 1975, and from October 1977 to March 1978, respectively. He was elected to the office of NMU secretary-treasurer in 1978 and served in that position until January 1988. During his career, Martinez’s travels took him to San Pedro, Calif.; San Francisco where he met his wife, the former Pearl Friedman; to San Juan, P.R; the nonexistent, damaged or too primitive for ships to off-load their cargo at a pier. While MSC was a key player in the exercise, the U.S. Army’s Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, headquartered in Alexandria, Va., provided overall command and control for the exercise. Several other Army and Navy units—active duty and reserve—as well as the U.S. Maritime Administration, participated in the exercise. The USNS Red Cloud is operated for MSC by Maersk Line Limited, while Interocean American Shipping operates the MarAd’s USNS Chesapeake. Caribbean and South America. While in Puerto Rico, Martinez spearheaded a home-loan program with bankers that directly benefited NMU mariners. He also worked with SIU officials to create the Central Labor Council of Puerto Rico, an organization for which he later served as secretary-treasurer. Following 46 years of dedicated service to the NMU, Martinez retired in 1993. He moved his family to San Diego where he became a community activist and an icon for promising Hispanic fifth and sixth graders who attended inner city schools. He and his wife created the Tom and Pearl Martinez Foundation to provide financial incentives to this group of youths. Brother Martinez is survived by his wife, Pearl; one son, Frank Martinez; four granddaughters and three great grandchildren. His remains were buried at sea. September 2006 �37824_pg3,7,9,11,14,18,21,22,24.qxp 8/28/2006 7:16 PM Page 7 6 Recertified Stewards Learn Firsthand Role Politics Plays For the six students who graduated from the steward recertification program Aug. 7, the fourweek course was a real eye-opener as to how politics affects their lives and those of their fellow union members. As Ronald Drew, Kristin Krause, Julio Arzu, Lauren Oram, Brian Burchette and Stephen Bird approached the podium to accept their graduation certificates for completion of the course, each said a few words to those assembled at the August membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., including words of encouragement to the unlicensed apprentices and expressions of thanks to those who had helped them in their climb up the culinary ladder. Like most Paul Hall Center courses, steward recertification blends hands-on training with classroom instruction. Topics and training components of the fourweek course included communications, computer lab, first aid/ CPR, fire fighting, small arms training, sanitation, ice sculpting, nutrition and more. Students visited the headquarters building in Camp Springs, Md. and met with representatives of the union’s contracts department and Seafarers Plans. It was there where they were able to watch a live CSPAN feed of a congressional session pertaining to the proposed TWIC card, which they found very exciting. They also took a trip to the Maritime Trades Department at the AFL-CIO building in Washington, D.C. Ronald Drew, who sails from the port of Wilmington, Calif., said he had only good things to say about his experiences during the month-long course. A U.S. Navy veteran, Drew has been with the SIU for the past 15 years. He joined in Seattle in 1991 and has traveled the world many times. He was, nevertheless, struck by the strides that have been made during the last decade at the Paul Hall Center and the hard work of everyone involved to make the school what it is today. He found the Serve Safe course to be an extremely useful class and one that definitely will help him do a better job aboard ship. To the membership as a whole, and particularly to the unlicensed apprentices, he said, “We should all remember that we are a real commodity that officials like Mike Sacco, Augie Tellez, George Tricker and Dave Heindel try to sell to government agencies, the U.S. Coast Guard and the companies that hire us on a daily basis. The SIU mariner has to stand out. We have to study and work hard and make ourselves as marketable as possible. It translates into money for everyone.” He also added a few words of thanks to the staff and instructors at Piney Point—with special acknowledgement to Wilmington Port Agent John Cox and his staff for all the help they have given him over the years. Brian Burchette, Stephen Bird and Lauren Oram join forces to create a nutritious and tasty menu. Stephen Bird’s wife, Sharon, was able to join her husband for the graduation ceremony. September 2006 Working on her chili cook-off entry is Kristin Krause. During her turn at the podium, Kristin Krause spoke of the honor it was for her to be part of the recertified steward class. “I have been dreaming of this moment for 16 years,” she stated, “since the day I was sitting as a trainee in my first union meeting.” She was a member of Unlicensed Apprentice Class 473. Sailing from the port of Jacksonville, Fla., Krause thanked the union officials for dedicating their lives to protecting the American Merchant Marine. “Many of you don’t realize the countless hours these men put in on Capitol Hill,” she said, “and of keeping up with all the committees and subcommittees in Congress to ensure that the American Merchant Marine stays in full force.” She continued, “Until I attended this class, I was clueless on what it took to ensure the life of our industry. I am truly impressed and overwhelmed at the work it entails.” She noted how important it is for the SIU to continue to educate the politicians about maritime issues, including the Jones Act, and wished the entire membership could be privy to the hard work being done each day by the officials to help keep the union strong. Krause additionally gave thanks to Jacksonville Port Agent Archie Ware for his support and confidence in her and “gratitude to the hard-working staff of the school for taking the time to be there for me when I had questions. The culinary department, in particular, has really shown a positive attitude, and it has been a pleasure to learn from them.” To the trainees, she said, “I am standing here before you today. Sixteen years ago, I was one of you. So look up to us old-timers and learn from us. We will teach you, defend you, and when the time comes, we will depend on you to carry on. You are our future. Always hold your heads up high, believe in yourselves, and believe in the fact that if you work hard and aim high, you can achieve.” Julio Arzu expressed his pride at being part of the SIU and his pleasure at graduating with a great group of classmates. The newly recertified steward, who sails from the port of Houston, stressed to the unlicensed apprentices the importance of going to a ship and doing the best they can. “You are the future of the union,” he said. Lauren Oram said she started sailing out of New York in 1989 as a “C” card member. “It wasn’t the best of pay,” she stated, “but I stuck with it and kept on upgrading.” The experiences over the past years have been good ones, and the jobs pay well, she noted. Throughout the four weeks of the recertification course, Oram The recertified stewards enjoy the company of SIU officials at their final banquet. From the left (standing) are Ronald Drew, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez, Brian Burchette, Kristin Krause, Stephen Bird, SIU President Michael Sacco, Lauren Oram and (kneeling) Julio Arzu. As instructor John Hetmanski (right in left photo above) instructs, Julio Arzu cuts into a block of ice that will become a sculpture. At right, Ronald Drew cooks up a pot of chili. was able to improve her computer and first aid skills, and learn more about the SIU constitution and overall union education. She told the trainees to work hard and keep coming back to the Paul Hall Center to upgrade their skills. “Being at Piney Point is like one-stop shopping,” she said, “Everything you need to help you is here in one location. You can never stop learning.” Brian Burchette joined the SIU in 1986 in Honolulu aboard one of the cruise ships. Now sailing from the port of Tacoma, he has made it a continuing priority to upgrade his skills at the Paul Hall Center. He told the unlicensed apprentices that when they get their books, their obligations to themselves and their families—including the SIU family—begins, and that “it is important aboard ship to take pride in what you’re doing. Listen and learn. Everyone has something to offer.” Burchette thanked the union officials as well as the school and its staff and instructors for the great learning experience. The Serve Safe course was exceptional, he said, and the sharing of experiences with his classmates was extremely beneficial. He expressed renewed appreciation for the union and what it provides the membership. And seeing the TWIC debate live on CSPAN was particularly exciting for him. “I love what I do, and I take pride in what I do,” he concluded as he presented each member of his graduating class with a cap he created and had embroidered that contains the SIU logo and the words “Recertified Steward.” Stephen Bird is one of seven seafarers in his family, ranging from his father, who retired in 1993, to his nephew who is at the beginning of his career and sailing as an OS. “I can’t begin to tell you how many ways the SIU has affected all four generations,” he told the audience. He joined the union in 1991 and sails from the port of Boston. Bird thanked the union officials and “everyone behind the scenes. Without your continuous effort, the SIU would not be what it is today. Most of all, thank you for the opportunities you have given to all of us.” Bird found the CPR and first aid refreshers extremely valuable training. The nutrition course, in particular, he believes, will help him keep his crew trim and fit for duty. To the unlicensed apprentices, Bird said, “You, the future of the SIU, are about to become members of this union. We all have one goal: to continue to be the best union and seafarers in the world. The only way to do this is to follow in the footsteps of those before you. Through hard work, paying attention and working together with your fellow seamen as a family and as a team, you will achieve this common goal. Good luck, and see you on the ‘Big Blue.’” This logo, designed by Brian Burchette, adorned the caps that he gave out to each member of his graduating class. Seafarers LOG 7 �37824_PG4_6,8,15_17,20,23.qxp 8/28/2006 8:59 PM Page 8 Located at 1121 7th Street in Oakland, the hall is close to the waterfront. Photos above show front and back of new building. Seafarers: Oakland Hall Is Upgrade In two photos above, SIU President Michael Sacco welcomes guests to the ceremonial opening. Left: SIU Asst. VP Don Anderson, Recertified Steward Terry White Right: AB Victor Frazier, SIU Guam Port Agent Jeff Turkus Bosun George Pino holds the U.S. Merchant Marine flag during opening ceremonies with a U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard. The union in late July moved its operations from the old hall in San Francisco to a new facility in nearby ments and recent interior construction and upgrades Oakland, Calif., where it hosted a ceremonial grand ordered by the SIU. opening Aug. 17. As previously reported, the hall offers more than 30 Members didn’t take long to warm up to the parking spaces next to the new building, located at 1121 7th Street in building, with additional parkOakland. ing nearby. It includes a media “This move benefits the members,” said room for rank-and-file members Recertified Bosun Robert Natividad. “It’s a featuring a television and highvery nice hall and very convenient to the speed internet hookups; a classBART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) and bus sysroom for off-site training; meettems. It’s outstanding.” ing and conference rooms and “Everything about it is more efficient, more other amenities. modern,” said GUDE/Wiper Melvin Ratcliff. Approximately 150 people “I really like it. I live maybe 10 minutes attended the grand opening, away.” including SIU officials AB Peter Koucky immediately noticed one President Mike Sacco, SIU President Michael Sacco key difference between the Oakland hall and addresses the crowd at the Executive Vice President Augie the old building on Fremont Street, which the Tellez and Secretary-Treasurer Oakland hall. union had occupied since 1980. “The new hall David Heindel as well as repreis well-lit,” he said. “The other one didn’t have much sentatives from other maritime unions, the U.S. Coast lighting. There’s lots of windows here. Guard and the U.S. Marine Corps. Oakland Mayor Jerry “It’s also much cleaner,” Koucky added. “It seems Brown sent a welcoming proclamation that was read well laid-out and I think it’s an improvement. So far, so aloud to the audience. good.” AB Mohsin Ali said, “The hall is in a good location, easy to get to with BART and the buses. It’s a good convenience for us.” Other members also noted the Oakland hall’s close proximity to the waterfront—it is located within easy walking distance of the Matson pier. The Oakland hall contains two stories plus a basement and is roughly 17,000 square feet. The facility is 60 years old but during the past few years has undergone major refurbishment, including structural SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez, Sec.-Treas. David Heindel, reinforceAsst. VP Nick Celona, VP Nick Marrone SIU Oakland Safety Director Kathy Chester assists Seafarer Mike Simpson at the counter. Right: AB Ramon Duran, QEP Marcelino Cayabyab, DEU Emmanuel Bayani Jr. These three photos show some of the Seafarers and guests who turned out for the grand opening Aug. 17. 8 Seafarers LOG September 2006 �37824_pg3,7,9,11,14,18,21,22,24.qxp 8/28/2006 7:16 PM Page 9 Training, Teamwork Pay Off Pride of America’s Deck Dept. Always Gets the Job Done The SIU-crewed Pride of America has just celebrated its first anniversary of service in the Hawaiian Islands. Before working aboard the Pride of America (and its sister ships in the NCL America fleet, the Pride of Aloha and the Pride of Hawaii), crew members must pass a basic safety training course. Many completed their studies at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. But safety instruction does not stop there. It is a continuing process in all three departments to meet the vessel’s safety needs. Through teamwork and regular training, the The staff captain looks on as AB Mikhail deck department, for example, keeps the cruise Pinchevskiy and Bosun Manolo Delos ship seaworthy—working 24 hours a day/seven Santos maneuver the life raft from Deck 6. days a week—maintaining readiness from island to island. The photos accompanying this article were sent to the LOG by AB Chuck Palmer, who knows firsthand that the work his department does helps the passengers and other crew members maximize the enjoyment of their voyage both aboard ship and while on shore in a friendly and safe manner. Next to the vessel, nine life boats are guided in an oval course between set points to familiarize the crew with how to launch, retrieve and maneuver them in windy conditions. Mates utilize the MOB (man overboard) boat to retrieve the 35-person life raft (left), which was deployed for the annual Coast Guard inspection. Above, a team of deck department members then have the task of deflating the raft. The crew uses leverage to stow heavy gear. Clockwise from right are Bosun Manolo Delos Santos, AB Carlos Ajona Cano, AB Mark Wyn, OS Duane Reber and AB Mikhail Pinchevskiy. A few members of the deck department team haul the raft aboard the ship platform, which opens to the water level from the hull, midships. The ship anchors in Kona harbor every Wednesday, and tender boats carry the passengers safely to shore and back. Helping guests board the tender are OS Junior Augustin (left) and OS Duane Reber. Working on the stern are (from left) OS Mustapha Abubakari, OS Junior Augustin and Deck Repairman Elias Ayalen. Ode to the Deck Crew by AB Chuck Palmer Day in and day out, the deck crew is there. When a new day dawns, the monkey fist is thrown and the ship is securely tied to another dock in another Hawaiian Island. The gangway comes down, and the deck crew is there. Passengers and other crew members exalt to the delights of a new and exciting day. And the deck crew is there. The bulkheads need rinsing, tenderboats need caring, the deck needs painting and teak wood needs oiling. A myriad of jobs await the attention of apprentices, cadets, OSs, ABs and mates alike. Handling the stern line are (from left) AB Regina Ewing, AB Michael Dempster, 3rd Mate Dan Leobel, AB Carlos Arjona Cano, AB Frederick Martinez, Deck Repairman Elias Ayalen and OS Riesel Pardilla. AB Ulysses Estigoy does a highwire act maintaining the bigtop over the Waikiki Bar on Deck 13. As another long day gives way to night, the deck crew is there. All lines are hauled in and the gangway comes up. Across the blue waters another island beckons. Not long after happy heads sink into comfy pillows, the night crew comes out. Decks are scrubbed down, pools are set to the proper PH and spas are readied for another day’s fun and relaxation. High above, a lone watchstander stands vigil at the helm. Throughout the night the mates and ABs scan everything in sight, doing their part to bring her on in safely to another port in paradise. From the towering cliffs of the Napali coast to the teeming lava flows of Kilauea, the deck crew gets you there. As she steams into Kona, the deck crew is there. Before the sun arrives on the scene, the ship is set and the tenderboats are dropped to the heaving sea. And the deck crew is there. Two thousand passengers set out for shore. From ship to boat, boat to pier and back again until the sun again drops out of the sky, the deck crew is at it. Crew members sometimes get to take advantage of the recreational opportunities that abound during overnight stops. AB Chuck Palmer, who sent these photos to the LOG, rents a Harley In Nawiliwili, Kauai. September 2006 Days turn into weeks and weeks into months and nary a single day is taken off. The toil is endless for the crew. For reward, they ask for naught. For that is the seafarer’s S.T.Y.L.E. [Service, Teamwork and Yes Lead to Excellence] Keeping up with necessary maintenance, AB Carlos Ramos is at work on Deck 11 at the Aloha Cafe. Some people say that the seafaring way is a lonely way. Be that as it may; day in and day out, night in and night out . . . the deck crew is there. Seafarers LOG 9 �37824_pg1,2,10,12,13,19.qxp 8/28/2006 9:05 PM Page 10 CIVMARS Rescue Liberian Fishermen The fleet ocean tug USNS Apache, crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division, rescued seven fishermen whose canoes capsized in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Monrovia, Liberia on Aug. 14. According to the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), the 226-foot Apache was two nautical miles west of the harbor entrance when the ship came upon five men struggling in the water next to their canoe. “Several of us saw the overturned boat and people in the water around 2:45 p.m.,” Apache civil service master Capt. Charles Rodriguez told the agency. “I immediately called the chief mate to tell him to get out to the site as quickly as possible.” AB Jeremy Guyet and Chief Mate Troy Bruemmer were in the harbor aboard the ship’s rigid hull inflatable boat observing pier repair operation when they received the call for help. “They were on scene picking the first of the five victims out of the water within 10 minutes,” said Rodriguez. “They hauled the fisherman into the boat, huddled them together and covered them because they appeared to be in the first stages of hypothermia.” Guyet and Bruemmer were transiting to the port with the canoe’s crew when they saw two more fishermen struggling in the water. After rescuing them, the two crew members returned all seven men to dry land. MSC reported that this was the second rescue operation in five days conducted by the Apache. Less than a week earlier, the ship also came to the aid of fellow mariners at the Port of Monrovia, putting out a fire that was raging aboard the foreign-flag commercial freighter Tahoma Reefer. The USNS Apache is one of the Military Sealift Command’s four fleet ocean tugs that provide towing, diving platforms and other services to Navy combatant ships at sea. Official U.S. Navy Photo The Apache has been in Liberia’s capital city of Monrovia since Aug. 9. Sailors from the ship’s embarked Mobile Diving Salvage Unit Two conducted repairs on the Port of Monrovia’s commercial pier and surveyed the harbor. The Apache is one of MSC’s four fleet ocean tugs that provide towing, diving platforms and other services to Navy combatant ships at sea. It also is one of MSC’s 33 Naval Fleet Auxiliary Force ships, which are civil service-crewed and provide underway replenishment and other direct support to Navy combatant ships at sea. The agency notes that these ships “allow Navy vessels to remain at sea, on station and able to perform their mission.” This notice, which federal law requires all multiemployer plans to send annually, includes important information about the funding level of Seafarers Pension Plan, Plan Number 001, Employer Identification Number 13-6100329 (Plan). This notice also includes information about rules governing insolvent plans and benefit payments guaranteed by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC), a federal agency.1 This notice is for the plan year beginning January 1, 2005 and ending December 31, 2005 (Plan Year). Plan’s Funding Level The Plan’s “funded current liability percentage” for the Plan Year was 116 pecent. 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 benefits payments from the fund increase or decline. Plan’s Financial Information The market value of the Plan’s assets as of Dec. 31, 2005 was $ 633,211,520.00. The total amount of benefit payments for the Plan Year was $ 30,780,217.00. The ratio of assets to benefit payments is 20:1. This ratio suggests that the Plan’s assets could provide for approximately 20 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. Where to Get More Information For more information about this 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 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 1-800-400-7242. 1 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 finan- 10 Seafarers LOG Liberian fishermen whose canoes capsized 2 nautical miles outside the Port of Monrovia huddle aboard a rigid hull inflatable boat launched from the USNS Apache after being rescued by Apache crew members including members of the SIU Government Services Division. Notice: SIU Message to Unlicensed CIVMARS Concerning MSC-Issued Letters of Indoctrination or Shipboard Orientation Notices August 10, 2006 CIVMAR PROTECTIONS AND RIGHTS ABOARD MSC VESSELS The SIU’s Government Services Division recently learned that unlicensed CIVMARS on some vessels may be required to sign a letter of indoctrination or orientation notice once they board their assigned ship. These letters or notices may be several pages long. The letters supposedly outline shipboard rules and other conditions of employment aboard the ship. One such letter stated, “The ship is governed by the Civilian Marine Personnel Instructions (CMPI) not by any union agreement that may be in effect. All work, pay disciplinary, etc. matters will be handled in accordance ANNUAL FUNDING NOTICE FOR SEAFARERS PENSION PLAN Introduction Official U.S. Navy Photo cial 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 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 a $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 survivor 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. with the CMPI. Should you wish to refer to the CMPI, see the Chief Mate. If you have a pay dispute, you should complete a pay dispute form. The completed form will be reviewed by the Master and, if necessary, forwarded to the APMC for a final ruling.” This statement is inaccurate and constitutes an unfair labor practice. Upon learning that CIVMARS on certain vessels were being required to sign this type of document, the union immediately contacted the Labor and Employee Relations Department at Military Sealift Fleet Support Command (MSFSC). The union’s goal was to correct this procedure as quickly as possible. The vessel captain issuing this statement was notified immediately and was required to change the language. The union has requested other remedies to this situation and is still working with MSFSC to accomplish this. The union will consider taking other action if an agreement on the proper remedies cannot be reached. If you have been required to sign a letter, notice or statement like this it is very important that you contact your union representative immediately. It is important to send a copy of the statement if possible. The union collective bargaining agreement contains language which sets forth CIVMARS’ rights and protections aboard the vessel. It includes language concerning pay practices, health and safety and many other conditions of employment. To understand your complete set of rights and obligations while on assignment, you must seek guidance from the collective bargaining agreement and the CMPI. In addition to these two documents, there have been memorandums and agreements made by the union and MSC throughout the years to address grievances and other issues. If you have any questions about vessel conditions of employment, send them to civmar- CIVMAR Notice This article’s purpose is to update CIVMARS regarding the status of the Days Inn Norfolk (Va.) hotel habitability grievance. This grievance was filed to address the sub-standard habitability conditions faced by East Coast CIVMARS required to stay at this facility. The union’s investigation of the hotel documented dirty rooms, mold, roaches, bed bugs, safety issues and other problems. To continue its grievance investigation, the union requested information from MSC including the Environmental Health report that was conducted to evaluate the facility. When MSC refused to release the report, the union filed an unfair labor practice with the Federal Labor Relations Authority. MSC then released the report to the union. Proactive East Coast CIVMARS support@seafarers.org or contact your union representative. Each CIVMAR has the following basic rights aboard the vessel or at the CSU: „ To have a union representative, shipboard delegate or another person of your choosing present if you are directed to participate in an investigation/discussion which you believe may lead to a disciplinary action. „ To file grievances under the collective bargaining agreement including those involving pay or overtime disputes. „ To distribute union literature while you are off watch to other CIVMARS who are off watch or on breaks. „ To hold union meetings with your shipmates during off watch periods. „ To be free of supervisory intimidation because of your union activities or other actions. „ To wear or display a union insignia. If you have any questions, contact your SIU Government Services Division representative at your union hall or via email at: civmarsupport@seafarers.org 635 4th Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 Phone: (718) 499-6600 Fax: (718) 499-6254 115 Third Street Norfolk, VA 23510 Phone: (757) 622-1892 Fax: (757) 624-3578 1121 7th Street Oakland, CA 94607 Phone: (510) 444-2360 Fax: (510) 444-5587 have worked with the union to assist in the grievance process, provide information and support as this case has proceeded. The case is expected to go to arbitration this fall. An arbitrator will determine whether CIVMARS will be entitled to habitability pay and, if so, in what amount. Persistence, initiative and vigilance have paid off for East Coast CIVMARS. CIVMAR efforts, in partnership with the union, have prompted MSC to re-evaluate the Norfolk hotel quarters issue. The union last month learned that a Request for Proposal has been posted by MSC requesting that hotels in the Norfolk area bid for MSC’s contracted hotel quarters business. Any hotel which applies must meet or exceed a AAA three diamond rating. The union will keep CIVMARS updated on this issue. September 2006 �37824_pg3,7,9,11,14,18,21,22,24.qxp 8/28/2006 7:43 PM Page 11 Instructor Oakley Pays Tribute to Bill Saul Editor’s note: William Repass Saul, 80, passed away July 15 in Leonardtown, Md. As was reported in the August 2006 LOG, Saul was a retired official who worked with and for the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. The following tribute to Saul was submitted by Mitch Oakley, a member of the school’s staff and one of many people whose life Saul impacted. William R. (Bill) Saul “Bigger than Life.” In a simple world, that statement would sum up Mr. Bill Saul. That was my first impression in 1969. As an adolescent making a difficult move to Maryland from South Carolina in the junior year of high school, Bill’s bigger-than-life activities became my focus. Mr. Saul was then president of Steuart Transportation Company, sister of Steuart Petroleum Company. He and his mentor, senior Mr. Steuart, had transformed a coal and ice delivery business into a multi-million dollar petroleum storage and transportation venture. Bill was a hands-on executive, at home in coveralls and jeans as well as designer suits. He was as keen in the shipyard as he was in the boardroom. Whether singlehanding his 46-foot Cal, the Salty Lady, or piloting a Cessna 91000, his corporate aircraft, Bill was always a source of inspiration. What young person could resist the appeal of his energy? To assume that Bill Saul was all business was a mistake. He savored life more than anyone I have ever known. Consummate businessman, world class entertainer, and always a gentleman, his fatal flaw was his huge heart. Bill always had time to help and kept a special place for children. He would wipe away papers, and children would find toys in a special drawer of his massive desk. Bill was backed up and always supported by Linda Scott, seldom seen but always appreciated. Bill always had time to devote to me. He answered every question, no matter how busy he was. He fostered me from grass cutter to operations manager, guiding me to graduate Kings Point in the process. I literally had two fathers. After the loss of his mentor and the heartless demise of their With Seafarers in Puerto Rico AB Jorge Santiago (right) shows one of his certificates from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education to SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo at the hall in Santurce. QMED Joel Encarnacion applies for his “A” book at the hall in Puerto Rico. True Brotherhood Strong on the Tacoma The Brotherhood of the Sea is alive and well aboard the Horizon Tacoma, for not only is there one set of brothers working on the ship, but two! Third Mate Rafik Shahbin recently joined his brother, Mohamed Alsinai, who sails as an electrician, and AB Anwar Alsharif works on the vessel with his brother, DEU Majed Alsharif. Shahbin, a 12-year SIU member, currently is sailing on his license for the first time. After working as an AB/watchstander, pursuing his license seemed to him the next logical step in his seagoing career. And it was his older brother, Mohamed (who holds a third assistant engineer’s license) who encouraged him to do so. Anwar Alsharif enjoys spending time outdoors, so the deck department was a perfect fit for him. His brother, Majed, on the September 2006 other hand, enjoys mechanical work and preferred the engine department. As dayworkers, they particularly enjoy being on the same schedule so they can spend their free time together. Both sets of brothers agree the Tacoma is a good ship with dedicated crew members. When asked if there were any downsides to sailing with a family corporate creation, Bill surprised even me with his ability to remain on character. The Seafarers International Union, SIU, had the foresight to involve Bill as their vice president of inland affairs. What a splendid way to cap a long and mutually respectful relationship: allow a great maritime figure to share his expertise and industry goodwill. I was so grateful to see him smile during those twilight years. I am thankful to have had the opportunity to love and learn from Bill Saul. Those “right seat” times in the 91000, quiet moments on the Chesapeake in the Salty Lady, watching him work to heal lives when disaster struck in an explosion in the 80s, carrying the briefcase and listening as energy policy and strategy was shaped all showed the character of William Saul. Not until he helped me bury my father and mother did I realize the depths of his compassion. Thank you, Bill, for always having a glass half full. Your sharing spirit will continue to inspire those of us you touched. With all respect and love, “Monster” Mitch Oakley New Full Book Members Pictured aboard the El Morro are Chief Electrician Monroe Monseur (left) and Bosun Roan Lightfoot. Taking a brief and wellearned break on the Horizon Hawaii are (from left) GUDE Juan Rosario, Chief Steward Carlos Sanchez and QMED Orlando Herrera. Bill Saul member, they couldn’t name one. The Horizon Tacoma is a D7 class vessel, sailing from Tacoma, Wash. with calls in Anchorage, Kodiak and Dutch Harbor, Alaska. Thanks to Dorene Molise Dunn, the chief cook aboard the Horizon Tacoma, for sending the LOG this information and accompanying photo. During the August membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., James Bennefield (left) and David Brewster (right) were awarded their full union books. Congratulating them is Piney Point Port Agent Edd Morris, who read them the oath of obligation. ATTENTION SEAFARERS: HELP SPAD HELP YOU Contribute to the Seafarers Political Action Donation Rafik Shahbin is at left aboard the Horizon Tacoma. His brother, Mohamed Alsinai, was unavailable when the photo was taken. The other set of brothers aboard the vessel is Majed (center) and Anwar Alsharif. Seafarers LOG 11 �37824_pg1,2,10,12,13,19X.qxp 8/30/2006 7:36 PM Page 12 BOLAND PRESQUE ISLE BUFFALO The crew of the John J. Boland (American Steamship Company) gives thumbs up for the new Great Lakes Standard Frieghtship Agreement while docked in Superior, Wis. loading coal. McCARTHY The crew of the Presque Isle (Key Lakes/Great Lakes Fleet) unanimously approved the new agreement. From the left are SA Terri Sales, AB William Root, GUDE Jesse Parente, AB Abulwali Suwaileh, AB Richard Bennett and GUDE Tawfiq Saleh. From the left, AB Wheelsman Charles Richardson, Gateman Mohamed Ahmed, GUDE Mageed Ahmed and Recertified Bosun Diego Hatch approve the new agreement aboard the Buffalo. Seafarers Ratify Standard Contracts ADAM E. CORNELIUS Bosun David Grieg (left) and Rep Chad Partridge show their approval on the Walter J. McCarthy in Superior, Wis. BURNS HARBOR Reviewing the agreement aboard the Burns Harbor (American Steamship Company) are (from left) Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak, AB Resat Diler, AB Randall McArthur, GUDEs Nasser Omar and Ahmed Algalham, AB Daniel Breyer and GUDE Ahmed Almlhany. GREEN LAKE As reported in detail in the August editio members this summer overwhelmingly ratif ship and tanker agreements along with (sep standard freightship agreement. Each of the ulates annual wage increases and maintains level, among other highlights. Voting took place the past two months ab ships and at membership meetings and spec Crew members aboard the Adam E. Cornelius (American halls. Overall, more than 98 percent of the v Steamship Company) give the agreement a thumbs up. From the favor of the respective agreements, which to left are Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak, ABs Michael Larson, retroactively June 16, 2006 and which run t Richard Lee and Charles Lamb. 2011. Pictured on are Seafarers ST. MARY’S CHALLENGER ALASKAN EXPLORER mation about aboard ship an agreements. A age appeared 7 of last mont remains availa www.seafarer Aboard the St. Mary’s Challenger (HMC Ship Management) in Milwaukee, Wis., more crew members show their approval of the new agreement. METEOR PUGET SOUND CORNHUSKER STATE CAPE HORN Ratifying the agreement on the Cornhusker State are (from left) Elect. Sterner Clothier, CS Adde George, Elect. Gary McDonald and Recertified Bosun Scott Palen. 12 Seafarers LOG September 2006 �37824_pg1,2,10,12,13,19.qxp 8/29/2006 10:45 AM Page 13 CAPE RACE & CAPE RISE FLICKERTAIL STATE CAPE MAY Crew members from the Cape Race and Cape Rise ratify the contract. They are (from the right) Bosun Gerald E. McIntyre, QEE James Atwell, GVA Cameron Miller, AB Robert Kirk, Recertified Steward Kenneth Long, QMED Martin Allred and AB Phillip Harmon. On the Flickertail State are Wiper James Burke, CS Michael Pooler, QEE Mann B. Aroon, AB Stacey Twiford and Bosun David Brown. REGULUS & DENEBOLA Raising their hands in favor of the agreement on the Cape May are (from left) Bosun Blair Baker, Elect. Randy Pearson, QMED Jerome Slade and AB Robert White. dition of the Seafarers LOG, SIU ratified the new standard freight(separately) the new Great Lakes f the contracts spans five years, stiptains health benefits at the Core Plus hs aboard nearly 200 SIU-crewed special meetings conducted at the the votes were in ich took effect CAPE RAY run through June 15, ed on these two pages rers receiving inforbout the contracts hip and voting on the nts. Additional coverared on pages 3, 6 and month’s LOG and available online at farers.org. HORIZON TRADER Included in the voting process are Regulus and Denebola crew members Chief Steward Rudy Lopez, Wiper Howard Vick, Wiper Natan Jenkins, Bosun Larry Ambrous, AB Joe Willis, AB Timothy Kacer, OS Leander Garrett, CSKS Arica Shaw and Elect. Earl Ebbert. ALASKAN FRONTIER MAERSK VERMONT Having their votes counted in the ratification process on the Cape Ray are (from left) QMED Brad Neathery, QEE Antoine Jennings, GVA Melvin Smith, and AB Joe Murphy GREAT LAND CAPE GIRARDEAU MAHI MAHI KEYSTONE STATE GRAND CANYON STATE GEM STATE HORIZON ENTERPRISE ITB NEW YORK September 2006 Seafarers LOG 13 �37824_pg3,7,9,11,14,18,21,22,24.qxp 8/28/2006 7:16 PM Page 14 Lummus Cookies Are a Big Hit John Bozzi is a third mate aboard the SIUcrewed USNS 1st Lt. Jack Lummus. His cousin, Patrick Anderson, is with the 2515th Naval Air Ambulance Detachment, which is stationed in Kuwait to perform air medevac missions in support of ground troops in Kuwait and southern Iraq. When Anderson made a personal request of his cousin for some home-baked cookies, the galley gang on the Lummus didn’t hesitate to fire up their ovens. More than 20 dozen cookies were sent to Anderson’s squadron of about 120 personnel. Also included in the package of goodies were some ship’s T-shirts, ball caps, an official ship photo and a biography of Jack Lummus. According to Anderson, his squadron is composed of six aircraft, about 40 aircrewmen and pilots and eight corpsmen. The rest are aircraft maintainers and support people. “We have two aircraft on a 15-minute medevac alert 24-7,” Anderson wrote. “Once we get the call, we have the aircraft off deck within 15 minutes and head out to pick up the patient(s) wherever they are and take them to a higher level of care (advanced hospital). We carry one corpsman in the back to provide en route medical care.” Judging from the pictures of the cookie recipients, it looks as if the Lummus gift was a really delicious morale booster for the hard-working group who are helping save American lives in the war-torn areas of the world. Cook/Baker Evelyn Tayag (left) and 3rd Mate John Bozzi roll the cookie dough into little balls, ready for baking. In the foreground are some of the other items that were packaged up along with the cookies. Maritime Day on the Jeremiah O’Brien Fresh from the oven (left), the cookies are left to cool and then packaged up for shipment. The Naval Air Ambulance Detachment receives the boxes of goodies (left). Once opened (right), it seems as though the cookies, in particular, were a big hit and a terrific morale booster. Bosun’s Newsletter Offers Direction to Crews Recertified Bosun Daniel Teichman began writing and distributing a shipboard newsletter years ago in an effort to bring everybody together and give them something to talk about other than each other. The newsletter, which contains a mix of practical tips and observations, is circulated every other week when he’s sailing. The length varies—sometimes its’s a single page, other times it’s much longer. Below is the content of Teichman’s most recent edition, which gets to the core of personal fulfillment. Bosun’s Newsletter 06-06-06 “The Rattle of Musket Fire” At the southern end of the Suez Canal, a lonely monument sits with a small plaque, noticed by few and visited by less. The small inscription tells the story of how the French started the canal. On this site was to stand the gateway light with its matching sister at the northern end. Plagued by civil unrest and local labor problems, and coupled with political turmoil at home caused the French to fall from the picture and turn the project over to the British. All, that is, except for the two light statues already cast of bronze and steel and still stored in a warehouse in France. Magnificent structures meant to light the north and south of France’s great achievement. Jammie DaHat has no ties to bind him; he has for many years lived at the Spelling Residential Hotel, $200 per week, bath down the hall, laundry on the third floor. Jammie has no savings or checking 14 Seafarers LOG Asst. VP Government Services Chester Wheeler and SIU Rep Kathy Chester pose with the SIU wreath aboard the Jeremiah O’Brien for a Maritime Day remembrance. account, no personal relationships, and he drinks at the bar downstairs every night and exchanges vivid and glorious sea stories. The French, being a little arrogant, could not have these great works of art reminding the world of France’s failure. Jammie walks the 12 blocks every day to the union hall. Along the way, he encounters the usual assortment of homeless, opening the door for him at the fast food joint or begging in hopes of a few coins. He scoffs at them and he continues his daily ritual and walk. There are a lot of homeless—men, women and children. People without direction, people with little hope and no more dreams, people without homes and certainly no way to get there. In time, Jammie reaches his destination, assumes his usual spot at the corner table in the “hall.” From here, he holds court for all who would engage him, freely dispensing his convictions and advice on job, union, taxes, relationships and, indeed, on life itself. Jammie likes who he is and what he is, and he knows where he belongs: a full book member in the Seafarers International Union. Means and opportunity, the ability to earn an above-average income, he gets his money at payoff in what most would consider a very large sum of cash. Not to mention the vacation monies and unemployment benefits. Yes, Jammie could build a very secure future with home and hearth for himself. Security. Congratulations, Jammie! The French, in need of political support, National Maritime Day in San Francisco was celebrated both May 20 and 21 aboard the SS Jeremiah O’Brien. The all-volunteer crew aboard the World War II Liberty ship welcomed visitors for its third International Memorial cruise, remembering that 12 years ago, they were sailing to Normandy for the 50th anniversary of the D-Day invasion and the liberation of Europe. That trip, noted Rear Adm. Thomas J. Patterson USMS (Ret.), chairman and CEO of the National Liberty Ship Memorial, was “made possible by a 51-year-old ship, a volunteer crew of veterans averaging 72 years of age, and many wonderful supporters in America, France, England and around the world.” Following the presentation of colors, national anthems of the United States, France, England and Canada (allies in the war) and remarks by guest speakers, there was a roll call of all veterans from past conflicts, a laying of wreaths and a rifle salute by the Marine Guard. Asst. VP Government Services Chester Wheeler and SIU Rep Kathy Chester were in attendance and presented the SIU wreath. Chester noted that she felt honored and proud to take part in the ceremony. She also was pleased to be able to share the day with her mother, who recently celebrated her 90th birthday and enjoyed reminiscing about her days as a “Rosie” (the Riveter) as well as sharing stories of her father, who was a merchant mariner during and shortly after World War II. The ship, now owned and operated by the National Liberty Ship Memorial, was open to visitors, who had an opportunity to view the engine room, flying bridge, gun tabs and watch the radio department demonstrate Morse Code transmissions. aid and trade agreements with the United States, remembered those long-forgotten light towers and decided to present them as gifts to the two largest gateway cities in the U.S.A. The first was to go to San Francisco and was scheduled out on a ship bound through the Suez Canal, the Far East and on to the City by the Bay. However, misfortune befell them once more. A dockside strike and more unrest prevented the loading, and the fate of the first tower was sealed. To this day, she lies on her side, lonely and forgotten in a warehouse in France. Six months later, the second loading took place without incident, and the once southern tower was destined for a new life in New York, searching for success in the new world like the thousands of immigrants who journeyed by sea to a new land. Many thousands passed that small fort island in New York’s inner harbor and looked upon the face of another immigrant as the symbol of new freedom and a better way of life. As with many immigrants, our lady light tower took a new American name, The Statue of Liberty. Any life may start in one direction and find itself in a distant place. So now you know the rest of the story. In my little story, the names are always fictional, but the stories and facts are true. So goodbye Jammie DaHat. You will never appear again, but a final word to you, my other character will always be with us, and in a way says this the best. He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother. Once you become a seaman, you have defined who you are for the rest of your life. But not yet what you would become as a citizen, and you do not yet know where you belong. When you pretend to be, you are pretending only for yourself. When you hide what you are, you are expressing for all to see the failing of one’s self. Only a “home” can bring you full maturity, respect and financial security Home and hearth, security for you and yours. By who you are, the opportunities afforded you by this union and great nation has this gift been put in your hands. But it is for you to decide at the day of payoff. Travel this great nation, find small-town America, find your home and where you belong. As an SIU bosun, I am committed to trying to make you not only a better seaman and citizen of my ship, but a better seaman citizen of this nation. Thought, discussion and debate. A tip of the white cap to my wife, Janet, for her encouragement and support. You are whom I most admire and who I hope someday to become. A tip of the white cap to Mike, Augie, Nick, Bart and George, a few of the union officials and their staffs. After my recent visit to Camp Springs and Washington, D.C., I stand humbled by my observances. Your hard work, devotion and passion to improving and preserving this union and, indeed, the whole of the U.S. shipping industry, has caused me to re-assert myself and in some small way improve and educate those around me. To be that positive voice in a room filled with dissension. Not a good job, but a great job!!! A moment of silence, please. (Not this ship’s bosun) but The BOS’N September 2006 �37824_PG4_6,8,15_17,20,23.qxp 8/28/2006 8:59 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea October & November 2006 Membership Meetings JULY 16 — AUGUST 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 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 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 5 0 6 8 0 9 49 31 0 8 16 44 17 23 6 1 10 1 38 36 3 4 3 18 6 8 40 24 3 12 11 22 19 10 4 3 10 10 24 18 1 3 2 3 0 2 6 3 2 5 3 10 8 3 4 0 2 2 10 13 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 1 0 4 8 1 10 40 28 0 11 12 19 14 18 4 0 6 0 26 23 308 252 82 225 0 0 6 3 1 8 15 17 1 6 5 11 10 13 0 3 2 1 20 13 1 0 5 7 5 3 8 18 1 6 6 16 15 7 3 2 2 0 18 10 1 1 1 5 0 1 9 5 0 0 2 4 9 2 0 0 1 2 5 18 0 0 2 7 1 7 12 14 0 8 10 10 7 5 0 4 1 0 10 11 135 133 66 1 0 3 3 2 4 24 17 0 6 6 19 7 22 4 3 0 0 17 27 1 0 2 7 3 9 4 14 0 5 2 7 10 4 0 4 4 2 9 4 0 0 1 0 1 0 6 3 0 1 3 4 0 1 0 1 0 1 2 0 Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 1 3 4 15 2 1 27 11 2 6 8 12 14 5 2 12 5 7 19 14 170 0 0 1 3 0 2 5 4 1 1 3 0 2 2 1 0 0 0 4 9 38 1 1 6 6 0 2 14 12 1 1 5 16 9 5 2 0 3 0 27 7 118 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 109 0 0 4 6 1 5 7 14 0 5 4 5 16 3 2 2 6 3 10 10 103 0 0 1 3 0 5 5 3 0 1 2 3 7 1 0 0 1 2 1 8 43 0 0 1 0 0 3 2 9 0 3 1 4 7 1 1 1 4 0 7 5 49 165 91 24 127 0 0 0 0 0 2 5 3 0 2 1 3 1 5 0 0 2 0 3 4 2 0 4 6 1 10 24 20 0 7 2 29 13 15 1 3 3 2 20 12 3 1 1 10 1 8 11 18 0 3 7 12 27 8 0 26 1 1 9 3 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 1 0 1 0 5 0 0 0 0 3 4 1 0 3 3 3 5 5 10 0 2 3 2 8 2 1 3 0 0 2 2 55 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 1 1 2 1 2 0 1 0 2 1 1 15 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 3 0 2 5 16 8 0 3 1 25 5 4 1 7 3 1 8 7 0 1 2 4 0 3 12 5 0 1 5 6 16 6 1 18 0 0 6 1 6 0 14 21 2 16 73 56 1 15 23 86 24 37 8 1 17 3 66 57 8 8 7 25 10 8 55 37 3 19 20 35 35 19 5 6 14 13 42 28 3 4 3 4 1 2 18 11 2 6 6 28 12 5 5 0 5 2 18 15 526 397 150 0 0 10 5 1 11 23 31 1 11 11 37 14 21 3 2 5 2 29 20 2 2 8 7 6 4 18 31 3 10 10 17 17 9 4 2 3 1 26 13 2 1 3 7 1 1 14 9 1 1 1 10 9 2 2 0 1 2 10 18 237 193 95 1 0 5 7 3 12 41 34 1 11 8 45 12 37 4 4 1 1 27 48 0 0 1 10 4 14 7 13 0 7 5 10 17 7 0 2 5 2 16 12 0 0 2 2 1 0 10 3 1 0 4 6 3 0 0 0 0 1 4 4 0 0 0 2 0 1 5 3 0 0 2 13 5 11 1 0 0 1 8 4 56 302 132 41 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 6 9 5 0 1 3 11 2 6 0 0 2 0 7 2 3 5 3 14 1 12 35 33 0 8 7 56 22 25 1 7 5 1 28 14 10 5 2 17 1 12 22 33 0 4 6 34 29 13 0 12 1 1 13 15 31 174 150 18 99 87 0 55 280 230 639 650 322 479 427 183 223 1,120 1,002 516 *“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. September 2006 Piney Point .............Monday: October 2, November 6 Algonac ..................Friday: October 6 ................................Monday: November 13* .................................(*change created by Veterans’ Day holiday) Baltimore ................Thursday: October 5, November 9 Boston.....................Friday: October 6 ................................Monday: November 13* .................................(*change created by Veterans’ Day holiday) Guam ......................Thursday: October 19 ................................Friday: November 24* .................................(*change created by Thanksgiving Day holiday) Honolulu .................Friday: October 13, November 17 Houston ..................Tuesday: October 10* ................................Monday: November 13 .................................(*change created by Columbus Day holiday) Jacksonville ............Thursday: October 5, November 9 Joliet .......................Thursday: October 12, November 16 Mobile ....................Wednesday: October 11, November 15 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: October 10, November 14 New York................Tuesday: October 3, November 7 Norfolk ...................Thursday: October 5, November 9 Oakland ..................Thursday: October 12, November 16 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: October 4, November 8 Port Everglades.......Thursday: October 12, November 16 San Juan..................Thursday: October 5, November 9 St. Louis..................Friday: October 13, November 17 Tacoma ...................Friday: October 20, November 24 Wilmington.............Monday: October 16, November 20 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 0 2 3 0 8 20 13 0 3 5 5 10 17 4 1 2 1 18 14 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Inland Career Opportunities – Immediate Job Openings The SIU has openings in the inland division. Interested individuals who possess either a 1,600-ton master’s license (with near coastal or ocean endorsements) along with an Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch (OICNW) STCW certificate; or a designated duty engineer (DDE) 5,000 hp or greater license are encouraged to contact Bart Rogers at the union’s manpower office at (301) 994-0010, extension 5317 for additional information. In Texas, the SIU has immediate openings aboard harbor tugs. Interested individuals who possess either a mate or master’s license (inland) greater than 200 GRT, or are licensed as a chief or assistant engineer (6,000 hp or greater) are encouraged to contact Jim McGee at the SIU hall in Houston, (713) 659-5152. Notice The union opened its new hall in Oakland, Calif. in late July. Contact information for the new hall is as follows, including the West Coast Government Services Division office: 1121 7th Street Oakland, CA 94607 Phone: (510) 444-2360 Fax: (510) 444-5587 The new SHBP clinic for the Oakland hall is located at: Concentra Medical Centers 384 Embarcadero West Oakland, CA 94607 Phone: (510) 465-9565 Fax: (510) 465-3840 Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday With the exception of drug tests, all services will be by appointment, and appointments will be made by the staff at the Oakland union hall. Seafarers LOG 15 �37824_PG4_6,8,15_17,20,23.qxp 8/28/2006 8:59 PM Seafarers International Union Directory Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report JULY 16 — AUGUST 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 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 7 4 1 2 13 0 0 4 31 1 3 2 0 6 0 0 1 13 1 2 1 0 1 2 1 0 8 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 4 7 1 0 13 0 0 4 29 1 3 2 0 5 0 0 1 12 0 2 1 0 1 2 1 0 7 0 5 8 0 8 3 1 1 26 14 24 1 20 28 0 1 1 89 1 7 0 7 23 0 0 0 38 3 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 7 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 3 9 11 0 5 12 0 0 2 39 1 3 0 1 7 0 0 0 12 0 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 4 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 3 3 1 1 2 0 0 1 11 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 3 Port 0 3 1 1 2 0 0 1 8 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 3 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 6 6 1 0 3 0 0 0 16 1 1 2 0 4 1 0 0 9 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 2 5 1 3 1 0 3 0 0 0 8 1 2 2 0 1 1 0 0 7 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 2 4 0 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 5 9 15 2 4 12 0 0 0 42 1 4 0 1 17 0 0 1 24 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 4 Totals All Departments 58 25 16 45 21 14 34 170 74 15 PICS-FROM-THE-PAST 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 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG The above photo was sent to the LOG by Bernard C. Winn of San Francisco. It is of himself taken on the stern of the SS Frank Drumm while in Honolulu in 1942. He was sailing as an AB. Also (above right) is a copy of the front pages from his SIU membership book from the same period. Note that Winn has book number “6” in the Pacific region. Before joining the SIU, Brother Winn sailed out of the Sailors Union of the Pacific hall as a permit “member.” And before that, he shipped out of the Scandinavian Seamen’s Club (union). His home port was San Francisco, but he also sailed from Seattle and Wilmington. Winn withdrew from the SIU in May of 1944 when he got his 3rd mate’s license and joined Local 90 of the Masters, Mates and Pilots Union. In 1970, he worked on tugs and tour boats in San Francisco Bay, shipping out of the Inland Boatman’s Union. Currently a member of the Golden Gate Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans, Brother Winn was pleased to be one of the guests last winter at the SIU hall in San Francisco for their annual holiday dinner. 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. September 2006 �37824_PG4_6,8,15_17,20,23.qxp 8/28/2006 9:00 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 MIGUEL BARBOSA, 65, was born in Puerto Rico. Brother Barbosa joined the SIU in 1987. During his seafaring career, he was a member of the steward department, sailing in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Brother Barbosa first worked aboard a Crowley Towing & Transportation vessel. His most recent voyage was on the USNS Denebola. Brother Barbosa calls Humacao, P.R. home. JAMES COLLINS, 65, began his seafaring career in 1989 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Collins shipped in the deep sea and inland divisions. His first voyage was aboard a Seabulk tanker. Brother Collins was a member of the steward department. He last went to sea on a Waterman Steamship vessel. Brother Collins makes his home in his native state of Alabama. MAXIMO DISING, 56, joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of New York. Brother Dising’s first ship was MooreMcCormack’s Robin Goodfellow. Born in the Philippines, he worked in the engine department. Prior to his retirement, Brother Dising sailed on the PFC Eugene A. Obregon. He lives in Meraux, La. ment in the inland and deep sea divisions. Brother Reyes initially worked aboard Crowley Towing’s San Juan. He most recently shipped on the Horizon Producer. Brother Reyes makes his home in Catano, P.R. Company. Boatman Maaskant was born in the Netherlands and worked in the deck department. His most recent voyage was on a Moran Towing of Maryland vessel. Boatman Maaskant calls Selbyville, Del. home. NEFTALI SANTANA, 64, began sailing with the SIU in 1967. His first ship was the Steel Scientist. Brother Santana, who is a native of Puerto Rico, was a member of the deck department. Prior to his retirement, Brother Santana shipped aboard the Commitment. He now lives in Orlando, Fla. HENRY METALLO, 62, joined the SIU in 1970 in the port of Baltimore. Boatman Metallo, who sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by Maritrans, continues to live in his native state of Maryland. RICHARD SURRICK, 65, became a Seafarer in 1974, first shipping on the Raphael Semmes. Brother Surrick was born in Philadelphia and sailed in the engine department. His most recent trip to sea was aboard the Integrity. Brother Surrick is a resident of Bensalem, Pa. JOHN WONG, 67, launched his SIU career in 1986 in Honolulu. Brother Wong first sailed on the USNS Assurance. He worked in the engine department. His most recent voyage was on the Calvin P. Titus. Brother Wong was born in China and calls San Francisco home. INLAND THOMAS HOWELL, 57, joined the SIU ranks in 1966. Brother Howell was born in Charleston, W.Va. His first ship was the Hurricane. Brother Howell worked in the deck department, most recently aboard the Brenton Reef. Brother Howell is a resident of Houston. RALPH JOHNSON, 65, started sailing with the SIU in 1964. Brother Johnson’s first voyage was aboard the Transerie. The engine department member, who was born in Louisiana, last sailed on the Patriot. He calls Mobile, Ala. home. FELIPE REYES, 70, was born in Puerto Rico. Brother Reyes joined the Seafarers in 1989. He sailed as a member of the steward depart- September 2006 ALPHONSE DiDOMENICO, 71, joined the union in 1962. Boatman DiDomenico first sailed with Bush Terminal Railroad. He was born in New York City. Boatman DiDomenico, who most recently worked with New York Dock Railway Company, continues to live in New York. CHARLES GARRISON, 71, was born in Virginia. Boatman Garrison began shipping with the SIU in 1973 from the port of Norfolk, Va. During his career, he sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by Chesapeake & Ohio Railway Company. Boatman Garrison resides in Seaford, Va. JACK MAASKANT, 62, became an SIU member in 1973, initially sailing with Interstate Oil Transport JOHN O’NEILL, 66, embarked on his seafaring career in 1996 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman O’Neill worked primarily aboard Crowley Liner Services as a member of the deck department. Boatman O’Neill was born in Philadelphia and makes his home in Holmes, Pa. GREAT LAKES DON BARNETT, 65, initially went to sea in 1988 from the port of Duluth, Minn. Brother Barnett first sailed on the Henry Steinbrenner. The Michigan-born mariner most recently worked aboard the John Boland. Brother Barnett is a resident of Minnesota. MOHMED NASSER, 65, was born in Arabia. Brother Nasser joined the SIU in 1968 in Detroit, Mich. He first shipped aboard American Steamship’s Reiss Brothers. Brother Nasser last sailed in the steward department on the William Roesch. He makes his home in Dearborn, Mich. Editor’s Note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, recently went on pension. ANDREW CRESPO, 65, joined the union in 1980, initially sailing from the port in Tampa, Fla. Brother Crespo’s first ship was the Amoco Louisiana. The steward department member was Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1939 Mobile, Ala., Sept. 11—The American freighter Wacosta, owned by the Waterman Steamship Co., was stopped off the coast of Ireland last Saturday by a German submarine, and was detained for three hours. The captain of the vessel, G. Self, radioed the Waterman office that his ship had been boarded by a guard from the submarine, who searched her for contraband cargo, and examined her papers. The Wacosta, with accommodations for about eight passengers, was bound from Glasgow to New York, with an undetermined number of passengers aboard. After determining that the Wacosta carried no contraband, the submarine’s commander allowed her to proceed. Captain Self reported that the submarine’s commander had informed him that he had orders to fire on any vessel that refused to halt for a search, regardless of nationality. born in Florida. Brother Crespo last worked on the Bridgeton. ALFONSO NAVARRO, 71, became an NMU member in 1995. Brother Navarro first shipped from Baton Rouge, La. aboard the Coronado. He was born in Honduras. Brother Navarro, who was a member of the steward department, most recently worked on the Cape Vincent. HAFFORD RIVERS, 65, launched his NMU career in 1964 in Tampa, Fla. Brother Rivers worked in all three departments, most recently sailing aboard the Marine Texan. Brother Rivers was born in the Cayman Islands. In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU pensioner retired on the date indicated. NAME Roxas, Frank AGE EDP 73 4/1/2006 course is being considered by the administration. A Times correspondent, writing of State Department plans to deal with the Suez crisis, said such a move might be taken by executive order if the canal was closed. 1969 Once again the quick and heroic action taken by Seafarers in an emergency has been credited with saving not only their own lives and the lives of their shipmates, but the vessel on which they sailed when the SIU-contracted Buckeye Victory came under Viet Cong attack recently. The Buckeye Victory had sailed from Sunny Point, North Carolina with a full cargo of live ammunition bound for South Vietnam…. This Month In SIU History 1956 A vigorous SIU protest on proposals to use foreign-flag tankers in the domestic trades has drawn a prompt denial from the Maritime Administration of any such intention. However, Maritime Administrator Clarence G. Morse left the door open to such an operation in the case of a “critical tanker situation.” Instead of considering an invasion of the domestic trades, the SIU wire demanded that runaway-flag tankers be brought back under the American flag if necessary to fill domestic tanker needs. The SIU took action after a story in the New York Times implied such a While proceeding up the Saigon River, the Buckeye Victory was attacked by Viet Cong rocket and machine gun fire. During this first brush with the enemy, the vessel managed to maneuver out of harm’s way, received no hits, and continued on its course. Less than an hour later, however, she came under another barrage of machine gun and rocket fire. This time the enemy’s aim was better. Between 30 and 40 machine gun bullets ripped into the superstructure of the vessel and two rocket shells found their target. One hit on the port side near the bow. The other went through the No. 2 hatch starting a fire in the hold where 105 howitzer shells and other munitions were stored…. ABs James Thomas and Tom Danzy were immediately joined by Bosun Lewis Arena and the three Seafarers, with complete disregard for their own safety, successfully extinguished the fire before it could spread. The entire crew escaped injury. Seafarers LOG 17 �37824_pg3,7,9,11,14,18,21,22,24.qxp 8/28/2006 7:17 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA JASPER ANDERSON Pensioner Jasper Anderson, 86, passed away Nov. 13. Brother Anderson became an SIU member in 1951 in the port of New York. He first sailed aboard the Cedar Rapid in the steward department. Brother Anderson was born in Panama. Prior to his retirement in 1984, he shipped on the San Juan. Brother Anderson made his home in New York. ERNESTO AVILA Pensioner Ernesto Avila, 71, died Jan. 7. Brother Avila joined the Seafarers in 1973 and first worked on the OMI Sacramento. He was a member of the steward department. Brother Avila’s last voyage was aboard the Endurance. He went on pension in 1999 and called Hawthorne, Calif. home. DEWEY BELL Pensioner Dewey Bell, 77, passed away Nov. 13. Brother Bell launched his SIU career in 1956. The deck department member first sailed on the Lucille Bloomfield. Brother Bell last worked aboard the Ultramax. He was a resident of Century, Fla. and began collecting his retirement pay in 1991. WILLIE DILLON department of an Interocean American Shipping vessel. Brother Fontenot, who was born in Louisiana, last worked aboard the Horizon Consumer. He became a pensioner in 1988. Brother Fontenot continued to live in his native state. KARL HAGSTROM Pensioner Karl Hagstrom, 91, passed away Jan. 26. Brother Hagstrom joined the SIU in 1943 in the port of New York. His first voyage was aboard a Sinclair Oil Corporation vessel. Brother Hagstrom, who was born in Sweden, worked in the deck department. Before retiring in 1980, he shipped on a CSX Lines vessel. Brother Hagstrom made his home in San Francisco. HARRY HENDERSON Brother Harry Henderson, 62, died Jan. 16. Born in Louisiana, he joined the union in 1964 in New Orleans. His first ship was the Steel Direct; his last was the Horizon Mayaguez. Brother Henderson was a member of the engine department. He called Marrero, La. home. JAMES HOLLEN Pensioner James Hollen, 82, passed away Nov. 3. Brother Hollen began sailing with the SIU in 1951, initially aboard an Alcoa Steamship Company vessel. His last voyage was on a Cove Shipping vessel. Brother Hollen lived in Houston. The steward department member went on pension in 1988. JOHN JACKSON Pensioner Willie Dillon, 73, died Jan. 6. Brother Dillon started shipping with the union in 1977. His first voyage was on an Interocean American Shipping vessel. Brother Dillon was born in Virginia and worked in the deck department. He retired in 1997 and lived in Florida. Brother Dillon last worked aboard the Ambassador. Pensioner John Jackson, 68, died Nov. 6. A native of Texas, he began his seafaring career in 1972 in Puerto Rico. Brother Jackson was a member of the steward department. He first sailed on the William T. Steel. Brother Jackson’s last trip to sea was aboard the Manukai. He retired in 2002 and made his home in Oakland, Calif. KENNETH DOUGLAS LUCIAN JOHNS Pensioner Kenneth Douglas, 79, passed away Jan. 24. Brother Douglas joined the SIU ranks in 1955 in Seattle, Wash. He first sailed aboard a Waterman Steamship Corporation vessel in the deck department. Brother Douglas last worked on the Developer. He was a resident of Denver and began receiving his pension in 1994. Pensioner Lucian Johns, 82, passed away Jan. 18. Brother Johns became an SIU member in 1968, initially sailing on the Tucson. The engine department member was born in Florida. Brother Johns last worked aboard the USNS Bowditch. The Jacksonville, Fla. resident started receiving his pension in 1988. WILTZ FONTENOT Pensioner Wiltz Fontenot, 78, died Nov. 8. Brother Fontenot embarked on his seafaring career in 1952. He began sailing in the deck 18 Seafarers LOG NARCH KRZYWDA Pensioner Narch Krzywda, 83, died Dec. 1. Brother Krzywda joined the union in 1949. He worked in the deck department in both the inland and deep sea divisions. Brother Krzywda’s first ship was the Del Rio; his last was the TransHawaii. He was a native of Ohio but called Iola, Wis. home. Brother Krzywda began his retirement in 1987. JOHNNY PARK Pensioner Johnny Park, 73, passed away Jan. 9. Brother Park began sailing with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1969 in the port of San Francisco. He worked primarily on vessels operated by Matson Navigation, including the Maunalei and the Manukai. Brother Park was a member of the steward department. He was born in Hawaii and made his home there. Brother Park went on pension in 1998. JOSEPH PITETTA Pensioner Joseph Pitetta, 76, died Jan. 30. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., Brother Pitetta joined the SIU in 1953. He first shipped in the steward department aboard a Pennsylvania Hide Company vessel. Prior to his retirement in 1993, Brother Pitetta worked on the Brooks Range. He called Las Vegas home. INLAND HERBERT WILLIAMS Pensioner Herbert Williams, 78, passed away Jan. 14. Boatman Williams embarked on his seafaring career in 1957. He sailed primarily on vessels operated by C.G. Willis Inc. Boatman Williams started collecting his pension in 1989. He lived in Swan Quarter, N.C. 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. DAVID AUTRY Pensioner David Autry, 76, died Jan. 3. Brother Autry joined the NMU in 1947, initially shipping from Chicago. The Michiganborn mariner worked in the deck department. Brother Autry’s first ship was the Powell Stackhouse. His last trip to sea was on the Santa Lucia. Brother Autry began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1972. MICHELE CASTIGLIONE Pensioner Michele Castiglione, 76, passed away Jan. 11. Born in Italy, Brother Castiglione joined the NMU in 1964 in the port of New York. He first sailed on the Independence as a member of the steward department. His last voyage was aboard the Gulf Knight. Brother Castiglione went on pension in 1987. MORRIS FLOURNOY Pensioner Morris Flournoy, 82, died Jan. 23. Brother Flournoy became an NMU member in 1957, initially shipping from the port of Norfolk, Va. Born in Charleston, W.Va., his first ship was the Brandywine. Prior to retiring in 1985, Brother Flournoy sailed on the Texaco Georgia. LEWIS FRASIER Pensioner Lewis Frasier, 77, passed away Jan. 14. Brother Frasier embarked on his seafaring career in 1951. He was born in Charleston, S.C. and worked in the steward department. Brother Frasier last sailed aboard the Cape Domingo. In 1992, he started collecting his retirement stipends. WILLIAM FULTZ Pensioner William Fultz, 77, died Jan. 2. Brother Fultz joined the NMU ranks in 1945. His first voyage was aboard the Joseph H. Nicholson, where he sailed as a member of the deck department. Brother Fultz was born in Kentucky. His last trip to sea was on the E.J. Stark. Brother Fultz became a pensioner in 1966. passed away Jan. 2. He began his career with the NMU in 1945 in New York. Brother Guscott first sailed on the Jonathan Elmer. The Boston native worked in the engine department. Brother Guscott went on pension in 1973. HERMAN HARRIS Pensioner Herman Harris, 83, died Jan. 2. Brother Harris joined the union in 1966, shipping from the port of New York. His first ship was the Constitution; his last was the Jean Lykes. Brother Harris sailed in the engine department. He began receiving his pension in 1992. JOHN MALVEIRA Pensioner John Malveira, 75, passed away Jan. 25. Brother Malveira became an NMU member in 1947 while in the port of Boston. His first trip was aboard the Harry Bowen. Brother Malveria worked in both the engine and deck departments during his seafaring career. He last sailed on the Pueblo. The Massachusetts-born mariner retired in 1968. JAMES RENNIE ELMER GARRETT Pensioner Elmer Garrett, 83, passed away Jan. 14. Brother Garrett was a native of Flint, Mich. The engine department member began sailing in 1945 from the port of Seattle. Brother Garrett retired in 1984; his last voyage was aboard the Leslie Lykes. WESLEY GRAY Pensioner Wesley Gray, 98, died Jan. 30. Brother Gray started his NMU career in 1943, shipping from New York on the William A. Richardson. Born in South Carolina, he sailed in the steward department. Before retiring in 1966, Brother Gray worked aboard the United States. NORMAN GUSCOTT Pensioner Norman Guscott, 77, Pensioner James Rennie, 85, died Jan. 17. Brother Rennie launched his seafaring career with the NMU in 1967. He first shipped from the port of San Francisco aboard the Hoyt S. Vandenberg. Brother Rennie was born in Canada. His last sea voyage was on the American Merchant. Brother Rennie started collecting his retirement pay in 1983. JOSEPH VERNON Pensioner Joseph Vernon, 96, passed away Jan. 3. Brother Vernon joined the NMU in 1936, first sailing from the port of New York aboard the Pan American. The steward department member was born in New Orleans. Brother Vernon’s last voyage was on the Pioneer Isle. He went on pension in 1972. Editor’s Note: In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU members, all of whom were pensioners, passed away on the dates indicated. NAME AGE Bermudez, Ulises Bozeman, Robert Bracero, Victor Brown, Jerome Cardosa, Gustavo Coiro, Louis Connor, Ancel Cortes, Josue Da Cunha, Edmundo De Felice, Benjamin Diaz, Juan Dorrell, Charles Faciane, Julius Gomes, Sergio Gonzalez, Rafael 73 83 83 79 76 80 59 78 79 80 98 87 79 72 87 DOD May 26 July 22 July 28 July 29 June 23 June 30 July 3 June 7 July 19 July 26 Apr. 25 July 22 July 19 June 28 July 17 NAME AGE Greene, William Hernandez, Emilio Laurant, Van Laverdure, Rene Lee, Dan Minor, Bobby Mountain, Robert Nixon, Lewis Overton, Arthur Parker, Clifford Sayers, Lonnie Serrano, Saturnino Thornton, Charles Tirado, Miguel Torres, Willie Wesley, Harold 87 88 79 85 77 76 74 83 84 95 81 80 71 66 90 69 DOD June 22 July 25 July 19 July 21 July 1 May 28 June 25 July 16 June 17 June 30 June 28 July 5 July 12 July 25 July 4 May 24 September 2006 �37824_pg1,2,10,12,13,19.qxp 8/28/2006 8:07 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. ATLANTIC (Maersk Line Limited), July 6—Chairman Paul Dornes, Secretary Donald J. Williams, Educational Director Joseph A. Letang, Deck Delegate Carey J. Hatch, Engine Delegate Moses Mickens Jr. Chairman announced payoff July 9 in Charleston, S.C. Educational director urged all crew members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to increase pension benefit. Vote of thanks given to electrician and steward department. COMET (Maersk Line Limited), July 9—Chairman Samuel H. Lampshire, Secretary Daniel Q. Payne, Educational Director Daniel L. Borden, Steward Delegate Saleh M. Saleh. Chairman announced payoff July 11 in Long Beach, Calif. ABs were asked to stay aboard vessel for lowering of lifeboats during inspection. Educational director encouraged mariners to take advantage of educational opportunities available at Piney Point school. Disputed OT reported in all departments. Seafarers asked for fans and small heaters for crew rooms along with a radio for crew lounge. Questions raised about medical insurance coverage. Clarification requested on contract. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next port: Los Angeles, Calif. machine and new VCR. Members also requested satellite TV and computer for crew e-mail as well as increased billets. Steward department given vote of thanks for outstanding meals, especially the barbecues. Next port: Houston. C.P. NAVIGATOR (Marine Transport Lines), July 9— Chairman Clarence Bynes Jr., Secretary Clyde D. Thompson, Educational Director Leander Collins, Deck Delegate Edmond Francois, Steward Delegate Kenneth W. Caffey Jr. Crew members requested information regarding new contract and status of annuity fund. Inspection of rooms requested before members are paid off to be sure rooms are clean for next person. DILIGENCE (Maritrans), July 2 —Chairman John R. Nichols, Secretary Mary L. Smith, Educational Director Arthur K. Outlaw, Engine Delegate Patrick D. Carroll Jr., Steward Delegate Eduardo R. Elemento. Secretary thanked crew members for helping keep house clean. Educational director asked all Seafarers to check expiration dates on MMDs and other documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made concerning retirement benefits. Next port: El Segundo, Calif. COMMITMENT (Maersk Line Limited), July 7—Chairman Edward J. O’Conner Jr., Secretary Stephanie L. Sizemore, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker, Deck Delegate Edwin Ortega. Bosun announced July 9 payoff in Newark, N.J.; patrolman expected to come on board. He asked crew to return movies to proper location, sort trash into separate bins and help keep areas clean. Secretary thanked crew members for assisting with deck cleaning. She also suggested starting a movie fund to purchase DVDs. Educational director stated that, due to rough seas, crew should make sure doors in tunnel are dogged since some do not have latches. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made regarding pension benefits and offering more classes for QMEDs at the Paul Hall Center. Four new mattresses have been ordered. Crew would like new recliners in crew lounge. Next ports: Elizabeth, N.J.; Charleston, S.C.; Houston. GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic Cable Ship), July 19 —Chairman Lee Hardman, Secretary Vicki L. Haggerty, Educational Director Vladimir G. Tkachev. Chairman asked crew members to inform their supervisor if they find the washer or dryer is not working properly. New parts are available aboard ship, and it will be a priority to fix them. He noted shipyard period Aug. 15-16. Boarding patrolman highlighted some of changes in the new contract. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade at Piney Point school. Treasurer stated $4,036 in ship’s fund; $400 was used for fresh salmon and steamers, and $500 was given to family of deceased bosun on Tyco Reliance (and a sympathy card was circulated for crew members to sign). No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was reminded that everyone is responsible for helping keep laundry room clean and for using paper plates when taking food to rooms. A vote of thanks was given to the steward department for an excellent job and for the two delicious cookouts. CONSTELLATION (Maersk Line Limited), July 3—Chairman Eddie E. Hall, Secretary William P. McGee, Educational Director Richard A. Huffman. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade seafaring skills at every opportunity at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Motion made to drop retirement age to 55 and increase monthly entitlement. Request made for a larger ice HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), July 2—Chairman Weldon J. Heblich, Secretary Thomas M. Wybo, Educational Director Jeff Morris, Engine Delegate Gualberto M. Salaria, Steward Delegate Abdulla M. Baabbad. Chairman reported smooth sailing with no injuries. He informed crew the contract would be extended until Aug. 31 and asked that everyone return movies to movie locker when finished. September 2006 Secretary thanked mariners for helping keep ship clean and advised them to check with union hall about special vacation forms for those completing 22-month tours. Treasurer stated $880 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was asked to keep noise down in passageways while others are resting. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu. HORIZON TRADER (Horizon Lines), July 9—Chairman Loren E. Watson, Secretary Kevin M. Dougherty, Educational Director Kevin T. McCagh, Deck Delegate Robert G. Crooks, Engine Delegate M. Abdulla, Steward Delegate Ruben Q. Fiel. Bosun thanked crew for safe voyage and great work. He announced July 15 payoff in Tacoma, Wash. and said he is awaiting news on new contract. Educational director noted new classes available at Paul Hall Center for engine department members. Treasurer stated $267 in ships fund; some money was spent on barbecue supplies. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communication from headquarters was read and discussed. Suggestion made to look into the possibility of getting satellite TV for ship. Information requested on pension benefits. Seafarers expressed appreciation for 4th of July cookout. Next ports: Tacoma; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. ITB JACKSONVILLE (USS Transport), July 20—Chairman Homar L. McField, Secretary Peter L. Crum, Educational Director Stanley M. Sporna, Deck Delegate Phillip A. Morris, Engine Delegate Jose A. Bermudez, Steward Delegate Anthony L. Rutland. Chairman reported smooth voyage. Educational director requested clarification of rates for “air-stripping” of tanks. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote taken to accept and ratify new standards agreements. Thanks given to the negotiating committee for their hard work. Next port: Fort Lauderdale, Fla. LIBERTY STAR (Liberty Maritime), July 1—Chairman Scott A. Heginbotham, Secretary Grant H. Armstead, Educational Director Marcos Hall, Engine Delegate Luis Sepulveda, Steward Delegate Julio Guity. Chairman explained payoff procedure and distributed union forms. He also discussed importance of attending union meetings and filling out repair lists. Educational director urged mariners to take advantage of Piney Point facilities. Treasurer stated $1,500 in ship’s fund before purchase of Bowflex machine; $378 remains. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new washing machine. Next port: Houston. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), July 9—Chairman Frank P. Sena, Secretary Ronald J. Davis, Educational Director Edgar G. Pacaña, Deck Delegate Kermit Q. Bengtson, Engine Delegate Pablo C. Rochez. Secretary asked members departing ship to make sure room is clean and key is left with captain. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to “give yourselves a raise” by upgrading at school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Everyone was given vote of thanks for good job in shipyard. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line Limited), July 2—Chairman Kadir P. Amat, Secretary Douglas A. Hundshamer, Educational Director Randy D. Clark, Deck Delegate Roberto Flores, Engine Delegate Apolinario Calacal, Steward Delegate Alaa A. Embaby. Bosun thanked all departments for working well together to keep ship clean. He urged all members to read the president’s report in LOG and discussed letter received from VP Contracts George Tricker in reference to changing medical plan from “G” to “Core Plus.” The change has been approved, and educational director explained its benefits. No beefs or disputed OT Treasurer stated $817 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department to host belated 4th of July barbecue on July 8 in Guam. USNS RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN (Ocean Ships Inc.) July 11—Chairman Dana Naze, Secretary Raymond L. Jones, Educational Director Kelly L. Mayo, Deck Delegate Joseph L. Williams Sr., Engine Delegate Tracy L. Hanson, Steward Delegate Thomas K. Gingerich. Chairman explained to new crew members the 4 percent bonus on daily wages for Happy Birthday, Bowditch On July 19, 2006, the USNS Bowditch (TAGS 62) celebrated its tenth birthday in Sasebo, Japan. The ship was delivered July 19, 1996 by Halter Marine in Moss Point, MS and has always been under an SIU contract. Currently operated by SIU-contracted Horizon Lines, the vessel and its sister ships are involved in oceanographic research for the U.S. Navy. On board for the celebration were (from the left) GVA Isaka Koanda, Chief Steward Elston Yu-Mateo, Bosun Steve Herring, GVA Juan Oliva and OS Hussen Mohamed. The cake (inset) was not only beautifully decorated, it was also delicious. reported. TV wall mounts to be purchased in Charleston, S.C. for smaller rooms. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great meals every day. Next ports: Charleston; Norfolk, Va.; Newark, N.J. METEOR (Maersk Line Limited), July 2—Chairman Stephen R. Kastel, Secretary Douglas Swets, Deck Delegate James Taranto, Engine Delegate Steven L. Rollins, Steward Delegate Enrique A. Garrido. Chairman announced July 3 payoff on arrival in Los Angeles. He thanked crew for keeping ship clean, having dues paid up and supporting SPAD. Educational director advised all Seafarers to upgrade skills at SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. and keep documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department given vote of thanks for keeping morale up with great meals during voyage. Next port: Los Angeles. USNS 1ST LT. JACK LUMMUS (American Overseas Marine), July 6—Chairman William L. Bratton, Secretary Gregory N. Williams, Educational Director Michael S. Rueter, Deck Delegate Peter A. Tusa Jr., Engine Delegate Donald W. Lumpkins, Steward Delegate Evelyn C. Tayag. Chairman announced crew change to take place in Saipan July 20. He informed crew members that two rooms would be available for storage when ship goes into yard in September. Secretary reminded everyone to make sure union has current address information and updated beneficiary. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. completing tour of duty without injuries or illness. He informed crew that MSD-27 will debark ship upon arrival in Rota, Spain. Secretary recapped importance of renewing MMDs early and informed crew that they will be able to get letter from company that could expedite the process. He thanked crew for helping take on 90-day stores for trip to Greenland. Educational director stated there was no word yet on new ID cards mandated by Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002. He reminded crew to keep in mind that they may need to have this in the future, along with MMDs, to ship out. Treasurer stated $97 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on payment for extra meals for on board military security. Crew members asked to keep noise down in passageways while others are trying to sleep. Steward department was thanked for excellent job. Next port: Greenland. USNS SISLER (Maersk Line Limited), July 12—Chairman Eddie L. Thomas Sr., Secretary Walter J. Matt, Educational Director Timothy A. Chestnut, Engine Delegate Pati F. Taototo, Steward Delegate Teresito O. Reyes. Educational director encouraged mariners to make sure all required documents are kept current and to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $80 in ships fund. Captain also is holding additional funds from the safety award. Discussion was held on how funds should be spent. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Suda Bay, Crete. Seafarers LOG 19 �37824_PG4_6,8,15_17,20,23.qxp 8/28/2006 9:00 PM Page 20 Know Your Rights Rallying in New Orleans SIU members joined fellow trade unionists and representatives from community organizations May 2 in New Orleans for a rally calling attention to workers’ rights. Some of the SIU participants are pictured above and at left. In promoting the demonstration, the Greater New Orleans AFL-CIO urged the city and federal governments “to set standards for how workers should be treated as we rebuild. Together, we will call for the creation of a workers’ rights commission and demand that New Orleans raise the bar for workers’ 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: The Slop Chest Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 A Venerable Maritime Tradition Trading and pillaging, the Vikings returned with their slop chests filled with goods - but they had to put their lives on the line to get them. Today, Seafarers can go on line without risk for high-quality, USA/union-made goods. Please visit the “Slop Chest” on line store at www.siustore.com. Shoppers also may access the store via the main SIU web site, www.seafarers.org. Are You Receiving All Your Important Mail? In order to help ensure that each active SIU member and pensioner receives a copy of the Seafarers LOG every month—as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and health insurance checks and bulletins or notices—a correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently or feel that you are not getting your union mail, please use the form on this page to update your home address. Your home address is your permanent address, and this is where all official union documents will be mailed (unless otherwise specified). If you are getting more than one copy of the LOG delivered to you, if you have changed your address, or if your name or address is misprinted or incomplete, please fill out the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union Address Correction Dept. 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 or e-mail corrections to kclements@seafarers.org HOME ADDRESS FORM (Please Print) Name: ___________________________________________________________________ Phone No.: ________________________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Social Security No.: ________ / ________ / ________ † Active SIU † Pensioner Book No.: ________________ † Other ____________________________________ This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain in the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally. 20 Seafarers LOG 9/06 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. September 2006 �37824_pg3,7,9,11,14,18,21,22,24.qxp 8/28/2006 7:17 PM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. for September through the end of 2006. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Deck Upgrading Courses Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* (one week) September 25 September 29 Basic Safety Training - AB September 25 November 6 September 29 November 10 Basic Safety Training - FOWT September 18 November 13 September 22 November 17 Government Vessels - FOWT September 11 September 18 September 15 September 22 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* September 18 November 27 September 29 December 8 October 16 October 20 (*must have basic fire fighting) Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman October 2 October 27 Tankerman (PIC) Barge* November 13 December 8 (*must have basic fire fighting September 18 September 29 October 30 November 10 Lifeboatman/Water Survival (*must have basic fire fighting) Recertification Bosun October 9 November 6 Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning Sept. 4, 2006. Engine Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion Basic Auxiliary Plant Ops September 11 November 13 October 6 December 8 FOWT September 11 November 3 Marine Electrician October 23 December 15 Welding September 11 September 29 October 9 October 27 Course 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. � 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. 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 ________________________________________________ September 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. 9/06 Seafarers LOG 21 �37824_pg3,7,9,11,14,18,21,22,24.qxp 8/28/2006 7:17 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 676 — Graduating from the water survival course are unlicensed apprentices from class 676. They are (in alphabetical order) Jamar Allen, Richard Bodden, Randall Brown, Jeffrey Gronotte Jr., Mark Hoffler, Dewayne Jacobs, Reginald Miller, Robert Morrison, Mateusz Muller, Antonio Owens, David Ruggirello, Daniel Sands, Sally Santiago, Johnny Starnes, Scott Stilwell and Dominic Washington. AB — Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending Aug. 4 are (in alphabetical order) Ken Ada, Anthony Anderson, David Barber, Bruce Brown, Christopher Cain, David Carson, Isaac Garrido, Justin Huggins, Travis Kirkland, Steven Lonas, Norman Lucas II, Michael Merrell Jr., Fernando Mesa, Chris Nagle, Quentin Scott, Richard Venair and Martin Weller. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. Fast Rescue Boat — July 22 graduates of the fast rescue boat course include (in alphabetical order) Denis Dubio, Gregory Greene, Jorge Nuñez, Andrew Packer, Henry Peterson, Cle Popperwill, Jennifer Souci and Glenn Staub. Their instructor, Stan Beck, is at far right. Chief Cook — Under the guidance of Instructor/Chef John Dobson (left) are students who completed the course for chief cooks in August. From the left are Orlando Suazo, Ron Poole, Ilaria Amaya, Ray Lackland and Kim Kalua. GMDSS — July 28 Welding — Graduation certificates for completion of the welding course were given Aug. 4 to (in no specific order) Matthew Whitmore, Randy Louque, Bryan Dawson, Bruce Zarobell, Carlos Llanos, James Hall, Rogelio Thompson, Joel Fahselt and Jean Pierre Koublanou. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is in the back (center). graduates of the GMDSS course are (in no specific order) Thomas Rostan, Kenneth Lattin and Dick Haugh. Their instructor, Russell Levin, is at far left. Computer Lab Classes Left: Holding a certificate of achievement for a course completed July 13 in the computer lab at the Paul Hall Center is Helida Lorenzo. Her instructor, Rick Prucha, stands beside her. Right: With instructor Rick Prucha (back row) are students who completed their computer courses July 14. They are (from left, front row) Beverly Stevens, Michael Bates Sr., Keith Landry, (second row) Laverne Berasis and Philip Agcaoili. 22 Seafarers LOG September 2006 �37824_pg4_6,8,15_17,20,23X.qxp 8/30/2006 7:39 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Phase III unlicensed apprentices who completed this course in July are (in no specific order) Harlan Alonzo, Marion Paul Cruzat, Mervin Cruzat, James Jones, Michael Donovan, Michael Sanders, Derrick Norfleet, Wilbur Torres, Kevin Wimbley, José Nieves, Kevin Robinson, Ceresa Moreno, Robert Vayko, Darren Taylor and Furman Watson. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Another group of Phase III unlicensed apprentices who completed this course in July are (in no specific order) Scott Stilwell, Ronald Sease, David Ruggirello, Christopher Curran, Benjamin Mullis, Billie Marshall, Marvin Hearmon, Jack Hill, Antonio Owens, Darnell Goggins, Carmelo Collazo, Daron Tinney, Carnelius Taylor, Zachary Clayton, Richard Bodden, Reginald Miller, Scott Smith, John Starnes, Matthew Green and Kenneth Thompson. Advanced Fire Fighting — Graduating Aug. 11 from the advanced fire fighting course are (in no specific order) Bryan Maddox, Geoffrey Denesse, Terence Newman, Antonio Libo-on, Larry Pascua, Victor Nunez, Gerry Davis, Brad Hall, William Forrest and Joseph Thomas. Their instructor, Tom Cessna, is at far left (standing). Government Vessels — Phase III unlicensed apprentices completing the government vessels course Aug. 11 include (in no specific order) James Gregory, Quentin Scott, Chris Nagle, Bruce Brown, James Bryant Jr., Maria Garcia, Rodolfo De La Cruz, John Cator, Justin Huggins, Martin Weller, Norman Hook, Fernando Mesa, David Carson and Richard Venair. STCW — NCL, Aug. 10: Connie Adejado, Carmen Armstrong, Charles Baer, Charles Beckerman, Lindsey Brown, Carl Bryant, Felicia Burnham, Andrew Burns, Alex Byrne, Joshua Calonge, Lilah Carino, Monica Carnero, Jonathan Carpenter Perez, Osiris Carpenter Perez, Catherine Chapman, Ashley Clark, Clarence Clark, Lorhonda Clayborn, Lori Cooper, Angelica Cortes Villanueva, Alberto Cotes, Luis Crosdale and Ada Cruz. STCW — NCL, July 5: Eugene Gagnon Jr., David Garcia, Virginia Gwaltney, Leah Hannah, David Harris, Chandra Hedges, Mima Hewston, Jeremiah Hobart, Ryan Hogan, William Jackson IV, Charles Janovich, Travis Jensen, Curtis Jones, Rayon Jones, Jerome Kashmar, Erica Kenney, Trevon King, Erica Kozel, Leonard Langhorne, Lisa Larsen, Jonilyn Malia, Alan Martin, Jacob Martinez, Tiara Matthews and Jordan McFall. September 2006 STCW — NCL, Aug. 10: Elizabeth Breakey, William Brooks, Maria Garcia Lagdameo, Encarnacion Otero, Ryan Strimboulis, Daniel Tafoya, Candee Tobin, Pierre Van Dorp, Brandi Vanderlaan, Francis Villalba Felicano, Vearlyn Wheeler, Laura White, John Williams, Ronald Worthington, Demonte Boone, Paul Ghisoi, David Guthrie, Misty Tate, Kiki Warnke and SIU members Guy Butler, Samuel Cadler, Louis Gilbert, James McLeod and Brian McShan. STCW — NCL, Aug. 10: Khanh Dang, Rose Marie Danner, Paige Dewing, James Dowdy, Deborah Downs, Tammie Elms, Hyon Fielding, Kyle Fisher, Aaron Flake, Douglas Friedman, Ashley Gartner, Kimberly Gilbert, Joel Gilham, Rafael Gongora, Michael Hall, Heather Harrison, Ansley Haynes, Hayrabed Hayrabedyan, Ryan Hecht, Dan Henry, Victor Hernandez and Nia John. Seafarers LOG 23 �37824_pg3,7,9,11,14,18,21,22,24.qxp 8/28/2006 9:25 PM Page 24 Volume 68, Number 9 September 2006 SIU Assists in ‘Operation Support’ Journey of the Pretzels Caa pee Kee nn n ed d y C om m pll ett ess ‘SS pee cii all ’ M iss sii on n T he SIU-crewed Cape Kennedy has made numerous trips in the past to the Middle East in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, but just back from supporting hurricane recovery efforts in its home port of New Orleans, it received an activation notice Feb. 20, 2006 for a new mission. Another trip to the Middle East—nothing out of the ordinary. The vessel, which is A truck filled with 72,672 bags of Bachman’s pret- managed by Keystone zels arrives March 8 at the dock in Norfolk, Va. to Shipping Co., took on be loaded onto the SIU-crewed Cape Kennedy. bunkers in New Orleans and then proceeded to Beaumont, Texas and Norfolk, Va., where the usual inventory of containers and rolling stock was loaded on board for the U.S. Army 4th Infantry Division. There was, however, one additional cargo to be loaded—36 pallets of assorted pretzels. Thirtysix pallets is the equivalent of 13,515 pounds or 25 skids or 72,672 bags of the twisted snacks. It all began in the fall of 2004 when a Berks County, Pa. restaurateur (and Korean War vet), John A. Ulrich (“Big John”) met an Army The Cape Kennedy lowers its stern ramp. reservist on a two-week leave from Iraq. When Big John asked the major if there was something the local community could do to help support those serving our country, his answer was “Pretzels! The ‘locals’ miss pretzels.” That’s all it took for Big John to begin his mission, deciding that everyone serving in Iraq, not just locals from Pennsylvania, would enjoy knowing that people in Berks County and the surrounding area were thinking about them. He contacted local Reading area pretzel manufacturers and asked for “rock bottom prices,” explaining his “Operation Support” idea. The generWith the stern ramp lowered, the truck enters the Cape Kennedy to discharge its cargo of pretzels. al public, businesses, service groups, churches and children responded to Big John’s fundraising request. The Bachman Company, a privately held snack food manufacturer with plants in Reading and Ephrata, Penn. also joined in, offering to provide a free case for every case that Big John purchased at the “rock bottom price.” Because of the difficulty in sending goods to the military without a contract, the initial shipment in 2004 went via the USO and did not go to Iraq but was scattered around the globe. The latest effort, however, went directly to the Middle East through the coordinated The Cape Kennedy’s chief mate unloads a pallet of pretzels from the truck onto the ship. efforts of the employ- ees from Bachman (which pro-duces about 6,000 pounds of pretzels every hour), Keystone Shipping, the Maritime Administration and the officers and crew of the Cape Kennedy under Capt. John Hasson and Chief Engineers Garrett Kearby and Chris O’Sullivan. The pretzel journey began March 7 when the boxes filled with Bachman twists and minis were The Cape Kennedy transits the Suez Canal March forklifted onto a truck 24 with its cargo of military equipment—and bound for the Cape assorted pretzels. Kennedy, where they were unloaded the next day. The ship pulled away from the pier in Norfolk on the morning of March 9 and transited the Suez Canal on March 24. On April 6, the vessel prepared to unload its cargo—including the pretzels—in the port of Ash Shuaybah, Kuwait. Arrangements were then made through the military’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation personnel to get them north to Iraq by convoy within a few days. As Captain Hasson noted, “We will One of the 25 always be glad to skids of pretzels have done our small is inspected on part in this ‘operaboard the vessel tion.’ It is important April 6 upon to let our good men arrival in the and women, who port of Ash serve for us, know Shuaybah, that we are thinking Kuwait. of them. They are in some tough circumThanks to T.J. stances so far from O’Connor, fleet safehome, but for a ty & environmental moment, they will coordinator at know we are thinking Keystone Shipping and praying for Co. for sending the them.” LOG the photos that The 16 SIU memappear on this page. bers aboard the ship for “Operation Support” were Bosun Donald Byrd; AB Gerry Davis, Lloyd Lindsey, Michael White, Joe Traywick, Jerrald Belcaries; GVA Leandro Cacho; Electrician Tran Luu, Oilers Jerome Culbreth Jr., Curtis Tobey, Enrique Bodden, Wiper Joseph Shepard; Steward Eddie Taylor, Cook Roberto Martinez; and GSUs Aquilino Fernandez and Kareem Worthy. Bachman pretzels from “Operation Support” begin to roll off the Cape Kennedy onto the dock in the Kuwaiti port. From there, they will be trucked to Iraq by convoy. Lt. Col. Bunch of the U.S. Army (right) came from Iraq to the vessel to accept the pretzels (under armed guard) from Capt. Hasson (center). Some of the first soldiers receive their pretzels, and the smiles on their faces show the entire effort was greatly appreciated. � 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 September 2006 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES ITF CONDUCTS 41ST CONGRESS SIU’S HEINDEL ELECTED TO ITF POST NINE TANKERS ORDERED SIU-CONTRACTED U.S. SHIPPING HAS OPTIONS FOR 5 MORE VESSELS 4TH ALASKA TANKER DELIVERED CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON 5TH T-AKE SHIP NATIONAL MARITIME CENTER OPENS IN WEST VIRGINIA; NEW ORLEANS REC REOPENS SIU CONTRACTED COMPANIES AMONG THOSE RECEIVING SAFETY AWARDS FROM AMS TWIC ‘SECURITY VULNERABILITIES’ CITED BY DHS; REQUIREMENT FOR CARD READERS PUSHED BACK CONNAUGHTON CONFIRMED AS MARITIME ADMINISTRATOR SIU-CREWED WHEAT PARTICIPATES IN MULTINATIONAL MILITARY DRILL RED CLOUD, CHESAPEAKE SAIL IN ‘JLOTS’ RETIRED NMU OFFICIAL MARTINEZ DIES AT 88 6 RECERTIFIED STEWARDS LEARN FIRSTHAND ROLE POLITICS PLAY SEAFARERS: OAKLAND HALL IS UPGRADE PRIDE OF AMERICA’S DECK DEPT. ALWAYS GETS THE JOB DONE CIVMARS RESCUE LIBERIAN FISHERMAN INSTRUCTOR OAKLEY PAYS TRIBUTE TO BILL SAUL SEAFARERS RATIFY STANDARD CONTRACTS LUMMUS COOKIES ARE A BIG HIT BOSUN’S NEWSLETTER OFFERS DEDICATION TO CREWS BOSUN’S NEWSLETTER 06-06-06 “THE RATTLE OF THE MUSKET FIRE” CAPE KENNEDY COMPLETES ‘SPECAL’ MISSION 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 09/01/2006 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. 9 2006 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/b357606511f4b77b8293edb289205929.pdf 9b98edf4577477fee3016d19eaaa739b PDF Text Text Volume 69, Number 9 September 2007 Crowley Christens ATB SIU Fleet Welcomes Tugboat Resolve, Barge 650-3 Seafarers and union officials participated in the sun-drenched festivities Aug. 15 in Mobile, Ala. as SIU-contracted Crowley christened its newest articulated tugbarge (ATB). The vessels christened were the 9,280 hp tug Resolve (left) and the barge 650-3 (above). Shown in the Resolve’s engine room are SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and Seafarers Rick Cristofano, Jacek Sawicki, Ryan Hogge and Patrick Harrington III. Page 3. Rescue at Sea: Seafarers-Crewed USNS Gianella Saves Refugees On Aug. 2, the SIU-crewed USNS Lawrence Gianella, operated by Ocean Shipholdings, Inc., rescued 13 Cuban refugees in the Gulf of Mexico. Capt. Robert Lee provided a detailed, absorbing account of the operation—along with photos, including those shown here (depicting the refugees adrift in their boat, the launching of the Gianella’s rescue boats, and finally the refugees safely aboard the U.S.-flag vessel). Page 2. Safety Milestone for ATC Comfort’s ‘Hoops Diplomacy’ U.S. Mariners Deliver Page 4 Page 6 Pages 12-13 �USNS Gianella Rescues 13 Cuban Refugees President’s Report Another Look at LNG The ceremony was modest, and there’s still a lot of work to be done. But, the U.S. Maritime Administration’s recent announcement concerning one company’s commitment to American-flag LNG ships—with U.S. crews— ranks among the more significant news to surface in our industry all year. In case you missed it, Woodside Natural Gas has pledged to utilize U.S.-flag vessels and American crews and officers in the company’s proposed “OceanWay” LNG import regasificaMichael Sacco tion project off the coast of Southern California. Woodside is the first business to make such a commitment as MarAd continues weighing applications for LNG terminals and LNG transport at various domestic ports. The agency is authorized to favor applicants who employ U.S. mariners and whose ships sail under the Stars and Stripes. Without question, that’s what Congress had in mind last year when it amended the Deepwater Port Act to help ensure domestic safety, security and environmental protection. The logic behind that position is hard to dispute. Natural gas already accounts for about one-fourth of all energy consumed in the United States. And, according to government projections, demand for natural gas will grow by roughly 40 percent by the year 2025. That’s a potential seven-fold increase in LNG imports. Here’s the first hitch: Natural gas production in the continental United States has peaked. Increasing the use of liquefied gas means transporting it from both Alaska and overseas to the Lower 48. However, most existing LNG import facilities in the U.S. were built during the 1960s and 1970s. And although the industry’s safety record has been strong, the volatile nature of LNG has created a sense of public unease. That’s where we come in. American mariners can and should play a key role not only in advancing public acceptance of LNG terminals, but also in the safe, secure transport of the cargo itself. During the past 10 months or so, members of Congress as well as state legislators have declared as much, citing the reliability of the American seafarer and particularly calling attention to the vetting process which civilian mariners must endure simply to acquire a merchant mariner document. The SIU and several other unions took it a step further this summer when we signed an agreement establishing appropriate training standards for U.S. seafarers aboard LNG vessels. On the flip side, it’s not exactly biased to point out that training and oversight in many foreign-flag registries are virtually nonexistent. It’s also a matter of public record that stowaways accompanied Algerian LNG tankers to Everett, Massachusetts earlier this decade. In fact, since September 11, 2001, more than one stowaway incident has been attributed to these vessels, and almost without exception the people caught are from countries known to harbor terrorists and fugitives. Previously, one of the Al Qaeda millennium-bomb plotters is reported to have reached our shores as a stowaway aboard a foreign-flag LNG tanker before departing through Boston. As our government issues licenses for new LNG terminals and with the solidly projected increase in importing such cargo, it’s not only good policy but also good common sense to recognize that having American LNG vessels and crews will help to minimize an obvious threat from those who wish to harm our nation. In part, that’s why I believe that MarAd without exception should push for 100 percent U.S. crewing and the use of the American flag aboard the ships in question. We already know that we can’t take anything for granted when it comes to threats to our population, facilities, environment, and energy security. The use of U.S. vessels and mariners in the LNG trade will go a long way toward protecting all of those things, and at a relatively small cost. Our nation can’t afford to approach the growing LNG trade any other way. Volume 69, Number 9 Editor’s note: On Aug. 2, the SIU-crewed USNS Lawrence Gianella, operated by Ocean Shipholdings, Inc., rescued 13 Cuban refugees in the Gulf of Mexico. The following SIU members were sailing aboard the Gianella during the rescue: Bosun Bernardino Eda, ABs James Castillo, Roderick French, Troy Ingersoll, Ramsey Ingram and Jaime Guerrero, DEUs Christopher McAfee and Santiago Ruiz, QMED/Pumpman Darrell McDonald, QMEDs Nicholas Collins and James Summers, Steward/Baker Nancy Vaupel, Chief Cook Mary Brayman, GSUs Sonia Felix and John Rascon and Unlicensed Apprentice Eileen Mendiola. The following account was written by Capt. Robert Lee, the Gianella’s master, who also provided the photos accompanying this story. Cuban Refugee Rescue, Master’s Report On August 2, 2007 while SE bound through the middle of the Gulf of Mexico on a very rainy morning, the AB on Watch, Troy Ingersoll, was busy doing what he always does, scanning the horizon with binoculars in hand. Nothing gets by him. He is one of the best lookouts I have seen in all my years of going to sea. This morning would bring rare tangible reward for his unwavering attention to duty. His reports were typically professional, unembellished and monotone: “We have a small boat coming down the port side.” What may have not appeared strange to the lookout seemed very strange to the third mate. She confirmed his sighting off in the distance and through the rain. They also noticed what appeared to be two people aboard. Knowing we were more than 300 miles from the nearest land at 25-51N, 087-31W, this was strange indeed. The third mate alerted me to the situation at 1515Z, 1115L. We marked the GPS and chart with the position and the engineers worked quickly to ready the main engine-shaft generator for reduction to maneuvering speeds. As soon as the engine was made ready, we programmed down and began a hard 180-degree turn to port. The whole crew immediately became involved. Most who were work- AB Troy Ingersoll (right) was the first aboard the Gianella to spot the small boat. Capt. Lee said the refugees “were very happy with him.” ing inside jobs donned their rain gear and headed into the rain squalls to lend a hand. As we slowed and made our approach, the third mate spotted the small boat once again through the heavy rain. The chief mate and crew made ready the pilot ladder, painter lines and safety belts. The second officer made ready the trauma kit and the galley department gathered blankets and water. We approached from upwind and used the wind to our advantage. The closer we came, the more heads began to appear. It went from two to four to eight and finally to 13. I would learn later that they had become numb to passing ships that would not stop and did not want to waste energy sitting up unless it looked very promising. As it became evident that we were going to pick them up, they all began to get excited. As the small wooden boat came alongside, the crew worked it towards the pilot ladder. Two men and a woman wasted no time getting out and up the ladder right away. Nearly all began crying as they came over the rail and sat on the deck of the ship. Others were weaker and slowly made their way to the ladder as the small boat pitched and heaved in our lee. One woman had a laceration on her left leg and was having difficulty moving on the ladder, so the crew pulled her and the ladder up together—all she needed to do was hold on. The weaker ones were secured with a safety belt attached to two painter lines that allowed the crew to help them up and keep them from falling. As they came aboard, they were all given water and dry blankets. One man was a diabetic and very weak. The medical officer brought him some sugar and orange juice that immediately The refugees spent 13 days in their small boat before being rescued by the SIU-crewed USNS Lawrence Gianella. changed his demeanor for the better. The woman with the cut leg was also treated by cleansing the wound and bandaging. As they gathered on deck, it was obvious they were pleased with their new status. Our deck cadet, unbeknownst to us, spoke fluent Spanish and was a great help in our communications with the refugees. The cadet pointed out the AB/lookout that spotted them and they all showed great admiration for him. Once everyone was secured aboard ship, their few belongings were searched for weapons, and each refugee was searched before moving them to rooms in the house. Their wooden vessel was released and we resumed our voyage towards Charleston, S.C. The steward department held over lunch in case anyone wanted to eat, but they were not interested in much food. They continued to drink fluids and we supplied Continued on page 8 September 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 Crew members and refugees pose on deck after everyone had a chance to exhale. September 2007 �Crowley Christens 3 of 10 New ATBs rd Tugboat Resolve, Barge 650-3 Join Seafarers-Crewed Fleet SIU members and officials were on hand Aug. 15 in Mobile, Ala. as Crowley christened its newest articulated tug-barge (ATB). The vessels christened were the 9,280 hp tug Resolve and the barge 650-3—the third of 10 new 185,000-barrel ATBs scheduled for delivery to the company by the end of the year 2010. “With these boats, you can clearly see that Crowley is preparing for the years ahead,” noted SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, who attended the christening along with SIU Mobile, Ala. Port Agent Ed Kelly. “Crowley’s new ATBs are all about the engineering—high-efficiency, low emissions, environmentally friendly. It’s really the wave of the future.” Kelly added, “It shows the progressiveness of both the SIU and SIU-contracted operators. This is really a state-of-the-art vessel. I was impressed with everything I saw.” During ceremonies, conducted in sweltering conditions at the Mobile Convention Center on South Water Street, Nancy Schlueter, wife of Ed Schlueter, vice president of Crowley’s Vessel Management Services (VMS) christened the Resolve, while Alison Haber-Djuve, wife of Karsten Djuve, regional chartering manager, BP Shipping USA, christened barge 650-3. Crowley’s Petroleum Services group will charter the VT Halter Marine-built ATB from VMS, and operate it for BP under a seven-year agreement. The 650-3 reportedly is the first vessel in the United States to be certified by Lloyds Classification Society as complying with the requirements of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO’s) Green Passport program. This certification ensures that any and all potentially hazardous materials that went into the original construction of the barge have been identified and will be properly disposed of when the barge ceases trading at the end of its useful life. Crowley already has four, 155,000-barrel ATBs and two 185,000-barrel ATBs operating. “We continue to receive positive feedback about these ATBs, Crowley’s newest ATB had a hot debut—temperatures soared to above 100 degrees at its christening Aug. 15 in Mobile, Ala. Pictured near the tugboat are SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (fourth from left) and Seafarers (in alphabetical order) Willie Allen, Rick Cristofano, Patrick H. Harrington III, Ryan Hogge, Edward O’Connell, Kenneth Kuehne, Jacek Sawicki and Leo Venegas. which further validates our continued investment in the build program,” said Tom Crowley Jr., company chairman, president and CEO. “The ATBs that we currently have in service consistently provide reliable, efficient and safe transportation for the petroleum products they are contracted to carry.” MarAd Announces Commitment For American-Flag LNG Ships Woodside Natural Gas, Inc. Pledges to Utilize U.S. Crews The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration on July 30 announced an agreement that could lead to the first LNG ships registered in the United States in almost 10 years, potentially creating nearly 200 jobs for U.S. mariners. Officials from Woodside Natural Gas, Inc., of Santa Monica, Calif., committed to Maritime Administrator Sean T. Connaughton and representatives from seafaring trade unions— including the SIU—that Woodside will create a U.S. presence in the rapidly growing international liquefied natural gas (LNG) fleet. The company agreed to the employment of U.S. mariners in Woodside’s operation of the proposed OceanWay deepwater port located 28 miles off the coast of Los Angeles, and to register its two new LNG regasification vessels under the U.S. flag. SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone, SIU Wilmington, Calif. Port Agent John Cox and SIU Wilmington Safety Director Abdul Al Omari represented the union at a ceremony in Santa Monica celebrating the announcement. “The employment of Ameri- can citizens aboard U.S.-flag LNG vessels serving the nation’s natural gas receiving facilities is in the best interest of the United States,” said Connaughton. “Placing the transportation of LNG under the control of U.S. mariners, who are subject to strenuous security checks, will add an additional layer of security to our Nation’s energy supply chain.” Although the global LNG fleet has been growing rapidly—from 194 ships at the beginning of 2006 to an estimated 373 at the end of 2007—there are currently no LNG ships of American registry. Woodside’s proposed OceanWay facility will use trading LNG carriers to transfer LNG to the U.S.-flagged regasification vessels, which will then convert the liquefied natural gas into natural gas for injection into Southern California’s existing onshore pipeline system. More than 90 American officers and crew will be employed on each of the vessels. OceanWay Secure Energy (Woodside Natural Gas, Inc.) filed an application with the Maritime Administration for a license under the Deepwater Port Please be advised the SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed on Monday, October 8 for the observance of Columbus Day (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. September 2007 Act, to build, own and operate an LNG facility. The Maritime Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard and the City of Los Angeles are reviewing the revised application for completeness. The company’s application to build the OceanWay terminal must be approved by the Maritime Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard, the City of Los Angeles and the Governor of California. If approved, the specifics of this agreement will become conditions of the deepwater port license. An ATB has an articulated, or hinged, connection system between the tug and barge, which allows movement in one axis, or plane in the critical area of fore and aft pitch. Crowley and VT Halter Marine jointly designed the ATB tank vessel. The barge 650-3 was built at Halter’s shipyard in Pascagoula, Miss., and the Resolve at its shipyard in Moss Point, Miss. The new ATBs feature the latest systems technology and double-hull construction for maximum safety and reliability. Not only does the unit have the capability of transporting refined products, but it can also carry heated cargoes and “easy” chemicals, which require special arrangements of vents, stripping systems, pump components and tank coatings above that normally required for product carriers. All of Crowley’s ATBs are built under the ABS SafeHull program for environmental protection. This program puts the vessel design through an exhaustive review to identify structural loads and strengthen the vessel structure. The 650-Class barges will be 27,000 deadweight tons, 587 feet in length, 74 feet in breadth and 40 feet in depth. The fully loaded draft will be 30 feet. There is an electric cargo pump in each of the 14 cargo tanks to assure maximum cargo integrity and segregation flexibility; two anchor windlasses and associated equipment to enable the vessel to accommodate offshore mooring operations; and a vacuum system with three retention tanks to easily handle cargo changes. There also is a nitrogen generator and vapor collection system for maximum safety. A layer of nitrogen covers products in the tanks to make the atmosphere too lean for combustion. An enhanced mooring system features 1,000-foot Spectra-type lines on split drums with a highspeed recovery rate of 100 feet per minute. The tugs meet all SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) and ABS criteria, and have a foam-capable fire monitor; twin fuel-efficient heavy fuel oil engines; a noise reduction package; and other upgrades to increase crew comfort. The communication and navigation equipment is among the most technologically advanced in the industry today, according to Crowley. APL’s President Adams in New York These photos were taken Aug. 17 while the Seafarers-crewed President Adams was docked in Staten Island, N.Y. At right, SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi (right) greets General Norton A. Schwartz, USAF, Commander, U.S. Transportation Command. Pictured above (from left) are Chief Cook John Padilla, ACU Abdulla Quaraish, Patrolman Joseph Baselice, VP Soresi, Chief Cook Rudy Gibson and Steward/Baker William Churney. Seafarers LOG 3 �11 Million Hours and Counting As Alaska Tanker Co. Hits Milestone Shipboard safety and environmental performance during the past several years appear to have become synonymous with the SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company (ATC). Time and again since 2001, the Beaverton, Ore.-based business has added one feat after another to its unparalleled inventory of accident/incident-free accomplishments. ATC on July 11 augmented its list of triumphs by adding yet another conquest: the completion of 11 million man-hours without a lost time injury (LTI). This latest signpost covers a five-year period, accounts for all operations throughout the company’s SIUcrewed fleet and recognizes ATC’s achieving the highest levels of safety and environmental performance while transporting Alaska North Slope crude oil from Valdez, Alaska to refineries in Washington, California and Hawaii. “As far as I can tell, no other tanker company in the world currently matches, or has ever matched this record,” said ATC President and CEO Anil Mathur. “And with a restricted work injury rate of zero and a total recordable injury rate of 0.4, ATC’s personal safety record is amongst the best in any industrial setting in the world.” Mathur credited the SIU for substantially contributing to the company’s past as well as present outstanding safety record. “Our relationship with the Seafarers International Union has been crucial to our joint success,” he said earlier this year when the company reached the 10 million manhour plateau without a LTI. “The SIU leadership has an enlightened and long-term view of what is best for their membership. This view matches our view in ATC. “We both see safety as deeply personal and not about statistics,” he continued. “Safety is about taking care of ourselves every day, so we can live full lives and earn a good living for our loved ones. Our Seafarers have responded with maturity and responsibility to the work environment we have jointly created,” Mathur said. “ATC’s latest milestone is a great credit to all concerned,” said SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, who pointed out that many of the company’s mariners have undergone safety training at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. He added, “Particularly where the school is concerned, I would invite other SIU-contracted companies to follow Alaska Tanker’s lead and take advantage of the world-class safety training available in Piney Point. The results speak for themselves.” ATC began operations in April 1999. The company operates five Seafarers-crewed vessels includ- ITF Inspector Honored An International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) inspector’s contribution to the labor movement has been honored with an award from an organization of Asian American and Pacific Islander trade unionists. Shwe Aung, an ITF inspector from the SIU, received the Art Takei award for “outstanding leadership” July 21 in Washington, D.C. It was presented by the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance (APALA) during that organization’s convention. The award is named after a founder of APALA. “Shwe is small in stature but has a very big union heart,” said SIU Patrolman Robert Troy, who works with Aung at the union’s hall in Houston. “He has been a great advocate for all mariners and a thorn in the side of captains and owners of so-called flag-ofconvenience ships entering the western Gulf region. He does an outstanding job.” A native of Burma, Aung knows firsthand the pitfalls of runaway-flag shipping, having sailed aboard such vessels. He also knows the courage required of downtrodden crews who want to stand up for their rights. In late 2001, Aung’s vessel sank in Venezuela, taking his credentials and other paperwork beneath the sea. Unable to get a new passport without returning to Burma—where he would have been jailed for his pro-labor activities—he instead made his way to the United States. Ironically, he was detained by the Immigration and Naturalization Service, but with the help of U.S. Rep. Gene Green’s office, the ITF and SIU officials 4 Seafarers LOG ing the four new Alaska Class tankers built in San Diego: the Alaskan Legend, Alaskan Frontier, Alaskan Explorer and Alaskan Navigator, along with the Prince William Sound. Last year, the Alaska State Legislature honored ATC for its consistently outstanding record, presenting a declaration commending the company for its safetyrelated efforts and achievements. The declaration noted that since 2002 (and as of last summer, when it was presented), ATC ships safely carried 43.6 billion gallons of crude oil with just 27.2 gallons of hydraulic oil escaping to the sea (as a consequence of storm damage) The United States Coast Guard recognized ATC’s outstanding performance in 2004 when they presented them with their premier national honor, the Benkert “Osprey Award,” recognizing excellence in marine environmental protection. In recent years, Alaska Tanker has also won several major awards for excellence in marine safety and environmental stewardship from the state of Washington and the Pacific States/British Columbia Oil Spill Task Force. MTD Spotlights Importance Of National Dredging Policy SIU ITF Inspector Shwe Aung is congratulated by AFL-CIO Executive VP Linda Chavez-Thompson (right) and APALA President Maria Somma. including Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and Assistant Vice President Jim McGee, Aung was granted asylum in 2002. “When you have the chance to help a fellow trade unionist and mariner like Shwe, you do it,” Corgey said at that time. “We’re pleased to have given him a hand.” In addition to his duties with the ITF, Aung serves on the APALA board and is president of the alliance’s Texas chapter. He also is an official with the Texas AFL-CIO. The SIU is affiliated with the ITF, a federation of more than 600 transport-worker unions in 140 countries. SIU Secretary-Treasurer Heindel is vice chair of the ITF’s Seafarers’ Section. Gretchen to the Rescue . . . SIU boatmen from G&H Towing in the Houston area provided badly needed assistance to a pushboat crew and also secured the boat and a barge during the pre-dawn hours of May 18. G&H officials praised the quick thinking and efficient actions of Seafarers from the tugboat Gretchen, including Capt. Charles R. Branch Jr., Mate John A. Mathews, AB John E. Fabain and Engineer Roy M. Saldana. The operation began shortly after 3 a.m. when the watch supervisor at Houston’s Vessel Traffic Service relayed a call to G&H Towing for assistance in helping the pushboat Miss Julie move a bunker barge from alongside the vessel Excellence, which was anchored in Bolivar Roads. The barge had just transferred fuel to the Excellence and was banging into the side of the ship’s hull due Pictured last year during the home stretch of construction, the Alaskan Legend is ATC’s newest vessel, first sailing in late 2006. to choppy waters and three-foot swells. The original request called for G&H to assist the pilot in turning the ship in the anchorage to allow the Miss Julie to find a lee and move the bunker barge away from the larger vessel. However, a crew member from a Coast Guard utility boat near the scene stated that the situation had become urgent. G&H dispatched the Gretchen to assist in turning the ship, and that part of the operation went smoothly. But the SIU boatmen also discovered that the crew members from the Miss Julie (which is owned by Hard’s Marine Service, Ltd.) had abandoned their boat and moved to the barge because they feared sinking. The Gretchen lashed up alongside the barge and towed it along with the Miss Julie to Galveston Harbor. (The Miss Julie had broken all of its face wires and could not tow the barge without assistance.) By around 5:30 a.m., the barge and pushboat were secured at pier 21 in Galveston. Steven J. Huttman, director of marine operations at G&H Towing, noted that the captain and crew of the Gretchen “performed with a great deal of professionalism and superior seamanship in taking a loaded bunker barge in tow alongside. This is a task that is not routinely performed by our crews.” Jeff Preston, director of safety and training at G&H, agreed, adding, “The decisive action by the crew of the Gretchen preserved life, property and the marine environment.” Branch, Mathews and Fabain all have completed safety-related courses at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. The Maritime Trades Department (MTD), AFL-CIO, last month submitted comments to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) promoting dredging in general and also making a case for special consideration for the Great Lakes. The MTD consists of 23 affiliated unions, including the SIU, representing more than 5 million members. Responding to the agency’s request for comments (published earlier this year in the Federal Register) on existing national dredging policy, the MTD described dredging as “a vitally important aspect of the American economy” and also noted that the department “was a strong supporter of the work done by the U.S. Department of Transportation and a federal interagency working group in the early 1990s on this very issue.” At that time, the MTD criticized the “time-consuming and costly nature of the dredging review process, the myriad overlapping federal and state jurisdictions and the belief—fed by some environmental groups—that there was no way to balance legitimate economic concerns with the need to maintain a clean and safe environment. The success of the DOT’s effort can be seen by the creation of the original federal interagency working group in 1993, the streamlining of the interagency review process and several key findings of the national dredging policy that the EPA is submitting for review.” Among other things, the current policy notes that a network of ports and harbors is essential to the United States economy, affecting its competitiveness in world trade and national security. It further states that port facilities serve as a key link in the intermodal transportation chain and can realize their full potential as magnets for shipping and commerce only if dredging occurs in a timely and cost-effective manner. Additionally, the policy asserts that the nation’s coastal, ocean and freshwater resources are critical assets that must be protected, conserved and restored; that consistent and integrated application of existing environmental statutes can protect the environment while allowing for sustainable economic growth; and that close coordination and planning at all government levels—and with all aspects of the private sector—are essential to developing and maintaining the nation’s ports and harbors in a manner that will increase economic growth and protect, conserve and restore coastal resources. Portions of the MTD’s comments follow: U.S. Ports and Port Dredging Are Essential Components of a Healthy U.S. Economy and the Defense of the Nation The national dredging policy is absolutely correct in stating the importance of ports and dredging to the U.S. economy, and by acknowledging that environmental concerns and economic development do not need to be at odds. Any effective U.S. policy on dredging must start with these observations. Indeed, the importance of U.S. ports will only increase in an age of economic globalization with foreign trade expected to grow at a rapid rate over the next two decades. Today, U.S. ports and waterways handle more than 2 billion tons of domestic and import/ export cargo annually. By 2020, the total volume of cargo is expected to double. Continued on page 18 September 2007 �House Approves ‘Belated Thank You’ Legislation U.S. Merchant Mariners who served their country during World War II now are closer to receiving not only the recognition they deserve but also a monthly annuity, thanks to recent action on Capitol Hill. Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Bob Filner (D-Calif.) on July 30 announced that the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 23, The Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2007. The bill, which has the full backing and support of the SIU, its officials and membership, would establish a U.S. Merchant Mariner Equity Compensation Fund to provide monthly payments in the amount of $1,000 to qualifying members of the United States Merchant Marine who served during World War II between the periods of December 7, 1941 and December 31, 1946. H.R. 23 includes qualifying members of the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. “The House of Representatives took the opportunity to correct a grave injustice heaped upon the gallant men of the Merchant Marine of World War II,” stated Filner. “We call our veterans ‘heroes’ for a reason, and the heroes from past wars deserve all the care and dignity that this nation can bestow. We will work boldly and tirelessly to move this legislation forward. “I am pleased that the House of Representatives passed The Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2007,” Filner continued. “The heroic and brave service of these veterans has gone unheralded by this country for too long. We owe these heroes a thank you and today, we are one step closer to righting this wrong—once and for all. These veterans kept their promises to serve our country and it is not too late to keep our promises to those that have fought for our country.” Nebraska Sen. Ben Nelson (D), just days after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 23, urged the U.S. Senate to follow suit by passing companion legislation, S. 961, which he introduced. In a letter to the Senate’s chair and ranking member of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Nelson wrote, “Merchant mariners served this country by delivering troops, tanks, food, airplanes, fuel and other needed supplies to every theatre of the war. Yet they have been denied the benefits given to other service branches. It is past time to pass legislation to Labor Federation’s Executive Council Plans Strategies for Working Families Members of the AFL-CIO executive council, during their Aug. 6-8 summer meetings in Chicago, conferred about crucial concerns for working people and mapped out strategies to make certain that their voices are heard both in the workplace and in the highest echelons of government. Executive council members, including SIU President Michael Sacco, during the meetings outlined the next steps to be taken in the continuing battle to win quality health care for all Americans, developed plans to mobilize a force of activists as part of “An Economy That Works for All” and called for a rebuilding of the nation’s infrastructure. Council members also approved statements on important reforms to the nation’s trade policy, advancing the fight for the Employee Free Choice Act and expanding access to higher education. On Labor Day, the AFL-CIO union movement will kick off a renewed campaign to win health care reform that protects hardwon union benefits and extends health care coverage to all Americans. The campaign’s goal, according to the council, will be to win universal, quality health care for all of America by making the 2008 elections a mandate on health care reform and electing people in the executive and legislative branches of the federal government who are pledged to that end. To accomplish these objectives, the AFL-CIO leadership will engage with federation unions to mobilize a massive working family army and help build a broad progressive alliance committed to establishing high quality care for all. Elements of this reform campaign include: Education of union members and their families about the necessity for federal action to preserve their hard-won benefits; Mobilization of union members to participate in the 2008 elections and demand that candidates for federal office support comprehensive health care reform; September 2007 AFL-CIO President John Sweeney Recruiting employers to support health care reform; Linking national health care reform to the important reform work at the state level; and Working with progressive organizations to establish a broad alliance for reform. In addition to soaring health care costs and shrinking retirements, workers are faced with stagnating wages and mounting economic uncertainty, the federation leaders charged. In short, America’s workers and their families are finding it tougher and tougher to maintain their living standards. To combat this situation, the council developed plans to train and mobilize a force of 1,000 activists in the coming months. These activists, as part of “An Economy That Works for All” campaign, will take the battle for economic justice to union members in their communities, workplaces and union halls. As a result of these activists’ actions, the federation anticipates that large numbers of other union members will become involved in the 2008 elections. The activists’ training will focus on three key policies: restoring workers’ freedom to form and join unions by enacting the Employee Free Choice Act; solving America’s health care crisis; and protecting good jobs through trade and industrial policies that support the creation of good jobs in America. With the images of the I-35W Bridge in Minneapolis fresh and the disaster of crumbling levees that flooded New Orleans in Hurricane Katrina still vivid, the council said it is time for a major national effort to rebuild the nation’s infrastructure. “Our nation cannot careen from one preventable disaster to another,” said an official statement. “The future of our economy and our quality of life depend on the health of the nation’s infrastructure. Investing in it will create good jobs while improving the living standards of working families and their communities.” On trade, the council pointed out that since 2000, more than 3 million manufacturing jobs have disappeared and 40,000 facilities have been shut down “due to flawed trade policies.” The council statement said that the socalled free trade agenda “allows companies to avoid the whole panoply of domestic laws and regulations—affecting clean air and water, the minimum wage, the abolition of child labor, the right to organize and bargain collectively, a safe and healthy workplace, safe consumer products and safe food, to note just a few—that we as a nation have long decided are important to promote the common welfare and temper the worst excesses of a free market economy. Corporate profits have skyrocketed, executive compensation has gone through the roof and working Americans have paid the price.” Council members urged rejection of flawed trade agreements with South Korea and Colombia and any effort to renew fast track trade authority. They also supported reauthorizing and expanding the Trade Adjustment Assistance Act to help workers and their families who are victims of unfair trade. The Employee Free Choice Act, which protects workers’ freedom to form a union without employer intimidation, harassment or interference, was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives (by a 241–158 margin) in March. In June, the bill fell to Continued on page 9 honor and recognize the contribution of merchant mariners during the Second World War.” While U.S. Merchant Mariners provided invaluable assistance during the war, they were denied benefits in the post-war G.I. Bill of Rights because they were classified as civilians. In 1988, they were granted a watered-down version of the G.I. Bill of Rights, but some portions of those benefits were never made available to them. Additionally, it wasn’t until 10 years later (1998) that the cutoff date for veterans’ status for World War II mariners was extended to match the one applied to members of the armed services. “We can never make up for the years lost, but we can fix the injustice by passing S. 961 as quickly as possible,” Nelson said. He added that the Senate version of this legislation already has garnered the support of 46 of his colleagues who have signed on as co-sponsors. “With the strong backing of these individuals, I will work with the leadership of both parties to do what is right for these merchant mariners: pass this bill,” he concluded. There is some dispute as to how many surviving mariners remain who sailed during World War II, but their average age is approximately 83. Calif. Grocery Workers Ratify 4-Year Contract Grocery workers in Southern California—represented by the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW)—on July 22 by an overwhelming majority approved a new collective bargaining agreement with the country’s largest supermarkets: Kroger, Safeway and Supervalu. The contract, covering approximately 65,000 union members, was ratified by a wide margin exceeding 87 percent, with extremely high membership attendance at the meetings throughout Southern California. All seven UFCW local unions involved recommended that grocery workers ratify the contract. UFCW members and their union officials in Southern California fought long and hard through six months of negotiations for this contract, and many believe it is a major improvement over the previous one. The new four-year contract, which runs from March 5, 2007 to March 6, 2011: Eliminates the “two-tier” wage and benefit structure. All employees now will be on the same wageprogression schedule and will be eligible to reach the same top pay scale in their classification; Provides annual wage increases retroactive to March 5, 2007. Wage increases will range between $1.65 and $6 over the life of the contract; Shortens the waiting period for health care eligibility to six months for new hires and dependents, and 24 months for spouses. The previous standard was 12-18 months for employees and 30 months for children and spouses; Provides funding for health coverage for the term of the contract. The union agrees to supplement the grocers’ contributions with $3,000 per employee from an existing health care trust fund to pay for health coverage, or about $240 million over four years; Includes provisions for preventative health care for all employees; Offers graduation to a “Plan A” health plan with increased benefits for employees hired after March 2004; and Continues pension funding at current levels. Much of what UFCW members accomplished, say union sources, can be directly attributed to the solidarity and strength they showed in working together to bargain for a fair contract. Seven Southern California UFCW locals all worked together in bargaining and coordinating campaign actions and strategies. They also owe their accomplishment to the extensive support of community and religious leaders, shoppers, affiliated unions and UFCW members nationwide throughout the negotiations. Coordinated action with supporters and customers played a pivotal role in gaining a positive settlement, UFCW officials said. Union members, community members, religious groups, grocery workers, and supporters knocked on thousands of doors, handed out flyers, sent e-mails and letters of support, wrote editorials, attended rallies and marches, spoke out in churches, and signed pledge cards supporting UFCW members. “This contract is a major step forward for grocery workers,” said Pat O’Neill, UFCW international executive vice president and director of collective bargaining. “But it never would have happened without the solidarity of the UFCW members and their union leaders in Southern California, along with the support of the community. It just goes to show that it pays to be a member of the UFCW.” Elsewhere on the West Coast, about 18,000 UFCW members in Washington and Oregon are still fighting for a fair contract with their employers. Grocery workers in Northern California will begin bargaining for a new contract later this fall. Seafarers LOG 5 �USNS Comfort CIVMARS Spread ‘Hoops Diplomacy’ in El Salvador Hospital Ship Continues 4-Month Humanitarian Mission The hospital ship USNS Comfort, crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division for the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), is in the midst of a four-month deployment to Latin America and the Caribbean aimed at treating approximately 1,000 patients per day. Along the way, a number of the Comfort’s civil service mariners (CIVMARS) in late July befriended locals in Acajutla, El Salvador during a few evening games of pickup basketball—an interaction described by MSC as “hoops diplomacy.” On the vessel’s second evening in port in Acajutla, a group of 10 or so CIVMARS visited a park near the ship to play basketball and, rather than just play against each other, struck up a game with some of the locals. “We were over there playing ball and then some of the locals called us over and we started playing with them,” said Boatswain’s Mate William Ramos, who speaks Spanish and served as a translator. “Sunday, our second night playing, it was so crowded, there were at least 100 people in and around the park watching us play and having fun with us. At first they were cheering for their own people, but after the third game they started cheering for us, too.” During the mariners’ final night of competition, a local boy U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joshua Karsten The hospital ship USNS Comfort, deployed for a fourth-month humanitarian mission, is moored in Acajutla, El Salvador in late July. brought a small American flag to the game. Some of the people in the crowd had been treated on the hospital ship and recognized the crew. “There was one lady who had had an operation on the ship, and she remembered us and asked us if we were from Comfort,” noted Ramos. The crew members took Gatorade, water, snacks and a soccer ball to share with the other players and with the many children who gathered to watch the games. Three of the CIVMARS gave their athletic shoes away to their new friends. “I just really like these people,” said OS John “Junior” Rogers, who gave a pair of Air Jordan basketball shoes to one of the opposing players. “It was nice—all of those people fell in love with us playing basketball,” said Ramos. According to MSC, the CIVMARS won the first game—but after that the El Salvadorans put together a winning streak that continued through the ship’s last night in port July 29. The Comfort’s current mission began in mid-June when the 894foot vessel sailed from Norfolk, Va. This is the ship’s first deployment since October 2005, when it had concluded more than a month of operations along the U.S. Gulf Coast providing assistance in the wake of hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Its current itinerary includes stops in Belize, Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. At each port of call, U.S. military doctors and nurses from the ship’s medical treatment facility are working with various embarked agencies (governmental and private) as well as medical professionals from the respective host nations. They are providing medical care including immunizations, general and specialty surgeries, dental care and vision services. In announcing the deployment, MSC noted, “Comfort’s mission, part of U.S. Southern Command’s Partnership for the Americas, is modeled in part on the humanitar- U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kelly E. Barnes Lt. Megan Zeller, an intensive care unit nurse, checks a patient’s vital signs while he recovers after surgery aboard the hospital ship USNS Comfort, which is crewed by SIU CIVMARS. The photo was taken July 31 in El Salvador. ian assistance deployment that the Comfort’s sister ship, the USNS Mercy, conducted last year to Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific. On that mission, the Mercy’s medical team treated more than 60,000 patients.” The USNS Mercy also is crewed by SIU CIVMARS. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Elizabeth Allen Aircrew personnel assigned to Helicopter Sea Command (HSC) Squadron 28 assist in directing an MH-60S Seahawk helicopter in moving cargo aboard the Seafarers-crewed USNS Comfort in mid-July, somewhere in the Pacific. Ammo Ship’s Story Has Pop It’s probably a rare circumstance in which an extra “pop” aboard an ammunition ship isn’t necessarily cause for alarm, but a report last month from the U.S. Military Sealift Command fits that description. According to the agency, the USNS Flint, which routinely delivers ordnance to Navy ships, was scheduled to distribute 250,000 bags of donated microwavable popcorn last month. Crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division, the 564-foot Flint, which supports the U.S. Navy’s Pacific Fleet, was to supply the popcorn to Navy ships at sea and also pass a portion of its edible cargo to other MSC ships that will help deliver it to thousands of sailors and Marines aboard other Navy ships around the world. Termed “Operation Popcorn,” the delivery of 3,000 cases of the buttery treat—in addition to already-planned ammunition— was slated to be made by the Flint’s civil service mariners (CIVMARS). The donation was a result of a coordinated effort between the Boy Scouts of America, the Support Our Troops organization and Weaver Popcorn Co., which U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist 2nd Class Maebel Tinoko Cases of donated popcorn are being shipped from the Seafarerscrewed USNS Flint to military personnel around the world. 6 Seafarers LOG gave the $70,000 worth of popcorn for Navy sailors and Marines serving far from home. The ammunition and popcorn were loaded at Naval Magazine Indian Island, Wash., July 20 and 21. Cases of butter, butter light and kettle corn were to be given to each ship. According to the MSC, the Defense Logistics Agency considers transportation requests for donated goods of this kind. Requests cannot be accommodated unless space is available and operations aren’t affected. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Spike Call In this early April photo taken in the South China Sea, a helicopter assigned to the Black Knights of Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron (HS) 4 clears the flight deck of the Seafarers-crewed ammunition ship USNS Flint. CIVMAR News: Union Files Grievance The SIU Government Services Division has filed a grievance requesting monetary compensation on behalf of crew members from the USNS Supply who were required to use the “buddy system” while on liberty. The union charges that the restrictions took two forms: MSC requiring that CIVMARS comply with the U.S. Navy’s instruction regarding the use of the “buddy system,” and the agency requiring that mariners return to the vessel by 0200. The union further insists that the aforementioned restrictions were unnecessary and that they violated the collective bargaining agreement, the Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction provisions and the applicable memorandum of understanding between the parties. In a recent communication to the agency, the union noted, “These unwarranted restrictions cre- ate a hardship for the mariners…. CIVMARS should not be forced to relinquish their rights to full liberty without compensation. This new policy has multiple, significant adverse consequences for unlicensed CIVMARS which need to be addressed in negotiations.” The union also noted that this is a great departure from past practice. The buddy system is a Navy directive implemented for the command and control of its forces and it is not necessary to use such a system with professional mariners who are experienced travelers. CIVMARS understand when the buddy system may benefit them and may decide to use it under certain circumstances. The requirement, however, is difficult to implement during short liberty periods and can work to eliminate the ability of CIVMARS to take liberty altogether. September 2007 �Six Stewards Complete Recertification Six Seafarers recently completed their respective ascents to the summit of the merchant mariner culinary hierarchy when they graduated from the union’s steward recertification course. In recognition of their achievements, the graduates received certificates during the Aug. 6 membership meeting at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Satisfying the rigid yet essential demands of their instructors during the month-long curriculum were Stewards Christopher Amigable, Charlfred Autrey, Adele George, Karen Fensel, Exxl Ronquillo and Douglas Swets. Each stood and spoke before the audience of SIU officials, fellow Seafarers, family members, friends and guests during the membership meeting. Collectively, they expressed their gratitude for the opportunities they have been afforded to enhance their skills, improve their lives and those of their families and become better shipmates to their brothers and sisters aboard SIU-contracted vessels. Ronquillo, who sails from the port of Piney Point, Md., was the first to approach the podium. “I’ve been with the SIU since Sept. 29, 1989,” said Ronquillo who was born in the Philippines. “I sail as a chief steward and have sailed all over the world during my career,” he continued. Ronquillo told those in attendance that that SIU has been a very important part of his life since becoming a member because he considers the union as a partner. “It helps me to take care of myself and my family,” he said. “The SIU makes my life more secure and I am very proud to be a member.” Exxl Ronquillo, left, and David Swets perform prep work for one of their entrees. Members of the steward recertification class joined union officials for this photo following the August membership meeting at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Standing left to right are VP Contracts George Tricker, Assistant VP Ambrose Cucinotta, Douglas Swets, Christopher Amigable, Charlfred Autrey, Executive VP Augie Tellez, Exxl Ronquillo, Adele George, VP Government Services Kermett Mangram, Karen Fensel and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. The children are the sons of Exxl Ronquillo (John, left, and Michael). Ronquillo extended his thanks to union officials for all that they do for the rank-and-file members, including the affiliation with the school and making upgrade training so accessible. He also thanked the Paul Hall Center instructors and staff for their contributions and support. “I thank them all for being there and being willing to help all of us. “To the trainees, never waste the opportunity to learn while you are here,” he concluded. “Always study hard and be the best that you can be.” Autrey sails out of the port of Mobile and has been an SIU member since 1993. He has upgraded at the school on three previous occasions. “I’m honored to be here today,” the Atmore, Ala. native told the audience. He extended his gratitude to the union’s officials and Paul Hall Center instructors for helping him advance in his career. Autrey told the trainees to always put their best effort forward and take advantage of each opportunity to learn. “Practice good teamwork while you are undergoing training,” he said. “Help each other out as often as you can and trust in one another’s abilities.” “I have sailed around the world several times,” said Amigable, who most recently sailed out of the port of Tacoma as a steward/baker. “I joined the SIU in 1984 in Seattle and have been sailing for Showing off their creations for the recertification course’s “mystery basket” module are (from left) Karen Fensel, Exxl Ronquillo, Adele George, Christopher Amigable, Douglas Swets and Charlfred Autrey. September 2007 14 years. The union has been very important in my life over the years because of the job opportunities it has given me,” he continued. “The benefits are great.” Born in the Philippines, Amigable previously has upgraded at Piney Point on five different occasions. “The training I received here is very valuable. I learned many new skills and I now feel more empowered with the ability to do a better job aboard my ship and to be a better shipmate to my brothers and sisters,” he said. “I enjoyed my stay very much and would encourage everyone to come here and upgrade their skills.” Amigable then extended his thanks to the SIU leadership for “the job security, good contracts and safe and reliable working conditions they provide for union members.” “To the trainees, you all have made a wise career choice and it’s good to see all of you here,” Amigable added. “I urge you to study hard, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Listen to your instructors, learn from your instructors. Learn to work together with your classmates and always carry your part of the load.” U.S. Virgin Islands-born George was a member of Unlicensed Apprentice Class 506 in 1993. She sails from the port of Norfolk, Va. and has upgraded many times. “I came back here five times before to attend upgrade training,” she said. “I learned a lot each time I was here, but this time I especially learned a great deal about working together as a group…. I would like to thank the union officials and the instructors here at the school for all that they do. “To the trainees, listen to your supervisors and always work together as a team,” she concluded. Swets is a veteran of the U.S. Army with some 30 years of service. “I served as a facility manager in the Army,” he said. “I later worked in a culinary capacity for 10 years with the Disney Resorts. I now sail as a chief steward. “I have been sailing with the SIU since 1987,” said Swets, who first donned the union colors in Honolulu. He currently sails out of the port of Oakland. “Joining the union and sailing changed my life for ever,” Swets told those in the audience. “It challenged me to work hard… and afforded me the opportunity to reach my goals.” Being at sea also gave Swets the time to read a great many books which were penned by some of his favorite authors. He shared some of their respective philosophies and views on humanity with those in attendance. Swets said that thanks to the SIU, he had made several voyages around the world. “I have traveled to such ports as Shanghai, Bombay, Singapore, Burma, Thailand, Southampton and Amsterdam,” he said. “I have made four trips around the world by way of the Panama Canal and the Suez Canal. I also have traveled around the Cape of Africa.” Swets said the overall training experience at Piney Point was “great and I will definitely encourage others to take advantage of what is available here. Being here and undergoing the training will help me do a better job aboard ship. It also has given me a better working knowledge of the union and its officials.” He continued his remarks by thanking everyone responsible for his success to date as a Seafarer and this most recent opportunity to attend training. “The SIU has been a life-changing experience for me,” he said. Swets had a lot of advice for the trainees. Using quotes from some of the books he had read over the years, he told the unlicensed apprentices, “The surest way to doom yourself to failure is to perform poorly the work you are paid to do. Today and every day, deliver more than you are getting paid to do. Don’t give up on your dreams…. Take responsibility for your choices and choose to be a winner.” Fensel launched her career with the union in Hawaii. “I’ve been sailing with the SIU since 1987,” she told the audience. “This career has opened many doors for me over the years. I first came to Piney Point in 1991 and have returned many times since to upgrade my skills. I thank the officials for helping to keep this school open and the instructors for keeping it running.” She told the audience that she enjoyed the meetings she had with union officials, including President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel and Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “Meeting and talking with them really opened my eyes to all of the hard work these officials have done and the accomplishments they have achieved for our union and its members. I’d like thank all of them for their hard work in getting us good contracts,” she said. Directing her attention to the trainees, Fensel said, “Work hard and take pride in everything you do. You will soon be representing our union aboard vessels, so please make our officials and members proud.” The steward recertification course, like most other classes at the Paul Hall Center, blends hands-on training with classroom instruction. Detailed refreshers in safety training (including fire fighting, first aid and CPR) and sanitary conditions are emphasized. Computer training also is a key part of the course as are study skills, communication and nutrition. Additionally, the training includes meetings with representatives from the various departments within the union and the Seafarers Plans, along with a trip to AFL-CIO headquarters (including the offices of the Maritime Trades Department). In every instance, the curriculum is designed to help stewards do an even better job when they go to their next ships. Adele George, left, and Karen Fensel mix ingredients for use in one of the courses of their mystery basket. Members of the class were divided into teams; each team was given the same ingredients. Within the established timeframe, each was required to complete a mystery basket. Seafarers LOG 7 �Luedtke Mariners Dredge in Toledo Deckhand Charles Wallace These photos were taken July 25 in Toledo, Ohio, where SIU members employed by Luedtke Engineering performed maintenance dredging operations from aboard Derrick Boat 16. More than 30 Seafarers work at Luedtke, based in Frankfort, Mich. OS Craig Argue Left: Foreman (and former SIU member) Bud Cropeck and SIU Representative Don Thornton SIU Representative Don Thornton, OS Craig Argue and Deckhand Charles Wallace Gianella Rescues 13 Continued from page 2 them plenty of Gatorade as recommended by MAS to bring their electrolyte levels back to normal. We also gave them plenty of simple carbs such as cookies to rebuild their energy levels. We kept a guard posted outside their rooms, but they rested quietly. Dry clothes were supplied by the ship. At dinner time, they were all in better spirits and did eat a little more. They were kept together as a group and allowed to eat after the crew. Once they completed their meal, I had the deck cadet bring up the “navigator.” He had requested to send an email to family to spread the word that they were safe. He was also eager to discuss his planned voyage versus his actual voyage. Using his small handheld GPS, he described how they intended to sail from Cuba and land in the Yucatan peninsula area of Mexico. They started with two small diesel outboards of some type, some jugs of fuel, 100 liters of water and containers of canned meat. Each one also had a flimsy inflatable life preserver that appeared to be leftovers from some airline. I am sure the group set out in high spirits, with dreams of a new beginning only days away. The navigator said he was a lawyer in Cuba. Using his handheld, battery-powered Treker GPS he pointed the way as they left Cuba. Problems occurred nearly right away when one 20liter water jug was found empty due to a hole. Later, engine #1 broke down and they had to employ engine #2. Another 20liter water jug would turn up dry as it was used upside down as a chair and had leaked. Towards the end of day two, they hit their first storm. The navigator turned off his GPS to keep the rain from harming it. They tied off motor #1 in the water to use as a sea anchor. When the storm had passed, they restarted the GPS to find out they had been going in a circle during the storm. It was becoming appar- 8 Seafarers LOG ent they were not going to have enough fuel. During day three they were able to get motor #2 working, but the Yucatan counter-current had taken them a fair distance south all the way to 19-52N, 85-38W. In this southern area they tried to get the attention of four cruise vessels that passed very close, but they were either not seen or ignored. Day three was also the day they ran out of water. The canned meat also spoiled from the heat, and cans began to explode. During the fourth and fifth days they had no water or rain. The stronger Yucatan current began to pick them up and carry them north. Knowing they did not have the fuel required to make it to Mexico, they tried to motor east in hopes of getting back to Cuba. Storm #2 hit them on day six and they once again secured the GPS, but continued to motor in what they thought was east. After the storm passed, they discovered they had gone in circles during the storm and had actually ended up farther west. Motor #2 broke down shortly that storm. The storm itself provided two liters of water, which was rationed by syringe at 20cc per person, twice a day. On day seven, securely in the clutches of the Yucatan current, they watched helplessly as Cuba passed by on their GPS. Drinking the last of their two liters of rain water, they worked at trying to get motor #2 to work again. They repaired the motor on day eight and tried to motor against the current to the now-closer Yucatan Peninsula; however, the GPS displayed the cold truth. Even with the motor running there was no way they were going to beat the strength of the Yucatan. Once motor #2 stopped again, they threw both motors over the side to make more room in the boat. Day nine was their second day without water again. At this point some of the refugees began drinking their own urine. They would put what they could into a plastic bottle, and then drag it in the water to cool it off. Once cooled, they would hold their nose and drink it. Day ten was more of the same. Somewhere in this area they endured storm #3. Waves would crash over the gunnels and at the worst point the boat was half full of water. Old water jugs with cut off tops would serve as bailers. The third storm was more wind than rain and did not supply significant drinking water. Day 11 brought another cruel insult to the 13 refugees. According to the navigator, on July 31, in the area of 26-10N and 87-54W a black-hulled cargo ship made a close approach and turned around them. He said the ship was so close he could clearly see Second Mate Jason Myers, an SIU hawsepiper, calls for assistance. the name “MINERVA” in blue lettering. He said it was a loaded ship with aft house construction. The refugees became very excited and began waving their bright yellow water jugs. He said they were sure the ship had seen them. Then the ship turned the other way and departed. He said when they saw it begin moving away they shouted for only water, but the answer was silence and a ship that grew smaller on the horizon. Day 12 was more of the same—more ships sighted, but none that deviated such as the MINERVA. They had no water and continued to drink their own body fluids. One or two would keep lookout while the other lay in the bottom of the boat and tried to keep the sun off of them. Another disturbing thing noticed by the navigator but not shared with the others was that his GPS positions showed them alternately moving both north and south, indicating they were in an area of mixed current. He was hoping they would continue on to New Orleans. Day 13 was the last day of their ordeal. It started with nice rains at 0530. Because the winds were not too high and the waves only three to four feet, the refugees collected a relatively large amount of water. They got five liters of water and began a 350cc per day, per person schedule. It was in these rains that they saw us pass them at 16 knots. The navigator said when he saw us reappear about 20 minutes later out of the rain, he did not get excited. Even though we were going much slower, he could only think of their earlier experience. This matched what we were seeing because despite us being fairly close and barely moving, we still thought there were only four people in the boat. It was not until I put the engine astern that many heads began to pop up above the gunnels. The navigator said when he saw our astern wash, he finally believed we were going to help them. The debrief with the navigator was very interesting for the cadet and me. He estimated they had seen about 20 ships in the 13 days with the MINERVA and cruise ships being the closest approaches. The navigator sent his email. I noticed he was very comfortable with the computer. He asked me about their fate and he was attentive when I let him know we were going to rendezvous with a U.S. Coast Guard ship. Although there was some disappointment in his face, he was still very gracious. He mentioned he may end up in jail if returned to Cuba. Even with that fate potentially ahead of him, you could tell he preferred it compared to more days aboard the LIBERTAE (Freedom), which was the name of the wooden skiff he built. All of the Refugees were grateful and very polite. On the morning of August 3, we were scheduled to rendezvous with the USCG ELM to transfer the 13 refugees. At 0800 they ate a good breakfast and prepared what tiny belongings they had. One man insisted on giving his watch to the AB that spotted them. It was the only thing he had to give and he desperately wanted to express his gratitude. The AB accepted the watch and I am sure it will be something he looks at with fond memories for years to come. Our transfer with the ELM was clockwork smooth. The ELM was exactly where she said she would be and she was ready for the transfer. The communications and small boat handling by her crew was very professional. The weather was calm, so we slowed to dead slow ahead and lowered the port lifeboat with all refugees aboard. We kept the boat locked in the falls and only inches above the highest waves. This made for an easy climb over the gunnels to enter the Coast Guard skiff. One by one, they made their way over the rail with smiles and waves all around. As they headed back to the ELM and I observed our crew, it was easy to see how helping these people out of a desperate situation also helped us aboard the LHG work together as one. Aboard the LHG, every crew member responded to the situation in a way that would make anybody proud. It was astonishing, disheartening, stimulating and bonding all in the same breath. September 2007 �Hughes Elected to Lead ILA Bowers Retires After 20 Years at Union’s Helm Richard P. Hughes Jr. has been elected to succeed the retiring John Bowers as president of the International Longshoremen’s Association, AFL-CIO (ILA) Hughes, 73, was elected July 26 by voice vote during the ILA convention in Hollywood, Fla. He was unopposed. Born in Baltimore and a third-generation dockworker, Hughes since 2005 had served as executive vice president of the New York-based union, the No. 2 spot. He became the first Longshoreman from Baltimore to occupy the top post. Bowers had held the presidency for some 20 years. Hughes launched his career as a longshoreman on the docks of Baltimore in 1954, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, father and uncle. He still resides in South Baltimore, and four of his five children are ILA members. Hughes held various titles in the ILA Local 333 and began his ascent in the parent union in 1985. At that juncture, he was elected vice president of the Atlantic Coast executive board, representing the port of Baltimore. Hughes’ election came following four days of convention sessions during which a full spectrum of issues relevant to the ILA and its members—including health care, port security, organizing, politics, safety, wages, retirees, port projects, labor-management relations and the general state of the shipping industry—were addressed. “The ILA is United, Powerful and America’s Best” was the event’s theme. Dozens of speakers—including SIU President Michael Sacco—addressed the 300-plus delegates and 700 guests who attended the convention. Many spoke about the critical importance of labor’s participation in the political process. After noting the upward spike in regulatory requirements faced by union members who work in the maritime industry since 9-11—the TWIC and what some AFL-CIO Maps Strategies Continued from page 5 a Senate filibuster—51 senators voted to end the filibuster, but under Senate rules it takes 60 votes. The council said the key to moving the Employee Free Choice Act into law is “to deepen and broaden our grassroots movement for reform, create a filibuster-proof majority in the Senate and elect a president who can and will lead the movement for Employee Free Choice, navigate the bill through Congress and sign it into law.” Additionally, the council reported that, on average, college graduates leave school with a diploma and debts ranging from $15,000 to $24,000 as college costs have soared and local and state aid to colleges and universities have been eroded by inflation. To help ensure access to higher education for working families, the council said the AFL-CIO and it unions will lead a national effort to assist students in utilizing a diverse range of affordable, excellent higher education opportunities. The council also approved statements on mismanaged airlines and the need to protect aviation workers and the flying public, protecting the nation’s food supply and honoring retiring Longshoreman’s President John Bowers. Rose Ann DeMoro, executive director of the California Nurses Association/ National Nurses Organizing Committee (CNA/NNOC), was named to the council. The CNA/NNOC affiliated with the AFL-CIO in May. More information about the executive council proceedings, including full council statements, is available at www.aflcio.org/ aboutus/thisistheaflcio/ecouncil/. describe as excessive background checks, for example—President Sacco told those in attendance that “our people should be treated better. Brothers and sisters, our members deserve respect,” he said. “In many cases, they’re on the front lines in the war on terrorism. They should be treated by our government as assets, not as suspects. And it is up to us to make it happen. “How do we begin?” Sacco continued. “For us, it starts with grassroots political action. This means getting out the vote, promoting our issues, educating the membership and realistically, it means donating money to pro-worker, pro-maritime candidates. Voluntary political donations are simply a fact of life in this day and age. It’s not our only tool, and it doesn’t guarantee success, but without it, we’d never get our foot in the door.” He added that grassroots political action also includes “talking with—not to, but with—our elected officials from your local hometown all the way up to Congress. No one can better explain what we face at the docks and aboard ship than the people who are doing it day-to-day.” Labor Brief NSPS Battle Continues Unions in the United DOD Workers Coalition recently announced they would file an appeal with the U.S. Supreme Court in order to stop the Department of Defense from implementing its National Security Personnel System (NSPS). The coalition has been fighting NSPS since it was first proposed. In February 2006, the group won a decisive ruling in the U.S. District Court against NSPS. Judge Emmet G. Sullivan’s ruling protected workers’ rights by gutting NSPS provi- Other speakers included Congresswoman Corinne Brown (D-Fla.), Congressmen Bennie G. Thompson (DMiss.), Al Green (D-Texas) and Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii), AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Linda ChavezThompson, Commandant of the United States Coast Guard Admiral Thad W. Allen, International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) General Secretary David Cockroft, Maritime Union of Australia National Secretary and ITF Dockers’ Section Chair Paddy Crumlin and International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots President Capt. Timothy Brown. ILA Executive Council members as well as other ILA officials also made presentations. The ILA—which represents more than 65,000 members on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, along major U.S. rivers, in Puerto Rico and Eastern Canada—was organized in 1892 in the Great Lakes region. The union negotiates master contracts governing the wages that shipping lines pay workers who load and unload cargo. It also lobbies Congress on labor issues and provides benefits to its members. sions pertaining to labor relations, collective bargaining, independent third party review, adverse actions, and Defense Department’s proposed internal labor relations panel. However, on May 18, 2007, the U.S. Court of Appeals—in a sharply divided 2-1 decision—upheld the regulations. The coalition filed a motion for review, which was denied Aug. 10. The group subsequently announced its intention to file another motion with the Court of Appeals and within 90 days to proceed with a petition to the U.S. Supreme Court. “If NSPS were to be fully implemented, DOD workers would be subjected to an arbitrary, dishonest and unfair working atmosphere,” noted American Federation of Government Employees National President John Gage. With Seafarers Aboard the El Yunque ATTENTION SEAFARERS: These photos of SIU members aboard the El Yunque were taken earlier this summer in Jacksonville, Fla. Recertified Steward Francis Ostendarp Crew members get together for a photo after meeting with SIU Jacksonville Safety Director Karl Leiter. SA Carlos Hernandez September 2007 Right: Chief Cook Ismael Garayua prepares lunch. Seafarers LOG 9 �At Sea and Ashore With the SIU . . . HOUSTON — OS Brian Kinard (right), who works at G&H Towing Company, recently completed training and passed the test to receive his 500-ton Inland Mate License, which he is showing to Asst. VP Jim McGee. NORFOLK — Sgt. Brian Goodman (right) was recalled June 24 to active duty as part of Iraqi Freedom. Brother Goodman, who sailed as an oiler, has always personified the concept of “Brotherhood of the Sea.” Port Agent Georg Kenny—along with the port of Norfolk and the entire SIU membership—wish him well. Retiring from the SIU SEABULK TRADER — Attending a shipboard meeting aboard the Seabulk Trader are (from left, seated) DEU Nasser Kassim, SA Sanad Saleh, Bosun Bob Coleman, OMU Nat Lamb, Chief Steward James Harris, (from left, standing) AB Irving Carlos Rueda, AB Carson Jordan, AB Geoffrey Hall, Chief Pumpman Eron Hall, AB David Hollenback and AB Melvin Smalls. FT. LAUDERDALE — AB John Kolodziej (center) shows his first pension check. Safety Director Kevin Marchand (left) has been Kolodziej’s best friend for nearly 14 years and helped him get into the union. With them is Port Agent Kenny Moore. HORIZON PRODUCER — Checking out a recent issue of the Seafarers LOG aboard ship are (in photo above left, from left) Chief Cook Juan Vallejo Hernandez, OMU Jo Vanii Sprauve and SA Fernando Vega Mercado. William Bunch (above right) is the recertified chief steward aboard the cargo vessel. JACKSONVILLE — Wallace Lester Cumbest (left) receives his first pension check from Asst. VP Archie Ware in the Jacksonville hall. JACKSONVILLE — SIU Patrolman Ashley Nelson (left) presents Ray Green with his first pension check. 10 Seafarers LOG VIRGINIAN — Bosun John Thrasher (above, seated) and CE Jaime Cayonte look over the Seafarers LOG aboard the cargo ship. STOS Renard Murphy (above, right) is an unlicensed apprentice (class 683). Several of the vessel’s crew members have commended Murphy for being a hard worker and a good shipmate. At right is Oiler Miguel Abad who sails from Port Everglades. September 2007 �September 2007 Seafarers LOG 11 �The U.S. Merchant Marine: Always Re Serving the Country from Colonial Days F reighters, tankers, tugboats, towboats, ferries, passenger ships, dredges: these are some of the privately owned and operated vessels flying the American flag that help make up the U.S. Merchant Marine in times of peace. The civilian mariners— including thousands of SIU members—and their vessels move cargo and passengers between nations and within the United States. They ply the oceans and Great Lakes, the inland waters and navigable rivers, canals and harbors, delivering goods and people where they are needed. During times of war, however, the merchant marine “The officers and men of the merchant marine, by their devotion to duty in the face of enemy action, as well as the natural dangers of the sea, have brought us the tools to finish the job. Their contribution to final victory will be long remembered.” –Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower, 1945 becomes an auxiliary to the Navy and can be called upon to deliver troops and supplies for the military. The U.S. Merchant Marine is this country’s “Fourth Arm of Defense” and can deliver anywhere and at any time. The sealift effort by the merchant marine during World War II almost defies belief. It was, perhaps, the greatest sealift operation in history. But merchant shipping has been of vital importance to Americans since colonial times. The Early Years The first wartime role of an identifiable United States Merchant Marine first took place on June 12, 1775 in Maine. Citizens from the 13 independent colonies had only 31 ships in their Navy when they heard of the battles at Concord and Lexington and the demand by Britain for them to sign a petition promising to protect British property at all times in exchange for the right to buy supplies. They protested, but in order to fight the British, they needed additional ships. Letters of Marque were sent to privateers (privately owned, armed merchant ships that were outfitted as warships to prey on enemy merchant ships). The privateers interrupted the British supply chain all along the eastern seaboard of the United States and across the Atlantic Ocean. These actions by the privateers predate both the U.S. Coast Guard (formed in 1790) and the U.S. Navy (formed in 1797) and are considered the start of the merchant marine’s role in times of war. The U.S. Merchant Marine was active in subsequent conflicts. During the War of 1812, the British were seizing American ships on the high seas and forcing seamen to join the British navy or merchant navy. This war was fought primarily by merchant ships because the U.S. had almost no Navy. Together, the Navy and the privateers captured 30,000 prisoners. The Mexican War was the first conflict in which the U.S. Army invaded an enemy’s territory by sea, and thus required the use of a large number of oceangoing ves- guns, tanks, planes, fu dreds of other essentia sels. The American Merchant Marine provided chartered ships in order to defend Texas against Mexico. During the Civil War, there was a struggle for control of the sea lanes and the inland waterways. The North set up a blockade of all southern seaports, cutting off imports of war materiel, medical supplies and household goods. Merchant mariners also played a role in the Spanish-American War, the Korean War and the first and second battles of the Atlantic in both world wars as well as in the conflicts in Korea and Vietnam. There were just six privately owned commercial ships under charter to the military when the Korean War began. There were 255 at the peak of the hostilities. In September 1950, when the U.S. Marine Corps went ashore at Inchon, 13 USNS cargo ships, 26 chartered American and 34 Japanese-manned merchant ships, under the operational control of Military Sea Transportation Service, participated in the invasion. During the Vietnam War, ships crewed by civilian seamen carried 95 percent of the supplies used by our Armed Forces. Many of these ships sailed into combat zones under fire. The Mayaguez incident is well known, involving the capture of mariners from that SIUcrewed merchant ship. During the first Gulf War, the merchant ships of the Military Sealift Command delivered more than 11 million metric tons of vehicles, helicopters, ammunition, fuel and other supplies and equipment during the war. At one point, more than 230 government-owned and chartered ships were involved in the sealift. Government-owned merchant vessels have, in fact, supported emergency shipping requirements in many wars and crises. During the Korean War, 540 vessels (commercial and military) were activated to support military forces. A worldwide tonnage shortfall from 1951 to 1953 required more than 600 ship activations to lift coal to Northern Europe and grain to India. From 1955 through 1964, another 600 ships were used to store grain for the Department of Agriculture. Another tonnage shortfall following the closing of the Suez Canal in 1956 resulted in the activation of 223 cargo ships and 29 tankers. During the Berlin crisis of 1961, 18 vessels were activated, which remained in service until 1980. The Vietnam conflict required the activation of 172 vessels. World War II Whether it’s carrying humanitarian supplies (like the bags of lentils shipped overseas on U.S.-flag vessels under the PL 480 Food for Peace program, above) or loading military equipment for defense purposes around the world, the U.S. Merchant Marine delivers. 12 Seafarers LOG The role played by America’s Fourth Arm of Defense during World War II is, perhaps, the most dramatic—and has been sensationalized in books and movies throughout the years. But the world is a little more aware of the true history and role of the U.S. Merchant Marine in World War II, thanks to SIU pensioner John Bunker, who wrote a number of books about both the September 2007 �eady to Deliver s to the Present Shown here is a photocopy of a declassified page from a 1944 shipping log, indicating the progress of American and British convoys to the Russian ports of Archangel and Murmansk. The convoys setting out on what was popularly called the “Murmansk Run” were vital to keeping the Soviet Union in the war by supplying uel, food, machinery and hunals for its defense. union and the merchant marine. In “Heroes and Dungarees, The Story of the American Merchant Marine in World War II,” he states: “The Merchant Marine was in the forefront of battle from Pearl Harbor until the end of the war. It transported the steel, fuel and food, as well as the guns, tanks and ammunition that kept Britain and Russia in the war. It carried rubber, oil, ores and other raw materials for the American war arsenal. The Merchant Marine took the soldiers to war, too. Merchant seamen braved bombs, torpedoes, kamikazes and the hazards of storm, ice and collision in convoy, from the icy Barents Sea to Pacific invasion beaches. Shells from the guns of merchant ships streaked through many foreign skies. Wherever the freights of war were needed, the cargo ships were ready to deliver. “Hundreds of ships were sunk by bombs, torpedoes and gunfire; by storms; or by collisions in thick fogs and blanketing snow. Thousands of seamen went down with their ships or were killed or wounded in action.” Many battles took place during World War II involving merchant mariners. From the icy convoys in the North Atlantic to the battles of the Central and South Atlantic, the U.S. Merchant Marine continued to carry needed supplies for the war effort. They sailed in every theater, regardless of the danger, moving more than 300 million tons of material. September 2007 As General Dwight D. Eisenhower said during the early stages of World War II, “When final victory is ours, there is no organization that will share its credit more deservedly than the merchant marine.” Tales of heroism and courage on the part of seafaring crews were commonplace during this period. But at no stage of the war were merchant ships and the seamen who manned them more vital than during and after the D-Day invasion when men and materiel were delivered in the greatest concentration in military and shipping history. Thousands of seamen took part in establishing the beachheads at Normandy and Omaha, among others, and later in maintaining the lines of supply which were vital in bringing down the Nazi regime. These mariners played an important role in landing the 2.5 million troops, the one-half million trucks and tanks and the 17 million tons of ammunition and supplies that were put on the beaches of Europe during the first days after D-Day. Many seafarers also were among the 1,000 merchant seamen who volunteered to sail the 32 American ships that were scuttled to make the emergency breakwater—the “miracle harbor” that made the successful invasion of the Normandy coast possible. After the beachheads were established, and as Allied troops fought their way toward the heart of Germany, the merchant ships continued to keep the supply lines open. Years have passed since the bombs of World War II fell, but those merchant mariners who saw and heard them have not forgotten them. Neither have they forgotten the 1,554 American-flag ships that went to the bottom between the “ In memory of those men, and in the interest of our nation, the United States must carry out the bold and daring plan of Franklin D. Roosevelt for a Merchant Marine of the best designed and equipped passenger and cargo ships, manned by the best trained men in the world.” —President Harry S. Truman The Merchant Marine flag, unveiled on May 24, 1994 by then-Maritime Administrator Albert J. Herberger, was designed by the U.S. Army’s Institute of Heraldry. It was first displayed at the annual U.S. Merchant Marine Memorial Service in Washington. D.C. to honor America’s civilian seafarers who have supported the nation’s armed forces in times of war and carried its commerce in times of peace. outbreak of the European war and Germany’s surrender, nor the 6,066 American merchant seamen who were killed or captured during that phase of the fighting—a casualty rate second only to that of the United States Marine Corps. More than 1,200 SIU members were among those who gave their lives. Thanks for Serving Without a doubt, all their service made a huge difference in the war’s outcome, and members of the U.S. Merchant Marine justly deserved the thanks and honors that came their way at war’s end. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, during the signing of the G.I. Bill on June 22, 1944, said, “I trust Congress will soon provide similar opportunities to members of the merchant marine who have risked their lives time and time again during war for the welfare of their country.” But that was not to be. When merchant seamen returned home from World War II, they came back without travel pay expenses, mustering out pay, state and federal pensions, disability benefits, G.I. loans, on-the-job training, paid college education with living expenses, medical and dental payments and much more, including burial benefits. It was not until 1988— more than 40 years overdue and after a long court battle—that some veteran status was given to merchant mariners who served from Dec. 7, 1941 to Aug. 15, 1945. Mariners who went to sea during that time, serving in wartime in hazardous waters, got their status as veterans Nov. 11, 1998. Unfortunately, many did not live long enough to take advantage of these benefits. Additionally, it wasn’t until 1998 that the cutoff date for veterans’ status for mariners was extended to Dec. 31, 1946—the same one that applies to the armed forces, and the date upon which President Harry Truman declared hostilities to be over. For the last several years, merchant mariners have been awaiting legislation to extend the 1944 G.I. Bill of Rights to them as well. If passed by both chambers of Congress and signed into law, the bill, “A Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2007,” would provide benefits to certain individuals and grant them the compensation and respect that they have rightfully earned. On July 30 of this year, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the legislation. It still is awaiting consideration by the Senate. Today, the men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine continue in the spirit of seafaring brothers and sisters. Since 1977, the Ready Reserve Fleet made a major contribution to the success of Operation Desert Shield/Operation Desert Storm from August 1990 through June 1992, when 79 vessels were activated to meet military sealift requirements by carrying 25 percent of the unit equipment and 45 percent of the ammunition needed. Sealift remains a vital component in protecting our national security. Beginning in 2003, merchant mariners answered their country’s call to duty during the initial combat phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom. An estimated 5,000 merchant mariners (including more than 2,000 Seafarers who sailed aboard more than 100 SIU-crewed ships) helped transport and supply coalition forces as the U.S. and our allies removed the dictatorial regime in Iraq. Mariners transported—and continue to carry—critical cargo including Apache helicopters, multiple launch rocket systems, wheeled vehicles including Humvees and fuel tankers, bulldozers and other combat engineer equipment, and ammunition to our forces. September 11 by transporting emergency personnel and needed supplies. That day, more than a half-million people were safely “I have come to appreciate first-hand why our Merchant Marine has long been called our nation’s fourth arm of defense. The American seafarer provides an essential service to the well-being of the nation as was demonstrated so clearly during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm…We are a maritime nation…This means that not only do we need a strong Navy, but a strong maritime industry as well.” —Gen. Colin Powell, Persian Gulf Wars Peacetime Missions The U.S. Merchant Marine has taken on many peacetime missions as well. They sailed to Somalia for Operation Restore Hope in 1993 and ’94; to Haiti in 1994 for Uphold Democracy operations; and in 1995 and 1996, helped deliver military cargo as part of U.S. and U.K. support to NATO peacekeeping missions. Four RRF ships were activated to offer support in Central America following Hurricane Mitch in 1998 and rendered humanitarian assistance to the Gulf Coast area following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2006, providing food, a place to sleep and electrical power to refinery workers, oil spill response teams and longshoremen. Merchant mariners were there first to answer the call for assistance following the horrific terrorist attacks of evacuated from lower Manhattan by SIU-crewed ferry boats, tour boats and government vessels. The U.S, Merchant Marine has served America with great distinction throughout our nation’s history—whether in times of peace or times of war. From the Revolutionary War through both world wars and up to today, the men and women who serve in the merchant marine have willingly served and defended their nation. As SIU President Michael Sacco noted recently, the names and faces of merchant mariners throughout the years may have changed, “but our commitment never wavers. Our reliability never lessens. Our message to our troops and to the rest of our countrymen is the same: You can count on us!” Seafarers LOG 13 �Recollections of the Merchant Marine in World War II Editor’s note: The first four installments of retired Seafarer Albert Stimac’s experiences in the merchant marine appeared in the April, May, June and July Seafarers LOGs, respectively. He wrote about his training, his first ship, joining the SIU, the responsibilities of a member of the black gang, traveling in a convoy during World War II and boiler problems on a C-3 bound for England. The last article left off following a Coast Guard hearing and being assigned to another ship. These are the best recollections of his training and sea time from the end of 1943 to late 1946, so any inaccuracies in the details need not be brought to his attention. S ometimes I think it was the Coast Guard that told the company which ship we would be assigned to. Usually, they pay you off and you leave the ship or else the chief or captain asks you to stay on. We weren’t even paid off—just transferred to another ship. I don’t even recall getting a discharge from that 10-day trip on the C-3. I got a bad feeling right away when I boarded the next ship. It hadn’t been cleaned yet and was a mess. The thing that bothered me most was the insulated Navy cold weather jackets left in one of the lockers. This meant the Murmansk Run and Russia. BAD NEWS!!! Small convoys that made this run were escorted by larger English navy ships, cruisers and the like. But if the Germans spotted the 20- or 30-ship convoy, they would send out their battleships berthed in the fjords. Then the English escort ship would abandon you and head for home. Otherwise, the German battleship could easily sink anything from a cruiser on down. No use sinking a battleship for a small convoy. Wasn’t worth the price. And besides, they were needed more on higher priority missions. The only good news was you would get a $500 bonus if you made this trip successfully. The bad side was you got paid in rubles and couldn’t get off the ship. And, you had to give the the money back. I talked to one guy who had made the trip and told me that Russian political prisoners unloaded the ships. When they couldn’t work anymore or starved, they were shot and pushed over the side. Well, they cleaned up the ship in the next few days, and I felt much better. When we were on board, I heard we were going to the New Jersey side. That was another surprise coming up. I had never been on a ship that loaded up on the Jersey side. I found out in a hurry, though, when we docked. Shore crews came aboard as soon as we tied up to the pier. They hauled all their lumber on board and started to board up the holds with wood. That meant only one thing: We were going to get loaded with something that would explode if there was a spark. It turned out we were hauling ammunition, 6,600 tons of it. But we were not going to Russia. We got loaded up with our cargo and headed out to sea. Scuttle—another term for rumor—was that we were headed for Europe. The second day out, we lined up in a convoy. It really was what I considered a large one. Over 50 ships. This was the first vessel I sailed on that had an armed guard crew. These were U.S. Navy sailors who would be in charge of the gunnery we had for protection. On this trip, we had four sets of twin 20mm anti-aircraft guns, a 5-inch cannon on the stern and a 3-inch cannon on the bow. The gun crews did not quarter with the merchant crew. They slept in the stern while we were quartered mid-ship. The 20mms were pretty new guns, but the 5-inch cannon mounted on the stern was a laughing matter. The gearing to move it up or down or left to right was very slow and hard to do. As we were carrying high explosives, we were the last to join up with the convoy. Just before we caught up to the rest of the ships, the captain decided to have the gun crew get some practice. So the alarm was sounded and the sailors rushed to their positions. After everyone was accounted for, the aft gun crew was ordered to drop a 50-gallon drum that was to be the target. The drum was specially made for target use and smoked when it was in the water. We were hitting some pretty good swells—long waves—and the stern would rise about 10 feet on top of a swell and down 20 feet to the bottom. On the command to fire, the ship’s stern just reached the top of the swell. The cannon fired, and we all watched to see how close they came to the smoking barrel. Of course, the gun barrel was further raised with the stern up and the bow down by 20 feet. We never did see the shell land and hit water. It just went up and out of sight. The captain got mad as we whooped and hollered with delight at the big miss. He immediately called to arm and fire again as the barrel was getting smaller and smaller as we continued on. As things went, the command to fire came just as the stern of the ship went down into the trough and the bow came up. With that movement, the gun fired right into the swell behind us, which was about 200 feet from the stern. Shooting of the cannon was called to an abrupt halt. Next, they went to the 20mm guns which were fed by cartridges that contained 25 or so 20mm shells. They were pretty heavy—I would guess about 40 to 50 pounds. These guns had some ammunition stored alongside them. But if they were in combat, much more ammo would be needed. This is where the Merchant Marine guys not on watch came in. We were supposed to go down in the hold and bring up two canisters at a time, one in each hand. Now we were supposed to walk up grated steps on a rolling ship and not be able to use you hands. It made no sense. The next practice was much better. They had one fellow who could really handle that 20mm. They would shoot up parachutes that opened up to about five or six feet and left a trail of smoke as they came down. Even on this ship going slowly up and down, he could cut off some of the lines on the parachute. These guns were slotted so they could go just so far to the right or left. The same went for up and down. It was a good thing. After a couple of other guys practiced, the next one up gave us another big thrill. He wasn’t too big or heavy set, so when the ship continued to pitch up and down, he had problems. He got strapped in alright, but did not get his feet or body set to control the gun. So when he released the turret safety, the gun swung aft as the ship’s stern went down in the swell. In the meantime, his hand immediately Students marched to class at the Sheepshead Bay training facility in Brooklyn, N.Y. where Stimac trained in 1943. 14 Seafarers LOG tightened and he pulled the trigger to fire. The shells went about 10 feet over our heads and cut off a couple guy wires. Scared stiff, we really moved from the fantail to the center of the ship. Now we knew why they put stops on the guns. The captain had just about had it, and he tied everything up and we never had any more practice. We soon caught up to the convoy and got into our position. We were in the last row back and the furthest ship out on the starboard side. This was called the “coffin corner.” Ships that carried explosives A pier, about five blocks long, was where lifeboat training was conducted at the Merchant Marine Academy. were assigned this position. If we blew up from a torpedo or gunfire, we wouldn’t take any other ship down with us. The closer to the middle of the convoy, the safer you were. But this wasn’t always true.... One time, for instance, a sub was spotted and it ran under the convoy for protection from the convoy escorts dropping depth charges. My experience was that when we were in the engine room on watch, we would count the depth charges the escorts would drop (usually between 75 to 100). This happened at sunrise and sunset. Anyway, on this day, the escorts came in after the sub and dropped a string of charges. They were close enough so it blew all the wrenches and spare parts loose from the skin of the ship. That’s why one always wanted to be the first one to sign up in the blackgang. The 4-8 watch was the worst, the morning watch when the sun rose around 6 or 7 o’clock and the 4-8 evening watch when the sun went down at 6 or 7 o’clock. I had just been relieved on my watch and was on the ladder going up when the charges started going off. I scampered up pretty fast and hit the deck running. I looked over the side and pretty soon saw some debris coming up from the sub. Don’t know if they got it or not, or if the sub just released a bunch of stuff. With a large convoy, it was difficult to keep everybody in formation and in line. One has to be aware that no radio communication could be used because it could be picked up by subs. So in clear weather, it was no problem as we kept everyone in visual sight. Even if the sea got a bit rough, we still could hold some sort of formation. The problem came when we hit fog. Visual contact was out, and all we used were the steamhorns. Each ship had an assigned horn signal—so many short blasts, long blasts and any variations thereof. If it was foggy or a dark night with a good sea running, one had problems. The ships would drift to port or starboard. In the morning, or when the fog cleared, it was a mess. It would take a good half day to get us more or less in line again. Even if we were the outside ship and in the coffin corner, ships would be outside of us and behind us. Some lines had six or seven ships and others would have only two or three. One day, we ran into heavy fog and a ship ran into our bow and tore off our starboard anchor. It also banged up our bow a bit but did not cause any leaks. It was on the deck plates and not down near the water line. Just as we were getting close to England, we ran into a large convoy of ships heading for the States. It was quite a mess. We met some of them head on and others came from the side. Evidently, some German subs had been in the vicinity and had torpedoed the ships, which then scattered. All around us, I could see ships going in different directions. We passed one ship that was going down bow first and the crew was lowering life boats. Seemed almost like a dream going by them at about 10 miles per hour. Maybe they were 100 yards away, but 100 yards isn’t much when two ships pass each other. Just past them was a ship sitting in the water, barely moving. But we kept heading straight ahead, making no effort to maneuver. We just kept sounding our horn in long steady blasts. We found out later that we had run up flags for BAKER. This meant high explosives on board in our cargo hold. There was a tanker on our port side coming at right angles to us He was really moving, but when he saw our B for BAKER flags, that big old tanker really put that ship in reverse in a hurry. The water was frothing and boiling up from the thrust of the propellers going full reverse. We just kept going, and it turned a little away from us and we passed in front of it by about 300 yards. After that, the escorts picked us up and gave us protection until the next morning and we were to hit England. During the lull in action, I heard how close we came to getting torpedoed. The Navy lookout on the bow did not respond during the action. One of the mate’s officers went up to see what the trouble was. He found the lookout in shock and just sitting and staring. The officer had to slap his face to get him to come around. We found out later his condition was caused by a torpedo headed toward us. Fortunately, it missed and went right under the bow. It missed us by just 10 or 20 feet. About five or six of us were rounded up the next day and we found out through scuttle that we were headed for Antwerp. That would be no problem, but the Germans had just left the port and had sunk boats and ships all over the passage going in. This time I was on day watch and down below when we started in. Why they put us in first, I’ll never know...unless they needed our ammunition that badly. We were afraid of a mined channel, so the 1st engineer had us put 5gallon cans filled with lube oil, one in each shaft alley bearing. We punched a hole in the bottoms and let it lubricate by gravity. Then we got out and went into the engine room and secured the watertight door. They always have a pilot come aboard a ship and bring it into the harbor, especially a local pilot who knows the harbor well. Being the first ones in, everybody was pretty jumpy. Hitting sandbars and sunken boats weren’t too bad. Floating mines and anchored mines gave us the biggest threat and fear. Brother Stimac’s wartime recollections will continue in a future edition of the Seafarers LOG. September 2007 �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea October & November 2007 Membership Meetings JULY 16 — AUGUST 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 3 5 6 18 7 7 37 22 4 13 6 28 17 15 6 4 4 2 38 17 0 0 1 8 2 0 5 5 0 1 3 6 5 5 3 0 0 0 6 8 307 259 58 0 0 6 11 2 4 19 19 2 8 8 24 6 10 3 1 3 0 15 18 0 1 2 9 3 6 16 12 1 7 2 10 14 7 1 3 5 1 19 10 0 1 0 2 0 1 4 4 1 0 0 3 4 0 0 0 0 0 5 6 Totals 159 129 31 1 0 1 10 2 12 24 14 0 6 5 29 6 22 1 1 1 2 22 26 0 1 1 7 2 3 8 10 1 4 3 5 10 1 2 2 3 1 5 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 Totals Totals All Departments 1 2 4 9 3 10 36 24 2 11 12 37 9 24 6 0 10 1 23 26 250 1 7 4 11 5 2 20 16 0 6 6 12 9 11 5 19 5 3 20 12 174 0 0 0 6 2 0 7 1 0 0 1 2 5 2 2 0 0 0 3 1 32 0 0 6 5 0 4 11 9 0 3 14 13 4 7 1 2 4 0 6 11 100 0 1 1 4 6 1 15 10 0 2 4 10 9 5 0 2 5 1 13 9 98 0 0 0 3 1 3 3 2 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 6 22 185 78 8 3 0 3 7 3 9 18 10 0 2 6 23 8 15 4 1 2 1 17 18 150 1 0 1 5 2 7 6 7 0 0 4 3 11 1 2 4 5 0 2 7 68 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 1 8 2 0 12 18 1 15 56 58 2 20 23 87 15 41 6 1 11 4 61 51 8 6 8 21 9 16 50 29 7 17 10 52 19 23 9 12 13 7 59 35 2 1 1 6 2 2 3 6 1 2 6 8 7 8 2 0 1 3 9 10 Algonac ................Friday: October 12, November 9 Baltimore..............Thursday: October 11, November 8 Boston ..................Friday: October 12, November 9 Guam ....................Thursday: October 25 ..............................Friday: November 23* (*change created by Thanksgiving Day holiday) Honolulu...............Friday: October 19, November 16 Houston ................Monday: October 15 ..............................Tuesday: November 13* (*change created by Veterans Day holiday) 133 484 410 80 Jacksonville ..........Thursday: October 11, November 8 0 0 3 1 0 2 4 8 0 1 3 5 9 4 0 1 2 0 0 13 0 0 5 11 3 10 25 35 2 16 9 38 10 19 3 1 4 1 28 21 2 4 6 14 1 13 17 18 3 8 7 15 20 10 4 5 5 5 25 13 0 1 0 1 1 1 5 3 1 1 1 4 5 1 2 0 1 3 5 8 Joliet .....................Thursday: October 18, November 15 68 241 195 44 0 0 1 8 1 3 12 7 0 0 0 9 7 8 0 1 0 1 7 12 1 0 4 9 2 14 42 25 1 10 7 31 16 42 2 3 1 1 36 45 1 1 0 9 2 8 15 18 2 9 2 13 15 4 0 2 2 1 9 11 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 3 1 6 0 0 1 0 0 3 2 2 77 292 124 21 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 1 0 2 4 3 0 1 2 7 0 5 0 0 1 0 9 1 0 3 4 4 3 4 18 18 1 6 6 36 16 10 1 3 4 0 20 13 1 0 2 4 1 12 5 12 0 3 3 6 18 8 0 27 0 0 5 3 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 5 0 4 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 3 1 2 2 4 14 7 0 4 6 21 5 9 0 8 3 0 10 6 0 0 0 4 2 3 5 0 0 1 1 3 6 5 0 19 0 1 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 2 8 3 0 2 4 11 1 7 0 0 1 0 10 2 2 2 3 10 3 8 26 32 3 9 5 70 25 28 2 16 4 0 28 24 9 1 2 9 0 16 12 22 2 2 8 27 28 13 4 12 1 3 12 7 37 170 110 17 105 55 0 53 300 190 688 636 207 517 445 117 278 1,070 1,029 335 *“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. September 2007 Piney Point ...........Tuesday: October 9* ..............................Monday: November 5 (*change created by Columbus Day holiday) 1 3 3 9 0 1 17 25 1 4 4 10 5 12 4 0 3 0 22 9 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 1 1 5 11 2 9 38 29 0 15 19 51 12 27 4 0 10 3 37 33 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 Mobile ..................Wednesday: October 17, November 14 New Orleans.........Tuesday: October 16, November 13 New York .............Tuesday: October 9, November 6 Norfolk .................Thursday: October 11, November 8 Oakland ................Thursday: October 18, November 15 Philadelphia..........Wednesday: October 10, November 7 Port Everglades ....Thursday: October 18, November 15 San Juan ...............Thursday: October 11, November 8 St. Louis ...............Friday: October 19, November 16 Tacoma .................Friday: October 26, November 23 Wilmington...........Monday: October 22, November 19 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals CHIEF COOK GEORGE CREEKMORE Please e-mail Alma at shuby007@hotmail.com. HANK LIEBERMAN Anyone knowing the whereabouts of “my old shipmate, Hank Lieberman,” is asked to contact Tyrone Patrick-Navarre in Florida. The phone number is (850) 936-7015; or e-mail tdpat69@hotmail.com. Send Your Photos to the LOG Photos can tell a story. As has often been said, “a photo is worth a thousand words.” You can help the LOG tell the stories of interest to SIU members through your photos. When something happens on your ship, take some photos and send them to us. Or just snap some of your fellow shipmates at work. Try to take higher-quality photos (digital or regular), and therefore increase the odds that your photos will be included in the LOG. Here are a couple tips: Show the whole story in the photos. For instance, if the subject of the picture is a ship, show the whole ship. Let the LOG staff crop the photo as needed. Identify all the people in the photos by name and rating and indicate what they are doing. The LOG staff members are not seafarers, and sometimes they don’t know the proper names of equipment aboard ship. Digital photos should be taken at the highest resolution possible, otherwise they do not reproduce well for publication. Digital photos should be e-mailed to jbiscardo@seafarers.org. Other photos should be mailed to Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 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 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 IMPORTANT NOTICE TO UPGRADERS AND APPRENTICES Original USCG Physical Form and MRO Letter Mandatory Effective immediately, students who want to enroll in any of the following courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education must bring (or must have submitted in advance) an original, completed U.S. Coast Guard physical form and a medical review officer (MRO) drug letter upon arrival at the school: Unlicensed Apprentice Phase I, Unlicensed Apprentice Phase III, AB, FOWT, Junior Engineer, and all engine specialty courses. Members cannot take a drug test or a Coast Guard physical at the Paul Hall Center. Completed Coast Guard physical forms may be sent prior to a course’s start-up date or may be brought by the student. MRO drug letters may be submitted by the medical review officer in advance of the course or may be brought by the student. Paul Hall Center scheduling letters have been changed to include the aforementioned information. Additionally, each SIU hall in late July received a letter explaining this situation, including copies of the forms to be utilized by students. Please note that the MRO request form has been revised; the newest version calls for the letter to be sent directly to the Paul Hall Center admissions office. (Students and officials alike are reminded that random drug tests do not meet the requirement of the MRO drug letter.) For more information, contact the school’s admissions office at (301) 994-0010. 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 We are pleased to announce important changes to the Seafarers 401(k) Plan [formerly NMU 401(k) Plan]. Effective Aug. 1, 2007, we will be adding five (5) new investment options. 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 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. The new funds are called the ING Solution Portfolios, which are a set of five asset allocation portfolios. Each Solution Portfolio targets a specific date range for retirement. Here’s a summary of the investment option changes: Five (5) New Investment Options Effective Aug. 1, 2007 are: Asset Class Investment Style Lifecycle/Asset Allocation Solution Portfolios JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; (301) 899-0675 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE Seafarers 401(k) Plan [formerly NMU 401(k) Plan] HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 IMPORTANT NOTICE: ING Participant Access Effective Aug. 1, 2007, you will have access to the new funds via ING’s toll-free (800-262-3862) participant access telephone number or ING’s Internet Access Online New Funds Available on Aug. 1, 2007 Solution 2045 Portfolio Solution 2035 Portfolio Solution 2025 Portfolio Solution 2015 Portfolio Solution Income Portfolio available at www.ingretirementplans.com. You will also be able to use either of these services to initiate a transfer of your existing account balance and/or direct your future contributions to a different mix of available investment funds. If you need any additional information, please call the Plan office at the above number or Miriam Bove at (718) 499-6600, ext. 242. — Board of Trustees PIC-FROM-THE-PAST The year was 1954. The photo at right (taken from the LOG archives) shows copies of the new SIU contract being printed on the press in the mailing room at the headquarters building in New York. The new two-year contract, which was retroactive to Oct. 1, 1953, made several important changes in working rules and general rules dealing with such subjects as money draws in foreign ports, allotments, work in interior spaces by foreign shoregang labor, fans and innerspring mattresses in members’ cabins, handling of garbage and more. Monetary increases were anywhere from two to six percent in wages and overtime for all ratings. 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. September 2007 �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 AMERICUS BELL JR., 70, joined the union in 1990 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Bell sailed in both the deep sea and inland divisions. He first worked aboard the USNS Chauvenet. Brother Bell was born in Alabama and shipped in the steward department. He attended classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. in 2000 and 2001. Brother Bell’s most recent voyage was aboard the Delta Mariner. He is a resident of Mobile. JOACHIM BUETZER, 65, became an SIU member in 1995. Brother Buetzer’s first voyage was on the Independence. The steward department member was born in Greece. Brother Buetzer upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 1999, 2000, 2001 and again in 2002. He last sailed on the LNG Gemini. Brother Buetzer lives in Lahaina, Hawaii. WILLIAM FOGARTY, 65, embarked on his seafaring career in 1998 in the port of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. In 2000 and 2002, Brother Fogarty attended the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. to upgrade his skills. His first ship was the John McDonnell; his last was the USNS Red Cloud. Brother Fogarty was born in Connecticut and worked in the deck department. He makes his home in Palm Harbor, Fla. JOHN KOLODZIEJ, 65, hails from Mississippi. Brother Kolodziej joined the SIU in 1998 in the port of Fort Lauderdale. His first voyage was aboard the USNS Kane. Brother Kolodziej shipped in the deck department, most recently sailing on the USNS Dahl. He was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Kolodziej resides in Pompano Beach, Fla. MARVIN LAMBETH, 68, began his seafaring career in 1968. Brother Lambeth’s earliest voyage was aboard a Delta Steamship Lines vessel. He enhanced his skills often at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Prior to retiring, Brother Lambeth shipped on the Horizon Trader as a member of the engine department. He calls Temple Hills, Md. home. September 2007 ORELLANA MEJIA, 68, began sailing with the SIU in 1977. Brother Mejia first worked aboard an Altair Steamship Co. vessel in the engine department. Born in Honduras, he attended classes at the Piney Point school in 2001. His most recent voyage was on the USNS Algol. Brother Mejia settled in New Orleans. MIGUEL ROBLES, 61, first went to sea aboard a vessel operated by Penn Navigation Company. Brother Robles is a native of Puerto Rico. The steward department member upgraded in 2000 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Robles’ most recent voyage was on the Horizon Challenger. He continues to live in Puerto Rico. WILLIAM SHOWERS, 65, joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of New York. Brother Showers initially shipped in the deck department on the Sea Georgia. A native of Alabama, Brother Showers most recently work on a Delta Queen Steamship Co. vessel. He is a resident of Mobile, Ala. RAY GREENE, 61, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1980. Boatman Greene worked primarily on the Dodge Island. The Georgia native upgraded his skills in 2004 at the Piney Point school. Boatman Greene lives in Valdosta, Ga. ROBERT HURST, 64, hails from Virginia. Boatman Hurst launched his SIU career in 1977. He worked primarily on Virginia Pilot Corp. boats. In 1980, Boatman Hurst attended upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center. He is a resident of Cobbs Creek, Va. RAYMOND McKNIGHT, 48, initiated his SIU career in 1978. Boatman McKnight first sailed aboard a National Marine Service Inc. vessel. He was a frequent upgrader at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Boatman McKnight was born in Pennsylvania. He most recently sailed aboard a Crowley Towing & Transportation vessel. Boatman McKnight is a resident of Thornhurst, Pa. BERRY MEEKINS, 64, donned the SIU colors in 1990. Boatman Meekins shipped primarily on vessels operated by Allied Transportation Co. He upgraded his seafaring skills on three occasions at the maritime training and education center in Piney Point, Md. Boatman Meekins settled in Chocowinity, N.C. LUMAN MOODY JR., 65, embarked on his seafaring career in 1994 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Boatman Moody shipped primarily aboard American Marine Corp. vessels. He was born in Birmingham, Ala. and sailed as a member of the deck department. Boatman Moody makes his home in Seal Beach, Calif. CLYDE BRADSHAW, 62, was born in Maryland and launched his seafaring career in 1985 in Piney Point. He worked primarily aboard vessels operated by the Association of Maryland Pilots. Boatman Bradshaw makes his home in Ewell, Md. EDWARD BRADY, 62, became an SIU member in 1983 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Boatman Brady sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation. Born in California, Boatman Brady enhanced his skills on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He resides in Sunset Beach, Calif. JAMES GRAY, 62, joined the union in 1983 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Boatman Gray sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation. He took advantage of the educational opportunities available at the Seafarers-affiliated school in 1994, 1998 and 2000. Boatman Gray worked in the deck department. He calls O’Neals, Calif. home. JOSEPH McKAY, 55, joined the union in 1973, initially sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Brother McKay worked primarily on vessels operated by Inland Lakes Management, including the J.B. Ford and the Alpena. He shipped in the engine department. Brother McKay attended the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. to upgrade his skills in 1979, 1994 and again in 2003. He lives in his native state of Michigan. GREAT LAKES MOHSIN ABDULLA, 65, was born in Arabia. Brother Abdulla joined the SIU in 1972. His first voyage was aboard the Hennepin, Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1947 INLAND on which he worked as a member of the deck department. Brother Abdulla attended classes at the Seafarers-affiliated school in 1979 and 2000. He most recently shipped on the Indiana Harbor. Brother Abdulla resides in Dearborn, Mich. Commending the captain and one of the ordinary seamen aboard ship for their diligence in aiding a crew member stricken with appendicitis, the crew of the SS Venore unanimously gave them a vote of appreciation at the September 7 shipboard meeting. The stricken crew member, J. Brake, oiler, became ill while the ship was off the west coast of South America. While Brake was ill, D. Reynolds, OS, gave unstintingly of his time to make Brake more at ease until port could be reached. The skipper, Robert Mason, kept in constant touch with the sick man. When he saw the man was too ill to remain aboard until the regular port was hit, he turned the vessel off course and put in at Lima, Peru. The foresight of the captain saved the life of the Seafarer as an operation was immediately performed with success. Moving for the vote of appreciation was Brother C. Davis with the entire crew in unanimous approval. Another vote of thanks for a somewhat different reason was given the ship’s steward, Clarence Davis, who was praised for good food, fast service and clean mess rooms. The steward in turn lauded the crew for being the most friendly, jolly and helpful to one another that he has had the pleasure to work with aboard ship. idled by the walkout. Strike action in San Juan on Wednesday tied up the Carolyn and the Jean, with the remainder of the fleet’s operations due to be closed down as ships come in. Two Libertys, the Angelina and Dorothy, are already inactive. The strike began on August 19 after many weeks of negotiations by the union committee and the company had failed to break a deadlock on wage changes and other monetary matters. Two days later, the Masters, Mates & Pilots, representing deck officers, and the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association also ran into total snags in their separate contract talks with the company and picketed the terminal. Longshoremen, Teamsters and others servicing the ships, including ship’s radio officers and pursers, have all respected the various union picket lines. This Month In SIU History 1957 The SIU extended its strike against Bull Line to San Juan in the fourth week of the walkout despite efforts by Bull to break the strike. A company bid for an injunction was denied last week by State Supreme Court Justice John E. Cone, who ruled that there was no reason why SIU’s peaceful picketing could not continue…. Round-the-clock picketing by Seafarers has halted all activity at the Brooklyn terminal, with four C-2 ships, the Frances, Kathryn, Elizabeth and Beatrice 1967 MONTREAL—The 5,400 members of the SIU of Canada have returned to their ships pending formal ratification of an agreement reached last week between negotiators for the union and 32 Canadian inland shipping companies. Voting on the full agreement will be held aboard all ships within the next two weeks, according to Leonard McLaughlin, SIU of Canada president. Release of full details of the settlement must await formal membership ratification, McLaughlin said, but it involves an overall 34 percent increase for Seafarers over three years and provides for a basic work week of 40 hours, previously denied to seamen in Canada. The decision by the SIU members to return to work after an agreement was reached ended a 37-day strike in which the key issues in dispute were a 40hour week, ship manning, the 24-hour work span and paid leave. Although a wage increase was sought by the union, most of its demands centered in the area of fringe benefits. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA LAU CHAN Pensioner Lau Chan, 79, passed away Dec. 30. Brother Chan joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1972 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by American Ship Management; his first being the President Polk. He last worked aboard the President Wilson. Brother Chan was born in China and shipped in the steward department. He retired in 1987. His home was in California. BILL FERNANDEZ Pensioner Bill Fernandez, 81, died Dec. 23. Brother Fernandez became an SIU member in 1967. He began sailing aboard Hudson Waterways Corp. vessels as a member of the deck department. Brother Fernandez, who was born in the Philippines, most recently sailed aboard the OMI Yukon. Brother Fernandez started collecting his pension in 1967. He called Pinole, Calif. home. JOHN FRANCES Pensioner John Frances, 85, passed away Dec. 20. Brother Frances began his seafaring career in 1951. His first voyage was on the Steel Record. Brother Frances worked in the engine department, most recently on the Leader. Brother Frances went on pension in 1984 and resided in Baltimore. JOSE GONZALEZ Pensioner Jose Gonzalez, 80, died Dec. 22. Brother Gonzalez joined the SIU in 1953 in the port of New York. He began sailing on an Ore Navigation vessel. Brother Gonzalez, who was a member of the deck department, last worked aboard the San Juan. He continued to live in his native Spain and went on pension in 1991. NEVILLE JOHNSON Pensioner Neville Johnson, 68, passed away Dec. 19. Brother Johnson joined the SIU in 1969. He first sailed in the steward department of the Baylor Victory. Brother Johnson was born in New Orleans. Prior to retiring in 1998, he shipped on the Steven L. Bennett. Brother Johnson was a resident of New Iberia, La. GEORGE KONTOMATIS Pensioner George Kontomatis, 84, died Jan. 3. Brother Kontomatis began sailing with the SIU in 1967. His first trip to sea was aboard the Overseas Joyce. Brother Kontomatis was born in Greece and worked in the engine department. His last voyage was aboard a the Baltimore. Brother Kontomatis started receiving 18 Seafarers LOG his pension in 1987 and made his home in Long Island, N.Y. ARNE LARSEN Pensioner Arne Larsen, 91, passed away Dec. 15. Brother Larsen began his seafaring career in 1951. He first shipped aboard an Alcoa Steamship Co. vessel and last worked on a Michigan Tankers Inc. ship. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Larsen began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1975. He made his home in Denmark. HARRIN MACIP Brother Harrin Macip, 64, died Dec. 23. Born in Honduras, Brother Macip joined the union in 1962. He first sailed on a Seatrain Lines vessel. The deck department member most recently worked aboard the Integrity. Brother Macip called Oberlin, La. home. DIMAS MENDOZA Pensioner Dimas Mendoza, 87, passed away Dec. 12. Brother Mendoza began his SIU career in 1944, first sailing aboard the Mobilian. Born in Puerto Rico, he shipped as a member of the deck department. His most recent voyage was aboard the Bayamon. Brother Mendoza went on pension in 1981 and continued to live in Puerto Rico. DONALD NICHOL Pensioner Donald Nichol, 78, died Dec. 13. Brother Nichol became a union member in 1979 in the port of San Francisco. His first voyage was aboard the Del Sol. Brother Nichol, who sailed in the steward department, was born in Seattle and settled in Puyallup, Wash. He started receiving his retirement stipends in 1989. RAFAEL QUINONEZ Pensioner Rafael Quinonez, 79, passed away Dec. 28. Brother Quinonez joined the SIU in 1965 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Jefferson City Victory; his last was the Horizon Mayaguez. Brother Quinonez was born in San Juan and worked in the engine department. He retired in 1994 and made his home in Orlando, Fla. VINCENT SIGUENZA Pensioner Vincent Siguenza, 62, died Dec. 7. Brother Siguenza began his seafaring career in 1978 in the port of San Francisco. His first voyage was on the Santa Maria. Brother Siguenza worked in the steward department, most recently aboard the Grand Canyon State. Brother Siguenza was born in Hawaii and called Las Vegas, Nev. home. He became a pensioner in 2005. KENNETH STEINMETZ Pensioner Kenneth Steinmetz, 79, passed away Dec. 3. Born in New Jersey, Brother Steinmetz started sailing with the SIU in 1951 from the port of New York. During his seafaring career, he shipped primarily aboard vessels operated by Interocean American Shipping. Brother Steinmetz was a member of the engine department. He went on pension in 1986 and settled in Clearlake, Calif. BILLY WALKER Pensioner Billy Walker, 79, died Jan. 1. Brother Walker joined the SIU in 1945. The U.S. Army veteran initially sailed aboard the Azores as a member of the engine department. Brother Walker retired in 1989 and continued to live in his native state of Tennessee. SIDNEY WALLACE Brother Sidney Wallace, 52, passed away Dec. 15. He joined the SIU in 1978 in Piney Point, Md. Brother Wallace first shipped on the Fort Hoskins. The deck department member, who was born in Norfolk, Va., most recently worked aboard the ITB Groton. He was a resident of Virginia. LEROY WILLIAMS Pensioner Leroy Williams, 86, died Dec. 15. Brother Williams launched his SIU career in 1969 in the port of San Francisco. His earliest trip to sea was on a Cosmos Navigation Corp. vessel. A native of Florida, Brother Williams worked in the engine his SIU career, Boatman Dujmovich sailed primarily on vessels operated by Moran Towing of Philadelphia. He retired in 1986 and lived in Glenolden, Pa. department. Before his retirement in 1987, Brother Williams sailed aboard the Overseas Ohio. He resided in Catonsville, Md. BERT WINFIELD Pensioner Bert Winfield, 76, passed away Dec. 19. Brother Winfield began shipping with the union in 1951. His first voyage was on the Winfield S. Stratton. Brother Winfield was born in Virginia and sailed in the steward department. His last voyage was aboard the Performance. Brother Winfield made his home in Norfolk, Va. He started collecting his retirement pay in 1994. 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 DOD Archer, William 86 Nov. 26 Armijo, Samuel 89 Nov. 2 Budny, Frank 80 Oct. 28 Fontanez, Calixto 91 Nov. 28 Fuertes, Francisco 79 Nov. 15 Hendricks, Thomas 80 Nov. 24 RONALD WOLF Jennings, Ned 83 Oct. 30 Pensioner Ronald Wolf, 77, died Dec. 31. Brother Wolf joined the SIU in 1979. He initially shipped on the New York as a member of the deck department. Brother Wolf, who was born in New York, worked on the Edward A. Carter Jr. prior to retiring in 1995. He called Massapequa Park, N.Y. home. Langford, John 81 Nov. 7 Levy, Kenneth 86 Nov. 20 Lewis, Carl 79 Nov. 8 Mandahar, Margaret 62 Oct. 25 Martinez, Felix 78 Oct. 23 Mashburne, Harvey 80 Oct. 28 McBride, Joseph Nov. 8 INLAND 77 Melendez, Antonio 95 Nov. 22 Padro, Angel 85 Nov. 28 Phelan, John 73 Nov. 30 Raines, John 83 Nov. 20 THOMAS DUJMOVICH Rowley, Amos 88 Nov. 15 Pensioner Thomas Dujmovich, 83, passed away Jan. 1. Boatman Dujmovich was born in Philadelphia and joined the union in 1961. During Rybak, Frank 82 Nov. 12 Vaughn, Billy 75 Oct. 17 Vincze, Richard 79 Oct. 16 MTD Promotes National Dredging Policy Continued from page 4 Moreover, the Department of Defense has designated two dozen ports as being essential in the mobilization and deployment of U.S. forces during major overseas conflicts and in keeping troops supplied. U.S. Dredging Projects Should Be Funded at Adequate Levels While the EPA statement on dredging notes that “a network of ports and harbors is essential to the United States’ economy … and national security,” it fails to explicitly state that the only way that these national assets can be maintained is if the federal government sets aside adequate monies for port modernization/ dredging. Unfortunately, over the past two decades, dredging projects have been consistently underfunded. For example, the administration requested $4.871 billion for the Army Corps of Engineers’ Civil Works program in the fiscal year 2008 budget. As the American Association of Port Authorities noted, this funding level still is about $1 billion short of what is needed to ensure that U.S. ports remain capable of handling the volume of ships from all categories that are found in the world’s maritime fleets. As other groups have noted, funding for domestic dredging began to stagnate in the 1970s. The establishment of a Harbor Maintenance Tax in 1986 was supposed to alleviate this problem at deep-draft ports and waterways. However, the monies in the fund, which has a surplus of $3.3 billion, have never been dispensed at levels needed to keep the U.S. port system properly maintained. Any Dredging Policy Should Recognize the Special Needs of the Great Lakes Industry Any federal dredging policy should recognize that the crisis that permeates the industry is particularly acute on the Great Lakes, which has long been shortchanged when it comes to government spending on port modernization. Corps per capita spending on Great Lakes dredging amounted to $0.52 per ton carried last year. In contrast, per capita spending on the Missouri River was 30 times that amount, or $15 per ton of cargo carried. Because of this funding imbalance, Great Lakes vessels have been forced to sail at less than capacity, which affects the local economies and increases operating costs and pollution. Other Areas The MTD, like other segments of the maritime industry, strongly believes that the federal government should invest monies into research to make the dredging industry more productive. One promising method for the Great Lakes region includes Open Lake disposal of non-contaminated sediment. However, some states bar this promising method. The MTD strongly supports increasing the beneficial uses of dredged material. This offers not just an opportunity to lower the cost of dredging, it also aids in restoration and habitat creation. Any federal policy should take into account that we need to expand the times of year dredging can be done safely. This will substantially reduce costs. Finally, dredging projects should proceed in a timely manner. While the 1993 review helped streamline the dredging process, it did not go far enough. Too many legal and bureaucratic hurdles remain in place. September 2007 �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. ADVANTAGE (Sealift, Inc.), July 1—Chairman Andrew Jones, Secretary Kenneth A. Roetzer, Deck Delegate Allan B. Coloyan. Chairman discussed changes to health plan and read president’s report from Seafarers LOG. He thanked crew members for safe trip and stated ship is going under APL contract in the Middle East. Secretary reported smooth sailing. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed gratitude to steward department for “awesome job.” Next port: Jebel Ali, UAE. ALLIANCE (Liberty Maritime Corp.), July 8—Chairman Brad D. Brunette, Secretary Ronald V. Lupinacci, Deck Delegate Raymond Johnson, Engine Delegate Wade Jordan. Chairman announced July 24 payoff in Brunswick, Ga. He asked seafarers to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen for next person. He also requested that they keep noise down in passageways while watchstanders are trying to sleep. Crew was reminded to keep documents current. Educational director talked about educational opportunities available at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested refrigerators in all crew rooms. Bosun suggested raising retirement benefits. Next ports: Savannah, Ga.; Jacksonville; Baltimore. EL YUNQUE (Interocean American Shipping), July 29— Chairman Luis J. Ramirez, Secretary Francis E. Ostendarp Jr., Deck Delegate Jackie Jones Jr., Engine Delegate Peggy A. Wilson, Steward Delegate Ismael A. Garayua. Chairman advised crew members to read Seafarers LOG to stay up-to-date on information pertaining to maritime industry. Secretary discussed changes to medical plan. Educational director recommended everyone upgrade at Piney Point school whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next ports: Jacksonville; San Juan. GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic Cable Ship), July 25—Chairman Lee Hardman, Secretary Vicki Haggerty. Bosun talked about Coast Guard web site. Information about new TWIC program can be found there. He also informed crew that CIGNA, the new insurance carrier, has web site where you can find names of doctors. Members asked for copies of contract; they would like to know vacation rate and number of days required for vacation pay. Clarification requested regarding permanent crew members returning to vessel as per shipping rules. Secretary reminded everyone to put dirty laundry in supplied bags. Treasurer stated $4,300 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for job well done and, in turn, thanked deck department for painting pantry and engine department for installing new refrigerator. Thanks also given to bosun for help getting new washers and dryers for crew. Next port: Portland, Ore. HARRIETTE (Sealift, Inc.), July 8—Chairman Sean M. Ryan, Secretary George Quinn, Educational Director Manuel A. Lulley, Deck Delegate Osnang Ariola, Engine Delegate Alfredo M. Silva, Steward Delegate Lolita A. Sanchez. Bosun announced payoff July 14 in the port of Houston. Ship returning from West Africa and will be loaded in Houston and Lakes Charles, La. for Africa. Secretary advised crew members to have cash on hand to pay dues when agent comes aboard. Educational director urged Working on the Seabulk Trader Clockwise from left: Chief Cook Matthew Carroll prepares a meal in the galley; AB Carson Jordan operates the port crane; and AB David Hollenback heads for lunch after a busy morning. Photos taken by AB Irving Carlos Rueda on the way back to the U.S. from China. September 2007 mariners to upgrade seafaring skills at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer stated bosun donated $230 to ship’s fund, which now contains $330. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department. HORIZON ANCHORAGE (Horizon Lines), July 22— Chairman Dan P. Fleehearty, Secretary Sherman W. Anderson, Educational Director Kevin T. McCagh, Deck Delegate Frank R. Bermudez, Engine Delegate Jeffrey L. Murray, Steward Delegate Christopher D. Hopkins. Chairman announced July 26 payoff in Tacoma, Wash. Educational director advised crew to check document expiration dates and renew early. He also encouraged them to attend classes at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communications were read and posted for crew to review. Bosun thanked all members for working hard to clean ship after coming out of shipyard. All aboard expressed gratitude to steward department for great meals during voyage. Next ports: Tacoma; Anchorage and Kodiak, Alaska. HORIZON CHALLENGER (Horizon Lines), July 18— Chairman Roy L. Williams, Secretary William P. McGee, Educational Director Matthew P. Ditullio, Deck Delegate Franklin V. Futch, Steward Delegate Daniel V. Crawford. Chairman led discussion of new medical network. Educational director encouraged all mariners to take advantage of upgrading opportunities offered at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made pertaining to the pension and medical plans. Next port: Houston. HORIZON EAGLE (Horizon Lines), July 4—Chairman Daniel W. Seagle, Secretary Clark S. Williams, Educational Director Brian S. Leach, Deck Delegate Chad Chirell, Steward Delegate Thomas Gingerich. Chairman announced July 6 payoff in Tacoma, Wash. He informed crew that new barbecue grill was purchased and is scheduled for delivery in Oakland, Calif. Secretary encouraged crew to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. He stressed the need for more electricians. Educational director also talked about upgrading and encouraged members to take advantage of the refrigeration course. Treasurer stated $400 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department thanked fellow crew members for their patience and respect during journey. Request was made for a steam table, grill and larger sink for washing pots and pans. Clarification requested on process of calculating seatime when applying for medical benefits. Next port: Tacoma. INTREPID (Maersk Line Limited), July 5—Chairman Abdulla R. Alwaseem, Secretary Michael Kozak, Educational Director Grant W. Schuman, Engine Delegate Romeo N. Rivera, Steward Delegate Clancy Hennigan. Bosun announced July 7 payoff in Los Angeles. He informed crew members that retroactive pay for COLA would be forwarded to employees’ homes. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and to watch expiration dates on MMDs and renew early. Treasurer stated $1,400 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for new laundry detergent, hot water dispenser in messhall and fans for crew rooms. Clarification requested on various terms in contract. Seafarers thanked steward department for nice holiday barbecue. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line Limited), July 8—Chairman Brian K. Fountain, Educational Director Kevin M. Cooper, Deck Delegate Abdul Gharma, Engine Delegate William J. Boyd. Chairman thanked crew for smooth, safe voyage and passports. He advised mariners to apply for TWIC cards as soon as issuing offices are open. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was asked to keep noise down during lunch hour and after 1800 because people are trying to sleep. Aft door on crew deck also should not be used during those hours. Bosun reminded everybody to separate plastics from regular trash in all rooms including messhalls and laundry and garbage rooms. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great meals and clean house. Next ports: Yokosuka, Japan; Ulsan, South Korea; Guam; Cherry Point. Aboard the Seabulk Trader SA Sanad Saleh and DEU Nasser Kassim are good friends as well as good shipmates. announced July 16 payoff in Newark, N.J. Secretary reported 60-day stores to be taken on in Portsmouth, Va. He thanked members for helping keep ship clean. Educational director urged mariners to contribute to SPAD for job security and to upgrade skills at school in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made regarding raising pension benefits. Steward department was thanked for job well done. Next ports: Portsmouth; Charleston, S.C. OVERSEAS JOYCE (OSG Ship Management), July 1—Chairman Roger C. Tupas, Secretary Jack A. Hart, Engine Delegate Gilberto E. Baltazar. Chairman announced July 21 payoff in New Jersey and that the ship would then be re-flagged. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to upgrade whenever possible at SIU-affiliated school for better wages and job security. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to increase vacation benefits. Thanks given to all departments for great work during voyage. Next ports: Jacksonville; New Jersey. RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN (Ocean Ships, Inc.), July 16— Chairman Dana Naze, Secretary Fonda T. Biamonte, Educational Director Kelly L Mayo, Deck Delegate Eric A. Kjellberg, Engine Delegate Donald W. Lumpkins, Steward Delegate Albert Hermoso. Bosun announced Aug. 15 payoff in Cherry Point, Wash. He talked about change in medical plan and reminded departing crew members to make sure they get injury/illness-free tour of duty letter from captain in order to qualify for bonus when filing for vacation benefits. Steward delegate asked that drinking glasses not be taken to rooms or on deck. Educational director urged members to check expiration dates on z-cards and Second Pumpman Ray Avie and AB Geoffrey Hall stand a minute of silence following the shipboard meeting in memory of departed Seafarers. SEABULK POWER (Seabulk Tankers, Inc.) July 3—Chairman Moises Ramos, Secretary Richard A. Riley, Educational Director Donald H. McBride Jr., Engine Delegate Pedro G. Rochez, Steward Delegate Charles Reynolds III. Chairman requested copy of memorandum of understanding with Seabulk Tankers Inc. He thanked galley gang for great job. Secretary distributed copies of current health and benefit plan to all crew members and informed them that any questions should be directed to the plan on an individual basis. Educational director encouraged crew to take advantage of Piney Point school whenever possible and also stressed the importance of contributing to SPAD. Suggestion made to ask contracts department to look into increasing pension benefits and reducing number of days required to qualify. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Corpus Christi, Texas. WASHINGTON EXPRESS (Crowley Marine), July 5— Chairman Zeki Karaahmet, Secretary Frances Dvoroznak, Educational Director George W. Bieselin. Chairman announced July 11 payoff in Houston. He reminded mariners to keep plastic items separate from paper and other trash and donate to SPAD for job security. Educational director encouraged crew members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center in order to qualify for jobs aboard ship. Last four refrigerators were purchased and installed in crew rooms. All rooms now have refrigerators. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made to set a sailing board 30 minutes after arrival, as per contract. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next port: Houston. 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. Wartime Shipping Memories Still Vivid Sixty-three years ago, I took an oiler’s job on the John W. Meldrum. We loaded 10,000 tons of ammunition out of Beaver Ammo Depot, which is near Clatskanie, Ore. On leaving Beaver and going across the bay, the No. 1 bearing got hot. I was trying everything in the book to cool it down, including dumping kerosene in it followed by gallons of oil. (This was a Liberty ship with a triple expansion steam engine.) I was running up and down the staircase with the oil and kerosene. The chief engineer was running behind me, beating me on the back with his fists. He was furious. But he was a small man, so he didn’t hurt me. I finally got the bearing cooled down, but it was wiped out, so it hammered all the way across the Pacific to the Admiralty (or Manus) Islands. The minute we dropped anchor, the first engineer pulled that bearing down and scraped it and refitted it like new! The next day, the USS Mt. Hood blew up alongside of us. The port officials moved our ship a couple miles out to sea, where we dropped anchor and were unloaded by barges. It took six weeks to unload. There is a discrepancy as to how many people lost their lives—anywhere from 325 to 375. No bodies were ever found—only bits and pieces. I was on deck at the time, and the blast almost blew me over. Ed Unversagt Warren, Oregon Retiree Remembers Sailing Days The following poem was written by John M. Clarke of Houston, Texas, “an old retiree who no longer can ship out but who often thinks about what it used to be like.” Brother Clark wishes “good luck to all the officials and members of the SIU—the finest maritime union in the world—and to all in the number-one port in the U.S.A.—Houston.” Know Your Rights I want to make a trip On a good old union ship. To places I want to see Somewhere across the sea. Perhaps over to sunny Spain And hope it does not rain. To feel ocean breezes once more Far from the American shore. I do have a hanker Once again to ride a tanker. Ras Tanura, here I come Hold out your hand in welcome. Remembering One thing I want you to get I am not ready to sail yet. Hope you take some time To read this little rhyme. It came into my head Before I even got out of bed. I am just letting off steam And having a nice little dream. LOG-A-RHYTHM SS Steel Flyer 1943-1971 by Max Reed There’s nothing like ships and sailors—amen. Sixteen years, twenty-one or thirty, from the union they send—kids we are and men. Be it first ship or last ship ... bulk carrier, tanker or freighter, its seafaring adventure—shipmates like kin. Fireman, watertender, oiler man, all hands ... pilot on the captain’s bridge—the voyage begins ... from the engine room, galley and deck—all aboard—the Steel Flyer, a steamer 16 knots—we travel— no wind. The screw churns, turns and sailors’ tales we spin. Saigon, Pusan, Tokyo and Taipei ... Fire, oil and steam—fire it up, Captain and heave-ho, it’s the New Bar Pusan ... and our cherry boys will go. It’s the pretty women that will change the boy’s life, you know. Former Seafarer Max Reed sailed aboard the Steel Flyer in 1968. The Isthmian Lines vessel was built in 1943 by Ingalls Shipbuilding Corp. in Pascagoula, Miss. In 1971, the ship was sold for scrapping in a foreign yard. 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. be mailed (unless otherwise specified). If you are getting more than one copy of the LOG delivered to you, if you have changed your address, or if your name or address is misprinted or incomplete, please fill out the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union Address Correction Dept. 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 or e-mail corrections to kclements@seafarers.org HOME ADDRESS FORM 9/07 (Please Print) Name: ___________________________________________________________________________ Phone No.: _______________________________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ Social Security No.: ________ / ________ / ________ Book No.: ___________________ Other _______________________________________ This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain in the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally. 20 Seafarers LOG SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 In order to help ensure that each active SIU member and pensioner receives a copy of the Seafarers LOG every month—as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and health insurance checks and bulletins or notices—a correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently or feel that you are not getting your union mail, please use the form on this page to update your home address. Your home address is your permanent address, and this is where all official union documents will Pensioner 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. Tied up and let go—from sea to sea—the SS Steel Flyer Americanflagged she be—the house has been full and many lives she see ... Are You Receiving All Your Important Mail? Active SIU FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION—If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. September 2007 �SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Engine Upgrading Courses The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through the end of 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) 9940010. Course Start Date Date of Completion Basic Auxiliary Plant Ops September 10 October 5 FOWT October 8 November 2 Marine Electrician September 24 November 16 Welding October 1 October 29 October 19 November 16 Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Fire Fighting September 24 October 5 Basic Safety Training/STCW September 3 September 17 September 24 October 29 November 12 November 19 December 10 September 7 September 21 September 28 November 2 November 17 November 23 December 14 Government Vessels September 17 November 5 September 21 November 9 Medical Care Provider October 8 October 12 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* September 24 October 5 November 26 December 7 Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman October 1 October 26 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* October 22 October 26 (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) Lifeboatman/Water Survival September 17 September 28 October 29 November 9 Radar October 8 October 19 Radar Renewal (one day) October 29 (*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, two weeks prior to the beginning of a vocational course. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning Sept. 3, 2007. Recertification Bosun October 8 November 5 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 ________________________________________________ September 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. 9/07 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 689 — Graduating from the water survival course are unlicensed apprentices from class 689. They include (in alphabetical order) Ali Ahmed, Bryan Boyle, Robert Brackbill, Linarys Castillo, Rani Duke, Mohammed Elazzouzi, Stanley Gerber, Robert Lee Gray, Ruben Haynes, Travis Horton, Weneisom Landstrom, Cheryl Lee, Elmer Pancho, Rommel Sijera, Thomas Tebow, Anthony Thomas and Joshua Zelinsky. Galley Ops — Flanked by Chef/Instructor Ed White on the left and Chef/Instructor Natalie Nunes on the right are students working their way up through the culinary ladder. They are (from left), Brad Stephenson, Keesha Smith, Lisette Bonilla, Rob Engelhart, Budiman Chandra, Donald Lasley and Julio Marcone. Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 690 — Unlicensed apprentices from class 690 who completed the water survival course are (in alphabetical order) Jakssen Aristizabal, Robert Arnett, Gavin Benckert, David Bernstein, Drake Corpus, Jose Encarnacion, John Fraley, Donnetta McLee, Joshua Montgomery, Dwon Petite, Neiman Pettis, Robert Raymond, Christopher Sheppard, Henry Sheppard, Sean Sullivan, Dominic Tuccio and Kurt Weidacher. Advanced Fire Fighting — Completing the advanced fire fighting course July 20 under the instruction of Mark Cates (far right) are (in no specific order) Jordan Cuddy, Bryan Field, Chris Kibodeaux, Harry McKever, Kenneth Jackson, Robert McMurray, Maurice Baptiste, Joel Encarnacion, Doug Lewis, Greg Martineau, Marco Rodriguez, Michael Stephens, Carlos Castillo, Willie Sam, James Armer, Charles Mispagel, Wayne Henry, Philip Ayotte, Kelly Doyle and Jeffery Bull. 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. Machinist — Forrest Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Two groups of Phase III students completed this course July 6. They include (in no specific order) Aubrey Wiggins, Joshua McAtee, Jason Young, Gavin Benckert, Robert Brown, Rhett Morgan, Philip Carlton, Farren Blackwell, James McEntire, Linarys Ortiz, Cheryl Lee, Dennis Barbosa, Rani Duke, Mohammed Elazzouzi, Christopher Carrier, Jean Cardona, Angel Cintron, Brandon Fields, Derrick Elijah, Jose Garcia, Neiman Pettis, Danielle Wright, Ali Ahmed, Andres Nunez, Emmanuel Garcia, Chris Ruggiero, Vic Moody, Pedro Rivera-Riestra, Robert Puckett and Daniel Griffin. McGee (seated) had the full attention of his instructor, Steve Haver, in the machinist class that ended July 27. Computer Lab Classes Flanking instructor Rick Prucha are students who recently completed computer classes at the Paul Hall Center. Showing their certificates of achievement are Lissette Bonilla (left) and Alfredo L. Genio Jr. 22 Seafarers LOG Machinist — Graduating from this course July 6 are (in alphabetical order) Sergio Ayala, Jessie Cooper, Ron Embody, Samuel Garrett, Benjamin Mathews, Terry Santure and Hector Solis. September 2007 �Paul Hall Center Classes Water Survival — Upgrading Seafarers who completed the water survival course July 6 are (in alphabetical order) Christopher Baxter, Jeremie Coates, Brenton Edenfield, Alfredo Genio, Ronnie Rankin, Hipolita Roches and Dennis Shields. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is standing at left. Fast Rescue Boat — Five students completed the fast rescue boat class June 29. They are Carlos Castillo, Greg Martineau, Jeffrey Jensinson, Robert Hall and Eric Hurt. Their instructor, Tom Truitt, is at far right. Galley Ops — Completing one of the galley courses recently (under the instruction of Chef John Dobson at left) are (from left) Cory Jackson, Alex Vasquez and Al Balsone. FOWT — Under the instruction of Tim Achorn (standing far right) are 15 students who completed the FOWT course. They are (in no specific order) Claytain Carr, Eeric White, Fatim Rashed, Brandon Bosch, Maurice Jones, Damion Vaughn, Victorino Marin, Rustin Calame, Alex Roel, Lewis Coleman, Tracy Hanson, J.M. White, Michael Bussiere, Myckal Sands and Dewayne Gould Jr. STCW — NCL, July 19: Eugenio Guzman, Eric Haight, Christopher Hawkins, Micah Hill, Jillian Huschke, Carly Irby, Lindsey Jones, Lindsie Jones, Peggy Jones, Michael Kenworthy, Tenphel Kunchok, Matthew Leach, Alvin Lopez, Joseph Mancini, Jeffrey Marsden, Kevin McCarthy, David Pettit III, Darrell Price, Joseph Pugliese Jr., Zackary Quichocho and William Reiff Pumpman — With instructor Jim Shaffer (far left) are upgrading Seafarers who completed the pumpman class July 20. They are (in alphabetical order) Sergio Ayala, Jessie Cooper, Samuel Garrett, Terry Santure and Quincy Wilson. Safety Training at the Barbers Point Facility in Hawaii STCW — NCL, June 18: Rodolfo Novero Jr, Richard Estonina, Rodrigo Sarinas, Maribele Zamora, Teresa Perez, Ivor Steve Hooker Omeir, Pereira Amancio Martin, Teles Francisco, Augustin Ulrick, Delfinito Olarte, Wilfredo Ariap Jr, Rodrigo Junior Habana, Michael Roman, Juremar Crisostomo, John Timoteo September 2007 STCW — NCL, June 18: Albert Bagona, Redentor Carino, Whitzel Panes, Tacorda Salvador, Gama Victor, Savio Cecil Pereira, Costa Constancio Roberto, Menino Luis, Joseph Alfonso, Melanio Aguirre, Joseph Villafuerte Seafarers LOG 23 �Volume 69, Number 9 September 2007 Attention Seafarers: It takes a four-letter word to be heard. Contribute to SPAD! ‘Phase II’ Apprentices Sail on Cleveland For Practical Training, At-Sea Component Is Tough to Top Unlicensed Apprentice Henry Sheppard Unlicensed Apprentice Drake Corpus These photos of Seafarers and unlicensed apprentices were taken this summer aboard the Cleveland, which crossed the equator during the voyage. A ugust marked the 40th anniversary of the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. While the school has undergone drastic changes since first opening its gates in 1967, the entry-level program always has remained an essential part of Paul Hall Center curriculums. Nevertheless, the unlicensed apprentice program itself also has transformed throughout the years. Perhaps the most significant change occurred 10 years ago when the program expanded to include (among other new segments) “Phase II”—a 90-day shipboard experience in which each trainee rotates through the three shipboard departments aboard a U.S.-flag vessel. Mariners and instructors alike have cited Phase II as a key reason why students who complete the entire UA program are likely to continue working 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). Seafarers-contracted Sealift, Inc. recently joined the ranks of companies participating in “Phase II” of the unlicensed apprentice program, which entirely consists of U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses, many of them blending classroom instruction with practical training. Other companies taking part 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 and Pacific Gulf Marine. 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; 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 OS Steven Reiber, UA Henry Sheppard 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, call tollfree at 1-877-235-3275 or visit the Paul Hall Center section of the web site at www.seafarers.org Unlicensed Apprentice David Bernstein � 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 September 2007 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES USNS GIANELLA RESCUES 13 CUBAN REFUGEES CROWLEY CHRISTENS 3RD OF 10 NEW ATBS TUGBOAT RESOLVE, BARGE 650-3 JOINS SEAFARERS-CREWED FLEET MARAD ANNOUNCES COMMITMENT FOR AMERICAN-FLAG LNG SHIPS 11 MILLION HOURS AND COUNTING AS ALASKA TANKER CO. HITS MILESTONE ITF INSPECTOR HONORED MTD SPOTLIGHTS IMPORTANCE OF NATIONAL DREDGING POLICY GRETCHEN TO THE RESCUE… HOUSE APPROVES ‘BELATED THANK YOU’ LEGISLATION LABOR FEDERATION’S EXECUTIVE COUNCIL PLANS STRATEGIES FOR WORKING FAMILIES CALIF. GROCERY WORKERS RATIFY 4-YEAR CONTRACT USNS COMFORT CIVMARS SPREAD ‘HOOPS DIPLOMACY’ IN EL SALVADOR AMMO SHIP’S STORY HAS POP CIVMAR NEWS: UNION FILES GRIEVANCE HUGHES ELECTED O LEAD ILA BOWERS RETIRES AFTER 20 YEARS AT UNION’S HELM THE U.S. MERCHANT MARINE: ALWAYS READY TO DELIVER SERVING THE COUNTRY FROM COLONIAL DAYS TO THE PRESENT RECOLLECTIONS OF THE MERCHANT MARINE IN WORLD WAR II ‘PHASE II’ APPRENTICES SAIL ON CLEVELAND 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 09/01/2007 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. 9 2007 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/eeccf0f8e88c390567d83280c68c2831.pdf ad3323aa53056e825544213f09c84d7d PDF Text Text 50414_p01_24:50414p 8/29/2008 7:33 PM Page 1 Volume 70, Number 9 September 2008 Maersk Michigan Means More SIU Jobs SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited has added another ship to its Seafarers-crewed fleet: the Maersk Michigan (below). The vessel was built in 2003 and is scheduled to reflag under the Stars and Stripes in early September. Page 3. Ferry Crew to the Rescue! Seafarers aboard the Freedom Ferry recently rescued a woman who had jumped or fallen into the Delaware River between Philadelphia and Camden, N.J. Among those involved in the rescue were the father-son team of Capt. Rodger Taylor (right) and Deckhand Matthew Taylor, pictured aboard the vessel. Page 3. Fire Fighting and Safety School Is Vital Part of Paul Hall Center Seafarers participate in a variety of essential drills at the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, which is part of the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Students are pictured at left, right and above right in some of the classes that take place at the school, based in southern Maryland. For more information and additional photos, turn to Pages 12-13. CIVMAR News Pages 5, 10 SIU Election Info. Presidential Election Updates Pages 2, 24 Pages 4, 6, 7 �50414_p01_24:50414p 8/29/2008 7:33 PM Page 2 President’s Repor t Register and Vote Over the years, I’ve always appreciated our membership’s solid understanding of why politics is important to our union and our industry. With Election Day 2008 fast approaching, I know you realize that when we in the SIU talk about politics, we talk first and foremost about jobs. We care about our industry. We care about the labor movement. We absolutely care about our country’s security. But none of that will make any difference if the American flag disappears from the high seas, or if unions are wiped out. That’s why we’re involved in politics. If we’re out of work, we can’t help our industry or our fellow trade unionists across the land. And if there were no U.S. Merchant Marine, our nation would face enormous risk. As most Seafarers know, we work in a very heavily regulated industry. That means our livelihoods depend in part on decisions made by legislators and administrations in Washington, D.C. Brothers and sisters, it’s no coincidence that so many unions – and numerous businesses – have their headquarters in or near the nation’s capital. We all must stay active in politics, or we’ll soon be out of business. That’s why I urge you to make sure you’re registered to vote. That’s why I urge you to support pro-maritime, prolabor candidates at every level. That’s why I urge you to find the time to get to the polls on November 4, or, if needed, to cast your absentee ballot. You’ve probably heard the saying that all politics is local. I was reminded of it recently, when a transportation newspaper with worldwide circulation published an antiJones Act editorial. What a coincidence: It’s an election year in the U.S., and foreigners are taking shots at one of the pillars of the American-flag fleet. I can assure you that the Jones Act is never off of our radar, no matter the year. We will continue to promote and protect this law which is vital not only to our industry but indeed to America’s national and economic security. But, the editorial is reminder of why we must keep our guard up at all times – and why we must elect people who support American maritime labor. With every election cycle, we go through a process of trying to help educate newly elected or appointed individuals about the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine. That won’t change, but it’s a far more efficient, effective process when our members have reached out to their local officials. Your contact means so much more because that politician knows the issue is important to someone back home who actually voted them into office. On that note, I thank the rank-and-file membership for your outstanding support of the voluntary Seafarers Political Activity Donation fund, which we call SPAD. Whether promoting SPAD with a catch-phrase like “Politics is pork chops” or “It takes a four-letter word to be heard,” or explaining its purpose in more detail, the bottom line is that SPAD gives us a chance to have our voices heard by those who govern our industry. On the back page of this issue of the LOG, you’ll see our statement endorsing Senator Barack Obama for president. That endorsement is based on the senator’s support of the laws and programs that keep our industry – and our jobs – afloat. We apply the same test in every election, and not just at the federal level. Our first question is always, “Where do the candidates stand on maritime?” This year in particular, that’s a question we can’t afford not to ask – and this is a vote we can’t afford to sit out. Volume 70, Number 9 September 2008 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 207909998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Associate Editor, Mark Bowman; Photographer, Mike Hickey; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2008 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG Gen. Duncan McNabb Confirmed As U.S. TRANSCOM Commander Gen. Norton Schwartz to Serve as Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Duncan McNabb soon will assume command of the United States Transportation Command, the agency announced last month. With the Senate confirmation vote Aug. 1, the 34-year Air Force veteran will become the ninth TRANSCOM commander. McNabb provided testimony to the Senate Armed Services Committee on July 22 prior to the full Senate voting on his confirmation. The president must offer the official appointment to the general before he can assume his new position. “I know U.S. Transportation Command’s success depends on the strength of the total force and of our industry partners,” said McNabb. “I will work to continue to strengthen and leverage these partnerships across the entire joint deployment and distribution enterprise.” Currently serving as the Air Force vice chief of staff, McNabb will assume command of TRANSCOM once Gen. Norton A. Schwartz, also confirmed by the Senate Aug. 1, assumes his new position as Air Force chief of staff. In his current position, McNabb serves as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Requirements Oversight Council and Deputy Advisory Working Group. He assists the chief of staff with organizing, training and equipping more than 710,000 activeduty, Air Guard, Reserve and civilian forces serving in the United States and overseas. His previous command experience includes positions as commander, 89th Operations Group at Andrews Air Force Base, Md.; commander, 62nd Airlift Wing, McChord AFB, Wash.; and comman- Gen. Duncan McNabb Gen. Norton Schwartz der, Tanker Airlift Control Center, Headquarters Air Mobility Command, Scott AFB, Ill. Immediately prior to his current position, McNabb served as commander of Air Mobility Command, one of the three service commands comprising TRANSCOM. The others are the Army’s Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, also headquartered at Scott AFB, and the Navy’s Military Sealift Command, headquartered at the Washington Navy Yard, Washington, D.C. Schwartz, a 35-year veteran in special operations, will be the 19th Air Force chief of staff. “I intend to embody the Air Force core values of integrity, service and excellence as I lead the Air Force at this critical transition period,” he said. TRANSCOM is the single manager for global air, land and sea transportation for the Department of Defense. Seapower Subcommittee Chairman Emphasizes Support for Jones Act U.S. Rep. Gene Taylor (D-Miss.), chairman of ships must be built in the U.S. and owned by the Seapower Subcommittee of the House Armed American companies. Wrapping up his comments on the Jones Act, Services Committee, recently stressed his ongoing Rep. Taylor cautioned that waivers are “never an support for the Jones Act. end-all,” and warned that such Addressing the Propeller Club waivers may turn out to be the of the United States during a July “camel’s nose under the tent.” He 22 luncheon in Washington, concluded that America cannot D.C., Rep. Taylor stated, “I am a have a strong shipbuilding and fanatic when it comes to the repair base without strict enforceJones Act. The privilege of operment of the Jones Act. ating between American ports The congressman also empha[rightly comes with the requiresized the need to maintain a U.S. ment that ships used in the trade] Navy fleet consisting of at least 313 are American-owned, flagged, vessels (as articulated by high-rankand crewed vessels. It’s that siming Navy officers). ple.” He said he wants to help ensure Rep. Taylor, who also serves that our troops are supported by on the Coast Guard and Maritime American-flag ships with American Transportation Subcommittee of crews. the House Transportation and Rep. Taylor also reiterated his Infrastructure Committee, pointed out that approximately 40 U.S. Rep. Gene Taylor (D-Miss.) support for the Title XI other countries have laws similar is an ardent supporter of the U.S. Shipbuilding Loan Guarantee Program. He said that despite some to the Jones Act. Long a crucial Merchant Marine. struggles, “I still believe Title XI is component when it comes to helping maintain a viable U.S. Merchant Marine, a good program, and I will do what I can to encourthe Jones Act stipulates that vessels transporting age people to buy American and build American…. cargo from one domestic port to another (as Rep. It’s like any other government program: It’s going Taylor explained) must fly the U.S. flag and carry to be as good or bad as the people running it want American crews. The law also specifies that such it to be.” AFL-CIO Elects 3 to Executive Council The AFL-CIO Executive Council early last month approved the election of three new council members at its summer meeting in Chicago. The executive council – composed of 47 union leaders – is the key decisionmaking body of the 10.5-million member AFL-CIO. The new members of the council are Randi Weingarten, president, American Federation of Teachers (AFT); Matthew Loeb, president of the Stage and Theatrical Employees (IATSE); and Jill Levy, president of the American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA). “We’re thrilled to welcome these three passionate advocates for working families to the executive council,” said AFL-CIO President John Sweeney. Weingarten, who replaces recently retired AFT President Edward J. McElroy, joins the council after being elected to succeed McElroy in July. Loeb served as IATSE’s division director of motion picture and television production before his election as president in late July. He replaces retiring IATSE President Tom Short. Levy is a longtime union activist who served for several years as supervisor of special education for New York City’s public schools and headed AFSA Local 1. She served in several national offices for AFSA and was elected union president in 2006. Levy replaces retiring executive council member Baxter Atkinson. September 2008 �50414_p01_24x:50414p 9/2/2008 2:15 PM Page 3 The Maersk Michigan sports its new paint job while in drydock. Among the first mariners to crew up the new addition are AB Saleh Mothana, QMED Edward Hanvey, Recertified Bosun Michael Brewley, Chief Cook Alba Luz Ayala, Chief Mate John Gomard, Chief Steward Army Joe Leake, AB John Carr and GVA Abdulnaser Saeed. Union-Contracted Fleet Adds Maersk Michigan SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) in late August announced that it had completed the purchase of a 47,000 DWT product tanker to add to its U.S.flag fleet. The M/T Marco, which is scheduled to reflag under the Stars and Stripes in early September, will be renamed the Maersk Michigan. The 597-foot vessel is a double-hulled tanker built in 2003. In announcing the purchase, the company noted that the ship “will provide U.S. government customers, such as the Defense Energy Support Center, with expanded petroleum transport capacity around the world.” “This vessel clearly and strongly reflects the company’s commitment to both the American flag and U.S. crews,” stated SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez. “The union continues working to expand job opportunities and job security for our members. However, bringing tonnage in under the Stars and Stripes is a boost not only for the SIU but for overall national and economic security, because ships like the Maersk Michigan help maintain the pool of qualified shipboard manpower that’s so vital to our country.” “The addition of the Maersk Michigan represents our commitment to expanding our U.S.-flag fleet and to providing U.S. government customers with strategic tanker capacity where it is needed most,” said Steve Carmel, MLL’s senior vice president of maritime services. “We are also proud that the ship will add new jobs and capacity to the overall U.S.-flag fleet.” MLL Labor Relations Vice President Ed Hanley added, “The crew did a great job to take over the vessel under significant time pressure and other challenges. We had to do the crew change at anchor in less than favorable conditions — heavy swells, rain, etc. Lots of stores had to be offloaded from the launch, and the mariners had to move into rooms that were not left very tidy by the outgoing crew… The training and professionalism Philly Ferry Crew Rescues Woman in Delaware River As Captain Rodger Taylor guided the Freedom Ferry away from Penn’s Landing for the next part of its regular run between Philadelphia and Camden, N.J., he noticed something in the water which obviously didn’t belong there. Specifically, he saw a woman in distress in the Delaware River. Within minutes, Taylor and Deckhands Matthew Taylor (Rodger’s son), Zachary Tannoia and Kevin Fisher had teamed up to safely pull the woman from the water, administer first aid and get her to shore. Local fire and rescue personnel arrived a short time later and transported the unidentified person to Thomas Jefferson Hospital, located about five blocks away. Capt. Taylor said the Seafarers didn’t learn the woman’s name, but did receive word that she was in stable condition at the hospital. It wasn’t known whether she had jumped or fallen into the river. A 1979 graduate of the Paul Hall Center trainee program, Capt. Taylor praised his crew members for the rescue, which began shortly after 1 p.m. on August 5. He also credited the mariners and the ferry operator, Hornblower SIU Deckhands (from left) Matt Taylor, Zach Tannoia and Kevin Fisher were integral in the rescue. September 2008 Marine, for their serious approach to the weekly safety drills conducted aboard the Freedom Ferry – exercises which undoubtedly helped save the woman’s life. “The drills really helped out,” he said. “This operation really felt like our basic rescue drill, except it was an actual rescue. The crew members did exactly what they were supposed to do. I was really impressed with them and I’m really proud of all three of them.” Capt. Taylor said that when he first maneuvered the ferry into rescue position, one of the deckhands threw a life ring into the water, but the woman didn’t respond. Matthew Taylor then jumped into the river to save her, just as she appeared to be going under the water. A rescue ladder, davit and sling also were deployed from the ferry. Rodger Taylor said the victim, upon being brought aboard the boat, “was conscious but very pale. She was white as a ghost, actually, and may have been going into shock. She was moaning but didn’t talk. The guys performed first aid and, luckily, we saw a policeman walking along Penn’s Landing” (which hastened the arrival of shore-side rescue personnel). Only 15 minutes elapsed from the moment Capt. Taylor first saw the woman to the time the fire and rescue crew transported her to the hospital. He concluded, “I just can’t say enough about how the guys handled this situation. They were totally professional and really got the job done. It was a unique situation because my son was involved, but again, I commend all three of the guys. They all deserve recognition.” The ferry is part of the RiverLink system overseen by the Delaware River Port Authority. of the SIU crew showed as everyone was completely focused on taking over the vessel properly and discharging the cargo safely. They did a great job!” This wasn’t the only big news recently announced by the company. In July, MLL reported that it had won the bid to purchase and operate the MV Pvt. Franklin J. Phillips and MV William B. Baugh – a development which preserves Seafarers’ jobs aboard both vessels. The Baugh has been renamed the Maersk Texas while the Phillips has been renamed the Maersk Tennessee. The ships are sailing in MLL’s commercial service. Previously, they were part of the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s prepositioning fleet. Tanker Construction Moves Forward at Ship Facilities In San Diego, Philadelphia Construction is moving forward on two separate tanker build programs in Philadelphia and San Diego, respectively. In mid-July, Aker Philadelphia Shipyard launched the fifth in a series of a dozen product tankers. Hull 009 was floated off its blocks and transferred from the building dock to the outfitting dock. While in the outfitting dock, testing, commissioning and on-board work will continue until the vessel embarks on sea trials. At that point, it will be thoroughly tested prior to delivery to American Shipping Company and subsequent bareboat charter to SIUcontracted OSG America. According to the shipyard, Hull 009 has been modified to incorporate three improved diesel powered electrical generating sets to power the vessel’s electrical system. These diesel engines comply with the Environmental Protection Aker Philadelphia Shipyard recently conducted a keel-laying ceremony for a new tanker. The Golden State is one of the tankers under construction at NASSCO. Agency’s latest Tier II requirements. The vessel’s emergency diesel generator, hydraulic power packs, and rescue and lifeboat engines have all been upgraded as well. Early last month, the yard conducted a keel-laying ceremony for the seventh ship in the series. Again, this tanker is being constructed for American Shipping Company and ultimate operation by OSG. Meanwhile, General Dynamics NASSCO recently announced the beginning of construction of the third ship in its series of nine product carriers. The plans are to lay the ship’s keel in November and deliver the vessel to SIU-contracted U.S. Shipping Partners in the fourth quarter of 2009. The tanker will carry petroleum and chemical products in Jones Act trade between U.S. ports. Seafarers LOG 3 �50414_p01_24x:50414p 9/2/2008 2:16 PM Page 4 Panel Reviews Nomination Petitions for Election The credentials committee, composed and Clarence Poore from the port of of six rank-and-file SIU members, has Norfolk; and John Hoskins from the port reviewed all nominating petitions of SIU of Baltimore. Hoskins was selected by the members seeking office in the 2008 dis- committee to serve as chairman. trict-wide elections in the union’s During the special meeting on August Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters 14, Seafarers had to present their union District/NMU. books in order to be nominated to the After meeting last month and studying committee. After the voting took place, the nomination applications to ensure results immediately were made known. each candidate had complied with the criThe union constitution establishes teria spelled out in the SIU’s constitution, guidelines for the credentials committee the credentials comin Article XIII, mittee issued its See pages 6 and 7 for the full Section 2. According report, which will be text of the committee reports. to those rules, the presented to the memcommittee must be bership for its approval at the September elected at the port where headquarters is meetings. located (Piney Point). Twenty-nine candidates for 25 ballot The credentials committee must conpositions qualified to run in the election, sist of six full-book members, including which takes place Nov. 1 through Dec. two members from each of the three ship31, the committee reported. board departments: deck, engine and Members of the committee were elect- steward. ed at a special meeting conducted at headAdditionally, no elected official or quarters-port of Piney Point on August candidate for union office is permitted to 14, 2008. Voted to the committee by their serve on the committee. fellow Seafarers were Chris Nardone Members seeking the position of presand Hazel Johnson from the port of ident, executive vice president, secretaryPhiladelphia; John Reid, Jerry Stillman treasurer, vice president, assistant vice Serving on the rank-and-file credentials committee as well as the constitutional committee are Seafarers (from left) Hazel Johnson, Chris Nardone, John Hoskins, John Reid, Clarence Poore and Jerry Stillman. president or one of 10 port agent posts had to submit nominating papers between July 15 and Aug. 15. The Seafarers who served on the credentials committee also were elected by their fellow members to serve on the con- stitutional committee, in accordance with Article XXV, Section 2 of the union’s constitution. They issued a separate report detailing the proposed constitutional amendments that will appear on the ballot. Gov. Gregoire Credits ATC The Alakai sails every day, offering round-trip service between Maui and Oahu. Hawaii Superferry Ridership Grows by 40 Percent in July Survey Shows Passenger Satisfaction; 2nd Boat Under Construction Hawaii Superferry’s SIU-crewed Alakai got off to a strong start with its July ridership and rode the momentum to an overall 40 percent gain in passengers compared to the previous month. The number of vehicles transported in July aboard the ferry also grew significantly, up by 36 percent from June. According to the company, more than 36,600 passengers and 9,200 vehicles traveled between Oahu and Maui during the month of July, averaging 390 passengers and 99 vehicles per voyage. The June passenger count was previously reported up 20 percent over May. July’s figures were bolstered by the 6,000 people who rode the Alakai during Independence Day weekend – a company record for ridership on a holiday weekend. That wasn’t the only good news recently reported by the Seafarers-contracted business. Hawaii Superferry also noted that its second vessel, under construction in Mobile, Ala., is approximately 75 percent complete and is expected to enter service in May. Also, the company recently commissioned a research firm to gauge customer satisfaction. The survey’s results couldn’t have been much better, as 92 percent of the passengers polled gave the highest 4 Seafarers LOG possible rating to their overall experience on the ferry. Ninety percent of those polled indicated they are “very likely” to utilize the ferry again, and a whopping 98 percent said they would recommend the Alakai to their family and friends. (Passengers were randomly selected on randomly selected voyages beginning in late June through July. A total of 347 people completed the survey.) “Any successful operation is a team effort, and the SIU crew members aboard the Alakai definitely deserve their share of credit for ridership growth and customer satisfaction,” stated SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “Seafarers are helping to deliver a quality, affordable service and the public is responding with enthusiasm.” “Business is good and we are very pleased with the rate at which our passenger and vehicle loads have increased these past three months,” added Hawaii Superferry President and CEO Tom Fargo. “We have operated over 400 voyages now and we’re equally pleased with the feedback we’ve been receiving from passengers.” The 349-foot Alakai, which has an aluminum hull, carries a crew of 25 and operates seven days a week. Washington State Governor Christine ATC’s fleet includes four SeafarersO. Gregoire earlier this year sent a con- crewed vessels: the Alaska Class tankers gratulatory letter to the head of SIU-con- Alaskan Legend, Alaskan Frontier, tracted Alaska Tanker Company in recog- Alaskan Explorer and Alaskan Navigator. nition of a major safety milestone. Those ships transport Alaskan North “On behalf of the people of Slope crude oil from Valdez, Alaska, to Washington State, I offer my congratula- refineries in Washington State and tions on the Alaska Tanker California. Company (ATC) reaching Many of the company’s an important milestone: mariners have undergone more than six calendar years safety training at the SIUand 12 million man hours affiliated Paul Hall Center, without a time-loss injury,” located in Piney Point, Md. the governor said in her letAs reported in the May ter, dated June 30 (and LOG, Mathur in late sporting a union bug). March sent a communicaAddressed to ATC tion to shipboard and President and CEO Anil shore-side ATC personnel Mathur, Gov. Gregoire’s letin which he credited all ter continued, “I applaud the concerned for the latest fact that your company has achievements. He wrote in received a number of part, “This remarkable perWashington State awards for your safety and formance by the ATC oil spill prevention record, Gov. Christine O. Gregoire employees, ship and shore, including recognition from has been enabled by our the Alaska State Legislature, the U.S. union leadership (SIU and MEBA), our Coast Guard, and from our own contractors, our client BP Alaska, our Washington State Department of Ecology. owners, our external stakeholders and our Many in the business and labor communi- regulators,” he said. “Meaningful and ty have told me that ATC is a leader in the lasting results at this level require a supfield of transporting oil and that you are portive environment. I am very grateful to viewed as a model for the industry.” each of these entities.” NTSB Issues Final Report On Majestic Boat Grounding Shipboard Decision could have led to ‘Catastrophic Disaster’ The February 2008 edition of the Seafarers LOG reported that the National Transportation Safety Board’s (NTSB) preliminary report on the May 14, 2007 grounding of Majestic America Line’s sternwheeler riverboat, the Empress of the North, off the coast of Alaska showed there was a new employee on watch at the time the ship hit a submerged portion of a charted rock. The preliminary report cited that Marino Cattiotti was assigned a fourhour watch from midnight to 4 a.m. because another navigator fell ill. The NTSB recently released its final report on the matter, in which it says the illness was no excuse for turning watch over to an inexperienced, newly licensed third mate. The agency places the most blame for the incident on the vessel’s mas- ter, who assigned Cattiotti to the bridge watch during the night of the accident. “The third mate was not familiar with the route, the vessel’s handling characteristics, or the equipment on the vessel’s bridge,” noted the board. The board said the fallout from the decision could have been much worse. “The flawed decision making in this accident created the potential for a catastrophic disaster,” observed NTSB Chairman Mark Rosenker. “Those in leadership positions need to make sure they consider every option possible when making critical decisions that could put lives at risk.” The ship grounded 25 miles southwest of Juneau, forcing the evacuation of 206 passengers. September 2008 �50414_p01_24x:0414p 9/2/2008 2:32 PM Page 5 Mississippi River Oil Spill Renews Concerns Perhaps the best thing one could say about the July 23 fuel oil spill in the Mississippi River outside New Orleans was that no humans were injured – at least not physically. But, the damage from the accident involving a non-union tugboat and barge and a Liberian-flag tanker is extensive and ongoing. More than 100 miles of vital inland waterway was closed, stalling commerce for more than a week. The incident is expected to cost taxpayers untold dollars in containment, cleanup, salvage and remediation. According to Coast Guard investigators, nearly 420,000 gallons of fuel oil were spilled when American Commercial Lines’ (ACL) oil-laden barge DM 932 collided with the chemical tank ship Tintomara. ACL is a non-union company that hired another non-union company, DRD Towing, to push the barge up the Mississippi. The DRD tug Mel Oliver pushed ACL’s barge into the Tintomara in the early hours of the morning, splitting the barge in two. To some extent, the incident renewed the debate regarding uninspected towing vessels and the lack of documentation among some mariners employed aboard inland tugs and tows. In its aftermath, press reports noted that in 2007, for example, the Coast Guard conducted fewer than 300 random checks of approximately 7,000 uninspected towing vessels. Since 2004, such checks have led to nearly 2,000 civil penalty cases for mariners who either had insufficient documentation or none at all – but only a fraction of those cases led to fines or prosecution. A preliminary Coast Guard investigation found the captain of the Mel Oliver was not on board and a steersman apprentice was operating the tug at the time of the collision. While this employee was licensed, his license did not authorize him to operate the vessel without the captain’s presence in the wheelhouse. In essence, there were no properly qualified personnel piloting the tug. Some reports likened it to letting a teenager with a learner’s permit drive alone. The Coast Guard also reported that the Tintomara and the vessel traffic service did radio call-outs to the Mel Oliver to warn of impending collision and received no response from the tug. Cleanup was further delayed as the split barge shifted in the currents of the Mississippi, closing the river a second time. All told, the Mississippi was not fully open for transport until August 10. Less than two weeks before the Mel Oliver wreck, a different DRD Towing tug sank after colliding with a ship. Here again, a DRD-employed apprentice mate Inland documentation (or lack of it) and uninspected towing vessels were in the news after the July 23 oil spill in the Mississippi River. Salvage operations are pictured above in this U.S. Coast Guard photo. was at the helm of the tug. While at press time there was no definitive cost of spill containment and cleanup operations, at the height of the efforts the Coast Guard reported on August 2 that more than 500 vessels had been cleared, inspected and/or decontaminated and released since operations began. The agency had recovered more than 139,000 CIVMAR Notes The union is pursuing many arbitrations and negotiations on behalf of CIVMARs. The list below notes several of these important arbitrations and negotiations. Arbitrations the Union is Working on Habitability: T-ARS Class: Grapple, Salvor T-AH: Comfort, Mercy The union is seeking habitability pay for CIVMARs who were required to stay in sub-standard conditions aboard these vessels. On the USNS Comfort, CIVMARs in the open berthing are covered by this arbitration. Liberty Restrictions: For all CIVMARs in the east and west coast fleets that have been subject to the implementation of the “buddy system,” the union is seeking compensation for this liberty restriction. For CIVMARs on the Mercy and other vessels where liberty was restricted in areas, the union is seeking compensation for these liberty restrictions. Failure to Pay 10% Supplement to Entitled Supply Department Personnel MSC unilaterally changed conditions of employment when it denied certain supply department personnel a 10 percent pay supplement. The union believes it is very important that it bring matters to arbitration when MSC implements new employment conditions without notifying the union and bargaining about these changes. A CIVMAR’s occupation can be difficult. CIVMARs generally work in very up-tempo, challenging work environments in positions of great responsibility. While the union may not prevail on each of these grievances, it is important for CIVMARs and the union to stand together to ensure that each of these issues is presented to obtain payment for CIVMARs. What can you do you: Have union meetings aboard your vessels. Make sure you know your responsibilities and your entitlements under your collective bargaining agreement and the CMPI. Support the union’s efforts on all these issues – join the union. Negotiation Subjects Here is a list of subjects that the union is negotiating with MSC: ■ “No guest policy” at the Doubletree hotel and overflow hotels. The MSC/Doubletree changed their guest policy without adequate notice to the union. CIVMARs are no longer allowed to have guests stay at the hotel. The union has also filed a grievance about this issue and is awaiting a response from MSC. ■ Procedures regarding the TWIC card requirement. ■ Fire retardant coveralls. The union is negotiating the CIVMARs’ ability to receive these coveralls aboard vessels. The union is especially concerned about CIVMARs’ September 2008 ability to get smaller or larger sizes readily. One of the proposals submitted by the union was to allow CIVMARs to purchase their own fire retardant clothing and get reimbursed by MSC. MSC refused to agree to this proposal. The union will now take some of these proposals to the federal service impasse panel for resolution. What you can do: Ensure the union knows whether you have had difficulty getting coveralls in the correct size for you. If you have any information about this subject, contact your union representative or if you have access to email please write to civmarsupport@seafarers.org ■ EBIS - the Employee Benefit Information Service. On September 30, 2008, CIVMARs will no longer be able to file any more paper forms to elect benefits or make certain TSP transactions. All transactions must be made via email or telephone. The union put in many proposals about EBIS including the use of official time on the vessel for CIVMARs having to access this system, register and make elections. (See related story, Page 10.) What you can do: Complete as quickly as possible the union survey sent to the customer service units and the vessels. Make sure you register for EBIS as soon as possible. Let the union know if you are encountering any issues concerning access to computers, including difficulty logging onto the system and the length of time it takes to perform EBIS transactions. ■ The union is extremely concerned with problems we are hearing from CIVMARs about MSC’s failure to correctly process workman compensation claims. Every injured CIVMAR is entitled to complete the CA16. What you can do: If you are injured during the course of a voyage, whether on or off the vessel, it is very important to that you follow the procedures and secure your entitlements. The shipboard supervisory personnel must supply you with the appropriate forms and ensure you receive the appropriate treatment. MSC shore-side personnel must do the same. For traumatic injuries ask your supervisor or the MSO to authorize medical treatment on Form CA-16 before you go to the doctor. Even if injuries appear minor, they can develop into a more medically challenging problem. It is always safest to file the proper paperwork. If you believe you are not receiving the correct information about worker’s compensation injuries, call your union representative or e-mail civmarsupport@seafarers.org The union is working on many other issues and will be letting CIVMARs know about the above and others in future communications. It’s important that we continue to hear from you and that you communicate with your shipmates. Hold union meetings aboard the vessels, appoint shipboard delegates, keep in touch with your union representatives and your fleet delegate, and keep checking the LOG and the SIU web site (www.seafarers.org) for updates on these and other issues of importance to CIVMARs. gallons of an oil/water mix, while more than 2,000 responders were deployed throughout the region affected by the spill. Field responders used three tugs, 159 work boats, four barges, 20 skimmers and 13 vacuum trucks on scene to clean up the spill. Approximately 155,000 feet of containment boom and sorbent boom were deployed. AMO’s Crangle Dies at Age 71 Charles T. Crangle, a former SIU member who spent the last 17 years working as director of Congressional and legislative affairs for the SIUNA-affiliated American Maritime Officers, died Aug. 1 at his home in Washington, D.C. He was 71. Though Crangle officially represented the AMO – and did so in a manner that earned admiration throughout the industry – his efforts often benefited the U.S. Merchant Marine as a whole. As AMO National President Tom Bethel put it, “Charlie Crangle knew the issues inside and out. No one was more articulate, more persuasive, more credible or more respected than Charlie Crangle in defense of the legitimate interests of seagoing labor.” Bethel added that Crangle “was instrumental in beating back the five-year effort to amend or repeal the Jones Act a decade ago, and he helped steer the Maritime Security Act of 1996 and reauthorization of the Maritime Security Program in 2003 through the House and Senate. Charlie hammered home the critical need for Charles Crangle sealift funding and for enforcement of U.S.-flagged cargo preference laws…. We will miss him and we will always remember him.” U.S. Rep. James Oberstar (D-Minn.), chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, said he was “shocked and heartbroken” upon hearing of Crangle’s passing. “It’s as if I had lost a brother,” Rep. Oberstar said. Crangle was “so vibrant and so dedicated to the cause of maritime labor.” The former Great Lakes Seafarer is survived by three siblings, three daughters, two sons, a daughter-in-law, 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Seafarers LOG 5 �50414_p01_24:50414p 8/29/2008 7:33 PM Page 6 Credentials Approved for Candidates to 25 Union Offices REPORT OF CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE ON CANDIDATES FOR 2008 ELECTION OF OFFICERS, 2009-2012 SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICAATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS DISTRICT/NMU We, the undersigned members of the Credentials Committee, were duly elected at a Special meeting held in Headquarters-Port of Piney Point on August 14, 2008. We have examined the credentials of candidates for elective office or job in the Seafarers International Union of North America-Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU for the years 2009-2012, in accordance with Article XI, Section 1, and submit the following report. Your Committee qualified or disqualified those members who submitted for office based upon the Union Constitution, particularly those provisions contained in Articles XII and XIII. The applicable constitutional provisions are as follows: ARTICLE XII, Qualifications for Officers, Assistant VicePresidents, Port Agents, and Other Elective Jobs Section 1. Any member of the Union is eligible to be a candidate for, and hold, any office or the job of Assistant Vice-President, or Port Agent provided: (a) He has at least three (3) years of seatime in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels. In computing time, time spent in the employ of the Union, its subsidiaries and its affiliates, or in any employment at the Union’s direction, shall count the same as seatime. Union records, Welfare Plan records and/or company records can be used to determine eligibility; and (b) He has been a full book member in continuous good standing in the Union for at least three (3) years immediately prior to his nomination; and (c) He has at least one hundred (100) days of seatime, in an unlicensed capacity, aboard an American-flag vessel or vessels covered by contract with this Union or one hundred (100) days of employment with, or in any office or job of, the Union, its subsidiaries and its affiliates, or in any employment at the Union’s direction or a combination of these, between January 1 and the time of nomination in the election year, except if such seatime is wholly aboard such merchant vessels operating solely upon the Great Lakes or, if such seatime is wholly aboard tugboats, towboats or dredges and contractual employment thereon is for fixed days with equal amount of days off, he shall have at least sixty-five (65) days of such seatime instead of the foregoing one hundred (100) days; and (d) He is a citizen of the United States of America; and (e) He is not disqualified by law. He is not receiving a pension from this Union’s Pension Fund, if any, or from a Union-Management Fund, to which Fund this Union is a party or from a company under contract with this Union; unless such individual commenced receiving a pension benefit from any such fund by virtue of having reached the age of 70½. (f) He has not sailed in a licensed capacity aboard an American flag merchant vessel or vessels within twenty four (24) consecutive months immediately prior to the opening of nominations. Section 2. All candidates for, and holders of, other elective jobs not specified in the preceding sections shall be full book members of the Union. Section 3. All candidates for, and holders of, elective offices and jobs, whether elected or appointed in 6 Seafarers LOG accordance with this Constitution, shall maintain full book memberships in good standing. ARTICLE XIII, Election for Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, and Port Agents Section 1. Nominations. Except as provided in Section 2(b) of this Article, any full book member may submit his name for nomination for any office, or the job of Assistant Vice-President, or Port Agent, by delivering or causing to be delivered in person, to the office of the Secretary-Treasurer at Headquarters, or sending a letter addressed to the Credentials Committee, in care of the SecretaryTreasurer at the address of Headquarters. This letter shall be dated and shall contain the following: (a) The name of the candidate. (b) His home address and mailing address. (c) His book number. (d) The title of the office or other job for which he is a candidate, including the name of the Port in the event the position sought is that of Port Agent. (e) Proof of citizenship. (f) Proof of seatime and/or employment as required for candidates. (g) In the event the member is on a vessel, he shall notify the Credentials Committee what vessel he is on. This shall be done also if he ships subsequent to forwarding his credentials. (h) Annexing a certificate in the following form, signed and dated by the proposed nominee: “I hereby certify that I am not now, nor, for the five (5) years last past, have I been either a member of the Communist Party or convicted of, or served any part of a prison term resulting from conviction of robbery, bribery, extortion, embezzlement, grand larceny, burglary, arson, violation of narcotics laws, murder, rape, assault with intent to kill, assault which inflicts grievous bodily injury, or violation of Title II or III of the Landrum Griffin Act, or conspiracy to commit any such crimes.” Dated................................................. Signature of Member ........................ Book No. ........................................... Printed forms of the certificate shall be made available to nominees. Where a nominee cannot truthfully execute such a certificate, but is, in fact, legally eligible for an office or job by reason of the restoration of civil rights originally revoked by such conviction or a favorable determination by the Board of Parole of the United States Department of Justice, he shall, in lieu of the foregoing certificate, furnish a complete signed statement of the facts of his case together with true copies of the documents supporting his statement. Any full book member may nominate any other full book member in which event such full book member so nominated shall comply with the provisions of this Article as they are set forth herein relating to the submission of credentials. By reason of the above self nomination provision the responsibility, if any, for notifying a nominee of his nomination to office shall be that of the nominator. All documents required herein must reach Headquarters no earlier than July 15 and no later than August 15 of the election year. The Secretary-Treasurer is charged with safekeeping of these letters and shall turn them over to the Credentials Committee upon the latter’s request. In order to ascertain the meaning of the term “member in good standing” which is used in Article XII, Subsection 1(b), the Committee referred to Article XXIV, Section 9 of our Constitution which reads as follows: Section 9. The term “member in good standing” shall mean a member whose monetary obligations to the Union are not in arrears for thirty (30) days or more, or who is not under suspension or expulsion effective in accordance with this Constitution. Unless otherwise expressly indicated, the term “member” shall mean a member in good standing. Your Committee sought guidance from the Union’s General Counsel and the Secretary-Treasurer as to whether this section would apply to a member who is unable to pay dues because of employment aboard an American flag merchant vessel as stated in Article III, Section 3(e). Your Committee was advised that, in keeping with past practice and constitutional interpretation, the same thirty (30) day grace period should be applied in these situations. Accordingly, when a member who is working on foreign articles leaves the vessel, the dues for the applicable quarter must be paid within thirty (30) days from the date of discharge in order to maintain good standing. Your Committee also referred to Article XXIV, Section 13 for the definition of the term “seatime”. This section reads as follows: Section 13. The term “seatime” shall include employment upon any navigable waters, days of employment in a contracted employer unit represented by the Union or time spent in the employ of the Union or one of the Union’s direct affiliates as an elected or appointed representative. We also noted in Article XXIV, Section 14, the meaning of the term “in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels.” This portion of the Constitution reads as follows: Section 14. The term “in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels” shall include persons employed in an unlicensed or licensed capacity aboard dredges, tugboats, towboats and similar vessels used to tow, propel, or push barges or other conveyances or assist merchant vessels in docking or undocking, or persons otherwise employed in a contracted employer unit represented by the Union. After full and careful deliberations, the Committee made its decisions and sent appropriate notification to candidates. The ultimate decisions of this Committee are later set forth. In arriving at these ultimate decisions, the Committee was most concerned with carrying out a stated principle of our Union which is that “every qualified member shall have the right to nominate himself for, and, if elected or appointed, to hold office in this Union.” In connection with the foregoing, we have also consulted with the Secretary-Treasurer who, under our Constitution, has the obligation to insure appropriate election procedures as legally required (Article XIII, Section 7). Our SecretaryTreasurer has further consulted with the Union’s Counsel as to the law applicable in Union nominations and elections. The following is a complete listing of all members who submitted their credentials to the Committee. Their names and the office or job for which they submitted such credentials are listed in the order in which this Committee feels they should be placed on the general ballot, that is, in alphabetical order under the office or job for which they run, and that the Ports, following the Headquarters offices, beginning with Piney Point, be arranged on the ballot geographically, as has been done in the past. After each member’s name and book number is his/her qualification or disqualification, followed by the reason for that decision. PRESIDENT Charles Collins, C-01652 Qualified Credentials in order Michael J. Sacco, S-01288 Qualified Credentials in order EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Augustin Tellez, T-00764 Qualified Credentials in order SECRETARY-TREASURER David W. Heindel, H-01443 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT George Tricker, T-00919 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST Joseph T. Soresi, S-02658 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Dean E. Corgey, C-05727 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST Nicholas J. Marrone, M-02308 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS Thomas Orzechowski, Jr, O-00601 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Kermett T. Mangram, M-02394 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT Joseph Mieluchowski, M-02933 Qualified Credentials in order Victor Nunez, N-00566 Disqualified - was not in continuous good standing for 3 years prior to time of nomination. George Perry, P-01978 Disqualified - did not have at least 100 days of seatime or Union employment between January 1 and time of nomination. Archie Ware, W-01169 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST Nicholas A. Celona, C-01578 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Ambrose L. Cucinotta, C-01795 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST Bryan Powell, P-01987 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS James P. McGee, M-05945 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Chester Wheeler, W-25058 Qualified Credentials in order PINEY POINT PORT AGENT Michael Murphy, M-02483 Qualified Credentials in order Patrick Vandegrift, V-00488 Qualified Credentials in order NEW YORK PORT AGENT Robert Selzer, S-01258 Qualified Credentials in order PHILADELPHIA PORT AGENT Joseph Baselice, B-02795 Qualified Credentials in order Edward O’Connor, O-00599 Qualified Credentials in order BALTIMORE PORT AGENT Georg Kenny, K-01041 Qualified Credentials in order MOBILE PORT AGENT Thornton Elliot, E-15001 Qualified Credentials in order NEW ORLEANS PORT AGENT Chris Westbrook, W-05787 Qualified Credentials in order HOUSTON PORT AGENT Kenneth Moore, M-06084 Qualified Credentials in order OAKLAND PORT AGENT Samuel Garrett, G-01534 Disqualified – was not in continuous good standing for 3 years prior to time of nomination. Tracey Mayhew, M-03487 Qualified Credentials in order ST. LOUIS PORT AGENT Rebecca J. Sleeper, S-02497 Qualified Credentials in order DETROIT-ALGONAC PORT AGENT Todd Brdak, B-02684 Qualified Credentials in order As you will note in the foregoing sections of the Committee’s Report, the provisions of the SIU Constitution governing election procedures made it mandatory that some of the nominees be disqualified. In light of these circumstances, the Committee wishes to call to the attention of all members the necessity of following all requirements and procedures which are established by our Constitution to govern eligibility for candidacy to Union office. However, at this time, the Committee particularly desires to point out the provisions of Article XIII, Section 2(c) of the Constitution, which spell out in detail the right of a disqualified candidate to appeal from the decision of the Credentials Committee and how he does it. In compliance with Article XIII, Section 2(b) of our Constitution, and in an attempt to give every nominee every consideration and to try to prevent any disqualifications by this Committee, Jerry Stillman, of the Credentials Committee, remained at the entrance of the Headquarters building of the Union until midnight of Friday, August 15, 2008, to receive any credentials that might have been delivered by hand after the closing of business hours by the Union. The Committee points out that in the President’s Pre-Balloting Report approved by the membership as per the Constitution and published in the May Seafarers LOG the exact offices and jobs for which nominations were to be made was set forth. In passing upon the credentials for certain of the nominees, this Committee had to make three (3) disqualifications, and the following are the details relative to each of those disqualifications: 1. Victor Nunez, Book No. N00566, Candidate for Assistant Vice President of Contracts & Contract Enforcement. Your committee noted the Continued on Page 7 September 2008 �50414_p01_24:50414p 8/29/2008 7:33 PM Page 7 REPORT OF CONSTITUTIONAL COMMITTEE We, the undersigned Constitutional Committee, were elected at a Special Meeting held in Piney Point on August 14, 2008, in accordance with Article XXV, Section 2 of our Constitution. We have had referred to us and studied, the proposed Constitutional Amendments Resolution submitted by our Executive Board. This Resolution, containing the proposed amendment, prior to its submission to us, was adopted by a majority vote of the membership at Headquarters and all ports. The provisions of the Resolution including its “WHEREAS” clauses, are contained in this report so that all members will have available to them its full text for their review and study at the same time that they read this, our Report and Recommendation. Whereas, the current Constitution and By-Laws of the Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU currently provides for the election of members to serve on finance, credentials, tallying and constitutional committees; and Whereas, the relevant Constitutional provisions contain language pertaining to the payment of committee members during their time of service; and Whereas, the afore-mentioned Constitutional Sections have conflicting provisions relating to the payment of committee members when all such committee members are, in practice, routinely paid the same amounts which have been comparable to eight hours a day at prevailing contractual standby rates of pay; and Whereas, such pay rates no longer exist in the industry wide contracts and all Constitutional Sections providing for payment of committee members for these four committees should be identical; and Whereas, the committee members of these four committees are, in actuality, not being paid for work performed but are instead receiving a per diem from the Union to compensate them for miscellaneous expenses incurred over and above travel, meals and lodging; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT: The following language shall modify existing language or shall be added to existing language to reflect the intent and practices of the Union concerning members who serve on the Finance, Credentials, Tallying and Constitutional Committees: “Committee members shall receive a per diem in an amount determined by the Secretary Treasurer but in no event shall they receive an amount less than the AB Green hourly rate as specified in the current union industry wide contract for eight hours for each day of service commencing with the day subsequent to their election and ending on the day they complete their service or, if applicable, return to the Port from which they were elected.” To effectuate the above changes, Article X, Section 14(c), number 5 shall be amended by deleting the next to last sentence of the first paragraph and by adding in its place, the above quoted language; Article XIII, Section 2, shall be amended by adding a new subsection which shall be lettered (f) and which shall contain the above quoted language; Article XIII, Section 4, (c) shall be amended by deleting the last sentence of the first paragraph and by adding in its place the above quoted language and Article XXV, shall be amended by adding a new Section which shall be numbered 4 and which shall contain the above quoted language. In addition the following sentence shall also be added to this new Article XXV, Section 4 “When a Constitutional Amendment is being considered at the same time that an election for officers is taking place, there shall be only one tallying committee used for both tallies and that Committee will be the one elected to serve as per Article XIII Section 4.” We further recommend, if it is Committe Approves Candidates’ Credentials Continued from Page 6 receipt of a letter dated July 15, 2008, addressed to Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel in which Brother Nunez requested his name be placed on the ballot for election to the position of Assistant Vice President of Contracts & Contract Enforcement. Your committee noted that SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel issued a letter dated July 31, 2008 via overnight mail requesting Brother Nunez submit his proof of seatime as required by Article XII, Section 1 (c) of the Constitution. Brother Nunez did have the necessary seatime to qualify. Your committee also noted that Union records show that Brother Nunez paid his Second Quarter 2008 dues on June 12, 2008, whereas they should have been paid no later than May 1, 2008. Your committee also noted that Brother Nunez submitted seatime from vessels under the Marshall Islands flag. Article XII, Section 1 (a) and (c) provide that seatime required to be eligible to run for office must be aboard American-flag vessels under contract with the Union. Based upon advice from General Counsel, the committee decided not to disqualify Brother Nunez based upon his seatime aboard Marshall Island flag vessels since they are covered by collective bargaining agreements with the Union. Based upon the provisions of Article XII, Section 1 (b), and further supported by Article III, Section 3; Article V and Article XXIV, Section 9 previously carried herein, the committee did disqualify Brother Nunez for the job of Assistant Vice President of Contracts & Contract Enforcement solely as a result of not being in continuous good standing during the relevant time period. In accordance with the requirements of Article XIII, Section 2 (c) of our Constitution, and in order to assure adequate notice of its decision, the committee informed Brother Nunez of his disqualification and set forth the reason for such disqualification by certified overnight mail sent on August 18, 2008 to the address stated in his letter of nomination. A copy of the Union Constitution was enclosed with the aforementioned letter so that Brother Nunez would have available the procedure to be followed in appeal from the disqualification decision of the Committee. 2. George Perry, Book No. P-01978, Candidate for Assistant Vice President of Contracts & Contract Enforcement. Your committee noted the receipt of a letter dated July 12, 2008, addressed to Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel in which Brother Perry requested his name September 2008 be placed on the ballot for election to the position of Assistant Vice President of Contracts & Contract Enforcement. Your committee noted that SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel issued a letter dated July 17, 2008 via overnight mail requesting Brother Perry submit his signed certificate and proof of seatime as required by Article XII, Section 1 of the Constitution. Your committee also noted that the overnight mail was returned to Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel following which an email was sent to Brother Perry on August 1, 2008 onboard the Alliance New York. Your committee noted that on August 11, 2008 Brother Perry responded by email stating that he faxed the signed certificate to Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel’s Office. Union records, however, indicate that Brother Perry does not have the required one hundred (100) days of seatime, in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American flag vessel or vessels covered by contract with this Union. In accordance with the requirements of Article XIII, Section 2 (c) of our Constitution, and in order to assure adequate notice of its decision, the committee informed Brother Perry of his disqualification and set forth the reason for such disqualification by certified overnight mail sent on August 18, 2008 to the address stated in his letter of nomination. A copy of the Union Constitution was enclosed with the aforementioned letter so that Brother Perry would have available the procedure to be followed in appeal from the disqualification decision of the Committee. 3. Samuel Garrett, Book No. G-01534 Candidate for Oakland Port Agent Your committee noted the receipt of a letter dated August 8, 2008, addressed to Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel in which Brother Garrett requested his name be placed on the ballot for election to the position of Oakland Port Agent. Your committee noted that on August 14, 2008 an email was sent to Jeff Turkus, Port Agent in Guam, requesting that he go onboard the Horizon Hawk, which was expected to be in his port on Sunday, August 17, 2008 with a certificate that Brother Garrett could sign and that Jeff Turkus could then fax to SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel. SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel received an email from Jeff Turkus acknowledging that he would go onboard, have Brother Garrett sign and fax the certificate to SecretaryTreasurer Heindel. Your committee also noted that Union records show that Brother Garrett paid his Third Quarter 2005 dues on October 20, 2005 whereas they should have been paid no later than July 31, 2005. Union records also indicate that First Quarter 2006 dues were paid on June 8, 2006 whereas they should have been paid no later than January 31, 2006; Second Quarter 2006 dues were paid on June 8, 2006 whereas they should have been paid no later than May 1, 2006. It is for these reasons that Brother Garrett was disqualified. In accordance with the requirements of Article XIII, Section 2 (c) of our Constitution, and in order to assure adequate notice of its decision, the committee informed Brother Garrett of his disqualification and set forth the reason for such disqualification by certified overnight mail sent on August 18, 2008 to the address stated in his letter of nomination. A copy of the Union Constitution was enclosed with the aforementioned letter so that Brother Garrett would have available the procedure to be followed in appeal from the disqualification decision of the Committee. Our committee was presented with a nomination of Brother Michael Murphy for the position of Piney Point Port Agent. After reviewing his credentials it appeared that he would be qualified to run for this position except for the fact that, when signing the certificate that gets attached to the nomination pursuant to Article XIII of the Constitution, Brother Murphy deleted the section which states he has not been a member of the Communist Party. Our committee, when evaluating Brother Murphy’s qualifications, sought the advice of Union General Counsel who advised us that provisions such as the one in question have been struck down by Courts and consequently, she recommended that it not be used to disqualify Brother Murphy. Based upon advice of counsel and the cited legal precedent the Committee has decided to qualify Brother Murphy by finding his credentials in order. In addition, our committee recommends that the Union consider amending its constitution in the future to remove the above quoted phrase from the nomination certification. All credentials received as of August 15, 2008, were turned over to the Committee in good order, and those received by mail subsequently, but not later than August 15, 2008, have similarly been furnished to the Committee in good order. All credentials have been examined in strict accordance with the Constitution. Any defect in the credentials disposed of by the Committee has been the sole responsibility of the sender and no person adversely affected by such defect has denied this to the Committee. Fraternally submitted Credentials Committee Dated: August 16, 2008 reasonably possible, that a copy of our Committee’s Report containing the proposed Resolution and membership action taken to date, be printed in the Seafarers LOG, October 2008 issue so that the membership will be kept abreast as to all facts and actions taken as of this time. In addition, we recommend that copies of such LOG issue, to the extent possible, be made available to the membership at all Union offices and Halls during the months of November and December 2008. Your Constitutional Committee wishes to thank the Union, its officers, representatives, members and counsel for their cooperation and assistance during our deliberations and to assure all members that we believe the adoption of the proposed Resolution will serve the needs of the Union and the membership. Fraternally submitted, Constitution Committee August 16, 2008 Procedure For Obtaining SIU Absentee Ballots Elections for the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are scheduled for later this year. As in past SIU election years, a comprehensive guide will be published in the Seafarers LOG prior to the balloting. In the case of members eligible to vote who believe they will be at sea during the Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2008 voting period, absentee ballots will be available. The SIU constitution ensures that members who are eligible to vote and who find themselves in this situation may vote. Procedures are established in the SIU constitution to safeguard the secret ballot election, including the absentee ballot process. Here is the procedure to follow when requesting an absentee ballot: 1. Make the request in writing to the SIU office of the secretary-treasurer, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 2. Include in the request the correct address where the absentee ballot should be mailed. 3. Send the request for an absentee ballot by registered or certified mail. 4. The registered or certified mail envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Nov. 15, 2008 and must be received at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 no later than Nov. 25, 2008. 5. The secretary-treasurer, after confirming eligibility, will send by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the address designated in the request, a ballot, together with an envelope marked “Ballot” and a mailing envelope no later than Nov. 30, 2008. 6. Upon receiving the ballot and envelope, vote by marking the ballot. After voting the ballot, place the ballot in the envelope marked “Ballot.” Do not write on the “Ballot” envelope. 7. Place the envelope marked “Ballot” in the mailing envelope which is imprinted with the mailing address of the bank depository where all ballots are sent. 8. Sign the mailing envelope on the first line of the upper left-hand corner. Print name and book number on the second line. The mailing envelope is self-addressed and stamped. 9. The mailing envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Dec. 31, 2008 and received by the bank depository no later than Jan. 5, 2009. Seafarers LOG 7 �50414_p01_24:50414p 8/29/2008 7:33 PM Page 8 Fourteen Stewards Complete Recertification Course Fourteen Seafarers recently completed their respective climbs to the summit of the merchant mariner culinary training ladder when they graduated from the steward recertification course offered at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. In recognition of their individual achievements, each of the graduates received a certificate during the Aug. 4 union membership meeting at the school in Piney Point, Md. Meeting and favorably satisfying the demands of their instructors were Chief Stewards Paul Isherwood, Leesther Collins, Alvin Major, Luis Caballero, Fidelis Oliveira, Donna Sailing, Robert Bostick, Francisco Delgado, Tina Knox, Rudolph Daniels, Clyde Thompson, Kenneth Mitchell, Eddie Taylor and Jack McElveen. Each of the recertified stewards spoke to the audience of SIU officials, fellow Seafarers, family members, friends and guests who attended the membership meeting. In addition to making complimentary remarks about the instruction they received and the training center staff and facilities, the recertified stewards collectively lauded the SIU leadership and offered words of encouragement to the unlicensed apprentices and upgraders who were in the audience. First to take the podium was Isherwood, who sails out of the port of Boston. “I joined the union in 2001 and have been going to sea for 30 years,” he told those in attendance. “I have learned a lot since being here for the steward upgrading course. The whole experience of being here this time (he upgraded at the school one other time) has opened my eyes to lot of things that I did not know before.” Specifically, he cited the course’s food safety block as being especially valuable. “It is essential in our jobs as chief stewards to keep up with food sanitation standards and keep everyone healthy aboard the vessel,” he said. “I can now implement the safety practices that I learned here on a daily basis aboard my vessel.” Isherwood expressed praise for the exceptional job the school’s vocational staff did and said all instruction was presented in a highly professional manner. He also thanked union officials for the exemplary fashion in which they are leading the union. “To the trainees, study and work hard while you are here,” he concluded. “There are a lot of opportunities out there for you.” Next to address the audience was Collins, whose home port is Jacksonville, Fla. “First of all, I’d like to thank God for this accomplishment,” she said. After thanking SIU President Mike Sacco, the SIU executive board, union administrators and everyone else who made her upgrade training possible, she reflected on her Piney Point experience. “I feel blessed to have gone through the SIU steward recertification program,” Collins said. “It has been an awesome experience for me and the instructors were great. They all were very patient with all of us and took time to answer all of our questions. Of particular importance, Collins said, was the knowledge she gained about the functions of the AFL-CIO, how the union’s pension and vacation plans work and the role SPAD plays in the political process with respect to the longevity and success for the maritime industry. She also noted that she was pleased to gain a broader prospective on the intricate duties of the chief steward aboard a vessel. “Be the best that you can be,” Collins told the trainees and other upgraders present. “Do your jobs with dignity and pride.” Members of the class pose with Jack Gallagher (seated, fifth from left) of the Addiction Rehab Center shortly after he briefed them on the center’s programs. She concluded, “Thank you SIU, I love you.” Major has been going to sea for more than 40 years and currently ships out of the port of Boston. “I have been a proud member of the SIU since 2001,” he said, “and I am extremely proud to be a member of this steward recertification class. “Having completed this advanced training, I am now more aware of how the union works and I am now able to do a much better job aboard ship.” Major enjoyed the experience of meeting department heads and staff members during his visit to SIU headquarters. “I had an opportunity to visit the SIU headquarters at Camp Springs and I am totally impressed with the organization, its efficiency and the dedication of everyone I met, especially our leadership.” Major said he was impressed with all of the programs that the Paul Hall Center has to offer and encouraged everyone in the audience to take advantage of them. “To the trainees, you have a great opportunity here,” he said. “You have great classes and great instructors who can help you make your dreams come true, but it’s up to you to make it happen. Do your jobs with pride and always be safety conscious, not just for yourselves but also for your shipmates.” Caballero joined the SIU in 2001 and calls New York his home port. “I would like to thank the union membership and the instructors at the school for all that they did for us in making it possible for us to be graduating today,” he said after taking the podium. “Training is very important for all of us. The training I received during my time here has helped me a lot and with it, I am sure I can now do a better job aboard the ship,” he said. “To the trainees, please study hard while you are here,” he continued. “Learn from your instructors and learn to work together with your classmates. When you get out to sea, work hard and never be afraid to ask questions. Remember, you are the future of our union.” Oliveira was next to address the audience. He sails out of the port of Boston, and like most of his steward recertification classmates joined the SIU in 2001. “I learned a lot and all of the instructors did a wonderful job,” he said. Reflecting on the quality of the Paul Hall Center’s programs, facilities and vocational staff, Oliveira noted, “The union officials have made this institution great and they deserve a great deal of credit. Being here and undergoing this training has been a very, very exciting experience for me, and I thank everyone involved.” Directing his attention to the trainees and other upgraders, he said “You have great instructors here and I urge you to take advantage of it.” The stewards improved their computer skills during the course. 8 Seafarers LOG Sailing is home-ported in Houston, Texas. Filled with elation, she took the podium. “It’s very nice to be here, finally,” she said. “Completing steward recertification training is a big step for all of us.” After welcoming her classmates who were former members of the NMU, she shared her Piney Point experience with those in the audience. “The experience of being here has been pretty amazing for all of us for sure,” Sailing said. “We gained an incredible amount of knowledge in a very short amount of time. And I am here to say thanks to all of our instructors and our leaders. We know that our union will say strong because of these people who back us on every front and work for us,” she said. “They all do a tremendous job.” “To the trainees,” she concluded, “congratulations, you’re here. Stay strong, work hard and have a great career.” Former NMU member Bostick began his presentation by expressing his gratitude to those responsible for the SIU-NMU merger. “I’d like to thank the leadership of the SIU for giving us the opportunity to be a part of this union,” said the New York home-ported mariner. “I have been a part of this union since 1989 and have been out there [at sea] for a long time. “I am very glad to be a part of the SIU because I think it is a very strong organization,” Bostick continued. “The people here are good people, they treat me and my family good and the same goes for all of my other family members [his classmates and their families]. “I would like to thank the rank-and-file as well, because without you all, I would not have gotten the opportunity to go through this training. I want to say to the trainees, I know you will make it because you are now in the same place I once was,” he said. “I encourage you to keep you heads up, stay sharp and focused and I’m sure you will achieve your goals.” Delgado sails out of the port of Boston and was next to address the audience. “I’ve been a proud member of the SIU since 2002 and have been going to sea for 30 years,” he said. He expressed this thanks to the union officials for making his upgrade training possible and lauded the school’s vocational staff for a job well done. “My experience here was great and I found the campus atmosphere to be very relaxing.” Delgado said that aside from his actual training, the most interesting part of his upgrading experience was the opportunity to visit SIU headquarters. “It was exciting to go around and meet all of the staff members who work in the different departments,” he said. “They all did a wonderful job explaining what they do…. It was nice to be able to put faces with names.” Knox hails from the port of Houston. “As everyone knows, I am no good reading from a paper so I’ll just go from my heart,” she told members of the audience. “I am so glad and honored to be a part of the SIU and to have been given the opportunity to come here to learn and grow. “Those who came up here before me have already said most of the things the things I wanted to say, so I won’t keep you,” Knox continued. “But to the trainees, I want you to stick together, believe in yourselves and if you have a handicap, don’t worry because this school is a great organization with great instructors. Don’t be too proud to step out and ask for help and above all else, help one another.” Daniels ships out of the port of New York. “I am former member of the NMU,” he said, “and I have been around for a long time.” Daniels said that his current trip to Piney Point was his second and that all of his experiences have been excellent. “The school offers a great opportunity for all of us to learn and upgrade our skills,” he continued, “and all of the instructors are willing to assist anyone who needs it. I’m thankful for this opportunity to be a member of the SIU and to be able to be here to improve myself.” Thompson, who sails out of the port of New Orleans, was the next to take the podium. “I’m a former NMU member who has been sailing for 19 years, 15 as chief steward,” he said. “Being here was a tremendous educational experience for all of us, and I think all of the instructors did a wonderful job.” He then acknowledged his classmates and spoke about the closeness they enjoyed as a group. “I love you all and I’ll never forget you,” he said. Thompson added that found the food safety aspects of the training especially beneficial and that the entire upgrading program gave him a lot to take back to his ship. “To the trainees, take your experience here seriously,” he said. “Take the training seriously and you will never be let down by any of your crew members aboard the ships. The steward’s door is always open to you, and when you hit the ship look for us.” Mitchell is home-ported in Wilmington, Calif., and has been sailing for nearly 30 years. “Becoming a member of a labor organization was probably the best thing that ever happened to me,” said Bostick, who donned the Seafarers colors with the 2001 SIU/NMU merger “It has given me the opportunity to add value to my life. Value because it provides me an opportunity to travel the world, to take care of my family, put my children through college and see things that I thought I’d never be able to see. “I would like to say specifically to the trainees that your union leadership is totally professional,” Mitchell continued. “You are truly blessed to have a leadership that has a vision for your future as well as mine. Value the fact that what ever you do here today will add value to your life…. It’s imperative to be as professional a seaman as you possibly can so that people can say to someone else: ‘Go for SIU seamen,’ because they know that you are professional.” Taylor was next to address the audience. A veteran of more than 32 years at sea, he sails out of the port of New Orleans. “I thank God for the opportunity to come here to upgrade and to become part of the SIU family,” Taylor said. “I’d like to thank all of my classmates, the instructors, assistants and especially the galley department for all of your efforts and support. “I really want to say that before the merger, I heard many things about the SIU from NMU people,” Taylor said. “I must say, though, that I am very, very impressed with everything about the organization and how it runs.” Turning his attention to the trainees, he said, “Always remember that when you come out to the ship, don’t be scared of anything. Ask questions while you are there. All of us had to go the through the same thing that you are now experiencing – whether there was a training program or not. We all still had to learn our way to come up.” McElveen was the final recertified steward to address the audience. He sails out of New Orleans, has been going to sea for nearly eight years and has seen many ports around the world. After declaring himself as the youngest of the group, McElveen thanked his classmates for their support and encouragement. “We stuck together as a team and as a family during our training,” he said to them, “I am blessed to have been your presence and I will always remember each of you.” Focusing on the role which the union has played in his life, he said, “The union has been important. It has provided me a sense of value and a better understanding of my job. “I knew at an early age that I loved to cook, but a career in the traditional food industry was very unappealing,” McElveen continued. “But the union gave me a new interest and a greater desire to use my passion because it helped me along the way. The union has always been here to help protect each of us…. I believe in the union wholeheartedly and I think we all need to believe in them.” He advised the unlicensed apprentices to “continue to strive and do whatever it is that you need to do in order to be successful. It’s going to be hard and challenging, but anything in life worth having is worth fighting for.” September 2008 �50414_p01_24x:50414p 9/2/2008 2:20 PM Page 9 TWIC Deadline for Mariners April 15, 2009 Seafarers are reminded that April 15, 2009 is the deadline for U.S. mariners to obtain the government-mandated Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). The U.S. Department of Homeland Security in May announced the revised deadline; the original cutoff date was Sept. 25, 2008. By law, all U.S. Coast Guard-credentialed mariners with active merchant mariner documents (MMDs), licenses, and/or certificates of registry, with or without an STCW endorsement, must hold a valid TWIC in order to maintain their mariner credentials. Failure to obtain and continue to hold a valid TWIC may result in the suspension or revoca- tion of mariners’ credentials. After April 15, 2009, the Coast Guard will not issue a merchant mariner credential to an applicant who does not hold a valid TWIC. The SIU encourages members to enroll for the TWIC as soon as possible. To apply for a TWIC, a mariner must first enroll at any TWIC enrollment center. Pre-enrollment through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) web site (www.tsa.gov/twic) is supposed to expedite the processing time at the center. Mariners will need to pick up their TWICs, after being notified that they are ready, at the same enrollment center where they applied. Four Union-Contracted Companies Earn Safety Awards From AMS, Inc. Four SIU-contracted companies are among eight maritime transportation businesses that have been designated to receive maritime safety awards from American Maritime Safety, Inc. (AMS). Representatives from Maersk Line, Limited; Crowley Maritime Corp; LMS Ship Management (Waterman and Central Gulf); and Ocean Shipholding, Inc. on Oct. 16 in New York will be afforded recognition for their companies’ commendable maritime practices by the AMS Safety Advisory Committee. Specifically, Maersk will receive the Responsible Vessel Carrier Award; Crowley the Tanker Vessel Safety Award; LMS the Quality Ship Management Award; and Ocean Shipholding the American Maritime Safety Award. The awards will be presented during the AMS Membership Dinner at the Yale Club of New York City. Established in 1988, AMS is a maritime trade association built on facilitation of the maritime industry’s compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations and international protocols. The AMS consortium administers maritime safety programs for U.S. and international vessels of all kinds, representing the interests of over 400 marine employers in the U.S. and abroad. AMS presents eight of its member companies with maritime safety awards in recognition of their commendable maritime practices. Dedicated to preserving the marine environment and to promoting safe vessel navigation and operation, the award winners exemplify the qualities AMS constantly looks for in its members. In order to ensure the information on TWIC applications is forwarded to the Coast Guard for the processing of individuals’ merchant mariner credential applications, they must identify themselves as mariners at TWIC enrollment centers. Mariners also must provide proof of citizenship and/or alien status along with Social Security number. Step-by-step instructions on the entire process have been published in the last few editions of the LOG; they also are available on the web both at www.seafarers.org and at the TSA web site. Seafarers also are asked to occasionally visit the SIU web site and/or check with their port agents for the latest TWIC news. For instance, when the DHS announced the changed deadline, the SIU site immediately posted the news release on its home page and also distributed the information to all SIU halls. The TSA TWIC web site now includes a link where individuals may check the status of their card and/or schedule a time to pick it up. FOR MORE INFORMATION ■ On the web: www.tsa.gov/twic ■ By phone: TWIC Program Help Desk, 1-866-DHS-TWIC (1-866-3478942) ■ By email: credentialing@dhs.gov Center Offers Career Advancement The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., offers the most U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses of any maritime school in the nation. The center features top-notch training from experienced instructors and state-of-the-art equipment and facilities. The school offers courses for mariners sailing in the deck, engine and steward departments. Below is a quick look at one of those classes. For more information about the center and its courses, contact the Admissions Office, Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; call (301) 994-0010; or visit the Paul Hall Center section of www.seafarers.org. Course dates are listed on page 21 of this issue of the LOG and also are carried on the web site. Safety Course Spotlight Advanced Fire Fighting Applicants completing the school’s 37-hour Advanced Fire Fighting course satisfy the Advanced Fire Fighting training requirements of Section A-VI/3 and Table A-VI/3 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(2);—AND—the Advanced Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(g) and 10.401(g)(1) for a license. During this course, students learn to blueprint a vessel and organize emergency squads for fire fighting. The class covers effective communication between crew members and land-based fire units, leadership roles and responsibilities, documentation of crew training, and emergency squad training. Students also learn to inspect and service personal shipboard fire extinguishing equipment before going through shipboard simulations and actual firefighting drills. Prerequisite: Basic Fire Fighting Maersk Crews Complete Latest ‘Boot Camp’ The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education regularly hosts safety “boot camps” attended by mariners and shore-side employees from union-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL). The two-day boot camps are part of Maersk’s ongoing efforts promoting workplace safety. Graduates from the August boot camp are pictured above, at the school in Piney Point, Md. SIU members completing the training included Steward Zein Achmad, QMED/Electrician Dennis Baker, Bosun Oliver Balico, QMED Charles Clausen, Bosun Mark Coleman, Bosun Basil D’Sousa, QMED/Electrician Shawn Deloach, QMED Nicholas Dippel, QMED/Electrician Tesfaye Gebregziabher, Bosun Lenar Ilagan, AB Joselier Itaralde, Chief Electrician Ron Kitlas, Bosun Anthony Maben, Bosun Karl Mayhew, AB Godofredo Milabo, Steward/Baker Natalie Nunes, AB David Perry, AB Clarence Poore, Chief Cook Gary Ramirez, QMED/Electrician Thomas Respicio, AB Joe Reynolds, Bosun Wilfredo Rice, AB Glen Rogers, QMED Steve Roseberry, MDR Jackson Senseney, Steward/Baker Stephanie Sizemore, Chief Cook Barbara Smith, Bosun Kenneth Steiner, Bosun James Walker, QMED/Electrician William Watterson, Bosun Wallace William and QMED/Electrician Alexander Zharkoff. September 2008 Seafarers LOG 9 �50414_p01_24:50414p 8/29/2008 7:33 PM Page 10 CIVMARS aboard Mercy, Grasp, Saturn ‘Show Hearts’ While civilian mariners have fulltime jobs and are ready for deployment to wherever the U.S. Military Sealift Command sends their ships around the world, CIVMARS aboard the USNS Mercy, USNS Grasp and USNS Saturn recently showed their hearts by using their spare time to help others through humanitarian acts. All three ships are crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division. Mariners from the hospital ship USNS Mercy are no strangers to helping those in need, but in an exercise called Pacific Partnerships 2008, they renovated a school’s facilities in Tinh Khanh Hoa, Vietnam. They added new handicapped accessible doors, sinks, light fixtures and handrails. Volunteers also painted window shutters and installed exhaust fans and a rubberized floor in common areas of the school. With a medical staff of 15 and 34 teachers, the center serves 152 students below the age of 15, most of whom are deaf or blind. Continuing their efforts at the Vinh Trung village health clinic, a five-room clinic staffed by three medical support personnel who serve 7,000 residents, the Mercy’s crew members updated lights, installed ceiling fans and repainted the clinic. Volunteers also built a steel metal awning that will be used as an outdoor patient waiting area, and they poured concrete to make a sidewalk outside of the building. Civil service mariners from the rescue and salvage ship USNS Grasp completed three days and more than 445 man-hours of improvement projects at the Antigua School for the Deaf and the T.N. Kirnon School for the Blind Unit in Antigua. The Grasp arrived in Antigua July 4 as part of a four-month international outreach mission to the Caribbean. While the ship’s embarked team of 15 Navy divers conducted tailored training and security operations with military divers from Antigua, Dominica and St. Lucia, CIVMARS sought out an opportunity to do a goodwill project ashore. The 60-year-old, 3,400-square foot school is attended by 18 deaf and three blind children. From July 15-17, all 29 of the Grasp’s CIVMARS and the four sailors of the ship’s military detachment spent time, most of it volunteered, working at the school. Three of the embarked Navy divers also participated. The Grasp’s crew pressure washed the building’s exterior, painted all interior and exterior walls – a surface area of more than 11,000 square feet – removed nearly two-dozen 55-gallon lawn bags of trash and landscaped the school’s courtyard. Meanwhile, crew members from the combat stores ship USNS Saturn participated in a community relations project in Municipio de Ztapa, Guatemala, July 23. Nineteen sailors and civil service mariners from the Saturn took a day during the ship’s in-port maintenance period to deliver Project Handclasp medical supplies and hygiene products to the Centro de Salud Clinic. Additionally, they delivered toys and first aid kits to the Escuela oficial Urbana Mixta Tipo Minimo and Escuela oficial Urbana Mixta Puerta de Heirro elementary schools. Project Handclasp involves a collection of donated humanitarian, educational and goodwill items the Navy delivers to people in need around the world. Welcome Ashore, Brother Troy USNS Grasp AB Donald Barney (photo at left) pressure washes a school for the deaf and blind in Antigua. Mariners from the USNS Saturn (photo above) provided vital aid to a Guatemalan community. Crew members from the USNS Mercy helped refurbish a school in Vietnam. Union Continues EBIS Negotiations CIVMAR Feedback is Vital as New System ‘Goes Live’ Active and retired Seafarers and SIU officials were on hand July 2 to wish Houston Patrolman Robert Troy (right) a happy retirement. Brother Troy started sailing with the NMU in 1967, as a member of the engine department. He came ashore to work for the union in 1999 and remained there after the SIU-NMU merger in 2001. “It was a good, long run and I enjoyed every minute of it,” Troy said. “Now, I plan on spending a lot of time with my grandkids and greatgrandkids, plus doing a little fishing and golfing.” He added that his retirement party at the Houston hall was “wonderful. I’m surprised so many people showed up.” 10 Seafarers LOG On July 22, 2008, the Military Sealift Command (MSC) sent a notice to CIVMARS about a new benefit program called the Employee Benefits Information System (EBIS). This program will allow CIVMARS to make benefit elections and thrift savings plan (TSP) changes electronically. Retirement counseling is also available. After September 30, CIVMARS will no longer be able to file benefit elections by submitting paper forms. All changes will have to be made electronically. Prior to sending an introductory notice, MSC and the union conducted discussions and negotiations about the impact of the program upon CIVMARS, about the CIVMAR notice and about other information which would be sent to CIVMARS. These negotiations are continuing. The union expressed many concerns about this program. A few of those were: whether CIVMARS would have access to the shipboard computers to do the necessary registration and changes during work hours; whether there would be enough computers on the vessels to accommodate CIVMARS needing to access EBIS; how long it would take to accomplish benefit changes and other transactions as a result of the slow speeds of the computers; how CIVMARS would confirm that important transactions were received and implemented; and, whether CIVMARS will be able to reach EBIS representatives by telephone from forward deployed areas around the world. During the negotiations the union proposed, and MSC agreed, that the timeframe for final implementation of the program would be 60 days and that if necessary, the EBIS phone line representatives would be available to CIVMARS at mutually arranged times after or before the regular phone line hours. The union hopes this will assist CIVMARS sailing in faraway time zones. While the union is hopeful EBIS will be as beneficial as MSC believes, the union still has many reservations about its use, especially for CIVMARS forward deployed. It is very important that the union hears from CIVMARS regarding their experiences with the implementation of EBIS. A timely response from CIVMARS is very important. As noted above, the union has submitted and will submit proposals to MSC that the SIU believes will help lessen the difficulties of using this new system, and negotiations will continue. If CIVMARS have e-mail access, they are asked to please send e-mail comments regarding concerns and experiences with the EBIS program to: civmarsupport@seafarers.org or send comments using the methods noted below. CIVMARS also may call their Government Services Division representatives. Starting in late July, the union began distributing a survey to CIVMARS to get a comprehensive picture of how the program is operating. Those surveys may be returned to union representatives. They also may be faxed to (301) 702-4411 or mailed to: CIVMAR EBIS Survey Response, Seafarers International Union, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Maryland 20904. Additionally, the survey is available for download at www.seafarers.org, in the Member Benefits and Resources section. The full web address for the survey, which is in PDF format, is: http://www.seafarers.org/members/civmar/ebissurvey.pdf September 2008 �50414_p01_24:50414p 8/29/2008 7:34 PM Page 11 Pictured in the photos directly above, at right and those at bottom left and right on this page are SIU members attending the safety meeting. Jacksonville Hall Hosts Maersk Safety Meeting Strong attendance and helpful dialogue were evident at the Jacksonville, Fla. union hall as Seafarers and SIU officials on July 10 participated in a safety meeting conducted by Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) Director of Quality, Environment, Safety and Security (QESS) Patrick Callahan. The gathering took place immediately following the July membership meeting. It was part of an ongoing and far-reaching effort by MLL to promote safe operations and general wellbeing throughout its fleet. Topics ranged from common safety practices to specific experiences aboard various ships and in certain ports. For example, Recertified Bosun Pat Ray and SIU Jacksonville Safety Director Karl Leiter both noted that electricians from time to time need additional help on vessels that carry a lot of reefers. Recertified Bosuns James Saunders and Barry Carrano pointed out that the industry as a whole has experienced gradual reductions in crew sizes. Both mariners stated that putting more individuals aboard the ships would enhance safety. AB Todd Homer expressed concerns with some of the port and Coast Guard operations in Charleston, S.C., which he believes sometimes cause seemingly unnecessary delays for individuals traveling to and from the vessels, while AB Doug Hodges and Electrician Danilo Martin simply thanked Callahan for making the effort to keep Seafarers informed about the company’s various safety initia- tives. Many other safety-related subjects also were discussed. Besides the Jacksonville meeting and a few more assemblies that recently took place at other SIU halls, the union has partnered with MLL to advance safety via different activities. One such endeavor is MLL’s “Drive to Zero” program, a system which is designed to help mariners and shore-side personnel focus on safety and teamwork in order to make the workplace as safe as possible. The name reflects the program’s goal of driving down unsafe and environmental incidents as close to zero as possible or eliminating them altogether. The results have been very positive since inception in 2007. Maersk’s “Safety Boot Camps,” attended by MLL crew members, also continue generating desirable effects. Each boot camp is a two-day safety course conducted at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. The most recent one took place last month. Other MLL safety components include monthly safety council meetings attended by company personnel; a recognition program involving cash awards to vessels reaching certain milestones without any lost-time accidents; a separate cash award program designed to reward individual crew members who go out of their way to promote safety aboard ship; and on-board safety training. Recertified Bosun James Saunders Recertified Bosun Pat Ray Recertified Bosun Barry Carrano AB Todd Homer Pictured from left to right (above) after the meeting in Jacksonville are AB Lydell Grant, Patrick Callahan of MLL, AB Charlene Edwards and SA Mary Young. AB Doug Hodges (right) thanks MLL’s Patrick Callahan for a safety presentation. Electrician Danilo Martin (right) follows up with MLL’s Patrick Callahan concerning shipboard safety. September 2008 Seafarers LOG 11 �50414_p01_24:50414p 8/29/2008 7:34 PM Page 12 Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting & Is Key Component of Paul H SIU-contracted companies and Seafarers have a myriad of services, training courses an benefit for mariners and the companies they work for is the Paul Hall Center for Maritime most U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses of any maritime school in the nation. A founding principle of the SIU and its affiliated school, located in Piney Point, Md., i advancements in the maritime industry. With this in mind, the center offers state-of-themaritime trades. Much of the center’s safety and fire fighting curriculum is hands-on train Fighting and Safety School. The value of the school to Seafarers is it’s not only a basic and advanced fire fighting sch ing; damage control; confined-space safety training; basic safety training; CPR and firs small arms training and requalification; chemical, biological and radiological defense; an fighting. Many U.S.-flag operating companies depend on the Paul Hall Center to help ensure Sea their STCW certification. They often work closely with the school in developing company offered at the fire fighting and safety campus. Recent examples include the HAZMAT tr school continues hazwopper and oil spill containment training for inland and deep sea com training for the liquefied natural gas (LNG), cruise, gaming and towing industries. Accompanying this article are photos of some of the hands-on training the Paul Hall Fighting and Safety School. That facility is named after the late SIU Executive Vice Preside The U.S. Military Sealift Command last year formally approved the school’s “Shipboard Helicopter Fi Learning water survival as a team Recertified bosuns on the small arms range Students undergo CPR training at the school (above). The school includes a confined-space training maze (photo at left). The facility is normally dark and smoky during training, and students must stay low and feel their way through the maze as a team. Students combat a galley fire. 12 Seafarers LOG September 2008 �50414_p01_24:50414p 8/29/2008 7:35 PM Page 13 & Safety School l Hall Center s and capabilities at their fingertips. One such time Training and Education, which offers the Md., is to remain at the forefront of change and -the-art coursework and training in numerous training accomplished at its Joseph Sacco Fire ng school but a facility for water survival trainfirst aid; hazardous material safety training; se; and recently MSC-certified helicopter fire e Seafarers are trained and qualified to receive pany-specific curriculums, some of which are AT training developed for Harley Marine. The a companies, as well as safety and prevention Hall Center provides at the Joseph Sacco Fire esident Joey Sacco, who passed away in 1996. ter Fire Fighting Team Member” class. September 2008 Learning personal survival during water survival training A “wet trainer” facility is utilized during damagecontrol training. Seafarers LOG 13 �50414_p01_24:50414p 8/29/2008 7:35 PM Page 14 Snug Harbor Provides Housing, Care For Older Seamen Editor’s note: The following article on North Carolina’s Snug Harbor retirement community was submitted for publication in the LOG by Janet Grainge, marketing director. It has been lightly edited to conform to local style and space limitations. Tucked away in a small fishing village in coastal North Carolina is a beautiful piece of American history that few people are aware of. Sea Level, a small town in the “Down East” area of North Carolina, is home to the oldest retirement community in our nation. This home’s story is worth sharing, and for retired mariners across the world, worth knowing about. The Sailors’ Snug Harbor is the second oldest charitable trust in the United States, established in 1801 by a merchant and seamen from the city of New York, Capt. Robert Richard Randall. Randall’s father, Thomas Randall, was a prominent citizen and a member of the Committee of 100 that essentially established the United States. He was a coxswain on the barge that brought General Washington to the foot of Wall Street at the close of the Revolutionary War. Robert Richard never married and at the age of 51, as he became ill, summoned his family friend and attorney, Alexander Hamilton, to draw his will. Hamilton, the nation’s first secretary of the treasury, was privately practicing law in New York in 1801. He and his assistant, Daniel D. Tompkins, who would become fifth governor of New York and sixth vice-president of the United States, are credited with drafting Randall’s will. Randall, a sea captain more through possession of merchant ships than by actual merit, was involved in The Marine Society of New York and knew of the hardships bestowed upon seamen who were past their sailing prime. Older seamen who were no longer deemed useful on the merchant ships were often left at a port with no money or housing available. The vision set forth in Randall’s will would provide housing and care for these seamen, regardless of rank, religion, race, or nationality. Randall wished to bequeath his 21-acre farm to a perpetual trust. That trust was and still is managed by a board of trustees who were designated to serve based on the positions they occupied in the city of New York. Those named included the mayor of the city, the president of the Chamber of Commerce, the president of the Marine Society of the City of New York, the first vice-president of the Marine Society of the City of New York, the senior rector of Trinity – Wall Street and the senior pastor of First Presbyterian. According to his Will, these trustees were charged with the responsibility of managing the estate that Randall left until the sum was such that it would create “a mariner asylum or hospital to care for aged, decrepit, and worn out seamen….”. The plan was to build the hospital on the family farm. Randall died within days upon signing his will. Five years later, the first recorded meeting of The Sailors’ Snug Harbor Board of Trustees was held in New York. It was not until 1833 that a facility was built and opened for the retired merchant seamen. The years Snug Harbor residents have a spacious dinning area (photo at left) and many lavishly decorated lounge areas (photo above) where they can relax. between Randall’s death and the facility’s opening proved beneficial to the trustees in finding a location for the facility. Although the will declared the Randall family farm as the site for The Sailors’ Snug Harbor, the city of New York had built up quickly around the land and the area became the heart of Greenwich Village. The trustees opted to build on Staten Island where smog and pollution were less invasive. The Randall land on Manhattan was divided up into rental properties to help nourish the perpetual trust. The Sailors’ Snug Harbor opened its doors on Staten Island in August 1833, and for 175 years the Trust has provided housing and medical care for retired merchant seamen. The original facility was a series of beautiful buildings along the Kill Van Kull (the body of water which separates Staten Island from New Jersey), said buildings being designed by Minard Lefever. The Sailors’ Snug Harbor structures, critically renowned for their Greek Revival architecture, were listed as historic with the Landmarks Preservation Commission in New York. The hospital, dormitories, and other buildings could not be altered under the historical commission’s guidelines, but by the 1970’s, were in dire need of health department and fire department code updates. Under the governance of Capt. Leo Kraszeski, plans were made to search for relocation of the facility. The search spanned from Virginia to Florida and was eventually narrowed down to South Carolina. Charleston was leading the search, and Kraszeski and board member Wilbur Dow made plans to visit the proposed site. Dow was scheduled to meet Kraszeski in Charleston after a business trip to Florida. Dow, an attorney by trade, visited a one-time legal client Dan Taylor, head of a Caribbeanbased family shipping business. Taylor, a native of Sea Level, N.C., shared with Dow his visions of building a retirement facility in Sea Level. Taylor had recently signed a contract with Duke Hospital in Durham for medical services at a hospital that Taylor started in Sea Level. His dream of a retirement facility intrigued Dow and he agreed to visit the Sea Level property with Kraszeski. Dow and Kraszeski visited the Sea Level property and found Dan Taylor’s offer too good to turn down. The architectural services of Edward H. Noakes & Associates were enlisted to create a modern retirement facility. Kraszeski is noted to have requested that the architects build him a “Cadillac” retirement home. The new Sea Level facility opened June 24, 1976, with a new administrative and medical staff. History is an integral part of Snug Harbor and is portrayed through the artifacts, ship models and paintings that adorn the hallways of this renowned retirement facility. The home has the look and feel of an elegant nautical museum rather than an institution due to its extensive maritime art collection, numerous model ships, and nautical artifacts. The home is adorned with 19th- and early 20thcentury art transferred from the Staten Island facility. The 102-acre property of Snug Harbor rests on the shores of Nelson Bay and is surrounded by Carolina pines and azaleas. The facility is more than 100,000 square feet and can comfortably house 120 residents. Three wings serve as residence areas, one wing for each level of care. Snug Harbor offers all-private accommodations in independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing care. The Trust established by Captain Randall has now positioned itself as an organization providing purely financial assistance to retired seamen in need. As the needs of so many seamen have changed over the years, the Trust will now provide stipendiary help to seamen to age wherever they choose. As a result, the members in New York saw fit to sell the facility, but still retain a working agreement with the new owners (management has stayed the same) to ensure that seamen who qualify for admission can continue to benefit from the Trust and come to Snug Harbor for the same excellent care and comfort that has been provided for nearly 200 years. The facility currently houses nearly 50 retired seamen and approximately the same number of non-seafarers–nurses, lawyers, and people from all walks of life. Mariners are now permitted to bring their wives. The decidedly nautical environment and decorating motif remains, but the resident population is quite diverse. Residents enjoy a variety of activities provided by a full-time recreation staff. Snug Harbor features a half-mile walking path around its building where residents can find a dock, greenhouse, garden, and woodworking shop. All residential, dining, and medical services are on one floor and under the same Are You Receiving All Your Important Mail? To help ensure that each active SIU member and pensioner receives the Seafarers LOG—as well as other important mail—monthly, correct home addresses must be on file with the union. Those who recently have moved or feel that they are not getting their union mail, should use the form at right to update their home addresses. An individual’s home address is his/her permanent address. Unless otherwise specified, this is where all official union documents will be sent. Individuals receiving more than one copy of the LOG, those who have changed their address and those whose names or addresses are misprinted or incomplete, should fill out the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union, Address Correction Dept., 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Corrections via e-mail should be sent to kclements@seafarers.org 14 Seafarers LOG HOME ADDRESS FORM (Please Print) Name: ____________________________________________________________ Phone No.: ________________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ Social Security No.: ________ / ________ / ________ Book No.: _________ Active SIU Pensioner Other ________________________ This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain in the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally. 9/08 roof. Snug Harbor has two physicians on staff who visit residents once a week, each on different days. A full rehabilitative therapy program of physical, occupational and speech therapy is also available on site in Snug Harbor’s gymnasium. Many individuals in the community take advantage of respite and Medicare stays upon discharge from the hospital for short-term rehabilitation. Snug Harbor is among the top retirement homes in the nation and features one of the largest maritime art collections in the world. Each of the three residential wings is in a Tshape design where four hallways of resident rooms meet at a large skylight area with planted greenery at the base of its four brick walls. Each of the four hallways has either 10 resident rooms or up to five suites for married couples. At the end of every hallway is a lounge area with a screened-in porch. Each month, the recreation staff hosts lounge parties within each wing so that residents may socialize and meet new neighbors. One can reach Snug Harbor by taking Highway 70 East through Morehead City and Beaufort. Sea Level is about 26 miles east of Beaufort on Highway 70. A large statue of Capt. Robert Richard Randall, sculpted by Augustus Saint-Gaudens in 1883 for the Staten Island facility, now graces the front lawn of Snug Harbor on Nelson Bay. For information or to schedule a tour, contact the Janet Grainge of the Snug Harbor marketing department at (252) 225-4411, or visit the facility via the web at www.snugharborhome.com. SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE 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. September 2008 �50414_p01_24:50414p 9/2/2008 12:29 AM Page 15 Notice/Reminder NMU Vacation Benefits As reported at the August membership meetings and in previous editions of the LOG, the NMU Vacation Fund merged into the Seafarers Vacation Plan on Jan. 1, 2007. As a reminder, if a member had 30 days of covered employment up to and including Dec. 31, 2006, for which the member has not yet collected a vacation benefit from the NMU Vacation Fund, he or she is eligible to apply for such earned and uncollected benefits from the Seafarers Vacation Plan at any time on or before Dec. 31, 2008. Please be aware that the Seafarers Vacation Plan allows participants to collect accrued vacation benefits while working in covered employment and, thus, members will be eligible to collect the vacation benefits which they accrued under the NMU Fund at any time on or before Dec. 31, 2008, even if those members continue to work in covered employment. However, as of Jan. 1, 2009, all uncollected vacation benefits that members accrued under the NMU Fund will expire. For more information, contact the vacation/records department at headquarters: (301) 899-0675. October & November 2008 Membership Meetings Piney Point..........................Monday: October 6, November 3 Algonac .................................Friday: October 10, November 7 Baltimore............................Thursday: October 9, November 6 Boston ...................................Friday: October 10, November 7 Guam..............................Thursday: October 23, November 20 Honolulu .............................Friday: October 17, November 14 Houston..............Tuesday: October 14, Monday: November 10 Jacksonville........................Thursday: October 9, November 6 Dispatchers’ Repor t for Deep Sea July 16, 2008 — August 15, 2008 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Joliet...............................Thursday: October 16, November 13 Totals Mobile.........................Wednesday: October 15, November 12 Port New Orleans......Tuesday: October 14, Wednesday: November 12 New York .............................Tuesday: October 7, November 4 Norfolk...............................Thursday: October 9, November 6 Oakland ..........................Thursday: October 16, November 13 Philadelphia.....................Wednesday: October 8, November 5 Port Everglades ..............Thursday: October 16, November 13 San Juan .............................Thursday: October 9, November 6 St. Louis .............................Friday: October 17, November 14 Tacoma...............................Friday: October 24, November 21 Wilmington..........................Monday: October 20, November 17 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Attention Seafarers Another New Ship! SPAD Works For You! September 2008 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals Totals All Departments **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 1 3 8 15 6 8 29 19 1 9 8 29 14 14 4 4 6 4 29 15 1 0 2 4 1 1 2 4 1 0 1 3 5 3 1 1 1 1 4 4 1 0 4 12 0 9 35 34 0 6 9 29 17 14 4 0 7 2 18 26 0 3 1 13 3 6 22 14 1 5 4 19 15 12 4 6 6 2 21 13 0 0 2 2 0 0 3 3 0 0 0 0 4 1 0 1 0 0 2 5 0 2 2 11 0 4 24 14 0 2 2 17 10 6 4 0 4 0 21 11 4 0 12 22 2 6 71 51 3 28 32 82 22 36 5 1 14 2 66 46 4 7 8 20 10 12 56 30 8 19 17 38 33 24 10 1 10 11 47 28 2 0 0 4 3 1 3 5 2 0 3 5 12 4 2 0 1 2 3 6 263 226 40 227 170 23 134 505 393 58 0 0 6 12 1 8 14 12 0 6 6 15 5 12 1 0 5 2 11 7 0 1 2 7 2 2 18 15 3 4 5 18 14 6 2 4 3 2 9 11 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 2 1 2 2 0 0 0 1 2 4 121 128 19 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 2 4 1 9 11 20 0 3 6 20 8 6 1 0 3 2 9 5 0 3 5 6 1 1 8 13 0 4 3 7 5 6 2 1 3 3 9 9 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 2 7 0 0 2 12 0 1 1 11 6 2 1 0 4 0 21 5 0 0 7 19 3 15 31 24 1 12 14 26 11 20 4 2 6 1 23 18 4 2 2 13 6 5 25 24 3 9 6 24 22 10 5 5 5 6 21 13 0 1 2 2 1 1 2 5 1 2 2 7 2 4 0 2 0 1 4 7 110 89 8 65 237 210 45 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 2 6 3 9 27 18 0 5 6 18 10 15 5 7 2 1 15 19 2 1 3 5 3 4 6 7 0 0 5 4 10 3 1 2 2 3 3 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 1 2 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 168 66 12 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 1 0 9 13 1 5 51 27 1 15 15 31 13 24 0 0 7 1 23 26 Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 0 1 4 2 8 19 17 1 4 7 14 14 16 2 3 1 3 16 18 0 0 0 12 2 4 5 9 0 0 1 4 10 0 1 1 0 3 2 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 3 0 2 5 9 0 1 4 10 8 1 0 1 0 1 3 5 1 0 4 11 4 14 41 27 0 12 8 39 9 30 6 7 5 1 22 33 3 2 4 8 1 6 8 8 0 8 7 10 18 7 0 1 3 2 10 7 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 2 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 150 56 9 54 274 113 11 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 4 5 4 0 2 0 4 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 3 2 6 2 9 22 17 0 6 1 35 17 18 0 7 5 0 17 6 3 0 0 6 2 7 6 11 0 2 2 7 23 17 1 14 0 1 2 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 4 0 0 1 3 1 6 0 0 0 0 2 3 1 1 2 2 1 5 13 13 0 3 1 23 14 4 0 7 2 2 10 4 0 0 0 1 1 3 5 6 0 1 2 1 16 5 0 12 1 0 4 1 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 7 9 2 0 2 0 10 1 7 0 0 0 0 4 5 1 3 3 12 4 11 39 27 0 11 7 66 22 34 2 3 7 1 28 19 3 0 0 14 2 13 12 32 0 2 5 18 30 25 1 8 0 2 6 14 27 174 110 23 108 58 0 47 300 187 579 594 181 510 423 98 253 1063 1016 301 Seafarers LOG 15 �50414_p01_24:50414p 8/29/2008 7:40 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 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 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 The Flickertail State (photo at left) delivered the components of the temporary pier. Seafarers aboard the LMSR USNS Pililaau (photo above) contributed to the success of Pacific Strike 2008. SIU Crews Help Ensure U.S. Readiness Seafarers Participate in Military ‘JLOTS’ Exercise Numerous SIU-crewed ships were in full swing on July 29 in an exercise off the coast of California as part of Pacific Strike 2008 – a joint logistics over-the-shore (JLOTS) activity involving more than 3,000 soldiers, sailors, Marines and civilians as well as four U.S. ships under the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s operational control. Those vessels included the SIU-crewed USNS Pililaau. The Pililaau is a large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off ship (LMSR) operated by American Overseas Marine Corporation (AMSEA). During the exercise, it discharged more than 210,000 square feet of Army vehicles and cargo from an anchorage two miles offshore. The fleet also included the heavy lift ship Cape Mohican (operated by Ocean Ships), which delivered the Navy barges; the crane ship Flickertail State (operated by Interocean American Shipping), which delivered the components of the temporary pier; and the tanker Chesapeake (operated by Interocean American Shipping), which pumped more than 200,000 gallons of water to shore – demonstrating the ship’s ability to transfer fuel. The Chesapeake also supplied fuel to the 39 Navy and Army watercraft operating as part of the exercise. JLOTS is the U.S. military’s method of transporting military and humanitarian cargo to shore from ships at sea. This capability allows the Department of Defense to deliver cargo even where port facilities are nonexistent, damaged or inadequate. “The only way to move massive amounts of equipment to our military forces or to people in need is by ship,” said Brig. Gen. Mark MacCarley, deputy commander of the 8th Theater Sustainment Command, which is responsible for oversight of this year’s exercise. “If there isn’t a port, we still need the capability to get our equipment to shore.” The Pililaau arrived off the coast of Camp Pendleton July 21, carrying nearly 1,000 wheeled and tracked vehicles and more than 500 containers of equipment belonging to the 3rd Brigade of the 25th Infantry Division and the 45th Sustainment Brigade. Offload operations began the next morning and continued around-the-clock until just before midnight July 27. The equipment began its journey from the Pililaau’s cavernous cargo holds to shore in one of two ways. The Pililaau’s two shipboard, 110-ton cranes lifted containers from the weatherdeck onto barges that transported the equipment to shore. Concurrently, military personnel drove tanks, trucks and other vehicles down the ship’s stern and side ramps onto one of two floating platforms of shallow-draft barges. The vehicles were then driven onto various Army and Navy watercraft for transport to shore. At the beach, military personnel transferred the cargo to shore via a temporary pier that Navy Seabees built in the weeks leading up to the offload. Once ashore, soldiers staged the equipment, which traveled via local roads to the Army’s National Training Center in Ft. Irwin, Calif. Navy reservists for the Military Sealift Command orchestrated the movement of all four of these ships, coordinating directly with the exercise operations staff to ensure success. The Cape Mohican, Flickertail State and Chesapeake are all part of the U.S. Maritime Administration’s Ready Reserve Force. When not deployed on a mission, these ships are maintained pier-side by a small crew. The Chesapeake (photo at left) pumped more than 200,000 gallons of water to shore – demonstrating the ship’s ability to transfer fuel. During the exercise, the Cape Mohican transported Navy barges. Pic-From-The-Past NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG The photo above was sent to the LOG by Trinidad Sanchez, a retired steward department member from Puerto Rico. Sanchez, second from left in the photo, is pictured with three of his U.S. Navy shipmates (full names not available) in the Navy Club in Sacebo, Japan. The photo was taken in 1958 while Sanchez and his mates were on liberty from the aircraft carrier USS Hancock, C.V.A. 19 (photo at right). After serving in the Navy, Sanchez joined the SIU in 1967. He sailed in the deep sea division for more than 25 years. 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 September 2008 �50414_p01_24:50414p 9/2/2008 1:47 AM Page 17 Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. Welcome Ashore DEEP SEA AMADO ABANIEL Brother Amado Abaniel, 67, was born in the Philippines. He became an SIU member in 1980. Brother Abaniel initially sailed on the Santa Juan in the deck department. He enhanced his seafaring abilities often at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Abaniel’s most recent voyage was aboard the Charger. He makes his home in Long Beach, Calif. ROGER BUENCONSENJO Brother Roger Buenconsenjo, 66, joined the union in 1993 while in the port of San Francisco. He first shipped on the Horizon Producer. Brother Buenconsenjo worked in the deck department. He upgraded his skills on three occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Buenconsenjo’s last vessel was the Blue Horizon. He is a resident of Houston, Texas. WILFREDO CRUZ Brother Wilfredo Cruz, 71, signed on with the SIU in 1986. He originally sailed aboard the USNS Wilkes as a member of the deck department. In 2000, Brother Cruz attended classes at the Seafarers-affiliated school. He was born in Puerto Rico. Brother Cruz’s final trip to sea was on the El Morro. He resides in Yauco, P.R. department member was born in Mobile, Ala. Brother Flemings enhanced his seafaring abilities frequently at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. He last sailed on the El Faro. Brother Flemings continues to live in his native state. ANTONIO HALL Brother Antonio Hall, 70, joined the union in 1991 while in the port of New Orleans. He initially shipped aboard the Cape Mendocino. Brother Hall worked in the steward department. He was born in Panama. In 2003, Brother Hall took advantage of educational opportunities offered at the Piney Point school. His final trip was on the Cape Hudson. Brother Hall calls New Orleans home. HENNIE HAYLOCK Brother Hennie Haylock, 66, began sailing with the SIU in 1993 from the port of New Orleans. His earliest trip to sea was aboard the Courier. Brother Haylock sailed in the deck department. He upgraded his skills in 2000 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Haylock’s most recent voyage was on the USNS Pollux. He makes his home in North Miami Beach, Fla. JUAN MAMARIL JAMES ELBE Brother James Elbe, 71, donned the SIU colors in 1982. His first voyage was aboard the Virgo. Brother Elbe was born in Bloomsberg, Pa., and worked in the deck department. He visited the Paul Hall Center in 1999 and 2000 to upgrade his skills. Brother Elbe most recently shipped on the Maersk Missouri. He settled in Euclid, Ohio. AUDRY FLEMINGS Brother Audry Flemings, 65, first went to sea in 1986 aboard the USNS Assurance. The steward September 2008 Brother Juan Mamaril, 65, became an SIU member in 2001. He was born in the Philippines and shipped in the steward department. Brother Mamaril worked primarily aboard the Cape Edmont. He enhanced his seafaring abilities in 2001 and 2006 at the union-affiliated school. Brother Mamaril is a resident of Goose Creek, S.C. ABRAHAM MURRAY Brother Abraham Murray, 66, was born in North Dakota. He started shipping with the SIU in 1991. Brother Murray initially sailed on the Cape Mendocino. On numerous occasions, the deck department Seafarer upgraded his skills at the Piney Point training center. Brother Murray was last employed aboard the Horizon Reliance. He lives in Tacoma, Wash. The engine department member attended classes at the Paul Hall Center in 2000 and 2001. Brother Powers settled in Victorville, Calif. INLAND JAMES HATTER DONALD OYOLA Brother Donald Oyola, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1965. His first voyage was on the Ocean Spray. Brother Oyola was born in Peru and worked in the engine department. His final trip to sea was aboard the Champion. Brother Oyola resides in Dundalk, Md. NELSON POWERS Brother Nelson Powers, 69, donned the SIU colors in 1999 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. His first vessel was the USNS Effective; his last was the Charger. Brother Powers was born in Springfield, Ohio. Brother James Hatter, 55, signed on with the SIU in 1975 while in the port of New York. He originally shipped on a Barge Harbor Towing vessel. Brother Hatter enhanced his abilities on two occasions at the Seafarersaffiliated school. He most recently sailed with G&H Towing Company as a member of the deck department. Brother Hatter calls Brazoria, Texas, home. JOHN TIPICH Brother John Tipich, 71, became a union member in Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG 1945 Another SIU mariner from World War II has received the coveted Meritorious Service Medal for his actions. Lex Fanjoy was aboard the SS Lawton B. Evans when it was anchored off the Italian coast at Anzio. A violent gale and electrical storm broke and Fanjoy volunteered to cut the static-charged cables holding a barrage balloon that threatened to ignite the gasoline cargo. Fanjoy went aloft, despite several electrical charges and cut the cable. Shortly afterwards he was struck by an electrical charge that caused him to fall, knocking him into the crosstrees. Luckily he was not seriously injured. 1984 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. He mainly worked aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington as a member of the engine department. Brother Tipich upgraded frequently at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. He makes his home in his native state of California. EUGENE WOTURSKI Brother Eugene Woturski, 62, joined the SIU in 1966. His first ship was the Globe Carrier. Brother Woturski sailed in the deck department. In 1976, he visited the Piney Point school to enhance his skills. Brother Woturski was last employed with American Towing of Virginia. He is a resident of Villas, N.J. ing formal ratification of an agreement reached last week between negotiators for the union and 32 Canadian inland shipping companies. Voting on the full agreement will be held aboard all ships within the next two weeks, according to Leonard McLaughlin, SIU of Canada president. Release of full details of the settlement must await formal membership ratification, McLaughlin said, but it involves an overall 34 percent increase for Seafarers over three years and provides for a basic work week of 40 hours, previously denied to seamen in Canada. The decision by the SIU members to return to work after an agreement was reached ended a 37-day strike in which the key issues in dispute were a 40-hour week, ship manning, the 24hour work span and paid leave. Although a wage increase was sought by the union, most of its demands centered in the area of fringe benefits. This Month In SIU History 1959 While loaded with sand dredged off Coney Island, the dredge Sand Captain’s bow lookout heard two men calling out into the night sky. Immediately the crew was roused from their sleep and swung into action. The crew lowered the ship’s lifeboat and with the vessel’s search light, they spotted the two men clinging to wreckage. The men’s small watercraft had swamped and the two men were afloat for five hours. The crew chipped in with clothes and money and deposited the two men at the captain’s anchorage in the Bronx. 1967 The 5,400 members of the SIU of Canada have returned to their ships pend- 1978 The SIU-manned ST Alliance was cited by the American Institute for Merchant Shipping and the National Safety Council for rescuing five people aboard a foundering sailboat off the Boston coast. The tanker was running eight miles off Boston Pilot Station in 10-foot waves and galeforce winds when the crew spotted a sloop-rigged sailboat that was without engine power and radio. The sailboat’s mast and sails were also in the water. After an hour, the 630-foot Alliance was able to move alongside the little boat and take the passengers aboard to safety. Seafarers LOG 17 �50414_p01_24:50414p 8/29/2008 7:41 PM Page 18 Final Depar tures DEEP SEA GEORGE BARBER Pensioner George Barber, 63, passed away April 28. Brother Barber signed on with the union in 1966. He first sailed aboard the Red Arrow. Brother Barber was born in New York and shipped in the deck department. His final voyage was on the Comet. In 2006, Brother Barber started collecting his retirement compensation. He resided in San Diego, Calif. SAMUEL BROWN Pensioner Samuel Brown, 85, died May 8. Brother Brown donned the SIU colors in 1951. He was originally employed aboard the John Hanson. Brother Brown was a member of the steward department. His last ship was the Overseas Washington. Brother Brown went on pension in 1988. He continued to live in his native state of North Carolina. ERNEST COX Pensioner Ernest Cox, 65, passed away May 4. Brother Cox joined the Seafarers in 1969. He initially sailed on the Halcyon Panther in the engine department. Brother Cox was born in Harrisburg, Pa. His final trip to sea was aboard the Courier. Brother Cox made his home in Brooklyn, N.Y. He began receiving his pension in 1999. KENT DOCTOR Brother Kent Doctor, 38, died May 25. He became an SIU member in 1994 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Doctor’s maiden voyage was with OLS Transportation. He was born in Indiana and worked in the deck department. Brother Doctor most recently sailed on the Ocean Atlas. He was a resident of Antwerp, Ohio. FREDDIE GOETHE Pensioner Freddie Goethe, 57, passed away May 20. Brother Goethe, a member of the deck department, began shipping with the Seafarers in 1971. He initially sailed aboard the Halcyon Panther. Brother Goethe was born in Lyons Ga. His last trip was on the Florida. Brother Goethe retired in 1998 and called Jacksonville, Fla., home. 18 Seafarers LOG SAMUEL GOODMAN Pensioner Samuel Goodman, 82, died April 29. He started shipping with the union in 1978 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Goodman was born in Arkansas. He originally worked aboard the Delta America in the steward department. Brother Goodman’s final journey was on the Voyager. He resided in Tacoma, Wash. GEORGE HAND Pensioner George Hand, 87, passed away April 7. Brother Hand signed on with the SIU in 1947 while in the port of New York. His first voyage was aboard a South Hail Company vessel. Brother Hand sailed in the engine department. Prior to his retirement in 1981, Brother Hand shipped on the San Juan. He was born in South Carolina but made his home in Towson, Md. LESLIE HARADA Pensioner Leslie Harada, 84, died May 14. Brother Harada joined the union in 1959 while in the port of New York. He initially shipped aboard the Navigator as a member of the engine department. Brother Harada was born in Hawaii. He last worked on the Horizon Navigator. Brother Harada went on pension in 1990. He lived in San Pedro, Calif. SHERMAN JARMAN Pensioner Sherman Jarman, 78, passed away April 23. Brother Jarman was born in Washington State. He began his MC&S (Marine Cooks & Stewards) membership in 1975. Brother Jarman’s earliest trip was with States Steamship Company. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Jarman’s final ship was aboard the President Jefferson. He settled in Everett, Wash. JAMES JUZANG Pensioner James Juzang, 85, died April 27. Brother Juzang donned the SIU colors in 1944 in the port of New York. He was originally employed aboard the Del Rio. Brother Juzang was born in Alabama and shipped in the steward department. His final voyage was on the Cove Navigator. Brother Juzang was a resident of Prichard, Ala. He became a pensioner in 1986. JAMES KING Pensioner James King, 78, passed away May 6. Brother King began shipping with the Seafarers in 1956 from the port of Baltimore. The engine department member was born in North Carolina. Brother King initially sailed aboard the Marore. His last voyage was on the Lake. In 1985, Brother King started collecting his retirement compensation. He called Dundalk, Md., home. STEVE KOLINA Pensioner Steve Kolina, 85, died April 12. Brother Kolina became an SIU member in 1943 in the port of New York. His first vessel was the Alcoa Planter; his last was the American Condor. Brother Kolina was born in Pennsylvania. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Kolina resided in his native state and retired in 1987. in 1987. Brother Otero was a resident of Puerto Rico. MOHAMED SHAIE Pensioner Mohamed Shaie, 71, died April 25. Brother Shaie donned the SIU colors 1967. He initially shipped on the Warrior. Brother Shaie sailed in the engine department. His final journey was aboard the Horizon Producer. Brother Shaie was born in Arabia but called Armona, Calif., home. He began collecting his pension in 2002. LOLA TORLAND Pensioner Lola Torland, 87, passed away April 27. Sister Torland became a Seafarer in 1978. Her first voyage was on the Santa Mercedes. Sister Torland was born in Los Angeles, Calif. The steward department member most recently sailed aboard the Maui. Sister Torland resided in San Francisco. She retired in 1988. Pensioner James Mannete, Jr., 71, passed away May 15. Brother Mannete was born in Pennsylvania. He started sailing with the SIU in 1958 while in the port of New York. Brother Mannete’s earliest trip to sea was on the Rose Knot. The deck department member last shipped aboard the Sugar Islander. Brother Mannete went on pension in 1994. He made his home in Gretna, La. RICHARD McCAUSLAND Pensioner Richard McCausland, 80, died April 26. Brother McCausland joined the union in 1966. His first voyage was on a Columbia Steamship Company vessel. Brother McCausland was born in Sharpsburg, Pa., and shipped in the steward department. His final voyage was aboard the Performance. Brother McCausland began receiving his retirement pay in 1993. He lived in Florida. JUAN OTERO Pensioner Juan Otero, 82, passed away April 5. Brother Otero signed on with the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of New York. He originally sailed on the Robin Doncaster. Brother Otero was born in Puerto Rico. He worked in the steward department. Brother Otero most recently shipped aboard the San Juan. He became a pensioner JAMES CARAWAN Pensioner James Carawan, 78, died April 13. Brother Carawan became a union member in 1972. He was first employed with IBC Company. Brother Carawan was born in Pamlico, N.C. Before his retirement in 1994, he sailed with C.G. Willis Inc. Brother Carawan was a resident of Bayboro, N.C. He went on pension in 1994. MANUEL RIVAS Pensioner Patrick Turbidy, 91, died April 1. Brother Turbidy joined the MC&S in 1962 while in the port of San Francisco. He first shipped on the Santa Maria as a member of the steward department. Brother Turbidy’s final trip took place aboard the President McKinley. He went on pension in 1982 and lived in San Francisco. Pensioner Manuel Rivas, 69, died April 14. Brother Rivas started sailing with the SIU in 1988. He worked in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Brother Rivas originally shipped on the Quality. The Cubanborn mariner most recently sailed with G&H Towing Company. Brother Rivas resided in Houston, Texas, and began collecting his pension in 2002. R. D. WHALEY HERBERT THOMPSON Pensioner R. D. Whaley, 82, passed away May 31. Brother Whaley was born in Middleton, Tenn. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of Houston. Brother Whaley originally shipped on the York. He worked in both the steward and engine departments during his SIU career. Brother Whaley was last employed aboard the Independence. He made his home in Jackson, Tenn. Brother Whaley started receiving his retirement compensation in 1990. Pensioner Herbert Thompson, 71, passed away April 10. Brother Thompson donned the union colors in 1975. He first worked aboard a G&H Towing vessel. Brother Thompson was born in Austin, Texas. Before retiring in 1999, he shipped with Crowley Towing and Transportation of Wilmington. Brother Thompson lived in Houston. PATRICK TURBIDY JAMES MANNETE JR. the Mt. McKinley. His final voyage was aboard the Bob-Lo Island. Brother Boyd retired in 1992 and called Sea Level, N.C., home. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. Name Age DOD MOSES WILLIAMS Betancourt, Roberto 81 Pensioner Moses Williams, 88, died April 26. Brother Williams signed on with the MC&S in 1958 while in the port of San Francisco. He sailed primarily on vessels operated by American Ship Management which included the President Madison and the President Fillmore. Brother Williams was born in the Philippines and shipped in the steward department. He became a pensioner in 1983 and settled in Severn, Md. Bobie, Nicholas 83 April 22 Boivin, Roger 87 April 26 INLAND ALTON BOYD Pensioner Alton Boyd, 81, passed away May 13. Brother Boyd joined the SIU ranks in 1957 in the port of Detroit, Mich. He was born in Wilkes, N.C., and worked as a member of the deck department. Brother Boyd initially sailed on June 1 Cook, William 93 May 31 Fernandez, David 71 April 29 Greenidge, St Clair 85 June 26 Guidry, Herbert 81 May 20 Hughes, Willie 81 May 11 Johnson, Harry 80 May 19 Lovelady, Paul 87 July 1 Luke, Harold 84 May 30 Ramos, Louis 74 July 14 Severino, Anthony 84 July 16 Suissa, Elie 84 May 21 Wells, William 65 July 15 Williams, George 72 May 25 Woods, Charles 76 May 28 Zoldi, Julius 85 May 25 September 2008 �50414_p01_24:50414p 8/29/2008 7:41 PM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings CLEVELAND (Sealift Inc.), June 8 – Chairman Christopher C. Chikwere, Secretary Denis W. Burke, Educational Director Dale D. Nesfield, Deck Delegate Pio L. Vili, Engine Delegate Dale D. Nesfield, Steward Delegate Wally J. Saul Jr. Chairman announced payoff in Lake Charles, La., on June 14. He encouraged mariners to read the Seafarers LOG. Secretary asked departing crew members to leave staterooms clean for arriving Seafarers and advised all members to keep dues paid up. Educational director urged crew to enhance skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He noted that TWIC cards must be obtained by April 15, 2009. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Concerns were expressed regarding air conditioning vents in crew mess hall. Steward department was thanked for excellent food and BBQs. Next ports: Lake Charles, La., Aquaba, Jordan, Alexandria, Egypt, and Houston. CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), June 28 – Secretary Terry N. White, Educational Director Juanito P. Dansalan, Engine Delegate Yahya Mohamed, Steward Delegate Andy N. Campollo. Secretary reported a safe trip and expressed gratitude to his fellow crew members for their hard work. He also thanked them for helping keep the ship clean and urged them to upgrade at the Piney Point school whenever possible. Treasurer stated $700 in ship’s fund which will be used to purchase movies. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for a new DVD player in crew lounge. Vote of thanks given to the steward department for great food and service. HORIZON EAGLE (Horizon Lines), June 19 – Chairman Darryl G. Smith, Secretary Cynthia L. Caster, Educational Director Shawn L. Clark, Deck Delegate Chad B. Chivrell, Engine Delegate Jessie Canales Jr. Chairman reminded mariners to have their z-card ready for immigration and customs upon arrival in port. He read and posted TWIC extension information on bulletin board. Secretary was grateful for crew’s good attitude and cooperation while there was no air conditioning. She encouraged anyone needing cleaning supplies for their rooms to see her. Educational director discussed TWIC document and recommended mariners visit the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md., to enhance seafaring abilities. Treasurer noted $524 in ship’s fund. It was reported that deck head and laundry room needed more attention as mentioned in sanitary inspection. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification was requested pertaining to recent reduction in seatime requirements for medical eligibility. Crew thanked steward department for a job well done. HORIZON HAWK (Horizon Lines), June 22 – Chairman September 2008 Wayne D. Casey, Secretary Glenn A. Taan, Educational Director David M. Parker, Deck Delegate Rodolfo Asopardo. Bosun informed members that seatime requirements for medical have been reduced to 125 days and that TWIC card deadline has been pushed back until April 15, 2009. Educational director stressed the importance of upgrading skills at the SIU-affiliated school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was reported that chairs in mess hall needed cleaning. Crew members were reminded to fill out completion of duty application. HORIZON PRODUCER (Horizon Lines), June 27 – Chairman Patrick C. Ray Jr., Secretary Thomas D. Smith, Educational Director Angel S. Hernandez, Steward Delegate Carlos Sanchez. Chairman thanked mariners for a safe, injury-free voyage. He encouraged crew to inform him of any problems. Educational director advised Seafarers to apply for TWIC card ASAP because some delays have been reported. Treasurer stated $3,400 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Electrician asked members to put clothes in washing machine evenly so it will operate smoothly during spin cycle. Crew extended vote of thanks to steward department for great job. LIBERTY GLORY (Liberty Maritime), June 22 – Chairman Victor M. Beata, Secretary Grant H. Armstead, Educational Director Charles Sneed, Deck Delegate Fitsum Yohannes, Steward Delegate Hamin Sialana. Chairman announced payoff in Corpus Christi, Texas, on June 25. He thanked crew for a job well done and reminded them of TWIC card extension. Secretary reported that stores would be received June 25. He expressed gratitude to crew members for their help in keeping vessel clean. Educational director suggested mariners pre-enroll for TWIC card online. Treasurer reported $600 in ship’s fund; money will be used to purchase a TV and DVD player. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations were made regarding pension benefits. Crew members requested fans for state rooms. Next port: Corpus Christi, Texas. LIBERTY GRACE (Liberty Maritime), June 1 – Chairman Pablo O. Borja Jr., Secretary Christopher B. Amigable, Educational Director Ronald F. Lukacs. Chairman notified crew that payoff would take place on June 6 in Pittsburg, Calif. He talked about how important it is to keep union dues current and thanked everyone for another safe trip. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep mess hall and lounge clean. He asked departing members to leave rooms clean for next mariner. Educational director urged Seafarers to enhance skills at the union-affiliated school and keep documents current. He also talked about the importance of 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. SA Jose Garcia (left), Chief Cook John Padilla (photo above) are shown in the President Adams galley. Pictured from left to right (photo at right) are Recertified Steward Brandon Maeda, 2nd Mate Chris Kalinowski (graduate of Paul Hall Center trainee class 500) and Chief Mate Nick Marcantonio (class 446). The Adams (photo below) loads cargo in Singapore. Snapshots from the President Adams Recertified Steward Brandon Maeda emailed these photos taken this summer during a 58-day round trip aboard APL Maritime’s President Adams. The voyage began (and eventually ended) in New York and included stops in Charleston, S.C.; Savannah, Ga.; Norfolk, Va.; Port Said, Egypt; Jebel Ali, Dubai, UAE; Port Klang, Malaysia; Singapore; Colombo, Sri Lanka; and Salalah, Oman. The vessel sailed through 13 different time zones. This photo of the Omani coastline was taken from the seamen’s club in Salalah, Oman. contributing to SPAD (Seafarers Political Action Donation). No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks were given to entire crew for all the hard work they performed. New full-size washing machine has been ordered. Next ports: Pittsburg, Calif., San Francisco, and China. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line, Limited), June 8 – Chairman Brian K. Fountain, Educational Director Kevin M. Cooper, Deck Delegate Abdul Q. Gharama. Chairman reported another smooth voyage with no LTA. He announced payoff in Newark, N.J., on June 16. Secretary thanked mariners for help keeping house clean. Educational director advised crew members to check expiration dates on necessary seafaring documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions were made pertaining to vacation and pension benefits. Request was made for new mattresses. Next ports: Newark, N.J., Charleston, S.C., and Malaga, Spain. MAERSK RHODE ISLAND (Maersk Line, Limited), June 23 – Chairman Daniel Laitinen, Secretary Christopher T. Hale, Educational Director Marcelino V. Cayabyab, Deck Delegate Larry A. Rawlins, Engine Delegate Matthew D. Wright. Bosun expressed gratitude for another safe voyage. He stated that ship and crew are to receive award for no LTAs in the past five years, which is a testament to the training they received at the Paul Hall Center. Educational director encouraged all mariners to upgrade at any chance you get; it will lead to a better life for you and your family. Treasurer reported $3,400 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Ulsan, Korea. MARILYN (Sealift Inc.), June 8 – Chairman Mohamed H. Mohamed, Secretary Jonathan L. Damphier, Educational Director Dennis N. Barbosa, Deck Delegate Kevin A. Kellum, Steward Delegate Meili W. Seegers. Chairman informed members of payoff on June 10 in Houston. He warned them not to forget to apply for their TWIC card. Secretary thanked Seafarers for keeping mess hall and lounge clean. He suggested everyone keep documents up-to-date and contribute to SPAD. Educational director urged crew to take advantage of upgrading and training offered in Piney Pont, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for an extra dryer and furniture for lounge. Next ports: Houston, New Orleans, and North Korea. OVERSEAS HOUSTON (OSG Ship Management), June 22 – Chairman Michael S. Sinclair, Secretary Scott A. Opsahl, Educational Director Edward H. Self, Deck Delegate Marvin M. Chester. Chairman thanked crew for a great voyage and discussed manpower pool requirements for OSG Ships. Secretary expressed his gratitude to members for helping keep pantry and mess hall clean. He asked mariners to fill out new address cards and/or beneficiary cards. Educational director encouraged mariners to check expiration dates on all necessary seafaring documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made to increase food budget and to install chalk board in crew lounge to post union information. Discussion was held on proper protocols to follow when resolving problems aboard vessel. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif. and Cherry Point, N.C. Seafarers LOG 19 �50414_p01_24:50414p 8/29/2008 7:41 PM Page 20 Letters to the Editor Paul Hall Center Training Pays Off My name is Bill Boardman. I was a member of class 639 at the Paul Hall Center and wanted to thank the school for the excellent training I received there. I sailed as an AB for three years. On August 12, 2008, I was operating a charter fishing vessel (the Fat Cat) 80 miles off the coast of New Jersey. We received a mayday call from a sinking vessel (the 42-foot Made to Sea) less than five miles away from us, around 2 a.m. Thanks to the training I learned at Piney Point, I was able to help successfully rescue all five people of the sunken vessel out of their life raft. Thank you! I remember well as a student hearing about people who did great things with the training they received at the SIU-affiliated school, and I wanted to pass this on. Looking back on the rescue, I remember the appropriate questions coming from my mouth that I’d learned in Piney Point as if someone else was asking them. When faced with this emergency, my training came through and I was able to perform exactly as I was taught. He recently joined the ship in Jacksonville, and he elevated morale aboard the vessel. I had heard stories about the bosun prior to his signing on, but couldn’t believe he was that good. Well, was I in for a surprise! The bosun handles all of the crew with respect and appreciation. He capitalizes on people’s strengths while understanding their weaknesses. There is nothing he would ask of a crew member that he wouldn’t willingly do. He inspires loyalty and is a pleasure to work with and for. I was just hoping that through writing this letter to the LOG that he could be given a pat on the back and the recognition he deserves. AB Sue Fagan Aboard USNS Paul Buck Capt. Bill Boardman Belmar, New Jersey AB from USNS Buck Credits Bosun Corl This is a letter of appreciation from aboard the USNS Paul Buck for Recertified Bosun Philip Corl. Recertified Bosun Phil Corl Annual Funding Notice/SIU Pacific District Pension Plan Introduction This notice, which federal law requires all multiemployer plans to send annually, includes important information about the funding level of the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, Plan Number 001, Employer Identification Number 94-6061923 (Plan). 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 August 1, 2006 and ending July 31, 2007 (Plan Year). Plan’s Funding Level The Plan’s “funded current liability percentage” for the Plan Year was at least 100%. 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 benefits payments from the fund increase or decline. Plan’s Financial Information The market value of the Plan’s assets as of August 1, 2006 was $130,406,267. The total amount of benefit payments for the Plan Year was $9,042,135. The ratio of assets to benefit payments is 14.4. This ratio suggests that the Plan’s assets could provide for approximately 14 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 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 a $50 monthly accrual rate is equal to the sum of $11 plus $24.75 (.75 ´ $33), or $35.75. Thus, the participant’s guaranteed monthly benefit is $357.50 ($35.75 ´ 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 ´ $9), or $17.75. Thus, the participant’s guaranteed monthly benefit would be $177.50 ($17.75 ´ 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 survivor 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 contact Ms. Michelle Chang, Administrator, SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, 415-764-4993. For more information about the PBGC and multiemployer benefit guarantees, go to PBGC’s website, www.pbgc.gov, or call PBGC toll-free at 1800-400-7242 (TTY/TDD users may call the Federal relay service toll free at 1-800-8778339 and ask to be connected to 1-800-4007242). Additional Explanation Introduction The SIU Pacific District Pension Plan has added the information below to supplement the Annual Funding Notice (above) that is required by federal law. This additional information will be helpful in understanding how each part of the notice relates to the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan (Plan). Plan’s Financial Information The main purpose of the Annual Funding Notice is to ensure more open communication about a plan’s funding level. The Annual Funding Notice divides the Plan’s assets by its annual benefit payments to determine how many years the Plan’s assets may be able to pay benefits. This simple measurement does not take into account the Plan’s expected annual income. When the Plan’s assets and the annual addition of this income are taken into account, the Plan’s assets can be expected to pay benefits for years into the future. Rules Governing Insolvent Plans This section of the Annual Funding Notice applies only to severely financially troubled pension plans, which this plan is not. Because of the Plan’s greater than 100% funded status, it is not anticipated that the special rules regarding “plan reorganization” and plan insolvency would ever apply to this Plan. Benefit Payments Guaranteed by the PBGC The Trustees expect the Plan to continue to pay benefits for many years in the future. The Trustees are committed to maintaining the Plan’s funded status because, in their view, the Plan’s financial strength is the best guarantee that all participants and beneficiaries will receive all the Plan benefits they have earned. Thus, it is not expected that the PBGC benefit guarantees mentioned in this notice will ever become applicable. Where to Get More Information For more information about this Additional Explanation, you may contact Ms. Michelle Chang, Administrator, SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. 20 Seafarers LOG PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION—If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. September 2008 �50414_p01_24:50414p 8/29/2008 7:41 PM Page 21 Seafarers Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Schedule The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months of 2008. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Course Start Date Date of Completion Safety Specialty Courses Fast Rescue Boat September 8 September 12 Medical Care Provider September 8 September 12 Tanker Assistant (DL) September 22 November 10 September 6 October 3 November 21 September 12 Tankerman (PIC) Barge Steward Upgrading Courses Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman September 29 November 10 October 23 December 5 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids (ARPA) (must have radar unlimited) October 6 November 17 October 10 November 21 Celestial Navigation October 20 November 24 November 14 December 19 GMDSS September 15 September 26 Lifeboatman/Water Survival September 15 October 27 September 26 November 7 Radar September 22 November 3 October 3 November 14 Radar Renewal (one day) October 27 December 8 October 27 December 8 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) October 20 October 31 Bosun Recertification Course November 3 October 14 Engine Upgrading Courses Advanced Container Maintenance (Refer) November 10 December 5 Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) September 15 November 10 October 10 December 5 Firemen/Watertender/Oiler (FOWT) October 13 November 6 Junior Engineer August 30 October 24 Marine Electrician October 27 December 19 Welding September 8 October 6 November 3 December 1 September 26 October 23 November 21 December 19 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Deep Sea Member Lakes Member Date of Birth ______________________ Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Seniority _____ Department ___________ E-mail ____________________________ No Yes Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward These classes start every other Monday. The most recent class began September 1. 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. Online “Distance Learning” Courses In addition to the foregoing courses, the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education currently is offering the following internet-based courses: Environmental Awareness; Hazardous Material Control and Management; Hearing Conservation; Heat Stress Management; Shipboard Pest Management; Respiratory Protection, and Shipboard Water Sanitation. The courses are free to mariners covered by SIU contracts. To register, complete the regular upgrading application located on the bottom left portion of this page, and mail it to: Admissions Office, Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 206740075. Applicants will receive user account information from the center via email. They are therefore urged to provide their e-mail addresses in the space provided on the application. Applicants should also include the word “online” when listing the courses they wish to take. Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover—for whatever reason—that they cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB, JE and Tanker Assistant (DL) applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Inland Waters Member If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. U.S. Citizen: Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. 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 ________________________________________________ September 2008 SIGNATURE __________________________________ DATE ________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 9/08 Seafarers LOG 21 �50414_p01_24:50414p 8/29/2008 7:41 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Computer Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 704 – Unlicensed apprentices from Class 704 recently graduated from the water survival course. Those graduating from the course (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jason Babbitt, William Bailey, Martin Baker, Daniel Balch, Reginald Berkes, Larry Byrd, Darrin Cobb, Angela Corbitt, Jason Crusing, Ezekiel Deas Jr., Daniel Devine, Timothy Garton Jr., Heather Hammons, Pacheco Hernandez, Aretta Jones, Ryan Kiefer, Daniel Kosnik, Kirby Landert, Lucian Lepadatu, Tierria Noble, Eric Pinto, Thomas Reed II and Stephen Wood. Their instructor, Ben Cusic, is standing second from left in the second row. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Nine Seafarers recently completed computer courses while undergoing upgrade training at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Those completing various classes (photo above, standing left to right) were Sergio Cedeno, Sandy Santiago and Glenn McCullough. Vinvent Ippolito is kneeling. In photo at left, Jovita Carino posed with Rich Prucha, instructor. Graduates in the photo below (from left to right) include Adam Degleiter, Cornelius Smith, Philander Walton and Alfredo Mendoza. FOWT - The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) on July 11 completed this course: Azad Ardeshirdavani, Victor Atkinson, Jovita Cario, Juan Castillo, Kevin Daughtry, Mohammed Elazzouzi, John Fraley, Daniel Griffin, Si Hughes, Arthur Kately III, Donnetta McLee, Joshua Montgomery, Pierre Norwood and Andres Nunez. Tim Achorn, their instructor, is at far right. Government Vessels - Twelve upgraders completed this course July 24. Those graduating (right, in alphabetical order) were: Alyxi Alexander, Desmond Baptiste, Sergio Cedeno, Thomas Cyrus Jr., Raphael Dewberry, Michael Durago, Marc Escalona, Troy Fleming, Dale Harrison, Alex Mitchell, Sandy Santiago and Alfredo Silva. Their instructor, Mark Cates, is at far right. 22 Seafarers LOG Fast Rescue Boat - Five individuals on July 18 completed training in this course. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were Denis Burke, Jovita Carino, Ashby Furlough, Bernabe Pelingon and David Turinski. Their instructor, Stan Beck, is at left in the far back. (Note: Not all are pictured.) September 2008 �50414_p01_24x:50414p 9/2/2008 2:24 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Tank Ship Familiarization - Twenty-one phase three apprentices on July 11 graduated from this course. Those completing the training (above, in alphabetical order) were: Stephen Amthaner, Ryan Bernal, Keithan Bland, Tyesha Boyd, Adam Brubeck-Galloway, Ashley Carmichael, Louise Digman, Jack Forde, Marcus Gramby, Joshua Johnson, Tanaka Junior, Joseph Loureiro, LaToya Lunford, Jasper McNeill, John Monaco, Travis Odom, Robert Orloff III, Ronnie Rodriguez, John Wahl, Pamela Wilson and Sean Wilson. STCW (Hawaii) – The following students (above, in no particular order) on July 18 completed this course at the Seafarers Training Center at Barbers Point, Hawaii: Nubia Acevado, Willie Beamer, Douglas Campbell, Victor Dorobantu, Leslie Dunning, Jason Evans, D’Andre Evans, Aaron Lade, Vincent Pickney, Cortez Smith, Sergey Tikhonov, Luke Carrico, Chelsy Burns, Yomar Diaz, Connie Dietrich, Christopher Haughey, Mario Monroy, Victor Rivera, Beth Thomure and Bobbi Wells. BST - The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) recently completed this course: Rene Alfaro, Raphael Dewberry, Troy Fleming, Lonnie Jones Jr., Michael Munoz, Jermaine Robinson, Alexander Rodriguez and Dana Wilks. Their instructor, Joe Zienda is at far left. Welding - The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) on June 27 graduated from this one-week course: Tony Beasley, Patrick Bradley, John Chapin, Douglas Duvak, Dante Mungioli III, Cecil Williams and Charles Wisler. Buzzy Andrews, their instructor, is second from left. Celestial Navigation – Ten individuals on June 27 completed this course. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Philip Corl, Frank Guido, Chad Noda, Leslie O’Hair, James O’Meara, Jason Pinsky, William Ray, Errol Soderquist, Lawrence Soulier and Mike Wiley. Their instructor, Stacy McNeely, is standing at far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Advanced Firefighting – Nine upgraders on July 11 Water Survival – Four upgraders on July 4 completed this 60-hour course. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Albert Beneman, Luis Irias, Kirk Moffett and Manes Sainvil. Bernabe Pelingon, their instructor, is at far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) September 2008 completed this course. Those graduating (left, in alphabetical order) were: Marie Acosta, Darryl Alexander, Adam Begleiter, Brian Gauntt, Vincent Ippolito, Glen McCullough, Eddie Taylor, Olson Thorne and Philandar Walton. Their instructor, Steven Stockwell, is at far right. Seafarers LOG 23 �50414_p01_24x:50414p 9/2/2008 2:24 PM Page 24 Volume 70, Number 9 September 2008 Mariners Need TWIC by April 15, 2009 - Page 9 Letter from Senator Obama to SIU President Sacco Following is the text of a letter sent late last month to SIU President Michael Sacco by U.S. Senator Barack Obama (D-Ill.). The letter was sent in response to the SIU’s endorsement of Senator Obama’s bid for the presidency – the union’s press release is printed at lower left. August 28, 2008 Dear President Sacco: It is an honor to have the endorsement of the Seafarers International Union and its members. Working Americans like you at the SIU have throughout our history been the backbone of the American economy, and your commitment and effort this election cycle will help restore a sense of shared prosperity and security to the nation. America needs a strong and vibrant U.S.-Flag Merchant Marine. That is why you and your members can continue to count on me to support the Jones Act (which also includes the Passenger Vessel Services Act) and the continued exclusion of maritime services in international trade agreements. American Merchant Mariners always have answered the nation’s call from the first days of the Revolutionary War to today. In peace and in war, our Mariners have stood with us and my Administration will stand with them. To make sure our Armed Forces have the equipment and ammunition they need at the time the materiel are required, my Administration will solidly support the continuation of the Maritime Security Program. The MSP has proven itself since being enacted in 1996, making sure our troops deployed overseas have no worries about when their supplies will be delivered. A strong U.S.-Flag commercial fleet needs our nation’s Cargo Preference laws. Whether it is carrying needed goods to those overseas in distress or moving government-generated cargo, American Mariners aboard American ships make sure the job is done. People around the world look to the U.S. Flag as a symbol of hope and determination. Ships flying Old Glory with American crews are important icons of our resolve. Those programs set a firm foundation for America’s Merchant Mariners by providing opportunities for decent wages, good benefits and fair treatment. Certainly, a strong union movement has been and will continue to be a major contributor to the achievement of this essential national goal. I am proud to stand with and for you and your members. I consider the SIU endorsement a significant statement about what we can do, working together, for change and progress that improves the quality of life for working families. Sincerely, Barack Obama SIU Endorses Senator Obama for President August 13, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE The Seafarers International Union (SIU) is proud to endorse the candidacy of Senator Barack Obama of Illinois for President of the United States. The union – which represents American merchant mariners who work aboard deep sea, Great Lakes and inland waters vessels – made the decision based on the candidates’ positions on matters that directly affect SIU members. “Senator Obama has stood with the Seafarers and the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine on the vitally important issues of the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program and cargo preference,” stated Seafarers President Michael Sacco. “Senator Obama has confirmed that an administration led by him would continue to fight for these programs in order to maintain and grow our country’s merchant fleet.” Sacco noted the SIU has a strong history of bipartisan support on Capitol Hill. “Our union traditionally does not take party affiliation into consideration when it has endorsed. In making this endorsement, the SIU is considering what it always has when making such a decision – the primary concerns of the membership,” he added. “The American Merchant Marine serves as the nation’s fourth arm of defense. In these uncertain times, the men and women who serve in our Armed Forces need to know their supplies will be delivered efficiently and on time. Senator Obama understands this,” said Sacco. The Seafarers International Union was founded in 1938. Its 82,500 members live throughout the country. Election Day: November 4, 2008 Register to Vote! Make Sure Your Voice is Heard! Don’t Sit This One Out! This page has been paid for by the Seafarers Political Activity Donation (SPAD) 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 This page was not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee. � 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 September 2008 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES GEN. DUNCAN MCNABB CONFIRMED AS U.S. TRANSCOM COMMANDER SEAPOWER SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN EMPHASIZES SUPPORT FOR JONES ACT AFL-CIO ELECTS 3 TO EXECUTIVE COUNCIL UNION-CONTRACTED FLEET ADDS MAERSK MICHIGAN PHILLY FERRY CREW RESCUES WOMAN IN DELAWARE RIVER TANKER CONSTRUCTION MOVES FORWARD AT SHIP FACILITIES IN SAN DIEGO, PHILADELPHIA PANEL REVIEWS NOMINATION PETITIONS FOR ELECTION GOV. GREGOIRE CREDITS ATC HAWAII SUPERFERRY RIDERSHIP GROWS BY 40 PERCENT IN JULY NTSB ISSUES FINAL REPORT ON MAJESTIC BOAT GROUNDING MISSISSIPPI RIVER OIL SPILL RENEWS CONCERNS AMO’S CRANGLE DIES AT AGE 71 CREDENTIALS APPROVED FOR CANDIDATES TO 25 UNION OFFICES FOUR UNION-CONTRACTED COMPANIES EARN SAFETY AWARDS FROM AMS, INC. CIVMARS ABOARD MERCY, GRASP, SATURN ‘SHOW HEARTS’ UNION CONTINUES EBIS NEGOTIATIONS JACKSONVILLE HALL HOSTS MAERSK SAFETY MEETING JOSEPH SACCO FIRE FIGHITING AND SAFETY SCHOOL IS KEY COMPONENT OF PAUL HALL CENTER SNUG HARBOR PROVIDES HOUSING, CARE FOR OLDER SEAMEN SIU CREWS HELP ENSURE U.S. READINESS SEAFARERS PARTICIPATE IN MILITARY ‘JLOTS’ EXERCISE LETTER FROM SENATOR OBAMA TO SIU PRESIDENT SACCO 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 09/01/2008 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 70, No. 9 2008 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/b0b7d1ff3fa506363109d9aa4120a89f.pdf 8c78aa683fb68fc0786078d80c760019 PDF Text Text 55751_P01_24x:January 08 8/28/2009 11:20 AM Page 1 Volume 71, Number 9 September 2009 Ocean Charger Flag-In Means New Jobs for SIU The union recently welcomed the addition of a new heavy lift ship – the Ocean Charger – into its contracted fleet. The vessel (pictured above and at left) is operated by Pacific-Gulf Marine for Intermarine LLC. Flag-in ceremonies took place in August in Houston. Included in the group photo are SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (fifth from left), Asst. VP Jim McGee (second from right) and SIU members Recertified Bosun Joseph Casalino, AB Derall Williams, ACU Adolfo Bermudez, GUDE Ruden Perez, Recertified Steward Mark Flores, AB Caesar Smith, QEE Bruce Korte and AB Bernard Blunt. Page 3. Union-Affiliated School Adds State-of-the-Art Training Vessel The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education has acquired a new tugboat that will enhance the school’s training capabilities. The 66-foot G Force (pictured above and at right) features the latest equipment and is expected to be utilized by students from all three shipboard departments. Pages 12-13. NCL America Contract Approved Page 2 Maritime Labor Convention Examined Page 3 UIW Convention News Page 6 �55751_P01_24x:January 08 8/28/2009 11:21 AM Page 2 President’s Repor t New Ships and More Progress As the Congressional recess neared its end and summer vacations started giving way to school days, we received good news about another new ship entering the SIU-contracted fleet. Some of the details were still emerging late last month, but the Defense Department announced that Sealift Inc. will be the operator of a soon-to-bereflagged vessel whose main work will be resupplying our armed forces in Diego Garcia. With options, the contract would last until the year 2014. We also recently picked up new work aboard the Ocean Charger, which is operated by PacificGulf Marine, as reported this month on our front page. Both the Ocean Charger and the new Sealift ship are additions rather than replacement tonnage, so this is the type of news I love hearing. It means Michael Sacco more jobs for SIU members, which is always our bottom line. New tonnage is entering the Government Services Division fleet, too. The latest T-AKE ship, the USNS Perry, was christened in mid-August in San Diego. That program is relatively new but the Navy already has called it a great success, and our CIVMARS definitely share in the credit. One of the ways we’re able to supply qualified manpower to all of our contracted ships is by maintaining top-notch facilities and equipment at our affiliated school, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. On that front, we have another great story to report – namely, the addition of a new training boat. This new vessel is going to benefit students by offering hands-on training with state-of-the-art equipment. It will help make them even more efficient and safe when they return to work, whether it’s on the rivers, the Lakes or the oceans. These are all important developments but they’re only samples of the recent progress within the SIU. Another one involves our upcoming, muchanticipated move to a new union hall in the Jacksonville, Fla., area. We remain on pace to close on the purchase of the new property in midSeptember. Our goal is to begin operations there in the fall. We’ll continue to report details in the LOG and at the membership meetings and on our web site. Health Care: A Little History The topic of health care went to a whole new level of national attention last month as certain town hall meetings brought out behavior that might charitably be described as strange. Having recently used this space to spell out in detail organized labor’s goals for health care reform, I won’t repeat them now. However, I think a quick history lesson is in order. Unions didn’t just start pushing for health insurance reform when President Obama got elected or back during the Clinton administration. We’ve been calling for health care for all Americans as far back as the Truman administration in the mid-1940s! Truman himself wanted a national health care policy, but it didn’t get done. Here we are, so many years later, still battling – and arguably closer than ever to success. It’s important that our members aren’t fooled by scare tactics from organizations and individuals whose top priorities don’t include decent, affordable health care for all Americans. Like I’ve said about other subjects, when it comes to health care, get the facts. Our union’s position is that all Americans should have health care coverage. There should be a reasonable, viable system in which employers would either offer coverage or pay into a fund to finance coverage for uninsured workers. We also strongly believe that taxation of those with benefits absolutely must not be included in any plan. This is an idea whose time has come. The Pride of America (photo at left) has been part of the Seafarers-contracted fleet since 2005. SIU Representative Hazel Galbiso (right in photo above) meets with Jeremy Peyton, a union delegate, aboard the vessel. NCL America Crews Ratify New Contract Long-Term Agreement Features Numerous Gains Seafarers sailing aboard NCL America’s Pride of America have approved a new nine-year contract that includes wage increases and other gains. Ratified in mid-June by an overwhelming margin, the new pact – which also maintains health benefits at the CorePlus level – is retroactive to April 1. The Pride of America, based in Honolulu, is the only U.S.-flag deep sea cruise ship. It offers interisland cruises to Hawaii’s four main islands. “This is a great contract,” said Recertified Bosun Rene Govico. “I have to thank our Vice President Contracts George Tricker and (Assistant Vice President) Bryan Powell and (SIU Representative) Hazel Galbiso for working very hard to get this agreement. They listened to our suggestions and we are happy. The union really delivered for us.” AB Chris Bean stated, “The union and company did a good job of working to agree on a solid and balanced contract. Of course, we didn’t get all we wanted, and we always want more, but I think the union and NCL America came to a very respectable agreement considering the economy and the financial pressure on everyone. Times are tough and we should all be happy to have a good, steady job with NCL.” Assistant Electrician Ramon Lirag said the contract’s length “shows the company and union expect this (cruise-ship operation) to go on for a long time to come. This gives us job security and with the pay, overtime and other good things we got in the contract, we are very happy.” “Although negotiations are always a challenge, it makes the union’s job a lot easier when the company acknowledges the value of an SIU crew,” Tricker stated. “Once that happens, and it’s clear the company appreciates the professionalism and dedication an SIU crew provides, they generally are poised to accept the union’s proposals.” Powell noted that despite a rocky economy that has affected the cruise industry, things are going well aboard the Pride of America. “The operation is a lot smoother now,” he observed. “It has come a long way since the inception of the project and there’s been a lot of progress…. The new contract delivers long-term employment for our members and demonstrates the company’s commitment to the business in the Hawaii market.” The agreement calls for wage increases (including overtime) in each of its first three years. The union and the company agreed to reopen the contract on the third anniversary of the agreement to examine economic components. New additions and improvements to the contract include the following: ■ Effective January 1, 2010, SIU members sailing aboard the vessel will be eligible to participate in the Seafarers International Union 401(k) Plan. ■ The rate for maintenance and cure payments has more than doubled. ■ Mariners will receive an hour of overtime pay if they don’t get their required meal breaks. ■ The rules governing overtime have been adjusted to help equalize overtime opportunities for mariners. ■ A new “standby pay” provision was agreed to. ■ All safety shoes required by the company will be provided by NCL America at no cost to crew members. ■ A new position has been added to the unlicensed ranks: general utility deck/engine (GUDE). Members of the SIU-affiliated Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union (SEATU) also recently approved a new nine-year contract covering their employment aboard the Pride of America. SEATU members work in hospitality jobs aboard the vessel. The Pride of America joined the SIU-crewed fleet in June 2005. It is 921 feet long, has 15 decks and can carry more than 2,100 passengers. Remembering a Friend and Supporter As this issue went to press, we learned of the passing of Senator Edward Kennedy. Not only was he a champion for working people, he was a longstanding friend of the SIU and the U.S.-flag maritime industry. We will miss his leadership and support. Volume 71, Number 9 September 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 Seafarers display their new contract aboard the Pride of America. Among those pictured are Recertified Bosun Rene Govico, Asst. Electrician Joel Bell, AB Larry Gannon, AB Ronnel Sugui, Asst. Refer Engineer Nilo Glen, AB Mauricio Elopre, Machinist Francisco Ramilo, Asst. Electrician Ramon Lirag, Asst. Electrician Armando Cortez and AB Chris Bean. September 2009 �55751_P01_24x:January 08 8/28/2009 11:21 AM Page 3 SIU Gains New Jobs On Ocean Charger Pacific-Gulf Marine Operates Recently Reflagged Vessel SIU members are sailing aboard the newly reflagged Ocean Charger, an outright addition to the Seafarers-contracted fleet. Operated by Pacific-Gulf Marine for Intermarine LLC, the 393-foot heavy lift vessel entered American-flag service in Houston early last month. U.S. Rep. Gene Green (D-Texas), a staunch supporter of the U.S. maritime industry, was a featured speaker at a formal reflagging event Aug. 20. SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and Assistant Vice President Jim McGee attended both that ceremony and an informal one that took place earlier in the month. The Ocean Charger is operating in the commercial, international trades. It is the sister ship to the Seafarers-crewed Ocean Atlas and Ocean Titan. “It’s tough to beat a story like this one,” said Corgey. “The crew seems excited and the union is, too. This ship means new jobs, which is something we never take for granted, but especially during today’s economic climate.” Todd Johnson, president and CEO of Pacific-Gulf Marine, said that flagging in the Ocean Charger “represents a major commitment by Intermarine, particularly when one considers the current volatility in the market. PGM is pleased to be a part of the Ocean Charger operation and we also hope it’ll lead to more growth in the American-flag fleet.” Built in the year 2000, the Ocean Charger has a service speed of 16.5 knots. It is equipped with two electrohydraulic cranes. The vessel can carry more than 500 containers or 395,000 square feet of cargo. During the Aug. 20 ceremony, Green talked about how vessels like the Ocean Charger signify not only shipboard jobs, but also related shore-side positions. Andre Grikitis, president and chief executive of Intermarine, also addressed the audience. U.S. Rep. Gene Green (DTexas) points out that new American-flag tonnage like the Ocean Charger means not just additional shipboard jobs, but related shoreside work, too. Among those celebrating the addition of the Ocean Charger to the U.S.-flag fleet are SIU members (from left) Matthew Sagay and Edison Lalin, Intermarine President Andre Grikitis, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, U.S. Rep. Gene Green (D-Texas) and Seafarers Monte Pereira, Omaha Redda, Timothy Taylor, Leonilo Arano and Lolita Sanchez. Officials Examine Maritime Labor Convention Labor, Management, Government Reps Meet For Discussions in Washington, D.C. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel was a featured panelist late last month as representatives from labor, management and government met to discuss the Maritime Labor Convention of 2006 (MLC). The gathering took place Aug. 24 at U.S. Department of Transportation headquarters in Washington, D.C. Heindel, who also serves as first vice chair of the International Transport Workers’ Federation’s Seafarers’ Section, spoke about the MLC from the perspective of mariners. The panel also included Jeff Lantz, U.S. Coast Guard director of commercial regulations and standards; Julie Misner, special advisor for international labor standards at the U.S. Department of Labor; Joseph Cox, presi- Fr. Sinclair Oubre says the convention is a “tremendously high priority” both for secular and faith-based mariner welfare organizations. September 2009 dent of the Chamber of Shipping of America; Jean McKeever, associate administrator for business and workforce development at the U.S. Maritime Administration; and Mayte Medina, chief of the U.S. Coast Guard’s marine personnel qualifications division. Audience members included representatives from a cross-section of the industry, among them individuals from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education; the American Maritime Officers; the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association; the Masters, Mates & Pilots; and the Sailors’ Union of the Pacific. Fr. Sinclair Oubre, a Seafarer who is president of the Apostleship of the Sea of the United States, also attended. The MLC was adopted by the International Labor Organization in 2006 but hasn’t been ratified by the United States. It aims to combine into one treaty the minimum standards required to provide satisfactory employment conditions for the world’s mariners. The MLC has been described by the ITF as a “bill of rights for seafarers.” “The bottom line is we believe the MLC needs to be implemented and ratified by all seafaring nations,” Heindel said during the meeting at DOT. “U.S. standards generally are already higher than what’s contained in this convention, but it would raise the benchmark globally. It provides comprehensive rights and protections. We need to protect the world’s seafarers in addition to our own.” The MLC would apply to commercial ships outside of the inland sector. It offers shipowners a more level playing field by helping to ensure fair competition while marginalizing substandard operations. Lantz said the Coast Guard sees the convention as providing a degree of consistency across the industry. Misner followed with an explanation of the ratification process. Cox briefly reviewed the build-up that led to the MLC and also stated that the Chamber of Shipping of America “will watch very carefully how it may affect our domestic fleet. We are Audience members listen to a brief review of the convention’s structure. fully in support of the Jones Act.” McKeever reminded everyone that the nation “needs skilled U.S. maritime labor” in order to maintain its capacity to respond to emergencies. Medina wrapped up the formal part of the meeting by explaining each of the MLC’s main components. A question-and-answer session followed. An exact timeline for implementation of the MLC isn’t known, but it appears likely that the soonest it would take place is 2012. The ILO first must receive 30 “instruments of ratification” that essentially equal one-third of the world’s gross tonnage. The convention would take effect 12 months later. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel notes that the MLC protects fundamental rights. Seafarers LOG 3 �55751_P01_24x:January 08 8/28/2009 11:21 AM Page 4 USNS Perry Christened, Launched Crowley to Manage The U.S. Navy’s newest dry cargo/ammunition ship, the USNS Matthew Perry, was christened and launched Aug. 16 during a ceremony at NASSCO shipyard in San Diego. The 689foot T-AKE vessel is the ninth in the Lewis and Clark class and is crewed in the unlicensed positions by members of the SIU Government Services Division. The vessel, scheduled for delivery to the U.S. Military Sealift Command in the first quarter of 2010, is named in honor of Commodore Matthew C. Perry, the U.S. Navy officer who established American trade with Japan in the mid-19th Century. Vice Adm. Richard Hunt, the commander of the Navy’s 3rd Fleet, was the ceremony’s principal speaker. Ms. Hester Evans, the greatgreat-great granddaughter of Commodore Perry and the ship’s sponsor, christened the ship by breaking the traditional bottle of champagne against the bow before the vessel slid into San Diego Bay. More than 2,000 people attended the ceremony. “I am confident this fine vessel will well represent the spirit, tenacity and fortitude of her namesake,” said Hunt. “USNS Matthew Perry and her sister ships represent the lifeline of our Navy, and are absolutely a vital underpinning of our maritime strategy. These ships’ ability to carry a wide range of critical supplies and equipment, and to operate independently at sea for extended periods of time, translates into a higher state of readiness for our combatant ships.” “The ship has a great crew and we are all ready to get on board, get settled and get going with the work we do for MSC,” said Capt. William Baldwin, the Perry’s civil service master. “We’re off to a really good start.” The Navy plans to build 14 dry cargo/ammunition ships at NASSCO, all of which will be owned and operated by MSC. The union-contracted shipyard employs more than 4,500 people. The dry cargo/ammunition ship USNS Matthew Perry slides into the water for the first time during an evening christening and launch ceremony August 16 at the NASSCO shipyard in San Diego. (Photo by Sarah Burford, Sealift Logistics Command Pacific Public Affairs) Five NASSCO Tankers With procedural hurdles out of the way, SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime Corporation has reported that it will manage the five American-flag tankers being built at San Diego’s NASSCO shipyard. Crowley on July 28 announced that it is being retained by an investor conglomerate led by The Blackstone Group to manage the five ships. The formal announcement had been expected, but it still stood out as great news for Seafarers, union officials noted. That’s because there was no guarantee the vessels (previously operated by U.S. Shipping Partners) would remain with an SIUcontracted company. Crowley will manage the ships for a newly renamed company: American Petroleum Tankers LLC. The vessels include the Golden State and the Pelican State, both delivered earlier this year, as well as the Sunshine State, Empire State and Evergreen State. The Sunshine State is expected to be delivered later this year, while the Evergreen State and Empire State are slated for delivery in 2010. “We are excited and honored to take part in this venture,” said Crowley Chairman, President and CEO Tom Crowley. “We look forward to bringing our technical vessel construction expertise to the new-build process, and on the operational side of the business we’re pleased to be working with some of our existing customers who have chartered these new ships. We pledge to deliver the same attention to detail and safety that we have always provided with our own petroleum vessels.” Each of the double-hulled tankers is slightly longer than 600 feet and has a cargo capacity of 331,000 barrels. TOTE Ships to Reduce At-Berth Greenhouse Gas Emissions Seafarers-contracted Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE) in late July reported that a federal grant awarded to the Port of Tacoma, Wash., will help the company “to reduce the particulate matter and greenhouse gas emissions of its two Orca-class vessels by an estimated 90 percent while at TOTE’s Tacoma terminal.” Those ships are the Seafarers-crewed North Star and Midnight Sun. The emissions reduction will be the end result of the Port of Tacoma adding 600,000 volt electrical maritime power at the terminal and TOTE retrofitting both vessels with electrical power plug-ins. This will allow the ships to turn their engines off while docked, eliminating atberth diesel idling. Each vessel calls on the Port of Tacoma one time per week for about 12 hours. The grant for the project was awarded by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 10 under the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA) of 2009, which was signed into law by President Obama on Feb. 17, 2009, and the National Clean Diesel Funding Assistance Program. Overall, the Port of Tacoma received nearly $1.5 million. TOTE has a long history of exploring ways to minimize its environmental impact and had already been moving forward with plans for shore-side power. In 2008, TOTE spent nearly $900,000 on the beginning stages of retrofitting its two ships to accommodate shore power connections. “When this grant became available, we had already been researching this project,” said TOTE Vice President of Marine & Terminal Operations Phil Morrell. “We had a lot of information already packaged – costs, drawings, emissions testing data – and we were able to respond quickly.” TOTE also has committed to contributing an additional $283,000 to complete the project, which is scheduled to be “up and running” by September 2010. Additional retrofitting work will be completed on each vessel during its regularly scheduled drydocking this winter. It is estimated this project will help create or sustain an estimated 50 manufacturing and local installation jobs. Morrell said though the project will be beneficial to the economy, as well as the environment, it will also have a positive financial impact on TOTE. “This is such a win-win project,” Morrell said. “Our electric bill will be higher, but we will see a tremendous financial payback because we’re not burning fuel.” Union Backs Abercrombie Campaign The SIU earlier this year endorsed U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) in his campaign for governor. SIU President Michael Sacco described Abercrombie, a longtime supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine, as “a true champion of working families” and someone who “is tireless in his advocacy for his constituents.” These two photos were taken at a late June event in Honolulu supporting the campaign. Above, Rep. Abercrombie (left) greets SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (center) and SIU Asst. VP Bryan Powell. In the other photo, Marrone and Powell highlight a sign listing names of some organizations that have endorsed Abercrombie. 4 Seafarers LOG September 2009 �55751_P01_24_2x:January 08 8/31/2009 9:36 PM Page 5 AB Richard Gonzalez (left in photo above), whose home port is New York, helps deliver the message that health care reform is a must. In photo at right, Seafarers gather for a snapshot immediately after the rally in Washington, D.C. Labor’s Prescription: Provide Health Care for All Americans Two dozen Seafarers were among the 500 union members and other supporters attending an impromptu demonstration near Capitol Hill in favor of reforming the nation’s health care system. The group gathered in the shadow of the U.S. Capitol on Aug. 20 to urge President Obama to continue the fight for getting affordable health care for all Americans. The president was speaking nearby at an Internet town hall meeting on the subject. The Seafarers, who come from ports across the country, joined with the crowd in calling for “Health Care Now!” The consensus among those participating was they wanted President Obama to see grassroots support for providing health care for all. During the month of August, many news shows televised several angry outbursts by constituents to their elected officials who were holding town hall district meetings during the summer recess. As Congress returns to work this month, several health care proposals are being considered by both the House of Representatives and the Senate. While no single piece of legislation has been crafted, President Obama has called upon Congress to complete work on a health care bill before the end of the year. Many national polls show Americans are as confused as to what actually is being considered as they are upset that the health care system appears broken, with costs spiraling out of control. The SIU and AFL-CIO are in support of reforming the health care system as a way to reign in medical costs while providing all working people with the ability to access the system New York New Jersey Rail Earns 2008 Safety Award The American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) recently honored SIU-contracted New York New Jersey Rail (NYNJR) with the Jake Safety Award Certificate with Distinction for the year 2008. The award is for any railroad that has no reportable Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) injuries or accidents during the year of 2008. The SIU represents conductors, engineers, brakemen and bridgemen at NYNJR – the unique “floating” railroad between Brooklyn, N.Y., and Jersey City, N.J., in New York Harbor. Donald Hutton, representing management for NYNJR, stated, “This award is a reflection not just on the management, but every employee of the railroad. The employees have worked as a team to maintain a safe environment and look out not only for their own safety, but that of their co-workers.” He added, “New York New Jersey Rail remains committed in making sure that employee training and education on proper safety continues. The SIU members of NYNJR are thanked for the great safety work last year. Congratulations!” SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi said the award “definitely is welldeserved. The members at New York New Jersey Rail are totally committed to safety, as are both the union and the company. Safety is always the top priority for all of us.” The Jake Safety Award program began in 1995 and was created by and named for Lowell S. “Jake” Jacobson, a previous recipient of Railway Displaying the award in Jersey City, N.J., are Age Magazine’s Railsome of the personnel at NYNJR (from left): roader of the Year, to the Engineer Peter Valloo, General Manager James according Christie, Engineer Scott Toomey and Conductor ASLRRA. Jake started giving these Sam Evans. awards, out of his own pocket, to recognize outstanding safety achievements in the short line railroad industry, which had gone unrecognized before. In 1999, the ASLRRA Safety Committee adopted the Jake Awards and since then has continued Jacobson’s legacy of rewarding and drawing attention to the high safety standards of the small railroad industry. September 2009 In this file photo from 2008, mariners aboard the USNS Pathfinder prepare to launch a side-scanning sonar into the Black Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jenniffer Rivera) Oceanographic Ship Turnover Scheduled to Start in October As previously reported, SIU-contracted company 3PSC LLC has been selected to operate and maintain six oceanographic survey ships for the U.S. Military Sealift Command, which should help ensure continuity of employment for union members aboard those ships. The vessels include the USNS Bruce C. Heezen, USNS Pathfinder, USNS Bowditch, USNS Sumner, USNS John McDonnell and USNS Mary Sears. The government has picked up an option for a seventh ship, the USNS Henson. All are multi-purpose and perform different types of research which provide much of the U.S. military’s information on the ocean environment. The ships, which have carried SIU crews for many years, use multi-beam, wide-angle, precision sonar systems that make it possible to continuously chart a broad section of ocean floor. The terms of the new contract are one year fixed with four one-year options. The employment agreement calls for increases in wages and paid vacation time. According to 3PSC President and CEO Gary King, the ships will be turned over in October, November and December of this year, all before the holiday season in December. One major item of note for Seafarers desiring to continue working on the ships: The company is asking Seafarers to complete an employment application that can be done electronically or by mail for company data collection and clearance purposes. The application is available via the company’s web site: www.3PSC.com. “We’re asking anyone who wants to sail on these ships to raise their hands and let us know,” said King. He added, “We’re excited and pleased to work with SIU mariners on this contract. We think the terms will go a long way for retention efforts and in giving our customer, the U.S. government, the best service available. We anticipate there could be tons of jobs available over the course of the contract.” 3PSC is a Cape Canaveral, Fla.-based company. Seafarers LOG 5 �55751_P01_24x:January 08 8/28/2009 11:21 AM Page 6 UIW Forges Ahead During Challenging Times SIU-Affiliated Union Conducts Convention Despite America’s ongoing economic downturn and the adverse impact it has had on virtually every segment of the population, the UIW continues to weather the storm and move forward. This central message was echoed time and again Aug. 10-11 in Piney Point. Md., as officers, delegates and other rank-and-file members converged on the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education for the UIW’s 13th Quadrennial Convention. The convention’s theme was “Forging Ahead.” An affiliate of the Seafarers International Union, the UIW represents workers employed in the manufacturing, service and government sectors. Its members can be found in each major region of the United States as well as Central America and the U.S. Virgin Islands. In addition to formulating strategies to provide union representation to workers who are not currently members of labor organizations, convention delegates also reaffirmed their commitment to political action, outlined various other goals, adopted resolutions and elected officers. “Even though our 2009 convention takes place against the backdrop of an ongoing recession, those of us in the labor movement know how to survive difficult times,” said UIW/SIU President Michael Sacco during his opening remarks. “During the next two days, we’re going to hear reports from our regional officials and our other national officials. I think you will appreciate the fighting spirit and ‘can do’ attitude that’s evident in those reports.” Sacco, who during the convention was re-elected to his post as UIW president, noted that the UIW has made a number of gains since its last convention including the organizing of new shops, expansion of existing ones and the negotiation of a number of new contracts. “Without question, we’re not immune from the lousy economy, and we’ve taken our share of hits, too,” Sacco continued. “There have been cases where layoffs or plant closings were unavoidable. But we are weathering the storm.” Reflecting on the history of organized labor, Sacco told his audience that meeting and facing tough times are nothing new and that such a state of affairs are what led to the establishment trade unionism in the first place. “The first trade union in the United States was formed in the late 1700s. During the next dozen years, many more unions were formed,” he said. “The workers from that era weren’t negotiating for comprehensive health care or an extra week’s vacation. One of the first strikes was called in an attempt to secure a 10-hour workday. “Job safety was a fantasy,” he continued. “In those days, companies didn’t break strikes through the courtroom. They sent armed goons to the picket lines, where innocent workers were beaten, maimed and sometimes even killed.” Praising the fortitude of his union predecessors, Sacco noted, “Our forefathers in the union 6 Seafarers LOG movement didn’t give up. They were targeted by the police and ridiculed in newspapers, but they didn’t give up. As factories began springing up all over the nation during the 1800s, they faced 18hour workdays, child labor, actual starvation wages, illiteracy, slums, and recessions that almost make the year 2009 look like a picnic. Still, they didn’t give up.” Focusing on the present, Sacco said that the UIW knows how to survive. “The lessons of union history teach us that solidarity will overcome whatever obstacles are placed in our path,” he said. Dubbing the 2008 Presidential Election as an overwhelming success for labor, Sacco praised the rank-and file membership for its backing of candidates of who support working families. “The UIW answered the bell by stepping up and being part of a grassroots mobilization which absolutely, positively determined the outcome of the presidential election,” he said. “As a result, we’ve got a fighting chance to turn around our economy and to make important gains in the labor movement.” In the closing stages of his remarks, Sacco thanked union officials and rank-and-file members for everything they did during the past four years to advance not only the UIW but the labor movement as a whole. “I understand and appreciate the hard work and the long hours involved in whatever success we achieve, whether it’s organizing a new shop or negotiating a new contract or getting out the vote for the union-endorsed candidate,” he said. “Nothing comes easy and nothing is given to us. “At the same time, I challenge the officials – myself included – and the membership to offer up our very best efforts to support, sustain and grow our union,” he said. “No one denies that it’s an uphill fight at times. But no one should doubt our ability or our resolve, either.” Sacco told those in attendance that the UIW has a proven track record of long-term success; capable, dedicated people throughout the organization; and the support of an administration that views unions as part of the solution. “And we’ve got an opportunity to secure a better standard of living for our members and their families,” he concluded. Brothers and Sisters, we are ‘Forging Ahead.’” In addition to Sacco, several guest speakers addressed the convention. These included Maryland State Senator Roy Dyson; Maryland State Delegate John Bohanan; Fred Mason, president, Valerie Cole Union Plus Representative The election of officers was just one of many important orders of business accomplished Aug. 10-11 during the UIW’s 13th Quadrennial Convention in Piney Point, Md. Those elected to office during the balloting, all incumbents, were sworn in by SIU Chief Counsel Leslie Tarantola shortly before the convention adjourned. Taking their respective oaths of office (left to right) were David Heindel, secretary-treasurer; Herb Perez, VP West Coast Region; Bill Ellis, VP Great Lakes Region; Michael Sacco, president; Kermett Mangram, VP Atlantic Region; John Spadaro, national director; Tommy Orzechowski, VP Midwest Region; Dean Corgey, VP Gulf Coast Region and Eugene Irish, VP Caribbean Region. Maryland State and D.C. AFLCIO; Ernie Grecco, president, Metropolitan Baltimore AFLCIO; Frank Pecquex, executive secretary-treasurer, AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department; and Valerie Cole, Union Plus representative. Speeches also were delivered by Carolyn Gentile, UIW/SIU Employee Benefit Funds general counsel and Terry Turner, SIU legislative and political director. Collectively, the speakers offered accolades to the union for its achievements on behalf of working families and addressed issues of significant consequence to the labor movement and to the American public. These included health care and the Employee Free Choice Act. John Bohanan Maryland State Delegate Roy Dyson Maryland State Senator Frank Pecquex Executive Secretary-Treasurer AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Dept. Fred Mason President, Maryland State & D.C. AFL-CIO Ernie Grecco President, Metropolitan Baltimore AFL-CIO Carolyn Gentile UIW/SIU Employee Benefits Funds General Counsel Terry Turner SIU Legislative & Political Director September 2009 �55751_P01_24x:January 08 8/28/2009 11:21 AM Page 7 Crew Members Receive Expeditionary Medals The master of the Seafarers-crewed MV Patriot recently submitted these photos of SIU members receiving the U.S. Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal in Beaumont, Texas. Capt. Darren McGowan noted that the Patriot – operated by Interocean American Shipping for American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier – loaded 8,256 tons of military cargo (a record amount for that ship) in Kuwait from May 10-12. Exactly one month later, the cargo was discharged in Beaumont. McGowan said the operation “could not have been accomplished without the cooperation and coordination of the crew.” Billy Greer, the U.S. Maritime Administration’s supervisory marine surveyor in Beaumont, presented the medals. The Maritime Administration’s Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal recognizes civil service and commercial mariners who served aboard U.S.-flagged chartered or government-owned ships that support Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom. The medal, which was first authorized for American merchant seamen serving in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in the early 1990s, consists of a two-sided bronze medallion suspended from a red, white, blue and green ribbon. Note: McGowan is included in each of the posed shots appearing on this page. He is wearing a white shirt and a lanyard. Greer appears in all but one of these photos. Bosun Shannon Smith (left) also received a safety award, presented by Capt. McGowan. AB Dennis Avila SA Jose Rojas STOS Chris Funderburk STOS James Grant Chief Steward Shirley Bellamy OMU Archie Eldridge OMU Kevin Tyson OMU Therman Ames September 2009 Seafarers LOG 7 �55751_P01_24_2x:January 08 8/31/2009 9:38 PM Page 8 Honoring Brother Toomey’s Wishes Bobby Dean, former instructor and facilities manager of the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, tells students about the latest safety techniques. Paul Hall Center Instructor Bobby Dean Dies at Age 64 The SIU and thousands of students from the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education are mourning the July 24 passing of Robert “Bobby” Dean Jr., age 64. Dean, who battled cancer for many years, was an instructor and the facilities manager since 1999 for the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, part of the Paul Hall Center. “Bobby Dean was one of the most incredible people who ever worked at the school,” said Paul Hall Center Vice President Don Nolan, who has been employed at the training center since 1968. “He was unique and he certainly knew what he was doing. He did it well and he loved his work. He was just a great guy and this is a big, big loss.” Nolan added that Dean was meticulous when it came to helping ensure smooth operations at the fire fighting and safety school. “That place was his life,” Nolan said. “He made sure everything was perfect out there, and the students always benefited from his efforts.” According to John Mason, a friend of Dean, “Bobby Dean was instrumental in developing the Piney Point fire fighting school’s training aids and equipment. He helped set up the (affiliated) fire school in Hawaii, the Piney Point small arms training facility and the helicopter fire fighting training program. He built the helicopter training aids and the prac- tical exercises that went with them. This program was the first helicopter fire fighting system approved outside of the Military Sealift Command for the maritime commercial sector. His main concern was the safety of the students. He made sure that all of the equipment was safe and that every student had a chance to do all the fire fighting practical skills required in shipboard fire fighting. “More than 20,000 students went through the fire school while Bobby was there,” continued Mason. “Student course evaluation forms often mentioned Bobby’s name as a good instructor who cared about everyone knowing their fire fighting skills. Bobby told the students many times, ‘If you know your skills and take care of the fire fighting equipment it will take care of you in an emergency.’ He was always positive in his approach to work and life. The Seafarers he trained are better men and women because of Bobby Dean.” “Bobby always did everything better than you would expect,” said longtime friend and Paul Hall Center Safety Director Jimmy Hanson. “He always had everything ready to go 110 percent of the time. He always made sure everyone got the best he could give. We will all miss Bobby, but I will miss a lifelong friend and companion who could never be replaced.” Bobby Dean is survived by his wife Linda and three children. On June 25, the ashes of the late Seafarer John Toomey were scattered in the Chesapeake Bay between Calvert Cliffs, Md., and Solomons Island, in accordance with his wishes. A memorial ceremony took place aboard the SIU-crewed USNS Seay, as shown in these photos. Capt. Rich Malloy (second from left in both photos) conducted the ceremony – a fitting development since both John Toomey and his widow, former Seafarer Barbara Toomey, had sailed with Malloy aboard the Wright. The captain gave Barbara a framed chart showing the latitude and longitude where the ashes were committed, and also supplied a video of the ceremony. Brother Toomey passed away in 2008. He upgraded to third mate at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, and sailed in that capacity on his final ship, the Maersk Virginia. Paul Hall Center Course Spotlight The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, based in Piney Point, Md., offers a wide variety of vocational and academic courses. Classes are available to upgraders and entrylevel students. The following is a brief description of a course offered at the school, which opened in 1967. For a list of upcoming course dates, see page 21. tions. The emphasis is on typical workboat or barge repairs. Prerequisites are the general admission requirements. Welding Designed for the otherwise experienced workboat engineer with little or no practical welding skills, this 70-hour course provides the engineer with the welding skills necessary to accomplish basic temporary or emergency repairs while underway and assist in planned boat or barge maintenance. Topics include welding safety, oxyacetylene operations, and stick electrode arc welding. Welding proficiencies include welding positions, weld types and various applica- 8 Seafarers LOG September 2009 �55751_P01_24x:January 08 8/28/2009 11:21 AM Page 9 Family Shows Support at Graduation Union members meet in Baltimore to discuss health care reform and the Employee Free Choice Act. It’s a long way from Hawaii to Piney Point, Md., but that didn’t stop the family of Seafarer Nofoalii Aiaga (fourth from left) from attending graduation ceremonies last month at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Aiaga in midAugust graduated from the third phase of the unlicensed apprentice program. A ceremony took place at the southern Maryland campus. Joining him all the way from Hawaii to celebrate the achievement were (from left) Fatalupe Tavita (an aunt), Suva Aiaga (mom), Christina Aiaga (sister), Wray Schwenke (uncle), Tamara Haro (cousin) and Abbigail Timoteo (cousin). Mar it ime Br ie fs Agency Launches Online Tool For Credential Verification The U.S. Coast Guard recently announced the debut of a web-based tool designed to provide information on the validity of merchant mariner credentials (MMCs). It is available to individual mariners, employers and port state control officials. According to the agency, the mariner credential verification tool was created following Operation Big Tow, a marine safety operation focused on ensuring that uninspected towing vessels are being operated by properly licensed individuals. To access the tool, go to the following web address: http://homeport.uscg.mil/mmcv That page includes a drop-down menu offering different ways to get started in verifying the validity of an MMC (via, for instance, mariner reference number or last name, date of birth and last four digits of the mariner’s Social Security number). The Coast Guard noted that data released by this tool “is limited to what is contained on the actual credential.” Specific questions regarding a mariner credential may be directed via e-mail at IASKNMC@USCG.MIL / or by phone at 866-IASKNMC. Feedback regarding the tool itself may be submitted via the NMC website link: http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/contact_iasknmc.asp (select web site under the category drop-down menu). DOT Announces Final Rule On Return-to-Duty Testing The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has announced that the start date for mandatory direct observation for return-to-duty and follow-up testing is Aug. 31, 2009. The provision calling for direct observation was Seafarers Join Town Hall Meeting, Rally in Baltimore Hundreds of union members, including many Seafarers, gathered at a town hall meeting and rally July 27 in Baltimore supporting the Employee Free Choice Act and health care reform. The meeting was sponsored by the Metropolitan Baltimore Council of AFL- CIO unions. Participants had the opportunity to speak with two members of the U.S. House of Representative from Maryland – Rep. John Sarbanes and Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger – and with various union officials. Following are some photos from the event. U.S. Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-Md.) greets trainees from the Paul Hall Center. AFL-CIO health care reform expert Nick Unger (left) and U.S. Rep. John Sarbanes (D-Md.) were two of the speakers during the rally. opposed by organized labor and had been stayed by a federal court order in November 2008, but the stay was lifted in July. When announcing the final rule, the DOT noted, “Some employers and labor organizations may have entered into collective bargaining agreements that prohibit or limit the use of [direct observation] collections in return-to-duty and follow-up testing situations. When this final rule goes into effect, conducting all follow-up and return-to-duty testing using [direct observation] collections will be a requirement of Federal law.” New Medical Evaluation Forms Available on NMC Web Site The Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC) is releasing new versions of the forms CG-719 K (Merchant Mariner Credential Medical Evaluation Report) and CG-719 K/E (Merchant Mariner Evaluation of Fitness for Entry Level Ratings). The forms were expected to have been available on the NMC web site www.uscg.mil/nmc “for familiarization purposes” no later than Sept. 1 (after press time). Mariners may use the new forms beginning Oct. 1, 2009, though they may continue using the old ones through the end of this year. U.S. Coast Guard Capt. David Stalfort said the new forms are designed for use (by mariners and physicians) in conjunction with the Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular (NVIC) covering medical and physical evaluation guidelines for mariner credentials. The CG-719 K/E should be used only by mariners seeking an entry-level credential. This form is limited to applicants for the following rating endorsements: ordinary seaman, wiper, or steward department (food handler). The CG719K should be used for all other endorsement applications. President of the Metropolitan Baltimore AFL-CIO Ernie Grecco (seventh from left) meets with unlicensed apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center and with Port Agent Pat Vandegrift (fourth from left). Jacksonville-Area Members Back ‘Belated Thank You’ More than 70 SIU members at the Jacksonville, Fla., hall recently signed a letter urging support of the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act. Some of those members are shown in the accompanying photos, taken in early August. The legislation calls for compensation to World War II-era mariners or their surviving spouses. It passed in the House of Representatives earlier this year. The letter was coordinated by the St. Johns River Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV) and then was sent to U.S. Senator Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), asking for his backing. AB David McGrew, Recertified Bosun Barry Carrano AB Dale McKelvie September 2009 Recertified Bosun Thomas Vain Seafarers LOG 9 �55751_P01_24x:January 08 8/28/2009 11:21 AM Page 10 APPRENTICE EXCELS ABOARD TEXAS CITY – These snapshots of Unlicensed Apprentice Kelvin Fussell Jr. were submitted by “impressed shipmates” who commended the Phase II trainee’s work aboard OSG’s Overseas Texas City, a tanker. Among other accomplishments, according to his fellow mariners, Fussell recently completed deck department requirements including cleaning and inspecting the shipboard compactor along with other duties in accordance with the company’s waste management program. During off time, he periodically honed his basketball shooting skills on a portable hoop. SAILING ABOARD NEW TANKER – This summer, Seafarers welcomed the OSG-operated Overseas Nikiski into the union-contracted fleet. The new tanker is one in a series of Jones Act vessels being built at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. Pictured above during the Overseas Nikiski’s maiden voyage are (from left) Chief Cook Enrico LaMarca, SA Justo Flores and Recertified Steward Joe Emidy. At Sea And Ashore With the SIU DOCKING IN JACKSONVILLE – These photos were taken aboard the Horizon Trader when the vessel recently docked in Jacksonville, Fla. Some of the SIU crew aboard the Horizon Lines ship posed for the group photo while Recertified Steward Kevin Dougherty prepared breakfast. HAPPY RETIREMENT TO BROTHER GOLDY – SIU members recently wished a happy retirement to fellow Seafarer Tom Goldy, whose career with Crowley at Petty’s Island spanned more than 22 years. Seafarer Robert Weinhardt submitted these two photos (the one above shows the new retiree with SIU Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Baselice) and pointed out Goldy never missed a day of work due to injury. Weinhardt added, “Anyone who knows Tommy knows his passion for the caulk gun. He (photo at right) could completely rebuild an entire trailer if he had enough tubes of caulk.” KUDOS TO GALLEY GANG – The master of Matson’s Moku Pahu recently commended the work of Recertified Steward Tony Pizzuto and Chief Cook Dorthy Pizzuto, pictured here during a summer voyage. Capt. Anderson said the Seafarers “have done a fantastic job this trip…. The quality of the food has been superb the entire voyage and the storerooms always immaculate. They already enjoy a good reputation and it is richly deserved.” SALUTING 30 YEARS OF SERVICE – Seafarers and Crescent Towing officials recently honored Boatman Gerald Beuk, who is calling it a career after 30 years on the job. The deck-department Seafarer received a ship’s wheel during a gathering aboard the Crescent tug Alabama in Mobile, Ala. Pictured from left to right in the group photo above are SIU members Chris Walker, Beuk, Bo Tucker, SIU Port Agent Tony Elliott and Seafarer Mike Yarborough. Shown in the photo at right are Beuk (center) with Crescent officials Tadd Willcutt (left) and Tom Lambard. 10 Seafarers LOG September 2009 �55751_P01_24x:January 08 8/28/2009 11:21 AM Page 11 The crane ship Cornhusker State arrives at U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, on June 5. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Brian A. Goyak) Seafarers-Crewed Ships Assist in JLOTS USNS Seay, Cape May, Cornhusker State Sail for Military Exercise Three Seafarers-crewed vessels recently participated in the U.S. military’s most recent “joint logistics over the shore” or JLOTS exercise. The USNS Seay, Cape May and Cornhusker State played important roles in the operation, which took place from May to mid-July. This year’s JLOTS training involved practicing the delivery of materiel and humanitarian cargo from a vessel at sea to the shore without permanent port facilities. “For this year’s exercise at Camp Lejeune (N.C.), the Military Sealift Command large, medium-speed, rollon/roll-off ship USNS Seay carried more than 60,000 square feet of Army cargo, including containerized supplies, Humvees and other vehicles from Norfolk Naval Station to an anchorage two miles off of the coast of Camp Lejeune,” MSC reported. “The ship is usually kept in reduced operating status at a layberth in Baltimore, but with orders to activate, the ship was crewed and underway for the exercise. Seay’s civilian mariners offloaded and re-loaded cargo from the ship for the Camp Lejeune exercise June 14-19.” The agency noted that the Seafarers and other mariners aboard the Seay worked side-by-side with Navy and Army personnel “to ensure a safe offload of the cargo.” “I monitor the speed of vehicles driving off of the ship and make sure that everyone is operating safely,” AB Samantha Murphy-Ortiz told MSC. Capt. Richard Malloy, the ship’s master, stated, “I have a very experienced crew. We’ve been out here working nonstop with the Navy and Army to ensure that we are able to conduct the whole evolution safely.” MSC further noted that the heavy lift vessel Cape May delivered most of the equipment needed to construct the floating and fixed platforms used in the exercise. The U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) “ordered the activation of the ship, which is ordinarily pierside in reduced operating status as part of the Maritime Administration’s Ready Reserve Force. The ship comes under MSC’s September 2009 operational control when activated…” A second RRF asset, the crane ship Cornhusker State, was activated to deliver cargo for the JLOTS component at Guantanamo Bay, including items needed to construct a temporary fixed pier and some Army rolling stock offloaded as part of the exercise. “JLOTS is an important exercise because U.S. armed forces may be required to deliver disaster relief or humanitarian assistance to a port that has been damaged,” said JLOTS Task Force Commander Army Col. Chuck Maskell. “With this capability we can still bring the cargo into distressed areas.” The LMSR USNS Seay conducts operations supporting military exercises at Camp Lejeune, N.C. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John Stratton) In this mid-June photo taken at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba (above left), the Seafarerscrewed Cornhusker State lifts cargo from its deck for use in JLOTS 09 (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Meranda L. Keller). In photo at above right, Mariners and military personnel team up as materiel is moved from the Cornhusker State to the deck of the U.S. Army landing ship USAV Aldie at Guantanamo Bay. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Brian A. Goyak) A sailor from the Navy’s Beachmaster Unit Two signals from shore to the Improved Navy Lighterage System (INLS) causeway ferry June 18 at Camp Lejeune’s Onslow Beach. The Seafarers-crewed USNS Seay is on the horizon. (U.S. Army photo by Michael Petersen) The Cape May played a key role in this year’s JLOTS exercise. Seafarers LOG 11 �55751_P01_24_2x:January 08 8/31/2009 9:47 PM Page 12 STOS Brandon G Force’s voya its way down th New Training At SIU-Affili A momentous signpost was realized recently by the SIU-a Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) with the a training vessel, the G Force. The vessel, a 66-foot Custom Trawler Tug, tied up at the p Point, Md.-based facility July 28 following a four-day voyage Everglades, Fla. Crewed by Great Lakes Capt. Mel Stackpoo Apprentices Chuck Murphy and Brandon Braam, the G Fo fanfare of a large contingent of school officials, staff and trai vessel during her voyage was PHC Safety Director Jimmy Ha The G Force will replace the Osprey, the wooden-hulled b as the school’s training vessel for nearly 20 years. Her arrival launched by union and school officials more than one year ag upgrade the quality of the institution’s training vessel. “It took a long time to get the agreement done for the scho SIU President Michael Sacco told rank-and-file members dur August membership meeting at Piney Point. “A lot of work a negotiations were involved, but everything finally fell into pl and we are all proud because it’s one really fine training vess PHC Vice President Don Nolan echoed the view voiced by noting, “We’ve needed to upgrade our capability in this area vessel meets our needs in a number of ways and we’re deligh aboard.” The officials, instructors and staff of the Paul Hall Center trustees recognize and thank the following SIU-contracted co labor-friendly organizations that provided financial support in sition effort. These included: Alaska Tanker Company, Ameri Marine, American Roll On/Roll Off Carrier, American Shippi Crowley Maritime Corporation, Horizon Lines, International Corporation, Maersk Line Limited, OSG America, Pacific Gu Chas. Kurz & Co., Inc. (on behalf of Phil Fisher from Keysto Foundation. A steel-hulled vessel, the G Force has a beam of 20 feet, s maximum draft of five feet. She is equipped with two 450 ho Caterpillar engines which can reach a top speed of 10.5 knots fly-bridge with an enclosed pilothouse which is equipped wit The docks at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education were a flurry of activity July 28 when the school’s new training vessel, the G Force arrived. Clockwise from directly above, Paul Hall Center Vice President Don Nolan greets Capt. Mel Stackpoole shortly after he completed the voyage from Florida. The G Force looks “right at home” in its new spot in the school’s docks near the TRC Hotel. A state of the art bridge, two 450 horsepower 3406 Caterpillar engines and a well-equipped galley are a few of the new vessel’s amenities. Specially Trained Ordinary Seamen Chuck Murphy (right Brandon Braam disembark from the G Force shortly afte in Piney Point, Md. In photo at above right, Capt. Mel Sta with PHC Vice President Don Nolan (center) and PHC J.C. Wiegman aboard the vessel. SIU President Michael at immediate right) joins Nolan and Capt. Jack Russell go bay aboard the new training vessel. 12 Seafarers LOG September 2009 �55751_P01_24_2x:January 08 8/31/2009 9:47 PM Page 13 andon Braam (left in photo at far left) chats with Paul Hall Center Safety Director Jimmy Hanson during the voyage to Piney Point. The vessel nears the docks in Piney Point (photo at immediate left) after making wn the bay to Piney Point. ng Vessel Makes Debut liated Paul Hall Center SIU-affiliated Paul Hall h the acquisition of its new t the pier of the Piney oyage from Port ckpoole, and Phase III G Force arrived to the d trainees. Also aboard the my Hanson. lled boat that has served arrival culminated a search ear ago for a platform to e school to get this ship,” rs during the union’s work and some tough nto place. Now she is ours g vessel.” ced by President Sacco, area for a long time. This delighted to have it components including: Raymarine E80, Raymarine GPS sensor RS125, Furuno GPS GP32 Navigation Station, Simrad auto pilot AP35, Commercial air controls, Raymarine digital sounder and much more. G Force has three staterooms, can sleep six and has three bathrooms. Its galley is equipped with all new appliances including a chest freezer, refrigerator, icemaker and microwave. Several 26-inch flat screen LCD televisions adorn the galley and staterooms. The G Force should be fully on-line for integration into the school’s training program in the next 90 days, according to PHC Director of Training J.C. Wiegman. Prior to being used as a teaching vessel, she must first undergo a rigorous certification process by the U.S. Coast Guard, Wiegman said, but after that “we’ll have a go” on all systems. “This vessel is a long-awaited and welcomed addition to our training program,” Wiegman continued. “Our previous training vessel (the Osprey) had reached the end of its service life. “The G Force is a giant step forward for us,” Wiegman concluded. “Its modern equipment and systems will add significantly to our capability to instruct trainees in all three shipboard departments.” The vessel will be renamed during a ceremony later this year. enter along with the ed companies and other port in the G Force acquiAmerican Overseas Shipping Group/TOTE, ional Shipholding fic Gulf Marine, Sealift, Keystone) and TK feet, six inches with a 50 horsepower 3406 knots. The vessel boasts a d with a myriad of new right in photo above) and y after the vessel docked el Stackpoole (left) chats PHC DIrector of Training hael Sacco (left in photo ell go for a cruise on the September 2009 STOS Chuck Murphy poses on the bridge of the G-Force. Murphy helped rescue three distressed mariners during the vessel’s voyage to Piney Point, Md., from Port Everglades, Fla. Trainee Learns Value of Being Observant While Standing Watch and proving them with information as The keen eye of a Phase III trainee needed. “The helicopter pilot called and from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center thanked us for having our lights on,” for Maritime Training and Education in Murphy said. “They (the G-Force’s lights) Piney Point, Md., complemented by the were the only point of reference that the professionalism of his vessel captain pilot had in the dark marina.” recently warded off potential disaster for Murphy said the G-Force also received three distressed sailors. calls from the captain of the USCG rescue During the late evening hours of July ship which had been deployed as well as 25 while standing watch on his docked the area Coast Guard Commanding vessel, STOS Chuck Murphy learned Officer. “The rescue ship’s captain firsthand the importance of being obserthanked us for saving them a long trip and vant and wide awake while on duty. the commanding officer contacted us to Murphy, while standing watch aboard the find out who we were,” Murphy said. “I G Force in a marina situated along the informed him that we were a merchant coastal waterway on the Alligator River in marine training vessel for the SIU in North Carolina, detected a vessel—a 34Piney Point, Md., making our way up the foot Sea Ray—underway and moving preintercoastal. They all were impressed with cariously close to the rock-strewn shoreour captain’s quick and professional line leading to the marina. actions and offered praise.” “At 23:20, I noticed a vessel close to The following morning, the owner of the rocky shoreline and clearly in danger the rescued vessel came aboard the G of running aground hard,” Murphy said. Force. “Over breakfast, Captain “There were three young men aboard and Stackpoole explained to him that we they could not find the channel markers to would do an inspection of his vessel, help the entrance of the marina.” him fuel up,” Murphy said. “The captain As the situation unfolded, Murphy said also told him that we’d guide him to his one of the young men jumped overboard destination which happened to be along and began to make his way ashore. “At our course. Since he had no radio aboard this point, I woke up Capt. Mel his vessel, Captain Stackpoole also proStackpoole and he took the situation in vided him with a hand-held radio so we hand. The captain turned on our navigacould maintain communications.” tion lights to guide the ship into the Later that morning (July 26) the Gentrance. I verbally directed the young Force got underway and resumed its voyman who had jumped overboard ashore age towards Piney Point with the rescued while Captain Stackpoole safely guided vessel and its owner following closely the vessel into a slip at the marina.” behind. Murphy said the small vessel By the time the vessel was safely in the marina, Murphy said one of its passen- reached its destination without further incident. Along the way, Murphy reflected gers already had dialed 911 and a search back over the events that took place durand rescue helicopter from the U.S. Coast ing the previous 24 hours. Guard (USCG) was dispatched to the “There is no doubt in my mind that scene. A USCG vessel also had been Captain Stackpoole saved those young launched from the nearest station. men from serious danger,” Murphy said. “As the helicopter circled the area in a “Of equal significance, the G Force’s tight pattern, Captain Stackpoole establights guided them to safety and the Coast lished radio contact with the Coast Guard helicopter to the Guard,” Murphy scene.” recalled. “He asked Up until the time of them to call off their the rescue, Murphy said search, stating that we he always thought that already had all passenstanding watch was gers accounted for and only necessary for the the vessel safely physical safety and docked. security of the vessel he “Captain was on. But now that Stackpoole calmed the line of thinking has vessel owner (the completely changed. young man who had “I really learned a jumped overboard) down and formulated a STOS Chuck Murphy (right) serious lesson on the plan of action for first laughs it up with one of the young importance of being light,” Murphy contin- men he helped rescue along the observant on watch; not ued. “He then told the Alligator River in North Carolina. only for the safety of my ship but also for the young man to get some safety of anyone else in the area who rest. The two other passengers from the vessel left the marina and went about their might need your assistance,” he concluded. “Being on watch is a responsibility respective ways.” and being able to help someone in their Murphy then resumed his watch while time of need is a privilege.” staying in contact with the Coast Guard Seafarers LOG 13 �55751_P01_24x:January 08 8/28/2009 11:22 AM Page 14 Modern Saga Triggers Shipboard Memories Retiree Legere Recalls Difficult 1946 Voyage Aboard Liberty Ship Editor’s note: The following story and accompanying photos were submitted by retiree Joseph R. Legere, who sailed with both the NMU and SIU beginning in the mid-1940s. Brother Legere also shared some of his shipboard memories in an article that was published in the May 2008 edition of the Seafarers LOG. These are his recently written memories of a voyage that took place 63 years ago, so any mistakes in the details need not be brought to his attention. A few months ago, I followed the news about the Maersk Alabama and was glad to see the situation ended right for our mariners and ship. I sailed no more after May 1953 and was kind of in awe at how much a merchant crew had “downsized” since then. Enclosed is a photo of one Liberty ship I sailed on from June to August of 1946: the SS Newton D. Baker. We had a crew of 36 from the captain on down and were sailing two men short (one ordinary seaman and one wiper). The Liberty was a smaller ship than the Maersk Alabama by about 68 feet and 25 feet less at beam (and tonnage displacement about 2,755 less). Of the 10 ships I sailed on, this was the only one for which I recorded crew names, and this was the only trip I made on it. Enclosed also is a copy of ship’s discharge and a photo of me and the one wiper. I’m the skinny guy – just turned 18 two days before signing on the ship. I also had registered for the draft in Baltimore. The SS Newton D. Baker was my fifth ship sailing as fireman/watertender or oiler (mostly fireman/watertender). Starting Sept. 15, 1944 in a maritime school in St. Petersburg, Fla., I was sailing through NMU halls the first six ships. The seventh through 10th ships I was with the SIU. Between the sixth and seventh ships I came ashore and worked for Florida Power and Light Co. in south Florida for a few years, in their steam electric power stations. But, back to the Liberty ship. We loaded a full load of coal for Aarhus, Denmark. A Dane took the photo of our ship in port, then came aboard and sold the photos to us. The SS Baker was operated by Luckenbach Steamship Co. Our trip over went well – we had to stop at the Orkney Islands to get a chart on areas of the North Sea that were cleared of mines. We then went to Denmark. I guess it was the next day or so, I was the fireman/watertender on the 4-to-8 watch. It was just after 7 a.m. and I was looking forward to eggs, potatoes, toast and coffee. Suddenly, I smelled smoke. At first, I thought it could be galley smoke, but it didn’t smell like coal smoke. (All Liberty ships came out The Liberty ship SS Newton D. Baker unloads coal in Aarhus, Denmark, in July 1946. of the yards with coal-burning cook stoves.) It turned out that the smoke wasn’t coming from the galley but instead from the back end of that triple expansion steam engine! I yelled for the first engineer – my watch engineer. He came from port side, the boiler feed pump and main circulation pump area. He grabbed the throttle valve to the main engine and slowed it to dead slow. I had to cut out fires in both engines, save one in each. After doing this, I looked closer and saw the smoke was coming from the L.P. crosshead bearing. As the engine kept moving (slowly going up and down), the chief engineer came down and called up to the captain, informing him we had to stop the engine to fix it – and that it could be done at sea. Keep in mind we were in the North Sea going with wind and current among possible floating mines, with 10,000 tons of coal aboard. The captain put out “extra eyes” to scan the choppy sea for mines. I had no idea what could be done if any were spotted; the Navy already had taken the guns off. The captain may have had an Army .45 caliber pistol. Fortunately, there was not any of that kind of excitement. A lot of action took place in the engine room, though. Before stopping the main engine, the auxiliary steam condenser had to be put in service along with all auxiliary steam operating pumps and steam engine drive generators. The exhaust steam from this equipment had to be switched over to auxiliary steam condenser and out of the main condenser. The main engine jacking gear was engaged so the L.P. crosshead came up to a position where men could get wrenches on nuts to dismantle the bearing. The bearing in question was the L.P. crosshead inboard bearing. The cause? Back during the war, rags were hard to come Legere (right in photo at right) and Wiper Robert Metcalf are pictured aboard the vessel. Legere was 18 years old and Metcalf 17. Retiree Legere kept his discharge (photo above) from a 1946 voyage that included many challenges. by, so textile companies pressed up in bundles floor sweepings called “waste.” These were used on ships as rags. In the engine room, we would tear a hunk of this stuff off the bundle to wipe oil off of our hands, but it wasn’t like a rag. This stuff would come apart and fall away in pieces. A chunk of it was found in the bottom of an oil cup plugging up oil flow to that LP inboard bearing. We were very lucky it didn’t fall into the oil cup to the inboard L.P. crank pin bearing. Chief Engineer Lewis M. Free and his engineers made that repair in about five hours. We made Aarhus okay, but unloading the coal took some time. It came aboard by conveyor belts in Baltimore. Now, it was unloaded by a single bucket crane on dockside rails, one hold at a time. This was a nice sea port – pretty country, clean, and the people were very nice and friendly. The ship came home with no payload but all the while, we burned 30 tons a day of fuel. About two days’ travel time west of England, an auxiliary steam line from the port boiler blew out a gasket at a flanged joint on the bulkhead, forward side of the port boiler at catwalk level, just above the floor plates. Chief Free told the captain it had to be fixed – this line fed the engine’s running DC generators. He told the captain we could return to port in England and lose that sea time (by running back) or let him and his engineers repair the line at sea. He said they could repair it, but we would be dead in the water with no generators (no lights). The captain gave the go-ahead to kill the plant. The next morning the engine was shut down and all auxiliary pumps and generators secured. The boilers were secured and bottled up with a full head of steam. The weather was fantastic for the North Atlantic – much better than our North Sea shutdown. Liberty ships had no diesel engine generators, so work was done by flashlight. Chief Free had prepared a fired-up blacksmith forge that was in the tool locker, using coal from the cook’s coal bin, and had it down in the fire room floor plates. When the bolts were removed from the flanged joint, the line sprung apart several inches. He took out a length of this pipe and down to the floor plates where the forge was. He heated it until he could bend it and put an offset bend in the pipe so that faces of flanges came together more “true,” installed new gaskets and bolted together the flanged joints. He opened the steam stop valves on the boilers and brought the engine room back to life. We were under way again before lunch. And that was my one trip aboard the SS Newton D. Baker. Needless to say, I thought she should have been called Jonah. At least she brought me back to Baltimore, my “home” port even though I lived in West Palm Beach, Fla. Shipping was very good back in Baltimore in 1945, 1946 and 1947. By 1952-53 shipping had slowed a bit and crews had shortened some. There was talk of cutting the stewarddepartment crew. Now, more people must be doing other jobs in “dual hat” positions. American Merchant Marine Veterans Provide History Lesson To Students Mark Gleeson and Walt Luikart of the American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV) earlier this year talked to a group of juniors majoring in history at Westminster College in New Wilmington, Pa. (roughly 50 miles north of Pittsburgh). They discussed different aspects of the U.S. Merchant Marine and American shipbuilding in World War II. The students are pictured at right. Westminster College was one of the schools after which the World War II-era Victory ships were named – and Luikart was a member of the first crew of the Westminster Victory. The campus includes a veterans’ monument that mentions the U.S. Merchant Marine. Gleeson noted that he gave each student a “Battlin’ Pete” patch (the service patch of the U.S. Merchant Marine, created by Walt Disney Studios in 1944) and a monkey’s fist key chain (made by Hilary Makowski, head of the Pittsburgh chapter of the Armed Guard). 14 Seafarers LOG September 2009 �55751_P01_24x:January 08 8/28/2009 11:22 AM Page 15 Online Courses Available SIU members now have educational opportunities through the Internet. Eligible members of the SIU may now take courses online by registering with the Paul Hall Center Admissions Department as they would for classes on the Paul Hall Center campus. Once Seafarers have been accepted by Admissions, they will be directed to Dale Rausch in the Academic Department. Dale is the administrator of Seafarers Blackboard, the distance learning component for the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The following formal online courses are available: ■ 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 Eligible SIU members also have the opportunity to enroll in preparatory and refresher training online prior to coming to the Paul Hall Center. These programs allow students to brush up on their math skills and vocational vocabulary before enrolling in the more challenging resident upgrading classes. Two of these programs, Basic Culinary Skills and Chief Cook Preparation, will be very useful to Galley Ops and Chief Cook students as they study for final exams in their respective resident courses. The following prep training is available: ■ Basic Math Refresher ■ Intermediate Math Refresher ■ Marine Engineering Mathematics Preparation ■ Introduction to Navigational Math ■ Basic Culinary Skills ■ Chief Cook Preparation Students, who are currently enrolled in resident classes at the Paul Hall Center, are encouraged to enroll in Seafarers Blackboard courses. Residential students should notify the Admissions Department of their interest in Seafarers Blackboard and confirm their eligibility. An application for these courses is available on Page 21. Correction On page 19 of the August LOG, the name of QMED Louis Gracia was misspelled. October & November 2009 Membership Meetings Piney Point..........................Monday: October 5, November 2 Algonac ..................................Friday: October 9, November 6 Baltimore............................Thursday: October 8, November 5 Guam...............................Thursday: October 22, November 19 Honolulu...............................Friday: October 16, November 13 Houston...............Tuesday, October 13*, Monday, November 9 Jacksonville.........................Thursday: October 8, November 5 Joliet................................Thursday: October 15, November 12 Mobile........Wednesday: October 14, Thursday, November 12* New Orleans..........................Tuesday: October 13, November 10 New York..............................Tuesday: October 6, November 3 Norfolk............................. .Thursday: October 8, November 5 Oakland ...........................Thursday: October 15, November 12 Philadelphia......................Wednesday: October 7, November 4 Port Everglades ...............Thursday: October 15, November 12 San Juan ..............................Thursday: October 8, November 5 St. Louis ...............................Friday: October 16, November 13 Tacoma.................................Friday: October 23, November 20 Wilmington...........................Monday: October 19, November 16 *Houston change created by Columbus Day holiday Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea July 16, 2009 - August 15, 2009 Total Registered 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 Seattle 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 Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 16 2 6 16 3 16 50 42 3 15 16 41 27 24 5 0 7 37 2 30 358 13 7 8 8 5 2 27 26 4 5 10 22 27 17 10 4 9 20 6 15 245 2 0 1 2 0 0 4 5 2 1 3 8 8 1 1 7 1 5 0 1 52 1 0 6 12 1 6 12 15 1 9 4 23 14 10 4 0 5 20 3 15 161 2 2 4 8 2 2 21 21 3 1 3 14 21 4 5 4 5 20 1 13 156 2 0 0 1 0 2 1 1 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 12 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 2 0 3 10 1 13 28 13 1 10 6 32 9 16 6 4 2 21 1 29 207 3 0 2 7 3 2 8 7 0 3 1 9 14 3 1 0 0 7 2 6 78 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 5 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 2 0 2 0 0 3 5 0 2 0 1 4 1 3 0 1 1 4 0 5 34 11 1 6 12 0 6 25 14 4 5 5 28 26 14 1 6 2 14 2 11 193 5 0 0 5 1 7 5 15 0 6 5 7 15 9 4 21 0 1 0 6 112 760 672 181 Total Shipped Class A Class B Class C Deck Department 15 5 0 0 4 0 3 2 1 9 10 1 0 4 0 5 1 0 36 26 2 33 24 2 3 5 1 8 6 0 19 3 1 29 10 2 18 7 1 22 12 0 8 2 0 0 5 1 1 5 0 33 15 0 2 3 0 19 13 4 263 162 16 Engine Department 2 2 2 0 0 0 6 2 0 6 6 0 0 0 0 7 3 0 17 8 0 25 13 0 1 1 0 2 3 0 6 2 0 12 6 1 11 15 0 9 3 0 3 3 0 2 1 0 1 4 0 8 9 0 1 2 0 14 7 0 133 90 3 Steward Department 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 9 3 0 1 0 0 7 3 0 19 6 0 16 5 0 0 2 0 5 1 0 10 1 0 17 8 0 7 7 0 14 3 1 2 0 0 2 0 0 2 0 0 15 5 0 0 1 0 16 1 1 142 48 2 Entry Department 2 5 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 5 2 0 0 0 2 5 0 1 10 1 3 14 1 1 4 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 3 12 2 1 13 2 2 9 2 0 1 1 0 4 25 0 1 0 2 8 0 0 0 0 5 8 1 23 104 37 Trip Reliefs Registered On Beach Class A Class B Class C 3 0 1 8 0 3 24 19 0 3 4 17 5 14 3 1 2 19 0 9 135 24 3 8 27 4 20 94 70 3 27 31 85 45 46 9 1 15 66 1 50 629 18 8 9 17 6 11 54 39 8 11 15 42 53 29 15 3 16 48 10 50 462 5 0 0 10 1 0 6 8 3 1 4 16 19 3 1 8 2 8 1 14 110 0 0 2 2 0 1 7 12 0 1 2 10 6 7 3 1 4 11 0 10 79 4 0 3 18 2 14 46 40 1 16 10 35 14 19 4 0 11 25 3 25 290 3 3 5 12 5 6 35 30 2 11 4 31 41 17 6 4 5 28 1 20 269 1 0 0 2 0 2 2 4 2 1 0 6 3 3 0 0 0 1 1 3 31 0 0 0 5 0 1 5 6 0 1 1 5 3 5 1 1 1 8 0 10 53 2 0 5 13 3 18 58 27 3 10 6 44 20 35 6 5 2 25 2 70 354 5 1 2 12 4 8 17 8 0 5 1 12 24 11 0 1 2 11 2 8 134 0 0 0 0 2 2 1 1 1 0 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 1 1 7 20 4 0 0 1 0 0 2 2 0 0 1 0 1 2 0 1 1 2 0 0 17 2 0 1 0 0 12 9 4 1 1 3 14 1 7 0 1 1 9 0 5 71 21 3 6 16 2 13 58 40 4 9 6 73 33 31 2 4 2 33 2 32 390 10 1 5 13 2 9 19 25 0 9 8 13 26 21 2 18 1 3 1 25 211 284 1,344 1,255 * Mobile change created by Veterans Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. September 2009 TOTALS ALL DEPARTMENTS 561 404 58 372 Seafarers LOG 15 �55751_P01_24_2x:January 08 8/31/2009 9:51 PM Page 16 Inquir ing Seaf arer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 Editor’s Note: This month’s Inquiring Seafarer question was asked to Seafarers in Piney Point, Md., and Houston. Question: What are some of the things you enjoy about your profession? Rick James, Recertified Bosun (Piney Point) My favorite aspect of sailing is the ability to go to different places around the world and meeting different people. Getting a new perspective about cultures and customs from around the world. AB Marie Acosta, AB (Piney Point) I started as a Seafarer for NCL America and joined the SIU early in the year 2005. The freedom I have, the instruction I’ve been receiving from (the SIU-affiliated) Paul Hall Center, and the people I work with are the greatest. Your pocket may be full, but I have the gold in my pocket working in paradise: Hawaii. Felix Garcia, AB (Piney Point) Being a Seafarer has been a gateway for a series of life-changing experiences. Aside from the obvious reasons we obtain a job, being a Seafarer has given me the blessing of seeing things many people never get to see in their lifetimes. In the process, I’ve met an assortment of great individuals, not just at sea but at some of the destinations we visit. Kenric Henry, AB (Houston) I like being on the ship but I enjoy the job as a whole. I also like being off, having vacation at different times. I’ve never had a problem on the ships and I’ve learned a lot from different bosuns. There may be other opportunities that are nonunion, but I don’t want to have anything to do with them…. Eventually I want to move up and get a license. I’ve been to Piney Point five or six times, and every time I go there, I like it even more. Kenneth Benton, STOS (Piney Point) I like the sense of pride that it gives me, being in the U.S. Merchant Marine, and the financial stability that it gives me. And the travel, of course. Dannal Williams, OS (Piney Point) I like to travel and I enjoy working amongst people, being part of a team effort. I like the money but I also believe our work is important. Terry Fowler, Chief Cook (Houston) I like the travel. They are right in saying, ‘Become a Seafarer and see the world.’ I really enjoy going to places such as Saipan and the Philippines and doing a little beachcombing. I like being at sea and seeing other ships, but it’s really relaxing and laid back to sit on a beach and see them on the horizon. In the Philippines, I got engaged to a very committed woman who understands my life as a Seafarer and my commitment to going to sea. Pics-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 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 Former Seafarer Leland Crawford submitted these photos of training vessels and other waterfront sites at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., as they appeared in 1974. That’s the year Crawford graduated from the trainee program. “I still have the certificate from the school as well as from the fire fighting terminal in New Jersey (where students in those days travelled for fire fighting training),” he wrote. “My memories are with Pier 45, living on the Dauntless and going to classes. My first job was on an oil tanker out of Port Arthur, Texas. I remember hanging off the port side of a ship, as green as can be, but they’re still very fond memories. In return, I have sent these photos from the past. I hope the other readers enjoy them like I have enjoyed them.” 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 September 2009 �55751_P01_24_2x:January 08 8/31/2009 9:52 PM Page 17 Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. Welcome Ashore DEEP SEA RAMLI SULAIMAN Brother Ramli Sulaiman, 69, became an SIU member in 1991. His earliest trip to sea was aboard the Horizon Hawaii. Brother Sulaiman attended the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md., on numerous occasions. His most recent voyage was on the Alliance Norfolk, were he sailed as a member of the engine department. Brother Sulaiman was born in Indonesia but calls New York home. EDDY USMANY Brother Eddy Usmany, 69, joined the union in 1986 while in the port of New York. He initially sailed aboard the USNS Bowditch. Brother Usmany often attended classes at the Seafarersaffiliated school in Maryland. Brother Usmany, a native of Indonesia, shipped in the steward department. He was last employed with Marine Personnel & Provisioning Inc. Brother Usmany lives in Palm Coast, Fla. FARID ZAHARAN Brother Farid Zaharan, 66, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1970 while in the port of New Orleans. His first voyage was on a Michigan Tankers vessel. Brother Zaharan, who sailed in both the steward and engine departments, was born in Afghanistan. He frequently took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Zaharan’s final ship was the ITB Philadelphia. He resides in Terrytown, La. INLAND FRANK LYONS, JR. Brother Frank Lyons, Jr., 62, signed on with the SIU in 1996 in the port of Philadelphia. The Pennsylvania native shipped in the deck department. Brother Lyons sailed with Crowley Liner Services for the duration of his career. He is a resident of Willingboro, N.J. NAD MIYASATO Brother Nad Miyasato, 58, was born in Honolulu. He began sailing with the union 1980. Brother Miyasato primarily worked in the steward department aboard vessels operated by Allied Transportation Company. He September 2009 upgraded his skills on two occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Miyasato settled in Grandy, N.C. RICHARD ROBINSON Brother Richard Robinson, 62, joined the SIU ranks in 1971 while in the port of Norfolk, Va. He origainally shipped on a vessel operated by Gulf Atlantic Transportation Corporation. Brother Robinson is a Kentucky native. He attended classes often at the union-affiliated school. Brother Robinson most recently worked with OSG Ship Management. He makes his home in Chesapeake, Va. WILLIAM THOM Brother William Thom, 62, became a union member in 1970. He initially was employed with Brooklyn Eastern District Terminal. Brother Thom worked in both the inland and deep sea divisions. In 2000, he visited the Piney Point school to enhance his seafaring abilities. Brother Thom was a member of the deck department. His last ship was the USNS Potomac. Brother Thom lives in Brooklyn, N.Y. PAUL TYSON Brother Paul Tyson, 78, donned the SIU colors in 1988. His first vessel was the USNS Stalwart. Brother Tyson sailed in the engine department. He upgraded his skills frequently at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Tyson’s final trip was with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville, Fla. He calls Orange Park, Fla., home. JOE WILSON Brother Joe Wilson, 64, started sailing with the union in 1979 from the port of Wilmington, Calif. He originally sailed aboard the Santa Mercedes. Brother Wilson was born in South Carolina. His most recent trip was on a Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington vessel. Brother Wilson, who sailed in the deck department, is a resident of Moreno Valley, Calif. JOHN ZELLER, JR. Brother John Zeller, Jr., 62, signed on with the SIU in 1973 while in the port of Baltimore. He first worked with Charles H. Harper & Associates. Brother Zeller, who sailed in the deck department, was born in Maryland. He was last employed aboard a Moran Towing of Maryland vessel. Brother Zeller continues to live in his native state. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION RAMON ALVAREZ Brother Ramon Alvarez, 65, joined the NMU in 1966 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Flying Cloud; his last the Export Patriot. Brother Alvarez, who sailed in the deck department, was born in Puerto Rico. He resides in Philadelphia. ALONZO HOPKINS Brother Alonzo Hopkins, 67, became an NMU member in 1973. He initially sailed from Corpus Christi, Texas. His first voyage was aboard the Tyconroga. Brother Hopkins was born in San Jose, Calif., and sailed in the steward department. His final trip was on the Alaska. Brother Hopkins makes his home in Las Vegas. MICHAEL LEE Brother Michael Lee, 67, was born in New York. He began sailing with the union in 1989 while in the port of Seattle. Brother Lee, who sailed in the deck department, initially was employed aboard the Texaco Florida. He most recently sailed on the Prince William Sound. Brother Lee settled in Bremerton, Wash. LAWRENCE MEERS Brother Lawrence Meers, 65, donned the NMU colors in 1980 while in San Pedro, Calif. The deck department member’s first trip was aboard the Coronado. His last voyage was on the Thompson Lykes. Brother Meers continues to live in his native state of New York. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG 1940 After a strike of more than 14 months, the SIU signed a closed-shop contract with Peninsula and Occidental Steamship Company. Ninety percent of the 300 men in this fleet certified the SIU as their sole bargaining agent. In addition to all the other provisions of the contract, the company agreed to reinstate the SIU men with cash pay for all the time lost since September 1939. 1956 A vigorous SIU protest on proposals to use foreign-flag tankers in the domestic trades has drawn a prompt denial from the M a r i t i m e Administration of any such intention. However, Maritime Administrator Clarence Morse left the door open to such an operation in the case of a “critical tanker situation.” Instead of considering an invasion of the domestic trades, the SIU demanded that runaway-flag tankers be brought back under the American flag if necessary to fill domestic tanker needs. CHARLES PALMER Brother Charles Palmer, 65, joined the NMU in 1968 in the port of New Orleans. He was born in Nicaragua. Brother Palmer originally shipped aboard the Gulf King. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Palmer is a resident of New Orleans. ANDRES` RAMIREZ Brother Andres` Ramirez, 70, started sailing with the union in 1966 from the port of New York. His earliest trip to sea was on the Independence. Brother Ramirez was born in the Dominican Republic. The steward department member was last employed aboard the Maersk Montana. Brother Ramirez resides in Newark, Del. ammunition bound for South Vietnam. While proceeding up the Saigon River, the Buckeye Victory was attacked by Viet Cong rocket and machine gun fire. During this first brush with the enemy, the vessel managed to maneuver out of harm’s way, received no hits and continued on its course. Less than an hour later, however, she came under another barrage of machine gun and rocket fire. This time the enemy’s aim was better. Between 30 and 40 machine gun bullets ripped into the superstructure of the vessel and two rockets found their target. One hit on the port side near the bow. The other went through the No. 2 hatch, starting a fire in the hold where 105mm howitzer shells and other munitions were stored. With complete disregard for their own safety, ABs James Thomas and Tom Danzy were joined by Bosun Lewis Arena and three Seafarers successfully extinguished the fire before it could spread. The entire crew escaped injury. This Month In SIU History 1969 Once again the quick and heroic action taken by Seafarers in an emergency has been credited with saving not only their own lives and the lives of their shipmates, but the vessel on which they sailed when the SIU-contracted Buckeye Victory came under Viet Cong attack recently. The Buckeye Victory had sailed from Sunny Point, N.C., with a full cargo of live 1991 Bringing military materiel back to the United States from the Persian Gulf should keep most of the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) vessels broken out for Desert Shield and Desert Storm active through the end of this year. The Military Sealift Command reports that more than 100 ships are involved in the redeployment effort, of which are 49 from the RRF, three prepositioning ships, 52 from commercial carriers and seven fast sealift ships. For Seafarers, the effort means plenty of jobs for SIU members and government-employed civilian mariners. Seafarers LOG 17 �55751_P01_24x:January 08 8/28/2009 11:23 AM Page 18 Final Depar tures DEEP SEA ROBERT BENJAMIN Pensioner Robert Benjamin, 91, passed away March 24. Brother Benjamin became a Seafarer in 1949 while in the port of New York. He originally worked aboard the Steel Traveler as a member of the steward department. Brother Benjamin was born in Indianapolis. Prior to his retirement in 1984, he sailed on the Elizabeth. Brother Benjamin settled in Brooklyn, N.Y. RAFFAELA BRUCATO Pensioner Raffaela Brucato, 99, died Feb. 10. Brother Brucato joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards in 1967 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Brucato shipped with Michigan Tankers for the duration of his career. He was born in Italy and sailed in the steward department. Brother Brucato went on pension in 1980 and called San Rafael, Calif., home. LUIS CEPEDA Pensioner Luis Cepeda, 95, passed away March 28. Brother Cepeda started sailing with the union in 1943 while in Baltimore. He was born in Salinas, P.R. Brother Cepeda’s earliest trip was with AH Bull Steamship Company. He shipped in the engine department. Brother Cepeda most recently worked aboard the Tampa. He retired in 1981 and lived in Arlington, Texas. SEAN CRIPPS Brother Sean Cripps, 37, died March 3. He signed on with the SIU in 1996. Brother Cripps initially shipped on a Delta Steamship Company vessel. His final voyage was aboard the USNS Bowditch. Brother Cripps, a member of the engine department, was born in Derby, Conn., and made his home in Daytona Beach, Fla. MAXIE CURTIS Pensioner Maxie Curtis, 85, passed away Feb. 10. Brother 18 Seafarers LOG Curtis, a member of the deck department, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1967. His first trip was on the Wayne Victory and his last was aboard the Patriot. Brother Curtis was born in Tennessee. He became a pensioner in 1988. Brother Curtis was a resident of San Francisco. THOMAS DAILEY Pensioner Thomas Dailey, 87, died March 11. Brother Dailey began his career with the MC&S in 1967 while in San Francisco. He originally shipped aboard the Santa Mercedes. Brother Dailey worked in the steward department. His last voyage was on the President McKinley. Brother Dailey was born in Pennsylvania but called San Ramon, Calif., home. He started receiving his pension in 1986. CHARLES DAWSON Pensioner Charles Dawson, 81, passed away March 15. Brother Dawson joined the SIU ranks in 1951 in the port of New York. The New York native sailed in the deck department. Brother Dawson’s first voyage was aboard the Alcoa Puritan. Before retiring in 1992, he sailed on the Express. Brother Dawson resided in Marysville, Wash. FRANCIS DICARLO Pensioner Francis Dicarlo, 81, died March 22. Brother Dicarlo first donned the SIU colors in 1948 while in the port of New York. His earliest trip to sea was aboard a Delta Steamship Lines vessel. Brother Dicarlo was born in New York City and shipped in the steward department. His final voyage took place on the 2nd Lt. John Paul Bobo. Brother Dicarlo retired in 1992 and settled in Greencove Spring, Fla. JOSEPH DIZENGOFF Pensioner Joseph Dizengoff, 75, passed away May 3. Brother Dizengoff was born in New York. He joined the union in 1952 in the port of New York. Brother Dizengoff initially worked aboard the Steel Maker. He was a member of the engine department. Brother Dizengoff last sailed on the Independence. He went on pension in 1998 and lived in Las Vegas. WILLIAM FEIL Pensioner William Feil, 83, died July 11. Brother Feil became a Seafarer in 1949 while in New York. His earliest trip was aboard the Alcoa Planter. Brother Feil was a New York native. He most recently shipped on the Overseas Alaska as a member of the deck department. Brother Feil started collecting his retirement compensation in 1991. He was a resident of Las Vegas. ARNO LARSON Pensioner Arno Larson, 92, passed away March 5. Brother Larson began his SIU career in 1948. He originally sailed aboard the Del Alba. Brother Larson worked in the steward department. His final trip was on the Manhattan. Brother Larson retired in 1998. He resided in Los Alamitos, Calif. CHARLES LUCAS Pensioner Charles Lucas, 83, died March 2. Brother Lucas signed on with the Seafarers in 1952. His first ship was the French Creek; his last the Green Valley. Brother Lucas was born in Mississippi and shipped in the engine department. He became a pensioner in 1990 and continued to make his home in his native state. JOHN REPOSE Brother John Repose, 64, passed away March 2. He started sailing with the SIU in 1997 from the port of San Francisco. Brother Repose initially shipped aboard the Liberty Wave. The deck department member was born in California. Brother Repose most recently worked on the Lt. Col. Calvin P. Titus. He settled in Klamath Falls, Ore. JAMES ROSE Pensioner James Rose, 80, died March 2. Brother Rose joined the union in 1944. His earliest voyage was aboard the Elizabeth. Prior to his retirement in 1983, Brother Rose was employed on the Santa Barbara as a member of the deck department. He lived in Rockland, Maine. MATTHEW SCOTT Brother Matthew Scott, 59, passed away Feb. 6. He first donned the SIU colors in 1986. Brother Scott originally sailed aboard the Lurline. He shipped in the steward department. Brother Scott’s most recent ship was the Horizon Discovery. He was born in Mississippi but called Jacksonville, Fla., home. INLAND WILLARD BYRNS Pensioner Willard Byrns, 71, died March 20. Brother Byrns began sailing with the union in 1970. He was employed with Chesapeake & Ohio Railway for the duration of his career. Brother Byrns was born in Virginia. He started receiving his pension in 2000. Brother Byrns was a resident of Hudgins, Va. JERRY CARL Pensioner Jerry Carl, 80, passed away April 6. Brother Carl became a Seafarer in 1950 while in the port of New York. He shipped in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Brother Carl first worked with Mobile Towing Company. The deck department member was born in Oklahoma. Brother Carl’s final trip was on the Ambassador. He went on pension in 1987 and made his home in Mobile, Ala. JAMES COLLIER Pensioner James Collier, 82, died Feb. 10. Brother Collier joined the union in 1963. He sailed with Hvide Marine for much of his career. Brother Collier called Buna, Texas, home. CLEMENT DUHON Pensioner Clement Duhon, 81, passed away March 16. Brother started shipping with the union in 1964. His earliest trip to sea was on a Higman Barge Lines vessel. Before retiring in 1983, Brother Duhon sailed with Dixie Carriers. He resided in Kaplan, La. JACQUELINE GEIGER Sister Jacqueline Geiger, 54, died April 2. She was born in Manistique, Mich. Sister Geiger joined the SIU in 2008 in Detroit. She primarily was employed in the steward department of OLS Transport vessels. Sister Geiger lived in Mesa, Ariz. CARL MOOR Pensioner Carl Moor, 80, passed away April 8. Brother Moor signed on with the union in 1976. He mainly worked with Allied Transpotation Company. Brother Moor was born in Tennessee. He went on pension in 1999 and lived in Norfolk, Va. DAN O’NEAL Brother Dan O’Neal, 58, died Feb. 28. He became a Seafarer in 1968. Brother O’Neal initially sailed on vessels operated by Gulf Atlantic Transportation Corporation. He was born in Portsmouth, Va. Brother O’Neal’s last trip to sea was aboard a McAllister Towing of Baltimore vessel. He was a resident of Hatteras, N.C. September 2009 �55751_P01_24x:January 08 8/28/2009 11:23 AM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings HARRIETTE (Sealift Inc.), July 19 – Chairman Sean M. Ryan, Secretary George Quinn, Educational Director Timothy J. Hetz, Deck Delegate Joseph Carrillo, Steward Delegate Delfino M. Castro. Bosun reported a smooth voyage and thanked the deck department for their hard work. He informed crew members that ship would be going into lay-up at Orange, Texas. One person from each department will remain on board. Secretary thanked mariners for help keeping messhall clean. Educational director urged Seafarers to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs; disputed OT reported in engine department. It was reported that ship was involved in a search and rescue mission in the South Atlantic. GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic Cable Ship), July 14 – Chairman Lee Hardman, Secretary Vicki L. Haggerty, Educational Director Vladimir G. Tkachev, Engine Delegate Norman A. Arquillano, Steward Delegate Robert J. Haggerty. Chairman noted ship is going into shipyard. He reminded them to be vigilant about the surroundings and wear hardhats at all times outside. Crew was directed to report any problems with room, noises, air or water to their delegate. A new 52-inch TV for the crew lounge will be picked up in Portland, Maine. Secretary asked members to latch freezer door after use. Educational director discussed the importance of enhancing seafaring abilities at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer reported $4,224 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification was requested concerning health insurance. HORIZON HAWK (Horizon Lines), July 13 – Chairman David J. Garoutte, Secretary Mark V. Cabasag, Educational Director Michael J. Wells, Deck Delegate Ramon V. Duran, Engine Delegate Michael S. Kirby. Chairman expressed gratitude for a good, safe trip. He reminded departing Seafarers to leave keys in their rooms. Bosun encouraged everyone to check document expiration dates and renew three months in advance. Secretary asked crew leaving vessel to make sure room is clean, supplied with fresh linen and that the trash can is empty. Treasurer stated $285.00 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Electrician thanked steward department for excellent food. HORIZON HUNTER (Horizon September 2009 Lines), July 22 – Chairman Wayne D. Casey, Secretary Jennifer K. Jim, Educational Director Kevin Miles, Deck Delegate Alexander C. Bermudez, Engine Delegate Jeffery L. Murray, Steward Delegate Oman N. Ziyad. Chairman announced pay-off July 26 upon arrival in Long Beach, Calif. Crew was urged to carefully check OT and prepayoff documents. Secretary read and discussed memo concerning trip tour scenarios aboard Pacific Express-run vessels. Treasurer reported $2,100 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman acknowledged steward department for a job well done. Next ports: Oakland, Calif., and Tacoma, Wash. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line, Limited), July 11 – Chairman Brian K. Fountain, Secretary Alexander Banky III, Educational Director Kevin M. Cooper. Chairman reported another safe trip and noted vessel has reached five years with no lost time injuries. He also announced payoff in Newark, N.J., on July 20. Departing crew was asked to clean rooms for replacements. Secretary thanked members for helping keep house clean and advised them to read the Seafarers LOG, their official line of communication with the union. Mariners were encouraged to contribute to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation); when they do, they are helping themselves as well as their union brothers and sisters. Educational director advised all mariners to attend classes at the SIU-affiliated training center and compare vacation checks against discharges. Treasurer noted $1,500 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Dayman Abdul Gharama was recognized for his dedication to ship safety. Next ports: Newark, N.J., Charleston, S.C., and Norfolk, Va. MAERSK IOWA (Maersk Line, Limited), July 8 – Chairman Conrad H. Burke, Secretary Paul H. Isherwood, Educational Director Eufemiano Gomes. Crew members were urged to make sure all necessary shipping documents were up-to-date. Educational director encouraged mariners to take advantage of Paul Hall Center to upgrade not only for job security but to stay on top of the technology on the new ships coming out. Treasurer stated $500 in ship’s fund. Suggestion was made to have vacation checks directly deposited to members’ personnel accounts. It was reported that ship needs digital analog converter for entertainment system in the staterooms. 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 Florida Patrolman Brian Guiry submitted these two photos of the galley gang aboard the Sealand Racer during a recent stop in Jacksonville, Fla. Pictured from left to right in photo at left are Unlicensed Apprentice Kerian Reyes, Steward/Baker Milton Sivells, (back) SA Shadrick Barrington and Chief Cook Alex Aguinaldo. SA Shadrick Barrington is pictured in a close-up above. Safety Director Kevin Marchand snapped these images of SIU members on the Seabulk Energy in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Recertified Bosun Ronald Paradise Questions were raised pertaining to OT, cost of living adjustment which took effect July 1 and how SIU rules affect former NMU seamen when it comes to medical and retirement benefits. Vote of thanks was given to the steward department for doing a good job. PEARL (American President Lines), July 22 – Chairman Salim Ibrahim, Secretary Denis W. Burke, Educational Director Ed Almodobar, Deck Delegate Morris D. Foster, Engine Delegate Ashley J. Carmichael, Steward Delegate Radfan A. Almaklani. Chairman notified crew members of payoff in New York City on July 23, where SIU representatives will come aboard. He expressed his gratitude to the steward department for excellent food and BBQs. Secretary informed crew that only steward department personnel should be dispensing cleaning materials. He thanked all aboard for helping keep ship in good order. Educational director urged seamen to upgrade whenever possible to improve skills and better their chances of moving up. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was noted that dryer and elevator would be fixed in New Chief Cook Samuel Jackson, Steward/Baker Loicy Jones York. Stores to be purchased in Charleston, S.C. Recommendations were made concerning medical and retirement benefits. Next ports: New York, Dubai and Singapore. SBX-1 (Interocean American Shipping), July 5 – Chairman Weldon J. Heblich Jr., Secretary Larry D. Pugh Sr., Educational Director Randy Clark, Steward Delegate Regie Ignacio. Chairman informed crew that if they remained on the beach for more than 60 days, their random drug screen would have to be renewed. He also advised them to keep current with all union protocol. Secretary reviewed highlights from the Seafarers LOG and went over chain of command with the crew. He suggested that members register at the union hall as soon as they return home. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade whenever possible to improve skills. Treasurer reported $110 in crew fund and $4,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman addressed crew members’ concerns about unemployment compensation. He also reported new cable channels were being added and three new games have been purchased for crew enjoyment. HOUSTON (U.S. Shipping Partners), Aug. 9 – Chairman John R. Lamprecht, Secretary Robert E. Wilcox Jr., Educational Director Scott S. Fuller, Deck Delegate Sunday Nwanko, Engine Delegate Davon Brown, Steward Delegate Enrique Agosto. Bosun expressed his satisfaction with the work being performed by the crew and stressed safety first. He thanked mariners for their hard work and professionalism; being professional keeps our union strong. Secretary thanked members for keeping pantry and messhall neat. Crew was reminded to clean lint filters in laundry room to prevent fires. It was noted that food budget is outdated. Educational director reiterated the need for mariners to make sure all shipping-related documents are current. He noted that TWIC deadline is in effect and urged members to take advantage of the upgrading opportunities available at the Piney Point school to be the best trained seamen in the world. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Motion was made to reimburse members for added baggage fees when joining the vessel. Seafarers LOG 19 �55751_P01_24x:January 08 8/28/2009 11:23 AM Page 20 Stand Out In The Crowd Drive in style for less! When you travel save up to 25% on car rentals. Union Plus Car Rentals is there to help you get the most mileage for your money. Save with this special union-member-only discount when you rent from Avis, Budget or Hertz. Save now! Call: Avis (#B723700) 1-800-698-5685 Budget (#V816100) 1-800-455-2848 Hertz (#205666) 1-800-654-2200 or reserve online at UnionPlus.org/CarRental Discounts vary depending on type rental, time of year and rental locations 9/09 SIU 8/09 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. September 2009 �55751_P01_24x:January 08 8/28/2009 11:23 AM Page 21 Seafarers Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Schedule The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months of 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 Able Seaman October 12 November 6 ARPA November 16 November 20 Bosun Recertification October 13 November 2 Course Start Date Date of Completion Welding November 2 November 30 November 20 December 18 Safety Specialty Courses Advanced Firefighting November 30 December 11 Basic Firefighting/STCW September 14 November 9 September 18 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 August 24. Academic Department Courses Government Vessels September 21 November 16 September 25 November 20 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS)October 19 October 30 General education and college courses are available as needed at the Paul Hall Center. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, two weeks prior to the beginning of a vocational course. The following opportunities are currently available: Adult Basic Education (ABE), English as a Second Language (ESL), a College Program and a Preparatory Course. When applying for preparatory courses, students should list the name of the course desired on upgrading application. An introduction to computers course, a self-study module, is also available. Lifeboat September 28 October 9 Radar November 2 November 13 Tanker Assistant September 21 October 2 Online Distance Learning Courses Tank Pic Barge September 21 September 25 Engine Upgrading Courses Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) September 14 November 9 October 9 December 4 FOWT October 12 November 6 Marine Electrician October 26 December 18 Marine Refrigeration Technician November 9 December 18 Machinist September 14 October 2 Pumpman October 5 October 16 Welding September 7 October 5 September 25 October 23 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ “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 form below. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. Street Address _________________________________________________________ City __________________________ State _______________ Zip Code ___________ Telephone _________________________ Date of Birth ______________________ COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Seniority _____ Department ___________ E-mail ____________________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ 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 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 ________________________________________________ September 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. 9/09 Seafarers LOG 21 �55751_P01_24x:January 08 8/28/2009 11:23 AM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class – Thirteen unlicensed apprentices on May 15 completed their requirements in this course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: James Anderson, Michael Andrew, Ryan Boltz, Talib Cherry, Kevin Cunningham, Hannah Gates, Antonio Jones, John Matichak, Tyler Peyton, William Roach, Omar Rodgers, Shawn Spencer and Kellan Von Rabenstein. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Advanced Container Maintenance – Nine upgraders on July 17 completed their training in this course. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were David Dinan, Donald Lumpkins, Chavalier Maycock, Erik Nappier, Benny Orosco, Allan Rogers, Robert Rush, Louis Santiago and Jessie Ulibas. Calvin Beal, their instructor, is at far right. Radar Observer – Seven upgraders on July 15 completed their training in this five-day Fast Rescue Boat – The following mariners (above, in alphabetical order) on July 2 completed this 30-hour course: Joel Encarnacion, Arthur Horner, Kenneth Johnson, Michael Lyons, Charles Tison and Clarence Wilson. Their instructor, Tom Truitt, is at left. Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting (OICNW) – Five individuals on July 17 completed this 41-hour course. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were Patrick Coppola, Alfred Drake, Steven Haver, Christopher Paul and James Robinson. Mike Roberts, their instructor, is at left. course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Marie Acosta, Jamie Avendano, William Johnson, Rafael Lanila, Charles Mul Jr., Korron Richardson and Cesar Runatay. Stacey McNeely, their instructor, is at left. 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. Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting (Express Marine) – Five individuals from Express Marine on June 26 completed their training in this 41-hour course. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Greg Allman, Scottie Duncan, Ryan Jones, Steven Jones and Thomas Spain. Their instructor, Joe Zienda, is at left. Tank Ship Familiarization (DL) – Twenty-three Phase III apprentices on July 10 completed their training in this 63hour course. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Tousif Ahmed, Nofoalii Aiaga, Brandy Baker-Days, Brandon Braam, Latiffe Brooks, Donnel Cherry, Derrick Clark, Sorrad Ali Dognia, Alejandro Esparza, Jamar Harley, Kevin Hunt, Kevin Jenkins, Keith Jordan, Rafael Leon, Charles Murphy, Anthony Pena, Nicholas Pratt, Keven Reyes-Velez, Gary Richards, Corey Shanley, Jesus Sifuentes, Rosalind Sparrow and Clayton Walker. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG September 2009 �55751_P01_24x:January 08 8/28/2009 11:24 AM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Marine Electrician – Twelve upgraders on July 3 completed their training in Able Seaman – Fourteen upgraders on July 17 finished their training in this course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Chad Bruch, Mitchell Childress, Jason Davis, Philip Forman, Andrew Gerrie, German Guity, Petite James, Eric Johnson, Kenneth LeDeoux, Matthew Martel, Renard Murphy, Leroy Sierra, Mark Turner and Lamar Walton. Bernabe Pelingon, their instructor, is at right. Pumpman – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) on July 3 finished their training in this course: Maurice Baptiste, Robin Bourgeois, Sherrod Frazier, Steven Haver, Craig Perry, Lamont Robinson, David Spaulding, James Tyson and Furman Watson. Their instructors, Jay Henderson and Jim Shaffer, are pictured at the left and right, respectively GMDSS – Six individuals comleted their training in this course on June 26. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jason Boyer, Daniel Carman, Sean Damron, Walter Gebert, Nicholas Kempker and Jon Silveira. Their instructor, Joe Curtis, is at left. this 280-hour course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Tawrence Abrams, Nabil Ahmed, Ursel Barber, Sterling Cox, Eugene Davis Jr., Nicholas Dippel, Scott Fuller, Nicholas Gattuso, Pete Gerber II, Lisa Harewood, Yuriy Khitrenko and Frank Strong. Their instructor, Jay Henderson, is at right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) FOWT – Fifteen upgraders on July 17 graduated from this course. Completing the training (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ryan Bernal, Dustin Brantley, Daryl Corbett, Hubert Dennis, Darrell Goggins, Marcus Gramby, Braden Horne, Edison Lalin, LaToya Lundford, Denise Mendoza, Craig Meredith, Kwame Owusu, Thomas Quinlan, Luchi Watson and Pavis Whitley. Tim Achorn, their instructor, is at right. Water Survival – Eight Seafarers on June 19 finished their training in this 60-hour course. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Terry Adkins, Eugene Ajoste, Kevin Carraby, Shending Hu, Irena Jansone, John Mackey, Michael Ribeiro and Daniel Wilcox. Bernabe Pelingon, their instructor, is at right. STCW/BST (Hawaii) - Eleven Seafarers completed this course June 20 at the Seafarers Training Center in Hawaii. Graduating (above, in no particular order) were: Frankie Hernandez, Bryant Davis, William Kedler, William Manning, Robert Peete Jr., Martin Muchemwa, Jose Perez, Dwight Aubert, Arlouh Lacap, Brittany Mensing and Amanda Snyder September 2009 STCW/BST (Hawaii) - The following individuals (above, in no particular order) on May 30 finished their training in this course at the Barbers Point, Hawaii-based Seafarers Training Center: Rayon Davis, Eduard Baniqued, Lee Jones, Brandy Clark and Ronnie Lindsay. Seafarers LOG 23 �55751_P01_24x:January 08 8/28/2009 11:24 AM Page 24 Volume 71, Number 9 September 2009 United Industrial Workers Convention Coverage - Page 6 The USNS Comfort (left) receives supplies during an underway replenishment with the dry cargo/ammunition ship USNS Robert E. Peary. The Comfort was underway to Panama for a liberty port call in July. The ship was deployed on the Continuing Promise 2009 four-month humanitarian and civic assistance mission. First Lady Michelle Obama Honors Crew, Family Members USNS Comfort Returns Home Following Humanitarian Mission The USNS Comfort, crewed in the unlicensed positions by civil service mariners (CIVMARs) from the SIU Government Services Division, early last month returned to its layberth in Baltimore following the completion a fourmonth humanitarian and civic assistance mission to Latin America and the Caribbean. A U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) hospital ship, the Comfort during its mission delivered medical and dental care to more than 100,000 people in the aforementioned locations. The operation, designated Continuing Promise 2009, was planned and coordinated by Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet. Its purpose was to build strong and enduring partnerships and demonstrate the lasting commitment of the United States to the region, according to MSC. Before returning to Baltimore, the Comfort stopped in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and then Norfolk, Va., where First Lady Michelle Obama honored the Comfort’s crew and the crew of aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower in a speech marking the ships’ return from deployment. The Comfort visited Antigua and Barbuda, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Haiti, Nicaragua and Panama. At each stop, the ship’s CIVMAR crew of about 63 mariners worked tirelessly to transport mission personnel and patients between ship and shore by small boat. The ship’s size precluded it from pulling into port at all stops but Panama. The crew was also responsible for maintaining electricity and water supplies to the shipboard hospital where 1,657 life-changing surgeries were conducted. While the CIVMARs operated and navigated the ship and transported patients via small boats, Navy medical personnel worked side-by-side with partners from other U.S. military services, host and partner nations, and non-governmental organizations to staff the Comfort’s shipboard hospital and shore-side medical treatment sites. “There is no doubt that every person on this ship – every civil service mariner, service member, medical personnel and non-governmental organization volunteer – did phenomenal work,” said Capt. Thomas Finger, the Comfort’s civil service master. “The patients in every country we visited were grateful and impressed by the willingness of people on the ship to leave their families for months to help those less fortunate.” In addition to medical services, the Comfort’s team included veterinarians who treated 13,238 animals and Navy Seabees who completed 13 construction projects ranging from minor renovations of facilities to building new schools. None of this work, however, could have been conducted without close coordination between the medical mission and the Comfort’s civil service mariners. Thomas Sellers, the Comfort’s navigator who not only navigated the ship, but also drove the utility boats that connected patients and doctors when the vessel was anchored off shore, enjoyed the hands-on role that the CIVMARs played in the medical mission. “MSC’s role in most of our missions is to support. This mission was different because we were directly part of the end goal,” said Sellers. “I felt a profound sense of accomplishment every day.” Finger agreed. Even with more than 30 years of experience sailing for MSC, he said of this mission, “It’s the most personally rewarding assignment I’ve ever had. Anyone who has participated in this mission even for a short while would recognize the value it has in bridging cultural and national boundaries.” When not deployed, the Comfort is kept in reduced operating status in Baltimore where a small crew of about 18 civil service mariners and 58 Navy medical personnel maintain the ship in a high state of readiness. When activated, the Comfort can transition to full operating status in five days. Seaman Roger Panelo (photo above, left), a civilian mariner assigned to the USNS Comfort, hangs life vests on the weather deck aboard Comfort to dry after cleaning them in preparation for storage. In the photo at immediate right above, Nicaraguan patients prepare to depart the USNS Comfort after receiving treatment from medical professionals aboard the ship during “Continuing Promise 2009.” Rough seas force crewmembers aboard the USNS Comfort to transit patients to shore on the lifeboats while anchored at sea (photo at right). First lady Michelle Obama delivers remarks to Sailors and their families at Naval Station Norfolk during a homecoming celebration for the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group and the Seafarers-crewed Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort. � 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 September 2009 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES NCL AMERICA CREWS RATIFY NEW CONTRACT LONG-TERM AGREEMENT FEATURES NUMEROUS GAINS SIU GAINS NEW JOBS ON OCEAN CHARGER PACIFIC-GULF MARINE OPERATES RECENTLY REFLAGGED VESSEL OFFICIALS EXAMINE MARITIME LABOR CONVENTION USNS PERRY CHRISTENED, LAUNCHED CROWLEY TO MANAGE FIVE NASSCO TANKERS TOTE SHIPS TO REDUCE AT-BERTH GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS LABOR’S PRESCRIPTION: PROVIDE HEALTH CARE FOR ALL AMERICANS NEW YORK NEW JERSEY RAIL EARNS 2008 SAFETY AWARD OCEANOGRAPHIC SHIP TURNOVER SCHEDULED TO START IN OCTOBER UIW FORGES AHEAD DURING CHALLENGING TIMES CREW MEMBERS RECEIVE EXPEDITIONARY MEDALS PAUL HALL CENTER INSTRUCTOR BOBBY DEAN DIES AT AGE 64 PAUL HALL CENTER COURSE SPOTLIGHT SEAFARERS JOIN TOWN HALL MEETING, RALLY IN BALTIMORE SEAFARERS-CREWED SHIPS ASSIST IN JLOTS USNS SEAY, CAPE MAY, CORNHUSKER STATE SAIL FOR MILITARY EXERCISE NEW TRAINING VESSEL MAKES DEBUT AT AFFILIATED PAUL HALL CENTER TRAINEE LEARNS VALUE OF BEING OBSERVANT WHILE STANDING WATCH MODERN SAGA TRIGGERS SHIPBOARD MEMORIES USNS COMFORT RETURNS HOME FOLLOWING HUMANITARIAN MISSION 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 09/01/2009 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. 9 2009 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/d1d1d61b81938deac73835ed050cb184.pdf 5fdf31792007b594f4d9da25a8915986 PDF Text Text Volume 72, Number 9 September 2010 Updates on New Tonnage: Tanker Makes 1st Voyage, State-of-the-Art ATB Christened, Heavy Lift Ship Reflags U.S. Three of the newest additions to the SIU-crewed fleet are pictured above and below. In mid-August, Crowley christened the new articulated tug-barge unit Innovation/650-9 in Pascagoula, Miss. SIU Port Agent Jimmy White (left in photo below left) is pictured with SIU crew members at the ceremony. Earlier, Seafarers climbed the gangway to the Ocean Crescent (below right), the newest heavy lift ship being operated by Pacific-Gulf Marine for Intermarine. Additionally, Seafarers are sailing aboard the new tanker Empire State (above), a vessel operated by Crowley for American Petroleum Tankers. Pages 3, 24. Obama Addresses Executive Council Says ‘Made in America’ Key to Economic Improvement President Barack Obama (left) spent part of his birthday speaking to the AFLCIO Executive Council – a group that includes SIU President Michael Sacco (right, greeting Obama at the Aug. 4 meeting in Washington, D.C.). Obama discussed numerous issues with federation leaders but primarily focused on the importance of creating and maintaining good jobs. He said the words “Made in America” will be “at the heart” of national economic recovery. Page 2. (Photo by Bill Burke/Page One) ITF Elects Heindel to Seafarers’ Section Post During the International Transport Workers’ Federation quadrennial Congress, conducted last month in Mexico City, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (left) unanimously was elected chair of the ITF Seafarers’ Section. He becomes only the second American to hold that post and the first since 2000. In other news from the meetings, the federation significantly updated its flag-of-convenience campaign policy. Pictured with Heindel at the Congress are American Maritime Officers President Tom Bethel (center) and outgoing ITF Seafarers’ Section Chair Brian Orrell. Page 4. Change of Command at NMC Page 6 USNS Wheat Donates to Military Fund Page 8 SIU History Book Available Page 13 �P re s i d e n t ’ s R e p o r t Jobs and Politics In early August, I spoke to SIU members and apprentices during the monthly membership meeting at our affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., and asked them what they thought were the union’s three biggest goals for this year. Someone answered “Jobs, jobs, jobs!” That response shows that Seafarers understand the union’s priorities. We can discuss details all day long, but without shipboard jobs, the particulars don’t mean anything. Maintaining good jobs and securing new ones lets us build on what we have earned over the years. Throughout our nearly 72-year history, we have secured good pay and benefits, safe working conditions, and the opportunity to select where to sail and on what ships to serve. It’s a unique lifestyle and one that many, many SIU members say has enabled them to provide well for their families. Brothers and sisters, that’s the union way and that’s what we have fought for, collectively, for decades. The flip side is that with good jobs, the details matter quite a bit. For instance, and as many Seafarers know, Michael Sacco laws like the Jones Act and initiatives such as cargo preference and the Maritime Security Program are the very foundations of the modern U.S. Merchant Marine. They are time-tested winners – programs that aid America’s national and economic security while helping maintain a viable U.S.-flag fleet and a manpower pool of well-trained, dependable U.S. mariners. So why does that matter to rank-and-file members? Look no further than the recent attacks on the Jones Act, which I’ve written about the last two months. It’s up to us and to the rest of the maritime community to elect politicians who’ll support our industry. As we know all too well, in addition to relying on programs like cargo preference and laws like the Jones Act, the U.S. Merchant Marine is heavily regulated. Our livelihoods depend not just on knowing how to do our jobs, but also on having a pro-maritime Congress and administration. And with that in mind, I urge all Seafarers and their families to make sure you’re registered to vote and to back pro-maritime, pro-worker candidates on Election Day. Having people in office who support maritime makes all the difference when it comes to our efforts to provide jobs and job security for SIU members. The same thing is true at the state and local levels of government. It is vital for us to support the candidates who support our issues and our line of work. By the way, depending on whether you’re reading this column online or in our printed newspaper, you may have noticed an article about President Obama’s meeting in early August with the AFL-CIO Executive Council. I am on that council, I was there for his remarks, and I had a chance to speak with him very briefly afterward. Everyone knows this is a tough time for elected officials, including the ones in the White House. But I believe President Obama and Vice President Biden are committed to America’s working families. Not only that, they are both very supportive of the labor movement. They believe in unions and they aren’t afraid to say so. That doesn’t mean we’ll get everything we want, but it does mean we’ll have a seat at the table with this administration. It means our voices will be heard, and that’s really all we can ask. At the same time, our unofficial motto when it comes to grassroots activities hasn’t changed. We support those who support maritime, regardless of political party. That’s our bottom line. As we look toward November 2 and toward future elections, we should also keep in mind the enormous amount of money that goes into the campaigns. Money is a big part of the equation, and candidates aren’t shy about asking for contributions. That’s just the way it is. Unions like ours have to decide which candidates to support, whether it’s financially or through some combination of grassroots activities like leafleting and precinct walks and phone banks. That doesn’t mean we can buy our way to success, but the way things are nowadays, if you don’t participate, good luck getting in the door once the elections are over. Please keep that in mind when you’re deciding whether to contribute to the SIU’s voluntary fund, the Seafarers Political Action Donation (SPAD). I certainly realize these are tough economic times, but SPAD helps us deliver your message on Capitol Hill and elsewhere. Volume 72, Number 9 September 2010 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Associate Editor, Mark Bowman; Photographer, Mike Hickey; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2010 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. President Obama addresses the AFL-CIO Executive Council on Aug. 4 in Washington, D.C. Pictured from left to right are AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler, AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka, President Obama and AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Arlene Holt Baker. (Photo by Bill Burke/Page One) President Obama Says ‘Made in America’ Essential for Strong Economic Recovery President Barack Obama on Aug. 4 addressed the AFL-CIO Executive Council in Washington, D.C., where he emphasized his administration’s support for America’s working families. SIU President Michael Sacco, a member of the council, was in attendance for President Obama’s address, which took place on the commander-inchief’s birthday. The president covered a wide range of subjects important to all workers, but he devoted a sizeable portion of the approximately half-hour speech to creating and keeping good jobs in the United States. He emphasized the need to enact and enforce pro-worker trade laws and to rebuild America’s manufacturing base. “The message I want to deliver to our competitors – and to those in Washington who’ve tried to block our progress at every step of the way – is that we are going to rebuild this economy stronger than before, and at the heart of it are going to be three powerful words: Made in America,” Obama told the council. After describing how the nation has lost millions of the manufacturing jobs which used to be “the ticket to a better life for the American worker,” the president noted the devastating effects of those losses – from the often-heartbreaking impact on individual families to the broader economic blow felt by the nation as a whole. “But I’m here to tell you, we are not giving up and we are not giving in,” Obama continued. “We are going to keep fighting for an economy that works for everybody, not just for a privileged few. We want an economy that rewards, once again, people who work hard and fulfill their responsibilities, not just people who game the system. And that’s been at the heart of the economic plan that we put in place over the past year and a half.” He then thanked the federation “for all you’ve done to fight for jobs, to fight for tax cuts for the middle class, to fight for reforms that will rein in the special interests, and to fight for policies that aren’t just going to rebuild this economy but are actually going to put us on a long-term path of sustainable growth that is good for all Americans.” The president cited a number of pro-worker measures enacted by his administration, including Wall Street reform, the Fair Pay Act, health care reform, and the reversal of several executive orders that had harmed workers. He also vowed, “We are going to keep on fighting to pass the Employee Free Choice Act” (a law designed to help restore fairness in union representation elections by protecting workers’ rights). After concluding his formal remarks, Obama answered a question posed by AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka, who asked, “What advice do you have for workers as the election approaches, particularly for workers who are trying to organize to have a voice on the job?” In part, Obama answered, “It is my profound belief that companies are stronger when their workers are getting paid well and have decent benefits and are treated with dignity and respect. It is my profound belief that our government works best when it’s not being run on behalf of special interests, but it’s being run on behalf of the public interest, and that the dedication of public servants reflects that. So FDR I think said – he was asked once what he thought about unions. He said, ‘If I was a worker in a factory and I wanted to improve my life, I would join a union.’ I think that’s true for workers generally. I think if I was a coal miner, I’d want a union representing me to make sure that I was safe and you did not have some of the tragedies that we’ve been seeing in the coal industry. If I was a teacher, I’d want a union to make sure that the teachers’ perspective was represented as we think about shaping an education system for our future.” Pointing to Election Day 2010, Obama acknowledged the frustrations of many workers concerning the economy, but added, “They need to know that we’re going to be working with you to make sure that we’re putting ourselves in a position where folks are working and working for a good wage and good benefits…. This election is a choice. You’ve got these folks who drove America’s economy into a ditch, and for the last 20 months, we put on our boots and we got into the mud and we’ve been shoving that car out of the ditch inch by inch, and they’ve been standing on the side the whole time watching, telling us, no, you’re not pushing hard enough, you’re not doing it the right way – not lifting a finger to help. And now we’ve finally got that car up on the blacktop there, about to drive, and they say they want the keys back. Well, you can’t have the keys, because you don’t know how to drive.” He concluded, “My bottom line is this: I’m going to continue to work with all of you on behalf of working families around the country, and I’m going to continue to reach out to businesses to try to make the argument that what’s good for workers is going to be good for business. They’re your customers as well as your workers…. But we’re not going to be able to do it when we’re pitted against each other. And I’m actually confident that once we get through some of the political posturing and shenanigans that we’ve been seeing over the last several years, people are going to step back and say, you know what, the lesson we needed to learn out of hardship is, we’re all in this thing together. We are all in this thing together. That’s what the union movement’s always been about. We’re stronger together than we are on our own. That is true within individual unions. That is true within industries. That is true for the country as a whole. And I hope that I will be your partner in trying to bring about that unity of purpose in the years to come.” See related article on AFL-CIO Executive Council actions on Page 10. 2 Seafarers LOG September 2010 �Intermarine adds Heavy Lift Ship Ocean Crescent Seafarers are sailing aboard the latest addition to the Intermarine LLC fleet: the 393-foot heavy lift vessel Ocean Crescent. Operated by Pacific-Gulf Marine for Intermarine, the Ocean Crescent – built in 2002 – is the sister ship to the Seafarers-crewed Ocean Atlas, Ocean Titan and Ocean Charger. The latter three vessels were built in 2000. All four ships are enrolled in the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) and its related Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA). “The Ocean Crescent is an outright addition to the SIU-contracted fleet, so this is a very exciting development,” said SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez. “Any time new tonnage is brought in under the American flag and under SIU contract, it’s also a great reflection on the work performed by Seafarers.” The Ocean Crescent, which can sail at 16.5 knots, is expected to sail internationally, moving commercial as well as military and other government-impelled cargoes. The ship is equipped with two electro-hydraulic cranes and can hold more than 500 containers. Todd Johnson, president and CEO of PacificGulf Marine, said that flagging in the Ocean Crescent “reflects the continued solid commitment of Intermarine. As with the previously reflagged ships, PGM once again is happy to be a part of the Ocean Crescent operation. Hopefully it will lead to additional growth in the U.S.-flag fleet.” The Ocean Atlas first sailed under the Stars and Stripes in early 2002, while the Ocean Titan reflagged in mid-2005. The Ocean Charger entered the U.S.-flag fleet in mid-2009. Both the MSP and VISA programs are key components of America’s sealift capability. U.S. military leaders consistently describe the MSP as a vital, efficient, cost-effective program. In addition to offering access to militarily useful U.S.-flag tonnage and other American-owned maritime resources, the program also helps maintain a pool of reliable, well-trained, loyal U.S. citizen seafarers. Additionally, the MSP costs only a small fraction of what the government would have to spend in order to replicate its capabilities. At various times, military officers and legislators have estimated that it would require more than $800 million each year from the Defense Department to provide similar sealift and related system capacity on its own. Pictured in front of the new ship during a late-July stop in Houston are (from left) Electrician David Brewster, AB Edgar Elegino, Chief Steward Obencio Espinoza, ACU Paula Hopson, AB Melvin Hill, SIU Houston Safety Director Brian Kinard and GUDE Nicholas McAbier. Joan Pennella (above), wife of Crowley Vice Chairman and Exec. VP Bill Pennella, christens the tug. The tugboat Innovation (right) is part of Crowley’s newest SIU-crewed ATB. Crowley Christens ATB Innovation/650-9 Company Earns Recognition For Environmental Efforts Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime Corporation on Aug. 10 christened the ninth in a series of 10 new 185,000barrel articulated tug-barge units (ATBs) at the VT Halter Marine shipyard in Pascagoula, Miss. According to the company, the tug Innovation and barge 650-9 will be chartered to Chevron, to safely transport petroleum products throughout the Gulf of Mexico. Less than one week earlier, Crowley announced that it had received an environmental award for its efforts to significantly reduce carbon emissions at the Port of Los Angeles and Port of Long Beach, Calif. Crowley was rec- SIU Port Agent Jimmy White (left) and SIU Capt. Buddy Davis were on hand for the ceremony in Pascagoula, Miss. September 2010 ognized in late July during the third annual San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan luncheon in Long Beach. “Both the christening of the new ATB and the earning of the environmental award are worth celebrating,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “Crowley is committed to the American-flag fleet and to protecting the environment while creating and maintaining good jobs. The SIU shares those commitments.” At the ATB christening, SIU Port Agent Jimmy White (based in Mobile, Ala.) represented the union. During the morning ceremony, Joan Pennella, wife of Crowley Vice Chairman and Executive Vice President Bill Pennella, christened the 10,728-horsepower tug Innovation; while Lynn Brewer, wife of Burl Brewer, Chevron operations scheduler, christened the barge 650-9. Crowley already has eight 650-Class ATBs capable of carrying 180,000 barrels apiece and four 550-Class ATBs which can carry 148,000 barrels. These units are Jones Actqualified, having been built in the United States, owned by U.S. citizens and crewed by U.S. citizen mariners. Three larger Jones Act-qualified ATBs known as the 750-Class, which will each have a 330,000-barrel capacity, are under construction and are scheduled for delivery by the end of 2012. “Crowley is committed to providing safe and reliable petroleum transportation in Jones Act trades,” said Rob Grune, senior vice president and general manager, petroleum transportation. “Since 2002, we have introduced 13 new U.S.-built ATB vessels to meet customer needs, which equates to over two million barrels of capacity.” According to the company, the new ATBs feature the latest systems technology and double-hull construction for maximum safety and reliability. The 650-Class barges are 27,000 deadweight tons, 587 feet in length, 74 feet in breadth and 40 feet in depth. The fully loaded draft is 30 feet. When coupled for operation the tug and tank vessel measure 689 feet. There is an electric pump in each of the 14 cargo tanks to assure maximum cargo integrity and segregation flexi- bility; two anchor windlasses and associated equipment to enable the vessel to accommodate offshore mooring operations; and a vacuum system with three retention tanks to easily handle cargo changes. There is also a dual mode inert gas system and vapor collection system for maximum safety. A layer of inert gas covers products in the tanks to make the atmosphere too lean for combustion. Concerning the safety award, Crowley pointed out that representatives from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Port of Long Beach, Port of Los Angeles and other government agencies reviewed all nominations before choosing Crowley for its “Significant Early Action to Reduce Emissions Award.” Crowley’s Bill Metcalf, director of engineering, accepted the award on the company’s behalf. In the awards letter sent to Crowley by Christopher Patton, acting deputy director of environmental management at the Port of Los Angeles, and Richard Cameron, director of environmental planning at the Port of Long Beach, the company was congratulated for its “significant early action to reduce air pollutant emissions,” specifically for the company’s proactive initiative to conduct an extensive engine re-powering of its Harbor Class tugs that provide ship assist and tanker escort services in the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. The SIU-crewed Crowley tugs Admiral, Leader, Scout and Master were reintroduced to the fleet earlier this year following the installation of Tier II compliant engines. The project was partially funded by the Port of Los Angeles Air Quality Mitigation Incentive Program. All vessel operators in the area are required to upgrade their engines to be Tier II emissions compliant by 2013. In another environmental initiative known as cold ironing, SIU-crewed Crowley tugboats in Los Angeles and Long Beach last year began using newly installed shoreside electrical power when not on the job to cut fuel consumption and reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Previously, tugs tied up at the dock needed to run their generators to provide electrical power. Seafarers LOG 3 �SIU’s Heindel Elected ITF Seafarers’ Section Chair Federation Revamps Runaway-Flag Policy; Crumlin Elected President SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel unanimously was elected chair of the Seafarers’ Section at the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) Seafarers Conference during the group’s gathering on Aug. 6, which was part of the ITF’s quadrennial Congress (convention) in Mexico City. Heindel becomes the first American to hold the position since the late SIU Executive Vice President John Fay, who was the first American to ever serve as chair. Fay served from 1995 to 2000. Heindel will oversee the efforts of the most powerful and progressive section within the ITF, dealing with such subjects as the flag-ofconvenience (FOC) campaign, piracy, the safety of mariners, and many others. He told the body, representing maritime unions from around the world, that he was honored to head the Seafarers’ Section. He said he looks forward to continuing on the work already underway as well as to facing upcoming challenges. Among those challenges is the ongoing problem with piracy. An SIU-initiated motion condemning piracy and its impact on mariners passed during the Seafarers Conference and later was approved by the whole ITF convention. The motion states a belief “that more needs to be done to protect the world’s seafarers carrying out their duties serving on merchant ships.” It points out the trauma being inflicted not just on the mariners but also upon their families. The statement “calls upon governments and the United Nations to take further steps to protect mariners and their vessels operating in these dangerous waters and to provide direct support to hasten the release of the numerous ships and their crews currently held.” Additionally, the resolution “calls upon the ITF to coordinate with their international partners, both in labor and the commercial sector, to bring a strong and clear message to governments that more must be done.” Throughout the Congress, which was attended by more than 1,500 people, delegates signed the ITF-sponsored petition calling for such strong action by governments of the world to combat piracy. (SIU members who haven’t signed the petition are encouraged to do so by visiting www.endpiracypetition.org before Sept. 23.) The Seafarers Conference and Joint Seafarers and Dockers Conference also adopted a revised FOC campaign to target flag-ofconvenience vessels, also known as runawayflag vessels. Here again, the revisions later were ratified by the entire Congress. During its longstanding battle against runaway flags through the use of port inspectors, dockers and other international union officials, the ITF also collectively bargains with many FOC shipowners directly through the International Bargaining Forum. Already, the ITF has around 9,000 runaway-flag vessels under contract, up from 2,000 earlier in the decade. “The FOC campaign is the linchpin to our success and is as important today as it was 62 years ago,” Heindel noted. “Even though we advocate the abolition of the FOC system, we must recognize that there are many responsible shipowners operating FOCs that are willing to negotiate a decent agreement. We must embrace, support and develop the model. The IBF agreement is not just a framework agreement, it is truly a collectively bargained agreement – the only one of its kind in the world!” Heindel also said that while the FOC campaign and IBF have proven successful, many mariners continue to suffer unsafe working conditions with little to no pay. He vowed the ITF will continue its fight to assist all of the world’s mariners to improve working and safety standards for all who ply the world’s seas. The federation pointed out that this is the first “major update” to the FOC policy since 1998. Known as the Mexico City Policy, it aims to “create a better balance between unions in beneficial ownership and labor-supply countries in order to provide improvements in the protection for seafarers,” according to the federation. ITF Maritime Coordinator Steve Cotton 4 Seafarers LOG SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel becomes only the second American to chair the ITF Seafarers’ Section. The first was John Fay, late SIU executive VP. Paddy Crumlin, national secretary of the Maritime Union of Australia, is the newly elected president of the ITF. ITF General Secretary David Cockroft tells attendees, “There’s never been a bigger or more successful ITF Congress.” Representing SIUNA-affiliated unions during the meetings are (from left) ITF Coordinator East Coast Rick Esopa, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, AMO President Tom Bethel, AMO VP Government Relations Michael Murphy and SIU Rep Tracey Mayhew. said the new policy would continue to establish closer relationships between mariners and dockers and their unions, and develop methods that can be used to advance their interests. He added, “The Mexico City Policy begins to address longstanding concerns about nondomiciled seafarers. It includes an understanding that the ITF’s engagement with national flag vessels is in partnership and in consultation with unions in those countries and reflects their concerns about protecting their own members.” In other news from the ITF Congress, attendees called for the promotion of existing cabotage laws (like the Jones Act) in those nations who have them while promoting such laws in other nations as a means to protect mariners in their own countries. Also, SIU Anchorage Port Agent Tracey Mayhew was elected to serve as ITF Fisheries Section Women’s Representative. This section oversees the efforts of those who work at sea and ashore within the fishing industry. Along with Heindel and Mayhew, others serving as SIU delegates to the ITF convention were Gulf Coast Vice President Dean Corgey, ITF East Coast Coordinator Rick Esopa and Representative Daniel Duncan. Representing SIUNA-affiliated unions in Mexico City were American Maritime Officers President Thomas Bethel and Vice President Government Relations Michael Murphy as well as SIU of Canada President Michel Desjardins and Executive Vice President Jim Given. On the last day of the convention, Paddy Crumlin, head of the Maritime Union of Australia, was elected ITF president. He is the twenty-second person to take on the post and the first Australian to do so. “I’m excited to be able to take on this new role and play my part in moving the work of the ITF, its hundreds of affiliated unions and their millions of members forward through the implementation of a comprehensive organizing program focused on trade union regeneration and revitalization,” Crumlin stated. Headquartered in London, the ITF has approximately 760 affiliated unions, including the SIU. Collectively, those unions represent more than 4.6 million members. SIU of Canada President Michel Desjardins (right) and Executive VP Jim Given represent their union during the ITF Congress. Pictured from left are SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, chair of the ITF Seafarers’ Section; Yoji Fujisawa, 1st vice chair and president of the All Japan Seamen’s Union; and Tomas Abrahamsson, vice president of the Swedish Union for Service and Communications Employees (SEKO). September 2010 �U.S. Reps. Sanchez, Taylor Speak Out for Jones Act Pro-maritime U.S. Reps. Linda Sanchez (D-Calif.) and Gene Taylor (D-Miss.) recently spoke out in support of the Jones Act, a law that protects America’s national and economic security. Sanchez on July 22 made a statement on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives in favor of the Jones Act, and also posted related content on her official web site. She serves on the House Ways and Means Committee as well as the Judiciary Committee. On the later body, she chairs the Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law. Two days before the floor statement by Sanchez, Taylor sent a “Dear Colleague” letter to fellow members of the House, in which he comprehensively reminded them about the Jones Act’s importance. Taylor is a member of the House Armed Services Committee and is Chairman of the Subcommittee on Seapower and Expeditionary Forces. He is a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, where he serves on the Water Resources and Environment, Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, and Highways and Transit Subcommittees. The Jones Act requires that cargo moving between U.S. domestic ports be carried on vessels that are crewed, flagged, built and owned American. Normally farremoved from any headlines outside the maritime industry, the Jones Act earlier this year became the subject of mainstream media coverage as critics falsely claimed that the law was impeding cleanup operations after the Deepwater Horizon disaster. The recent comments by Reps. Sanchez and Taylor continued a strong response from the domestic maritime industry and its backers who set the record straight. They and other legislators as well as administration officials, maritime unions, Americanflag ship operating companies and industry coalitions have pointed out not only the fact the Jones Act doesn’t apply in the cleanup area in the Gulf but also that the law is crucial to the U.S. economy and its defense capabilities. On the House floor, Sanchez said that the Jones Act is needed because it “prevents our economy from being dominated by foreign interests, who don’t pay American taxes, hire American workers, or even follow American health, safety, and environmental laws.” Addressing bogus claims that the Jones Act is an impediment to cleanup efforts in the Gulf, she stated, “Nothing could be further from the truth. There is no evidence that the Jones Act has interfered with the cleanup in any way. We are in a recession. It’s time to work together to expand American manufacturing and create jobs, not play partisan games.” Sanchez urged her colleagues to stop posturing and start supporting American families by supporting the Jones Act. In his letter, Taylor explained the intricacies of the Jones Act and clearly demonstrated that the law wasn’t an issue in the cleanup. In fact, as he and others have pointed out, foreign-flag vessels have assisted in the operation since its earliest stages. “While some may want to criticize the response to the oil spill for a variety of reasons, anyone claiming that the Jones Act, the U.S. maritime industry, or U.S. maritime labor has impeded or prevented the use of foreign skimmers or other foreign vessels needed to clean up the spill is clearly wrong,” Taylor wrote. He then listed several key reasons why the Jones Act is good policy: “The U.S. Merchant Marine, of which the Jones Act fleet is a vital part, is recognized as ‘The Fourth Arm of National Defense.’ A strong merchant marine and Jones Act fleet ensure the United States 1) has worldclass vessels to meet sealift needs; 2) has expert and experienced seafarers to man the U.S. government’s organic surge sealift ships in times of national emergency; 3) has a modern shipyard industrial base that is critical to the nation’s military and economic security; and 4) makes intermodal transportation systems available for defense use through the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA)…. Many other countries maintain some form of maritime cabotage laws. The outdated studies quoted by Jones Act opponents as justifications for repeal were long ago refuted by the U.S. Government Accountability Office. U.S. maritime cabotage laws help sustain more than 500,000 American jobs (both union and non-union), many of which are in the Gulf, and $1 billion in economic activity annually, including shipbuilding and repair, vessel operations, and supporting activities. The current and previous four Presidents of the United States have all spoken in favor of maintaining the Jones Act, as have a number of military leaders…. The Jones Act is not the problem; the oil spill is the problem. Let’s focus on fixing that.” Rep. Cummings Calls Late Senator Stevens Was Strong For Expanded U.S. Fleet Supporter of U.S. Merchant Marine Hearing Examines U.S. Merchant Fleet in Foreign Commerce Between the global recession and the growing American trade deficit, there has been renewed attention paid to shipping on U.S.-flag vessels. Earlier in the year, President Obama set an economic goal for the U.S. to double its foreign exports; he has called on a panel of experts to advise how to best achieve that goal in what he calls the National Export Initiative. Part of that process has included congressional testimony by representatives from a number of shipping companies and maritime organizations such as the SIU. As part of this endeavor, U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.), chairman of the House Subcommittee on the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, conducted a hearing with industry representatives who testified about the condition of American shipping in foreign trade. The hearing was titled “The State of the United States Merchant Fleet in Foreign Commerce.” SIU Political Director Terry Turner was part of the panel representing maritime labor. Cummings started the hearing by backing the president’s initiative and called for an expanded U.S. fleet. He further stated that there is not enough U.S. cargo being carried by U.S.-flag ships and that the decline is “both a security and economic risk.” Cummings explained that the U.S.-flag fleet has been carrying a dwindling portion of foreign trade, a development that “has serious implications both for our merchant marine and our nation’s economy.” In a joint statement submitted by the SIU, American Maritime Officers (AMO), Masters, Mates and Pilots (MM&P), and the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA), the unions stated, “In war, merchant seamen have long served with valor and distinction by carrying critical supplies and equipment to our troops in faraway lands. In peacetime, the merchant marine has another vital role – contributing to our economic security by linking us to trading partners around the world and providing the foundation for our ocean commerce.” The unions pointed out that today U.S.-flag vessels and their U.S. citizen crews are on the front lines in our nation’s war against terror. “American vessels and crews carry the supplies September 2010 and equipment our troops need, whenever and wherever it is needed. Simply put, the continued availability and utilization of U.S.-flag vessels and United States citizen crews provide the best way for our nation to support our troops – to do otherwise is to put the security of our forces overseas in the hands of foreign flag vessels and foreign crews.” Regarding the peacetime economy, the unions stated, “Without a stronger, larger, and more competitive U.S.-flag shipping capability the United States may find itself – and our national economy – at great risk as we become even more dependent on foreign-flag shipping operations for the carriage of our export–import trade. If Congress and the administration do not take steps to attract and retain more vessels for the U.S.-flag, producers and shippers of U.S. commodities can find themselves hostage to foreign shipping interests who can easily dictate the terms and conditions that must be met before they are willing to carry America’s commerce. “We believe therefore that it is important that our nation has the United States-flag commercial vessels and the trained and loyal United States citizen crews needed to support our troops, to protect and enhance America’s economic interests at home and abroad, and to strengthen United States defense operations around the world.” The unions call on Congress to pass and support a 10-year extension and funding for the Maritime Security Program, as recommended by the House Armed Services Committee, and to resist calls for the repeal of cargo preference laws and the Jones Act. Joining the call for full MSP funding and observance of cargo preference laws was Michael Dumas, vice president and chief financial officer of SIUcontracted Intermarine LLC. He called on Congress to “provide full MSP funding and for other maritime and export programs to nurture and promote U.S.-flag shipping.” Also testifying about the importance of U.S.-flag carriers was Philip Shapiro, president and CEO of Seafarers-contracted Liberty Maritime U.S. Merchant Marine supporter and former Alaska Senator Ted Stevens died in an airplane crash in his home state on Aug. 9. Stevens, who was 86, served 39 years in the Senate and was chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. During his tenure, Stevens was a noted advocate of U.S. cabotage laws and other measures vital to the American maritime industry. A decorated military veteran, he was outspoken in his backing of American maritime labor, including specifically the SIU. After news of Stevens’ death hit Capitol Hill, many members of The late Sen. Ted Stevens was a friend of the SIU and avid Congress stood on their respective supporter of U.S. maritime. These photos show Stevens in chamber floors eulogizing him. On 1971 (left) and much more recently. the floor of the Senate, fellow Jones Act supporter Sen. Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii) likened the loss of Stevens to los- the Gulf of Mexico, Stevens lauded U.S. mariners and U.S.-flag shipping companies for ing a brother. From the White House, President Obama their relief and rescue efforts. During an award said of Stevens’ passing, “He devoted his career ceremony at the Washington, D.C., chapter of to serving the people of Alaska and fighting for the Propeller Club, Stevens said of merchant our men and women in uniform. Michelle and I mariners, “I think this industry of yours is the extend our condolences to the entire Stevens best part of the maritime industry in the world. family and to the families of those who We can keep that going if we maintain the relaperished alongside Senator Stevens in this tionship between labor and management that I’ve known in this association since I first terrible accident.” A champion for the successful campaign for appeared before the Propeller Club.” Stevens was such a strong supporter of U.S. Alaska statehood, Stevens was born in Indianapolis, Ind., on November 18, 1923. He maritime, the SIU endorsed his re-election bid graduated from UCLA in 1947. From 1943-46, in 2008. Additionally, members of the Propeller he served in the United States Army Air Corps Club thought so highly of his maritime support that the club presented Stevens with its coveted in World War II in China. In 1950 he graduated from Harvard Law Salute to Congress Award in 2001. In a message to the SIU in 1971, Stevens School and was admitted to the bar in California in 1950, to the District of Columbia said, “I have the utmost respect and admiration bar in 1951, and to the Alaska bar in 1957. He for the Seafarers International Union for the job practiced law in Fairbanks, Alaska, in 1953 and it has done ... and is continuing to do ... in the was legislative counsel, Department of Interior, campaign to rebuild the American merchant marine.” Washington, D.C. in 1956. He continued, “I have particular respect to Stevens went on to work as assistant to the Secretary of the Interior in 1958 and then as the SIU for its interest and concern over the chief counsel at Department of the Interior in problems of my State of Alaska ... not only 1960. He returned to Anchorage, Alaska, in Alaska’s maritime problems ... but the prob1961 and practiced law and was elected to State lems of the total development of Alaska’s ecohouse of representatives in 1964. He was re- nomic potential. My office and the SIU have elected in 1966, serving as speaker pro tempore worked closely together in the effort to develop and majority leader. He was appointed in the multi-billion-dollar oil reserves that have December 1968 as a Republican to the United been discovered beneath the North Slope. That States Senate to fill the vacancy caused by the oil would be the best guarantee of job opportudeath of E.L. Bartlett, and was subsequently nities for American Seafarers ... because the oil elected in a special election on November 3, would then have to move exclusively aboard 1970, to complete the unexpired term ending American-flag tankers. We all have a stake in January 3, 1973. Stevens was re-elected in this issue and I am delighted to have the full force of the Seafarers International Union 1972, 1978, 1984, 1990, 1996 and 2002. Shortly after hurricanes Katrina and Rita in arrayed on our side in this battle.” Continued on Page 7 Seafarers LOG 5 �Capt. Anthony Lloyd Takes NMC Helm Capt. Anthony S. Lloyd became the new commanding officer of the U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center in Martinsburg, W.Va, during a change of command ceremony conducted July 21. He replaced Capt. David Stalfort, who had served as commander since June 11, 2007. RAdm. Brian Salerno, director of Prevention Policy, U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) presided at the change of command ceremony. Other military officers who took part in the official activities included: Cmdr. Daniel McKay, U.S. Navy Chaplain Corps and RAdm. Kevin S. Cook. Representing the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education at the event were Don Nolan, vice president; J.C. Wiegman, director of training; Dale Rausch, director, academic education department; Priscilla Labanowski, director of admissions; and Michael Mason, deck department instructor. They were joined by John Mason, CEO, American Service Technology, Inc. Lloyd came to the NMC after serving three years as the program manager for incident planning and preparedness policy at Headquarters, U.S. Coast Guard. In that capacity, the captain’s responsibilities included serving as the vice chair of the National Response Team as well as chair of the Interagency Coordinating Committee on Oil Pollution Research. Additionally, Lloyd sat on a host of boards for oil spill preparedness activities prior to assuming his current command. Included were the International Oil Spill Conference Committee, the Spill Control Association of America and the API Spills Advisory Group. The captain also supervised a 70-person staff which now includes programmatic oversight for the National Strike Fore and the National Response Center. “The responsibility of command is always a challenge,” said Lloyd during his remarks shortly after assuming command. “But it’s always a great opportunity—as I see it—to support the individuals that have a critical job for our nation’s maritime system.” Prior to serving as commander of the NMC, Captain Stalfort was assigned as the chief of the Office of Performance Management for the Assistant Commandant for Operations, USCG. In this capacity, he directed the performance planning activities for national programs including port, vessel and facility safety and security, and waterways management including navigations systems, aids to navigation, bridge administration and marine transportation systems. The NMC’s self-described mission is Capt. Anthony S. Lloyd New Commander, USCG NMC Capt. David C. Stalfort Former Commander, USCG NMC to issue merchant credentials to fully qualified mariners in the most effective and efficient manner possible in order to assure a safe, secure, economically efficient and environmentally sound marine transportation system. The agency annually issues more than 72,000 mariner credentials, approves some 2,100 training courses and audits an estimated 260 training organizations. As part of the credentialing process, the NMC conducts evaluations of applications to ensure mariners are qualified to hold credentials. It also administers professional exams to mariners as an assessment of mariners’ knowledge. Agency Marks 220 Years of Service The U.S. Coast Guard recently celebrated what it described as “220 years of service to America,” observing its anniversary Aug. 4. “From its genesis as the Revenue Marine, the Coast Guard has evolved to become the world’s premier multi-mission, maritime service, conducting operations around the globe,” the agency said in a news release. “Coast Guardsmen are agile, adaptable and multi-missioned,” said Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Robert J. Papp Jr. “Born as revenue cuttermen, lighthouse keepers, steamboat inspectors and surfmen, we have expanded to meet the maritime needs of our nation. As Coast Guard men and women, we share a bond of pride in our rich heritage and a common purpose to uphold our honorable traditions.” According to the release, the Coast Guard “began its service to America in 1790 within the Treasury Department as the Revenue Marine, later renamed the Revenue Cutter Service. The Revenue Cutter Service joined with the U.S. Lifesaving Service in 1915 to create the Coast Guard. The U.S. Lighthouse Service was added to the U.S. Coast Guard in 1939, followed by the Steamboat Inspection Service in 1946. The Coast Guard transferred from the Treasury Department to the Department of Transportation in 1967 and to the Department of Homeland Security in 2003.” RAdm. Brian Salerno, Capt. Anthony S. Lloyd and Capt. David C. Stalfort Navy League President Emphasizes U.S. Merchant Marine’s Importance Official Reflects on Recent Tour of Paul Hall Center The president of the Navy League of the United States devoted a recent editorial to the ongoing importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Published in the August 2010 edition of Seapower, the Navy League’s official monthly magazine, the editorial also features a complimentary description of the SIU-affiliated The recent tour included a visit to the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, which is part of the Paul Hall Center. Pictured from left to right are fire fighting Instructor Robbie Springer, Navy League President Daniel B. Branch Jr., Paul Hall Center Director of Training J.C. Wiegman, Rear Adm. Albert J. Herberger, USN (Ret.) and American Service Technology Inc. CEO John Mason 6 Seafarers LOG Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, which Navy League President Daniel B. Branch Jr. toured on June 30. In his column, Branch wrote that American-flag commercial ships crewed by U.S. citizen mariners “continue to play an indispensable role in this nation’s economic and national security, providing strategic sealift support for military operations in Afghanistan and Iraq as well as humanitarian missions around the world.” He said the U.S. depends on “the commercial shipping industry to provide safe, reliable and environmentally friendly domestic waterborne transportation, maintain a U.S. presence in international shipping and help sustain the ship construction and repair, marine supplier, and vessel operating and management industrial base.” Branch added that it is “imperative” to “remind others of the importance of a viable, actively sailing U.S.-flagged Merchant Marine fleet manned with sufficient numbers of skilled licensed and unlicensed mariners to meet this nation’s needs in times of war and peace.” With that in mind, he said, the Navy League has teamed up with the International Propeller Club to promote the industry and encourage cooperation throughout its various segments. He went on to recap his recent visit to the Paul Hall Center, during which he was accompanied by Rear Adm. Albert J. Herberger, USN (Ret.), former U.S. maritime administrator. B r a n c h described the school as modern and comprehensive, and said Navy League President Daniel B. Branch Jr. the trip “taught me a great deal about what it takes to become a skilled mariner.” The entire column is available online at www.navyleague.org. Founded in 1902, the Navy League describes itself as being “unique among military-oriented associations in that it is a civilian organization dedicated to the education of our citizens, including our elected officials, and the support of the men and women of the sea services and their families. The objective and purpose of the Navy League is twofold: educational and motivational. We must acquire and display before the citizens of our country information regarding the condition of our naval and maritime forces. We must awaken interest and support in all matters which aid our maritime capabilities.” September 2010 �Oberstar, Stupak Sponsor ‘Historic’ Legislation Task Force Says Bill is Step Toward Repair of Lakes Dredging Crisis The end of the dredging crisis on the Great Lakes moved a big step closer when a key House committee recently approved legislation requiring the federal government to spend all the tax dollars it collects for dredging on dredging rather than use nearly half to balance the budget. Section 2007 of H.R. 5892, the Water Resources Development Act of 2010, mandates that all tax revenues annually deposited in the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) be used to dredge the nation’s deep-draft ports and waterways. Because the government does not spend all the tax dollars it raises for dredging, the HMTF currently has a surplus of more than $5 billion. The WRDA provision was derived from parallel but separate legislation advanced by U.S. Rep. Bart Stupak (D-Mich.) and U.S. Rep. Charles Boustany (R-La.). Their All Hands Safe Aboard Sagamore The Seafarers-crewed cargo vessel Sagamore during the early morning hours of Aug. 8 was boarded by attackers in the Persian Gulf near Iraq’s primary oil-export terminal. According to several reports, two men wielding AK-47s embarked on the Sagamore from a small vessel. Once aboard the cargo ship, the pair held the crew at gunpoint and robbed them of money, cell phones and computers. No injuries occurred during the incident, which lasted some 40 minutes. The Sagamore boarding was one of four nighttime raids perpetrated by thieves the same day between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m., in waters guarded by the U.S. Navy. According to the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, based in Bahrain, the other ships targeted and robbed were the Arminia, sailing out of Antigua and Barbuda; the Crystal Wave, of North Korea; and the Sana Star, of Syria. “They [targeted ships] were all located within general vicinity of the al-Basra oil terminal,” which is about 19 miles from the port of Umm Qasr, said Fifth Fleet spokesman Lt. John Fage. After receiving a distress call from the Sagamore at 4:35 a.m., the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet deployed a guided missile destroyer and a U.S. Coast Guard cutter to ensure the ships’ security. The U.S. Navy then notified the Iraqi Coast Guard, which sent four boats in search of the pirates, according to Col. Mehdi Ahmed, the deputy commander of those forces. The Iraqi Coast Guard boats reportedly pursued the pirates to a shoreline area dense with reeds. “Even if you have (security) ships in the area, they can’t be next to every single (other) ship in the area,” said Fage. “It’s a large body of water, and they can’t be everywhere all at once.” At that point, official accounts differ. According to Ahmed, the Coast Guard stopped the suspect boat, but the pirates themselves escaped into the marsh. According to the Fifth Fleet, their patrols are continuing and commercial traffic has been unaffected, despite this incident and a recent, suspected terrorist attack on a Japanese vessel in the Straits of Hormuz, which also falls within the Fifth Fleet’s area of responsibility. “We’re maintaining a high state of vigilance, as we always have,” said Fage. He added that the robbery doesn’t officially qualify as piracy because it didn’t take place in international waters. U.S.-Flag Fleet Role Could See Expansion Continued from Page 5 Corp. “The U.S. government has seen through its own experience that foreign vessels are not always available when needed or reliable when chartered,” he said. He also explained that depending on government-owned vessels needed in time of emergency is prohibitively costly. “MSP is vital to the retention of a privately owned U.S.-flag commercial fleet,” said Shapiro. “It provides the essential financial support to ensure that U.S.-flag vessels can compete successfully in the international market.” John Reinhart, president and CEO of SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited said, “The success of our business is based on our ability to provide competitive international transportation services to our customer. The foundation of our U.S.-flag business is the U.S. laws and policies designed to ensure a strong and economically viable U.S.-flag Merchant Marine for national defense and economic security.” Maritime Administrator David Matsuda explained during his testimony that international trade carried on U.S.-flag ships has plummeted from 57.6 percent in 1947 to less than two percent today. September 2010 legislation, H.R. 4844, requires that amounts credited to the HMTF are used for harbor maintenance and has nearly 50 co-sponsors. U.S. Rep. James Oberstar (D-Minn.), Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, was vital in ensuring that H.R. 4844 was included in the WRDA legislation, according to the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force (GLMTF, to which the SIU is affiliated). The Transportation and Infrastructure Committee approved the full WRDA bill on July 29. “We are deeply indebted to Congressman Stupak, Congressman Oberstar and others for their commitment to resolve the dredging crisis once and for all with this historic legislation,” said James H.I. Weakley, president of the task force, the largest labor/management coalition ever to promote shipping on America’s Fourth Sea Coast. “Every time a vessel leaves port with its holds less than full we are denying the American economy the efficiencies for which Great Lakes shipping was designed. Even with the dredging crisis, the Corps has estimated that Great Lakes shipping annually saves its customers $3.6 billion when compared to the next least-costly mode of transportation.” Although nationwide, the dredging crisis is particularly acute on the Great Lakes, according to the task force. Decades of what the organization described as inadequate funding for the Corps of Engineers’ dredging program have left 15 million cubic yards of sediment clogging the navigation system, the GLMTF reported. The Corps estimates it needs $180 million to clear the backlog. The federal government has taxed cargo to fund dredging since 1987. In recent years, the Harbor Maintenance Tax has annually generated an average of more than $1.4 billion in revenues for the HMTF, but expenditures have averaged less than $800 million. Legislation to require the HMTF to spend what it takes in each year is also moving forward in the Senate, where S.3213, introduced by Sen. Carl Levin (D-Mich.), had 15 co-sponsors as of early last month. Seafarers Elected to Virginia AFL-CIO Posts During the Virginia AFL-CIO convention, which took place mid-August in Williamsburg, Va., SIU Port Agent Georg Kenny and Seafarer Daniel Duncan, who serves as president of the Northern Virginia Area Labor Federation, were elected vice presidents of the federation. Pictured from left to right at the convention are Virginia AFL-CIO Sec.Treasurer Ray Davenport, Kenny (who is based in Norfolk, Va.), Virginia AFL-CIO President Doris Crouse-Mays (the organization’s first female president) and Duncan. Important Notices STCW Basic Safety Training (BST) Requirement – Clarification August 23, 2010 In response to concerns and feedback from industry, labor and the seafarer, the U.S. Coast Guard met with representatives of the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education to clarify matters pertaining to compliance with STCW Basic Safety Training (BST) requirements. The timing of the meetings also allowed for opportune discussions of the recently approved 2010 STCW Manila Amendments. At the meeting, and in light of the expected requirements of the Manila Amendments, the Coast Guard provided the following clarification concerning STCW Basic Safety Training (BST) requirements: ■ Since the previous amendments to the STCW Convention fully took effect in February 2002, the Coast Guard has required proof of completing a Coast Guard-approved or accepted BST course as evidence of initial compliance with related STCW requirements. ■ Currently, the Coast Guard also is accepting properly documented shipboard training and assessment as evidence of an individual mariner meeting the requirements for competency in BST, provided the mariner also has accumulated at least one year of sea time within the last five years, corresponding to the mariner’s credential period. ■ The 2010 STCW Manila Amendments mandate successful completion of an approved refresher course for certain elements of BST by deep-sea and near-coastal U.S. mariners. ■ To avoid potential Port State detention issues the Coast Guard will once again list BST compliance on STCW certificates. ■ Whenever mariners cannot document the sea service demonstrating ongoing maintenance of BST, they are required to take a Coast Guard-approved or accepted BST course. ■ Currently, MSC contracts require a BST Refresher Course every five years. The U.S. Coast Guard also commended the SIU and the Paul Hall Center for their continued efforts in upgrading the seafarers’ training in order to provide the most qualified and best trained seaman to meet the ever changing needs of the maritime industry they serve. New SHBP ID Cards In mid-August, the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) mailed new ID cards to active SIU members who are covered by the Plan. Active Seafarers who haven’t received their new cards are asked to contact the SHBP at 1-800-252-4674. Seafarers LOG 7 �USNS Wheat Seafarers Donate To Fund Backing Marines, Sailors Crew members of the prepositioning ship USNS LCPL Roy M. Wheat recently decided to help those they work with by donating thousands of dollars to a fund that assists Marines and Sailors wounded in action. The Wheat is operated by Keystone Prepositioning Services, Inc. and crewed in the unlicensed positions by SIU members. The cargo ship sails exclusively for the Marine Corps and is typically deployed in the Eastern Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea carrying food, fuel, tanks and a range of other equipment and supplies ready for rapid delivery to Marines ashore if needed. According to the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), the civilian crew and officers and other civilian contractors working aboard the Wheat donated $8,575 to a charitable organization called “Semper Fi” – a nonprofit entity that provides financial assistance and support to Marines and Sailors injured in the line of duty after Sept. 11, 2001, and their families. “Everyone personally contributed at least $100 to the fund,” said Wheat Electrician Jess Cooper. “We did it because we wanted to help those who protect America. We work with these folks day in and day out and we each sacrifice together. It’s a good ship and a good mission and our donation surely went to a good cause.” “Wheat is a special ship, and there is a special bond between the crew and the Marine Corps,” said Capt. John Mattfeld, the ship’s civilian master. “This donation is to show support for our troops fighting overseas and to demonstrate our gratitude for their service.” MSC in late July reported that members of the Wheat’s crew and contract maintenance department personally donated $2,175 to the fund. The crew also gave an additional $1,225 from the ship’s welfare and recreation fund that could have been used to purchase entertainment equipment on board, and also contributed the money from a $3,000 bonus which was awarded by Keystone for the three years the Wheat went without a pollution incident. The company also donated an additional $2,175. “Their gracious decision to donate these funds to help wounded service members and their families is not only indicative of their professionalism and dedication, but is also very much in line with the spirit of their ship’s namesake Lance Cpl. Roy Wheat,” said Marine Corps Col. Steven Peters, commander, Marine Corps Support Facility Blount Island in Jacksonville, Fla., where the Wheat recently was slated to return to reserve status while the Marine Corps conducts maintenance on its equipment. The checks were symbolically presented to Peters in a small ceremony July 27. The agency further noted that the Wheat’s crew members have donated their wages to the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund in previous years, most recently in 2007. The SIU crews of prepositioning ships USNS 1ST LT Harry L. Martin and USNS 1ST LT Jack Lummus have also made similar contributions. SIU members sailing aboard the Wheat when the ceremony took place included Bosun William Lima, ABs Harvey Carvajal, Eric Morieira, Brooke English, Matthew Jesmer and Glenn Davis, Electricians Jess Cooper and Mark Marler, QMEDs Kevin Johnson and DeShanna Sherrod, Oilers Ernesto Acosta and Gerard Dunn, Storekeeper Renee Clayton, Chief Steward Clark Williams, Chief Cook Alexander Alyxi, GSU Jermaine Williams and GVAs Reina Mendez and Anthony Newbill. The Wheat is named in honor of Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Roy M. Wheat, who died in 1967 during the Vietnam War and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for sacrificing himself to save the lives of three other Marines. New York New Jersey Rail Earns Safety Award for Second Consecutive Year The American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) recently honored Seafarers-contracted New York New Jersey Rail (NYNJR) by conferring the “Jake Safety Award Certificate with Distinction” for the second year in a row. The award is for any railroad that has no reportable Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) injuries or accidents during the year (2009). The SIU represents employees at NYNJR – the unique “floating railroad” between Brooklyn, N.Y., Jersey City, N.J., and in the waters of New York Harbor. NYNJR Managing Director Donald Hutton stated, “This subsequent award is an outstanding reflection of the team efforts of the management and employees. Most railroads earn this award operating safely on land; but our team maintains a safe railroad operation in a land and marine environment. This dual theater of operation places our marine railroad in a very unique safety classification. “NYNJR remains committed in making sure that this great record of safety continues,” Hutton added. “Once again, the SIU members of NYNJR are thanked for the great safety record.” According to the ASLRRA, the Jake Safety Award program started in 1995. Its creator and namesake is Lowell S. “Jake” Jacobson, a prior recipient of 8 Seafarers LOG Railway Age magazine’s Railroader of the Year Award. Jake started presenting these awards – and funding them with his own money – to call attention to outstanding safety achievements in the short line railroad industry, which previously had gone unrecognized. In 1999, the ASLRRA Safety Committee adopted the Jake Awards, and since then, has continued Jacobson’s legacy of rewarding and spotlighting the high safety standards of the small railroad industry. NYNJR General Manager James Christie, Rail Clerk Larry Kurdes and SIU Members/Conductors Sam Evans and Jose Torres pose by a NYNJR locomotive at Greenville Yard in Jersey City, N.J. (Not pictured are Engineer Peter Kalloo, Engineer Scott Twomey and Conductor James Lada, fellow Seafarers who helped earn the safety award.) Retired Union Official Carl Peth Dies at 69 Retired SIU official Carl Peth died unexpectedly on July 31 at his home in Ormond Beach, Fla. He was 69. Peth spent 34 years with the union, including service at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., where he was director of manpower. At various other times, he was a headquarters representative, port agent, organizer and safety director. A rank-and-file member from 1968 to 1973, he retired in December 2002. Tributes from Officials “Carl truly was an asset to the school, the union and the membership,” said Paul Hall Center Vice President Don Nolan. “He was very honest, hard-working and humble. He will be missed.” Current Director of Manpower Bart Rogers worked with Peth for 20 years. Rogers described him as “first and foremost a man of God, with very high morals and values. He loved three things that I knew of: He loved his family, his faith and the SIU. He treated everyone with kindness and respect. During his time with the SIU he touched many lives and always did the right thing.” Leo Bonser, retired headquarters representative, said he “knew Brother Peth as a man of his God, a man of his family and a dedicated man to Seafarers and their families. He was a great shipmate to work with and will be remembered.” Retired Port Agent Edd Morris kept in touch with Peth. “It is with sadness that I reflect upon Carl recently dying in his slumber,” Morris said. “With his quiet demeanor, he helped many Seafarers working to overcome their troubles and demons. He didn’t do his good works for any praise or even any recognition – he just did whatever needed to be done, without fanfare.” Morris added, “In the course of his career, he wore many hats and bore many crosses while he assisted others with their new challenges. Some would say that he was a swell guy; personally, I say that he is a great inspiration – the kind of hero we all can use.” A native of Chicago, Peth joined the SIU in 1968 in San Francisco. He first sailed as a messman aboard the Cornell Pictured during an SIUNA convention in the late 1990s, Carl Peth retired in December 2002. Victory. He switched to the engine department and eventually upgraded to QMED before coming ashore to work for the union in the early 1970s. Positions held His positions with the union and school included those of patrolman in New York and New Orleans, welfare services representative in the Great Lakes region, and port agent in Piney Point. He was active in the community, including activities supporting local churches and schools. When his retirement was announced in early 2003, Peth stated, “The SIU is a wonderful organization and I’m proud to have been a part of it.” Survivors include his wife of 39 years, Gladys; two adult children; a sister and two brothers. Peth (left) worked in various jobs at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. This photo from the mid-1970s also includes the late union official Lou Guarino, who passed away in 1998. September 2010 �Remembering a Mid-Century Merchant Mariner service were never far from his family’s mind. “Pray for Papa,” my mother, Sylvia, would often say nervously during the Vietnam War when my dad made trips to the war-ravaged region. Growing up in the sixties, I lived in constant fear that my father wouldn’t make it back It was May 29, 1945 when my father, home to New York. I will be forever Victor Rodriguez Delgado, set sail from grateful that he did not meet his demise New York on his first voyage with the in the line of duty. United States Merchant Marine. My dad For those of us with parents who were must surely have had mixed emotions on that day and for good reason. Since arriv- merchant mariners during that era, I think ing in the United States from Puerto Rico there was always a sense of that you were not part of a “traditional” family. a few years before, he had found life in My dad was away for months at a time the big city to be challenging at best. So, and was rarely home for birthday parties, this new career as a merchant mariner parent-teacher conferences, or family had to have seemed promising to a 26outings. Budgeting was left to my mother year-old with few friends or family on and out of necessity, so was most of the mainland. everything else. Such was the case in Still, the joy of finding work was 1959 when my eight-year-old sister died probably tempered by a sense of anxiety after a brief illness. My dad had just as well. Although the Axis powers had surrendered to the Allies just weeks earli- shipped out to Brazil when she got sick. After 10 days in a coma, Rachida died on er, fighting in the Pacific was still going November 1 of that year. In the pre-cell on. The possibility that Victor he would never return to his fiancée, Sylvia, was in phone or Internet age, the most common way to notify someone of events such as fact very real. this was by telegram. When he received But in addition to his desire for work, the message, my dad read it in disbelief. it was patriotism and duty that also guid“At first I said, ‘This can’t be for ed Victor as he made his career decision. me,’” my father later confided. “I thought “God Bless America,” my dad was fond the telegram was for some other Victor of saying. And while his unabashed love Delgado.” With international travel far for the United States too limited in the 1950s, may have appeared curimy father could not ous to some, those who knew his story could In our home, the return to New York in time for the funeral. My understand why. And it union was gold. mother had to bury her was a story not unlike first-born child surthose of countless other Membership prorounded by many but mid-century merchant vided our family feeling very alone. It mariners. By 1945, wasn’t until weeks later, Victor had lost both parwith numerous just before Christmas, ents and five of his six benefits as well as that Victor got back to siblings in Puerto Rico. U.S. Although I was Left to find his own a sense of security. the quite young, I still way in life, he had remember the sadness in already completed sermy parents’ eyes as they vice in the United States Army, had embraced and were finally able to grieve worked on the railroads in Pennsylvania their loss as a couple. and also at the Brooklyn Shipyard. Between the wars and family Despite his struggles in the States, this tragedies, though, there were many pleaswas still a land of opportunity. For ant times for Victor Rodriguez Delgado. Victor, signing on with the United States With the United States Merchant Marine, Merchant Marine during wartime, to my dad saw nearly the entire globe, landserve his country once again, was simply ing in places like India, Argentina, the the right thing to do. And that same year, my father also began a longtime member- Netherlands, Japan, France and many more. His favorite destinations? “Seattle, ship in the National Maritime Union, Washington, and Oslo, Norway,” he told which later merged into the Seafarers us once. I’ll never forget how excited we International Union. children would get when our father called Over the next 24-and-a-half years, long distance to say that he was back in Victor Rodriguez Delgado would have the States and would be coming home the chance to serve his beloved country soon. After much anticipation, Papa time and time again in war as well as in would appear at the door of our peace. His jobs were humble but essenManhattan apartment, looking every bit tial to the operation of the ships. He the quintessential seaman: rosy cheeks, worked in the mess area and in the engine room – wherever there was oppor- dressed in a leather jacket, and black seaman’s cap, loaded with luggage and soutunity. In the 1950s, my dad sailed on venirs. “Papa, Papa,” we shouted with vessels such as the SS Seven Seas, the Santa Rosa and the SS America. He made delight as our father entered. A generous man, Victor always brought back exotic trips to Korea, carrying cargo to our solgifts from countries I have yet to visit. diers during the conflict there. In the Kimonos and sets of dishes from Japan, 1960s, he served aboard the SS jewelry and handbags from Latin Mormactrade, the American Guide, and America, porcelain from the Netherlands, the Britain Victory, among others. perfume from France. The happiness and On many of his voyages, he helped feeling of belonging would last for days. bring supplies to our service people in But, just as we were getting accustomed Vietnam. The dangerous aspects of his Editor’s note: This article and the accompanying photos were submitted to the LOG by Saida Rodriguez Pagán, daughter of the late NMU member Victor Rodriguez Delgado. Seafarer Composes Poem In Memory of Departed Friend Editor’s note: The following poem was submitted for publication in memory of the late Donna Lee Cameron. Cameron, 53, worked for many years as a driver in the motor pool at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. She passed away July 24 following a lengthy illness. A Star Flew Back to Heaven Today She couldn’t wait for the rising sun, So the angels came to take her, September 2010 These photos of Victor Rodriguez Delgado were taken in the late 1940s or early 1950s to having a father at home, and being part of a “regular family,” the sense of normalcy would end abruptly. “Papa got a ship today,” my mother would explain when we arrived home from school looking for him, only to find that our father had gone someplace far away without a chance to say goodbye. Despite the sacrifices my dad’s profession presented for all of us, we knew it was a lifestyle that had its advantages. By being a merchant mariner my father was able to support us, send his children to good schools and maintain the family’s dignity as tax-paying, productive citizens. An integral part of all of this was the National Maritime Union (NMU). As a hard-working, humble but wise man, my father had a great deal of respect for the union that represented him during his nearly quarter-century of service. The union hall in downtown Manhattan was where he went to socialize between voyages and to apply for work. In our home, the union was gold. Membership provided our family with numerous benefits as well as a sense of security. Those positive experiences with the NMU helped shape my opinion of unions throughout my life. Although my father loved his work, in November 1969, Victor, at the urging of his family, decided that after more than 24 years of service it was time to retire and spend more time with us. He was just 50 years old; he could receive his pension and then take another job, which is precisely what he did. This early retirement plan worked fine for a few years, but unfortunately the high-blood pressure that my dad had developed a decade earlier coupled with a new diagnosis of heart disease forced Victor to be declared disabled at the age of 54. One major source of pleasure during this time was receiving the NMU publications and keeping up with news about his former industry. But then, 11 years after his last ship came his final voyage. In the summer of 1980, a severe heat wave hit New York City. My dad, who’d Before the day begun. Her kind heart rests with her children: Daniel and Joanna; her beloved husband Bill. She truly loved her family and friends And promised she always will. A Star flew back to heaven today. Tears…we’ll miss her so. God needed Her feisty spirit, she was always on the go! A lifetime of dedicated service. Humble yet tough. She taught me to ‘hold my own” – she was my favorite Female pilot, the coolest lady I’ve ever known! For those of us who remember her at Piney Point had open heart surgery a few years earlier, succumbed to the record-breaking temperatures and had to be hospitalized. A few days later he died in Manhattan, surrounded by family and friends. Victor Rodriguez Delgado: United States Army Veteran, United States Merchant Mariner, husband and father received a military funeral at Long Island National Cemetery on July 30, 1980. Before Victor passed away, the United States government had awarded him a medal for his service during the Korean War. I am now in the process of determining which other commendations my father may be entitled to receive posthumously. In addition, on this, the 30th anniversary of his death, I am exploring additional ways to recognize my dad’s contributions at U.S. Merchant Marine memorials and maritime museums in Southern California where the family now resides. Victor Rodriguez Delgado is among those who are often referred to as members of “The Greatest Generation.” He was like so many other young Americans who entered the armed forces or the merchant marine in the mid-twentieth century. They were men and women of bravery, determination and honor. They did their jobs each and every day with little fanfare or fame. They risked their lives and made personal sacrifices so that America could remain strong and free. Whether their roles were large or small, they all contributed to a noble cause and are worthy of recognition. So let us remember their names, tell their stories, and record their deeds. If you knew Victor Manuel Rodriguez Delgado and have stories or pictures of him please contact Saida Rodriguez Pagán at: saidapagan@att.net Being gate guard or driving the motor pool van – She was always there to listen and to lend a helping hand. A star flew back to heaven today. On behalf of every mariner who knew her On both foreign and domestic shores… We love you Donna Cameron… God bless you forever more! Lezlie Vehikite, OBR Paul Hall Center Apprentice Class 705 SS Kawai Donna Lee Cameron Sept. 29, 1956 - July 24, 2010 Seafarers LOG 9 �Council Sharpens Pro-Worker Strategies The AFL-CIO Executive Council during its Aug. 4-5 meeting in Washington, D.C., laid out a plan for how the Obama administration and Congress fundamentally can revamp the nation’s economy so that it puts workers first. The council also mapped out paths for the critical fall elections and how best to ensure that working people are mobilized to vote so working families’ issues are on the national political agenda. In a series of statements, council members—including SIU President Michael Sacco—reaffirmed the need for immediate adoption of the AFL-CIO’s five-point plan to create new jobs and warned that reducing the deficit must come after more revenue-producing jobs are created. At a time when the country is in the midst of the worst jobs crisis since the Depression, the labor leaders emphasized that the nation needs to create more good jobs, in part by expanding the Buy American program; establishing a national manufacturing strategy; and adopting new tax policies to support companies that keep jobs in America. The council also underscored the need to pass legislation that encourages a new commitment to rebuild the nation’s infrastructure. Moreover, according to the federation, America cannot have a strong economy without a strong public education system that can train workers for the global economy. Council members stressed that teachers and other education professionals must be involved in reforming our schools. The country cannot solve state and local budget woes by cutting funds for education and making teachers the scapegoats for poor policies, they said. Other vital public services, such as mail delivery, should not be cut either, the council said. It warned the U.S. Postal Service that dropping mail delivery to five days a week would decrease the public’s confidence in such a critical agency. There was much to celebrate as executive council members praised the pro-worker policies of the Obama administration. During Labor Secretary Hilda Solis’ visit to the meeting, AFLCIO President Richard Trumka and the other leaders presented her with a poster prepared by the Labor Department outlining employees’ rights on the job for posting in the workplace. The poster was signed by all the Executive Council members. The council reminded the administration and Congress that despite their pro-worker accomplishments to date, there is still much to do to ensure that worker rights and their health and safety are protected. Council members approved a statement pushing for quick action on the Employee Free Choice Act and AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka presents Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis with a poster outlining workers’ rights. (Photo by Bill Burke/Page One) changes to federal labor laws that would help the National Labor Relations Board fulfill its mission to promote collective bargaining. Workers must have safe jobs and the council singled out two groups whose safety and health has been especially endangered recently—first responders and energy workers. The recent rash of deaths in mines and oil rigs clearly shows the need to tighten safety rules and the council urged Congress to quickly pass mine safety legislation. It also condemned some legislators’ cynical refusal to extend health care benefits for America’s heroes—the first responders after the 911 terrorists attack. The council spotlighted the plight of workers around the world in a resolution of solidarity with Bangladeshi garment workers seeking a modest minimum wage increase of 35 cents. The Trade Statement also called for strong action to include enforceable workers’ rights in trade agreements In other business, the council called for changes in the Senate’s antiquated rules to help break the seemingly permanent gridlock in that chamber, elected five new members and honored retiring members Ron Gettelfinger and Ann Converso. The new members are Bob King, UAW president; General Holiefield, UAW vice president; Lee Saunders, secretary-treasurer of AFSCME; James Andrews, president of the North Carolina AFL-CIO; and Maria Elena Durazo, executive secretary-treasurer of the Los Angeles County AFL-CIO. The AFL-CIO Executive Council meets at least twice annually to consider important union movement business and policies. SIU President Sacco has served on the council since 1991. W i t h S e a f a r e r s A b o a r d t h e E l Fa r o S n a p s h o ts f r o m th e S t . C l a i r These photos of SIU members aboard the El Faro were sent to the LOG by DEU John Cooper. AB Fr. Sinclair Oubre submitted these recent photos from aboard the Great Lakes vessel St. Clair. Operated by American Steamship Company, the St. Clair is 770 feet long. According to the company, the vessel “uses a twin conveyor system below its cargo holds to transport cargo to an inclined conveyor belt that elevates the cargo to the deck-mounted boom conveyor. For maneuvering in port the vessel is equipped with 1,000 HP bow and stern thrusters.” OMU Will Scott (foreground), AB Ray Johns OMU Thomas Hawks (foreground), OMU David Quade GUDEs Mohammed Ali, Jabr Ali and Abdul Alsharey Electrician Trent Sterling (left), Baltimore Port Agent Elizabeth Brown 10 Seafarers LOG In photo at left are 2nd Cook Fonda Biamonte (left) and SA Jimmy Beaudry. Conveyorman Richard Sawyer is above and Bosun Ray Hotchkiss is at right. September 2010 �CELEBRATION IN ST. LOUIS – Members of the SS Samuel Parker Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV) met at the SIU hall in St. Louis on June 28 to celebrate the 235th birthday of the U.S. Merchant Marine. A number of chapter members are pictured here, with SIU Port Agent Becky Sleeper (sixth from right). The AMMV reminds all mariners that June 12, 1775 is considered the date of the first sea engagement of the Revolution and the start of the U.S. Merchant Marine’s role in the war. ABOARD HORIZON SPIRIT – Pictured from left to right are SA Walter Harris, Recertified Steward Susan K. Bowman and Chief Cook Raul Napoles. “I am proud to have these two gentlemen in my department,” Bowman wrote in an email to the Seafarers LOG. “Crew morale is good as we are putting out excellent meals and we have a great, professional working relationship.” A t Se a An d Ash o re W i th T h e S I U WELCOME ASHORE – At the SIU hall in Norfolk, Va., Port Agent Georg Kenny (left) congratulates Bosun Larry Ambrous on his retirement. The bosun started sailing with the SIU in 1967. He most recently sailed aboard a Maersk Line, Limited vessel. PFEIFFER IN GUAM – SIU Port Agent John Hoskins (right in photo above, with Chief Steward Stephen Avallone) in early August serviced the Matson vessel R.J. Pfeiffer in Guam. Avallone and Hoskins used to sail together aboard the USNS Stockham, “so it was really nice to meet up with him again after so long,” Hoskins said. Pictured from left to right in the photo below are ACU Shawn Canon, Chief Cook Susano Cortez and Avallone. MEETING IN MARYLAND – Seafarer Ritche Acuman (left) submitted this photo of himself, his son Ritche Jr. (“a future SIU member,” according to dad), SIU President Michael Sacco (center) and Seafarer Martin Gonzales. The snapshot was taken earlier this summer in Piney Point, Md. DECK DEPARTMENT OPERATIONS – These images from AB Brandon Braam were taken earlier this year aboard the tanker USNS Lawrence H. Gianella in Diego Garcia. The photo above shows Braam during daily deck duties. Silhouetted in the other photo is Relief Bosun Kyle Bailey working on an underway replenishment arm. The Gianella is operated by Ocean Shipholdings Inc. for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. AT THE OAKLAND HALL – Pictured at the union hall in Oakland, Calif., are Seafarer Dexter Hastings (left in photo above), being sworn in for his full B book by Asst. VP Nick Celona, and newly retired Seafarer Elwyn Ford, standing with his wife, Lenea, and Celona. September 2010 Seafarers LOG 11 �The SIU group included Gil Villena, Donato Camandang, Cornelio Bartolome, Donaldo Clotter, Nick Rios, Jeff Turkus, Gerardo Ruiz, Alberto Jose, Roger Martell, Mario Ferrer, Eric Garcia, Eduardo Munizaga and Jess Solis, most of whom are pictured above, and a dozen or so others. AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka says California needs leaders who will create and save jobs. (Photo by Caroline O’Connor) Union Members Rally in Los Angeles, Call for Creating, Keeping Good Jobs Seafarers Join Demonstration of More than 5,000 On Friday the 13th, trade unionists and labor leaders spoke out about the frightening export of American jobs and the urgent need to create and keep good jobs in the United States. Approximately two-dozen Seafarers and SIU officials participated in the rally Aug. 13 in Los Angeles – an event that drew more than 5,000 demonstrators. The gathering outside Los Angeles City Hall featured remarks by AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka and U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.), among others. Its theme was “Paychecks Pay the Bills.” “There was a lot of solidarity,” said SIU Wilmington, Calif. Port Agent Jeff Turkus, who helped lead the SIU contingent. “It was really something to see and of course the rally was very peaceful but very spirited.” Trumka mainly focused on California-specific issues but also discussed the upcoming elections and the nationwide economic picture. He pointed out that anti-worker commentators and legislators lately have targeted public-sector employees (and their unions), and those attacks must be rebutted. “We’ve seen private-sector jobs destroyed, and now they’re coming after the public employees. Some people see public employees as an island of privilege,” Trumka told the crowd. “The truth is you’re the foundation for decent standards – you’re the only thing standing in the way of a Republican-driven, all-out race-to-the-bottom – a deeper and deeper hole. And that’ll be the end of America’s middle class. “When public employees and union workers everywhere negotiate decent pay and decent benefits, what we do is lift all boats,” he continued. “Every worker in America gets a chance at a better deal. We need each other. We’re strong together. Shoulder-to-shoulder, there’s nothing we can’t do.” The AFL-CIO president said that on Election Day 2010, California is “ground zero in the political showdown between Wall Street and Main Street. Nowhere else in the nation are voters’ choices in November so stark. You have the third-highest jobless rate in the country. A budget deficit of $21 billion. You need leaders who can create and save jobs, and deal with tough budget situations. That’s why we’ve got to fight for Barbara Boxer and Jerry Brown – because together we can restore California and restore jobs.” Trumka urged union members to participate in grassroots activities leading up to the elections. “And let me tell you why,” he stated. “Because if we win these elections on November 2, it’ll strengthen us to fight on November 3, and the next day, and the day after that, for the jobs we need. Nobody’s going to hand them to us. And people who want better have to understand: If California and America are going to create new jobs with rising wages, stable benefits and promising futures, we’ve got to work for it. If you believe that keeping jobs in this country matters, and in returning America to a country that makes things again, work for it…. And don’t let anyone stand in our way.” Boxer said the rally was intended to “send a message to this great state that the key to the American dream is a good-paying job. We are going to keep fighting for workers.” Maria Elena Durazo, executive secretarytreasurer of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, said, “Today is a national call for good jobs now. It starts in L.A. but it’s going to make its way all across the United States of America.” Maria Elena Durazo, executive secretary-treasurer of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, tells the crowd it is time for a “national call for good jobs now.” (Photo by Lewis Jacobs, IATSE Local 600) California Labor Federation President Art Pulaski joins workers at the rally. (Photo by Caroline O’Connor) Rally-goers urge city officials and others to create jobs and stop outsourcing. (Photo by Caroline O’Connor) More than 5,000 people demonstrate (above) at City Hall in Los Angeles in support of good jobs. In photo at left, the message was hard to miss: People are anxious to find employment. (Photo by Lewis Jacobs, IATSE Local 600) 12 Seafarers LOG September 2010 �Ray Denison Philip Ross New Book Chronicles SIU History Published this summer, the book covers not only the union’s history but also earlier attempts at organizing by maritime workers. Union headquarters in Brooklyn, N.Y., is shown at its opening in 1951. This image and dozens more are included in the book, which may be ordered at www.siustore.com. T he SIU is pleased to announce the publication of “America’s Seafarers,” a book that examines the union’s history to the present day, including key events leading to its founding in 1938. The 271-page hardcover book authored by Ray Denison and Philip Ross covers the history of early attempts at union organizing among maritime workers that preceded the SIU’s start. The book charts the union’s struggles and growth through the final years of the Great Depression, its role in World War II with its heavy loss of SIU-crewed ships, to its post-war campaigns for decent working conditions and wages while undertaking organizing drives. Included are details of the historic struggles to win recognition in the Isthmian and Cities Service fleets. Also included in the book are details about the fight to maintain cargo preference laws for U.S.-flag vessels while battling the exodus of American ships to runaway flags. “America’s Seafarers” also reviews the establishment of SIU vacation, health and scholarship programs and the creation of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Other chapters focus on the containership revolution, the SIU’s role in the first and second Gulf Wars as well as its hard-fought battles in the Congress to defend the Jones Act and to bring about the creation of the Maritime Security Program. The book, which sells for $14.99, contains photos and a timeline of events, and is available at the SIU’s online Slop Chest, located at www.siustore.com. The Slop Chest also is accessible from the SIU web site, www.seafarers.org. Additionally, the book is available at the Sea Chest store located at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point. A former Seafarers LOG editor and AFL-CIO legislative director, Denison approached the union more than two years ago with the idea of putting together a comprehensive account of the SIU’s history. He described the project as “a labor of love,” and said the finished product is a fitting tribute to an organization that remains close to his heart. “I truly believe there is a need for this book to honor those whose vision and dedication made the union a success and who have played a vital role in preserving the American Merchant Marine,” said Denison, who also served as administrator of the SIU’s Great Lakes District. “However, it would not have happened without the total supportiveness of the union as well as that of the Paul Hall Center.” “America’s Seafarers” was published by union-contracted Mosaic, based in Cheverly, Md. More than 1,200 SIU members lost their lives sailing in World War II, a period examined in “America’s Seafarers.” This photo from the book shows Paul Hall, then New York port agent, rallying Seafarers outside the SIU hall. September 2010 Seafarers LOG 13 �The Ed Woods Story – A Teenager in World War II Editor’s note: This is the first installment in an occasional series written by Edward T. Woods, a U.S. Merchant Marine veteran of World War II who later served in the U.S. Coast Guard. Parts of the story also have been published in editions of the American Merchant Marine Veterans North Atlantic Chapter newsletter. Woods, who sailed in the engine and steward departments, turned 83 earlier this summer. “I am among the youngest of the surviving U.S. Merchant Mariners of that era,” he wrote in a letter to the Seafarers LOG. World War II was at its height on May 17, 1944, the day the United States Maritime Service announced it had lowered the enlistment age to 16 years for youngsters willing to train and sail as merchant seamen. The invasion of Europe, D Day, was still three weeks away. The Allies were at the outskirts of Rome on their way to liberating the centuriesold historic city. In the Pacific, General MacArthur had begun his Island Hopping Campaign and was in the process of taking New Guinea in preparation for his return to the Philippine Islands in the coming months. His promise, “I shall return,” a promise made to the Philippine people in early 1942, was about to come true. New ships were being built in our American shipyards at an unprecedented pace to replace the merchant ships sunk by German U-boats. Regrettably, in wartime, when a ship was sunk most of the crew went down with it. More men were desperately needed to sail these new ships as they were launched. The following article appeared in the New York papers: The War Shipping Administration announces that, effective immediately, the United States Maritime Service will enlist young men between the ages of 16 and 171/2 years for training for service in the Merchant Marine of the United States, with their parents’ consent. Six weeks training is required for service as mess men and utility men in the steward department, and 13 weeks training for service in the deck and engine departments. Upon completion of training, men will be assigned to merchant vessels within a few weeks. No men are being enrolled between the ages of 18 and 26 except those classified by Selective Service in any F or L classification or in 1-C, but all qualified men over the age of 26 and less than 35 1/2 for the deck and engine departments, or less than 50 1/2 for the steward department, are eligible for enlistment for training. A career at sea has always been attractive to young men. The Merchant Marine is playing a vital part in winning the war. Without it, supplies, equipment and troops could not be transported to our battlefront. Gen. Eisenhower, Gen. MacArthur, Gen. Montgomery, Admiral King and Admiral Nimitz have recognized the merchant seamen as part of our fighting team. Here is a way young men can volunteer for a part in the winning of the war, before they reach the age of registration under Selective Service. The United States Maritime Service maintains Enrolling Offices in most principal cities. Apply there, or write to the Commandant of the United States Maritime Service, Training Organization, War Shipping Administration, National Theatre Building, Wash., D.C. When I tell someone today that 16-yearold American boys served in World War II at the invitation of our government, they express surprise. They are more amazed to learn the United States Government actively recruited 16-year-old boys for service in the wartime Merchant Marine. In May 1944, I had two older brothers in the Marine Corps who were fighting the Japanese on remote and unidentified islands in the Pacific Ocean. My family had not heard from them in many months. Like most of the kids my age, I wanted to do my part to help beat the Axis. In my own way, I wanted to feel I was helping my brothers. I was 16; I quit school, got my mother’s tearful written permission and enlisted at the downtown Manhattan office of the U.S. Maritime Service. I was sworn in on June 1, 1944 as a seaman recruit and began training the same day at the U.S. Maritime Training Station, Sheepshead Bay, New York. Part of the program consisted of basic gunnery training. I was taught the fundamentals of handling antiaircraft guns; how to load, aim and lead fire (aiming ahead of a 14 Seafarers LOG flying plane to allow for the plane’s speed and distance). These guns were similar to what would be aboard our merchant ships. There was an emphasis on lifeboat training. I had to learn to launch and retrieve boats manually on davits located on our pier. This included additional practice in tying knots and rowing a whaleboat together with my section mates for 40 hours in Jamaica Bay, New York. The latter was fun and, after we mastered the use of rowing in unison and following the coxswain commands, we held races with the other training sections. I earned the coveted Lifeboat Man’s Certificate. It was emphasized that knowing how to abandon and safely move away from a sinking ship was paramount to survival. My first cousin, Eddie Keenan, was also at the Sheepshead Bay Training Station, although in a different section. At the end of the war, Eddie stayed at sea, continued his marine engineering studies and earned his engineer’s license. He later obtained a commission in the U.S. Navy and was stationed in Bremerhaven, Germany. Today, Eddie and I keep in touch with each other by telephone and often exchange information about the merchant mariners in WWII. Following a few weeks of training, I was assigned to my first ship, a T2 oil tanker, the S/S Horseshoe. We carried aviation fuel and a deck cargo of P51 Mustang fighter airplanes to Liverpool, England. It was the first time in my young life that I had left the states of New York and New Jersey. Years later, I wrote a short story about my first voyage as a merchant seaman. I titled my story My First Voyage in WWII. My wife, Jackie, took exception and said I should use a more dramatic title. She suggested A Teenager Goes to War, and that is what I named it. Later my story was included in an anthology of stories of and by World War II merchant mariners (Patriots and Heroes, edited by Gerald Reminick). In WWII, merchant ships, such as the S/S Woods is pictured aboard the U.S. Army Transport ship E.B. Alexander in 1946. Horseshoe, were armed with eight 20-millimeter anti-aircraft machine guns spread out along the starboard and port sides, a five-inch 38-caliber aft over the poop deck and a 3inch 50-caliber gun on the bow. With the help of the merchant crew, the guns were manned and maintained by the U.S. Navy (the Navy Armed Guard). Before we left the port of New York, the U.S. Navy ensign in charge of the Navy gunners mustered the merchant crew and told us that he did not have a sufficient number of Navy gunners to man the guns. He would need men from the merchant crew to work alongside the gunners. I signed up immediately, as did most of the crew. My first assignment was as a hot shell catcher on the 5 inch 38. Later, and for the duration of the war, I was assigned to one of the 20-millimeter anti-aircraft machine guns. This was more to my liking as there was only one lone Navy gunner assigned to the gun, a fellow New Yorker. In a short time, the two of us became good friends. The gunner told me that aboard a U.S. Navy ship four gunners would have been assigned to one 20mm. During gunnery practice, I alternated firing the weapon with the gunner and, foolishly or otherwise, I began to wish a German plane During the training that helped Woods earn his lifeboat ticket, “It was emphasized that knowing how to abandon and safely move away from a sinking ship was paramount to survival,” he wrote. would attack us during the voyage so I could blow it out of the sky: “I’d show ’em!” While assigned to the gun, my job was to change the heavy gun barrel before it overheated. It felt as if it weighed more than I did at that time. I had to use heavy asbestos gloves together with a specially designed wrench to remove the hot barrel and then immediately put it in a nearby tub of water to cool before it warped from the extreme heat. As the hot barrel was plunged into the relatively cool water, a column of hot steam would come blasting out of the tube. I had to be sure to stand clear. Then, and as quickly as possible, I had to mount a replacement barrel so the gunner could continue firing. I also had to keep loading magazines on the gun. The magazine held 60 shells and emptied very quickly. On my first voyage was to Liverpool, England, my ship, the S/S Horseshoe, was part of a huge convoy. It took nine days to cross the Atlantic and this was considered a fast run for a convoy during WWII. I was told that I was lucky to be on a new T2 tanker that could keep up with troop ships. A convoy with troop ships meant more naval escorts: Numerous Canadian Corvettes and American Destroyers were positioned around the perimeter of the convoy. It was rumored a small U.S. Navy aircraft carrier was ahead of us offering additional protection against the German U-boat menace. (As with other groups of men in relatively close quarters, there was a constant flow of rumors aboard ship. Rumors and gossip were called scuttlebutt. A scuttlebutt is a drinking fountain on a ship and it is there that the rumors begin to spread. The word scuttlebutt eventually came to mean gossip.) When my ship arrived in Liverpool, we anchored midstream in the Mersey River and connected our cargo tanks to underwater pipes to pump our bulk oil ashore. Once our tanks were empty, we moved to a docking area near the Cunard-White Star line-docking complex to unload our deck cargo. I learned that the difference between low and high tides in the Mersey River is one of the highest in the world for a major port. Docked next to us was a Swedish hospital ship painted white with highly visible big red crosses along its sides. It was disembarking wounded British soldiers that had been taken in exchange for wounded German prisoners of war. It was a sad and depressing sight watching young men in bandages being carried off on stretchers or walking with the aid of crutches. I could see that some of them were missing limbs. Sweden was a neutral nation and was used by both the Axis and the Allies for humanitarian purposes. When I first went ashore in Liverpool, I immediately witnessed the results of the German bombing; a great deal of devastation throughout the city. As bad as it appeared to me, I was told that it was nothing compared to the destruction of London and other English cities caused by the German bombing. I had to admire the English for their strength and determination. They were hungry, but never beggars. Most of the young kids could not remember ever seeing an orange or a banana. When I went ashore, I carried with me a few oranges and a banana or two. I gave them to the girls at the Seamen’s Club to bring to their families. I exchanged addresses with a young girl at the club and over the following year, we were active pen pals. She and a younger brother and sister together with her parents were now crowded in with relatives in a small apartment in North Liverpool. Her family had lost their home in an air raid – “bombed out,” they called it. I gathered she was happy to be alive. Her older brother was fighting in France with the British army, as was most of the male British population with the exception of the older folks and children. There were street kids who offered to sing suggestive ballads for a reward of a piece of gum or a chocolate bar. We obliged them, and I heard the story of, Maggie Mae of Lime Street for the first time. Also popular was, Roll Me Over Yankee Soldier. One night, I missed the ride back to my ship and, due to a strict curfew and a total blackout of all lights I had to be off the darkened streets. I tried to rent a hotel room, however when the clerk asked for identification, he noted that I was under 18 and therefore would need to stay at a special hotel. He directed me to the Angel Street Service Club for Young Seamen. I paid one shilling, about 20 cents, for the night’s lodging that included a morning breakfast of powdered eggs, toast and chicory coffee. A typical wartime English breakfast. A young English sailor said to me, “After you Yanks taste our coffee, you’ll see why we drink so much tea.” Someone in the background added the now familiar comment about the Yanks in England during wartime: “God bless you Yanks, you’re over here, you’re overpaid and you’re over-sexed.” Always said in a friendly spirit. I stayed in Liverpool for a week, and then returned to New York, where I changed ships. My new ship, the S/S Brandy Station, was an identical T2 tanker and we carried the same split cargo: aviation gasoline, bunkers (fuel oil) and P38 airplanes. The Brandy Station’s deck crew were members of the Seafarers International Union (SIU). They had been recruited directly from the union hall with a guarantee that all SIU contractual agreements would be met. This proved helpful for every crew member, especially the non-members – kids like myself, fresh out of the U.S. Maritime training camps. It would be my home for the next 16 months. This time, I sailed with an exceptionally large convoy to Casablanca, Morocco. We arrived at night and our convoy anchored outside the harbor until morning. There was an unusual odor in the air of herbs, spices and other unidentified aromas as we sat at anchor many yards out from the docking facilities. The smell lasted for the entire week I stayed there and then lingered aboard ship for many months after, especially when I opened up souvenirs I had purchased from the Moroccans – leather wallets that had not been properly tanned. The next morning, as we moved towards the docking facilities, I saw a huge war ship tied at a pier, its gun barrels pointing straight at us. It was the French battleship Jean Bart with a huge ragged hole in her bow. She had been in a duel with our American navy during the invasion and her big guns had caused much concern to our landing forces. Fortunately, in the early stages of the battle, she took a hit from one of our war ships and was put out of action. A short time later, she surrendered and the French in Africa became our allies once again. September 2010 �Members Earn A-Seniority Books D i s p at c h e r s ’ R e p o r t fo r D e e p S e a July 16, 2010 – August 15, 2010 The two Seafarers pictured here recently received their respective A-seniority membership books. In the photo above, AB Confesor Arzu (left) picks up his book from Port Agent Kris Hopkins at the union hall in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. In the other photo, Chief Cook John Walsh (right) displays his book at the Baltimore hall after receiving it from Port Agent Elizabeth Brown. September & October 2010 Membership Meetings Piney Point.............* Tuesday: September 7, Monday: October 4 Algonac .....................................Friday: September 10, October 8 Baltimore................................Thursday: September 9, October 7 Guam...................................Thursday: September 23, October 21 Honolulu .................................Friday: September 17, October 15 Houston...............Monday: September 13, *Tuesday: October 12 Jacksonville............................Thursday: September 9, October 7 Joliet...................................Thursday: September 16, October 14 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 18 0 3 17 2 7 52 26 6 7 12 47 16 25 7 2 7 37 4 36 331 14 1 6 18 4 6 19 24 2 4 6 14 30 13 6 11 8 24 1 20 231 0 0 1 0 1 0 3 3 2 1 2 8 10 1 0 1 1 1 1 3 39 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 6 0 4 7 2 6 15 13 3 8 4 13 10 14 4 4 2 10 1 7 133 6 0 7 5 1 3 17 14 3 2 2 11 22 8 3 4 6 14 2 20 150 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 3 7 3 3 23 17 1 8 7 15 11 19 4 3 1 22 1 28 179 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 New York.................................Tuesday: September 7, October 5 Norfolk...................................Thursday: September 9, October 7 Oakland ..............................Thursday: September 16, October 14 Philadelphia.........................Wednesday: September 8, October 6 Port Everglades ..................Thursday: September 16, October 14 San Juan .................................Thursday: September 9, October 7 St. Louis ..................................Friday: September 17, October 15 Tacoma....................................Friday: September 24, October 22 Wilmington................................Monday: September 20, October 18 * Piney Point change created by Labor Day holiday * Houston change created by Columbus Day holiday. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. GRAND TOTAL: September 2010 Deck Department 16 7 0 3 5 7 11 9 2 4 8 3 46 15 32 22 4 3 5 3 12 8 32 14 14 29 15 6 7 7 1 13 7 6 23 19 3 2 25 13 268 193 Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C 0 0 1 1 0 0 2 0 1 0 1 4 6 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 19 6 1 3 6 0 3 17 13 1 1 10 18 13 8 6 0 6 20 0 9 141 20 0 5 36 5 15 104 39 3 16 26 97 35 37 8 1 10 68 2 53 580 15 1 10 24 4 13 36 39 3 9 11 32 40 26 4 5 14 37 2 51 376 2 0 1 2 2 1 5 7 2 1 3 8 12 2 0 0 6 3 2 12 71 Engine Department 1 3 3 0 0 1 1 4 5 0 7 3 0 0 1 1 2 2 1 14 13 0 11 13 1 2 3 1 12 4 2 6 1 0 14 9 1 7 9 2 10 7 0 5 4 0 1 1 0 1 2 1 10 12 1 0 1 0 11 6 13 120 100 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 1 0 2 3 0 1 4 6 1 1 5 4 4 3 4 0 0 7 0 6 52 6 0 10 14 4 16 29 28 3 10 9 31 16 17 5 3 6 26 2 16 251 7 1 8 11 1 4 25 27 2 7 5 27 27 10 4 4 16 25 3 39 253 1 1 1 0 0 2 1 2 1 1 0 2 2 1 0 0 0 1 1 10 27 3 0 2 5 2 0 7 6 1 2 3 8 7 5 1 2 2 3 1 2 62 Steward Department 0 3 3 0 0 0 0 6 2 0 8 2 1 3 0 1 8 1 0 15 3 1 19 8 1 0 0 0 4 1 0 9 0 0 16 3 2 10 8 0 20 4 1 4 0 0 6 1 0 1 2 0 15 6 0 1 2 2 15 3 9 163 49 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 6 0 0 2 6 0 4 4 6 0 1 6 8 6 11 2 3 1 10 0 6 76 2 0 1 16 2 19 38 24 1 13 14 36 23 32 1 3 3 34 3 57 322 3 0 2 8 4 1 14 13 2 5 4 12 13 4 2 3 2 7 2 13 114 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 7 3 0 0 0 1 1 5 2 0 2 1 8 1 2 0 0 0 7 0 2 35 9 0 4 11 1 2 9 20 1 5 4 30 14 15 1 19 2 12 1 11 171 Entry Department 9 0 3 1 0 1 2 0 1 10 0 6 1 0 0 1 0 2 4 5 8 6 1 14 0 0 2 3 0 1 2 1 0 8 4 26 12 0 8 6 2 8 1 0 1 17 0 5 1 0 0 5 5 14 0 0 1 7 2 4 96 20 105 6 1 1 0 0 2 3 5 0 0 0 5 6 2 2 20 0 2 0 0 55 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 4 0 0 14 4 0 0 0 1 8 8 6 0 2 2 11 1 3 0 0 0 8 0 6 60 14 1 3 10 2 6 28 35 2 11 6 68 31 29 1 2 3 26 1 38 317 4 3 5 19 2 4 10 17 0 5 5 36 41 13 2 0 1 5 0 27 199 678 614 157 86 283 1,213 1,060 304 Mobile.............................Wednesday: September 15, October 13 New Orleans.............................Tuesday: September 14, October 12 Total Shipped All Groups A B C 571 447 Seafarers LOG 15 �S e a f a r e r s I n t er n a t i o n a l U n i o n D i r e ct o r y 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 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 Inq uiring Seaf are r Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by Seafarers in the Port of New Orleans. How do your preconceived notions about being a mariner compare to your actual experiences? John Hale Chief Cook I’ve been going to sea since 1993. I was born in Arkansas but now live in New Orleans. Being a Seafarer has been a very good experience for me. Not only have I seen more than half of the world, I have also learned a great deal more than I ever thought I would learn about being a mariner. I have met and worked with some great people during my career and I’d highly recommend this line of work to anyone looking make it good in life. It’s a great opportunity for young folks. I tell young people that I wish I had started before I got married…by now I’d be a rich man. The people at the school [SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md.] are very knowledgeable and accommodating. I also give the union officials two thumbs up for the job they are doing. Junious Williams Jr. OMU I had no idea what to expect when I became a Seafarer because going to sea was a whole new experience for me. But during my career so far, I have found the experience of sailing to be far beyond anything in my wildest imagination. I have been sailing for 30 years and during that time I have seen a lot of the world, visited many very interesting places and met a large group very interesting people. So overall, becoming a Seafarer has been a great opportunity for me…it has been very educational. I first sailed aboard the Overseas Anchorage and went to Odessa, Russia. I received a lot of great training at the school…it was hands-on training and it was quite good. The union officials have been great and have done a wonderful job representing and protecting our interests throughout my entire career. The union has really been good to me. I’ll probably retire in a couple of years but as I think back I have a lot of fond memories. My wife is deceased but I remember several occasions when she would come out to the docks at 2 or 3 o’clock in the morning to pick me up for the ship, dropping me off back in the boondocks for those tankers way back in the day….I miss her dearly. I have children and the union has played a significant role in their lives. Thanks to the SIU, I was able to give them a good education. Also, we lived well and in nice neighborhoods because my finances were right. Without the union, my children’s lives and my lifestyle may not be like they are now. Who knows what would have happened? I plan to continue to sailing and supporting the union in any way I can until my time as a mariner is up. Tracy Stewart Chief Cook I had brothers and uncles who shipped and they told me stories about some of the places they used to go to…this is one of the reasons I started sailing. The other is because of the money they told me they used to make. I’ve been sailing now for 18 years and have seen a lot of the world. But since 9-11, we are not allowed to go to some of those places such that my brothers and uncles once did. In some places, we are not allowed to go ashore because of curfews. Nevertheless, I love my job and I would not trade it for anything in the world. It’s a good way to make a living and a great opportunity for young people. I have a son and two cousins who are waiting to get into the school in Piney Point. They already have completed all of their paperwork…they are just waiting for entry dates. Jonathan Brown Able Seaman I’ve been a Seafarer for more than 15 years and have had the opportunity to work in both inland and deep sea. I worked in inland for about five years and so far have spent more than 10 in deep sea. There were significant differences as far as the way things are done, but overall my experiences have been good. I have been able to explore the world, make money and met and worked with a lot of good people out there. I went to the school in Piney Point to upgrade. It’s a good school with good instructors and is located in a very nice area. When I come in contact with people who are kind of new to sailing, I always tell them to not take things personal aboard ships. I tell them that first and foremost, they are there to do a job…that they can live it up and have their fun when they get home. Morris Foster Recertified Bosun I am the bosun on the Altair and I come from the island. Before I became a Seafarer, I sailed with Exxon for 13 years beginning in 1961. After that, I sailed with NMU starting in 1989. I’m from Barbados so I also worked with some foreign companies. I really had a lot of experience going to sea before I joined the SIU in 1995. Once I joined the union (SIU), I found that I liked the things they do here and the way they do it. I went to the school in Piney Point and it was very good. I’ve gone a lot of places and had many good experiences working and meeting other people. My grandfather and my uncle were mariners who worked on schooners. So when I was a little boy we used to always go around them and they would tell us great stories about where they went, the people they’d meet and the nice clothes they’d buy when they’d return. So this was always something I wanted to do because it was one of the best jobs in the world…you could go and work and when you got home you had all of the time you needed to relax. P i c - F r o m - T h e -P a s t 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 Ray Thorpe of the SIU Data Center (right) explains the operation of the union’s computer network to delegates and guests during an Inland Crews Conference in Piney Point, Md. More than 100 union officials and boatmen attended the June 3-8, 1984 event. 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 September 2010 �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. W e l c o me A sh ore DEEP SEA JOHN ALAMAR Brother John Alamar, 66, started sailing with the Marine Cooks & Stewards in 1979 while in the port of San Francisco. His earliest voyage was on the President Roosevelt. Brother Alamar frequently upgraded at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. He was a member of the steward department. Brother Alamar’s final trip to sea was aboard the President Polk. He lives in Manteca, Calif. ALFONSO GARCIA Brother Alfonso Garcia, 65, joined the union in 1985. He initially sailed on the Constitution. In 1989 and 2000, Brother Garcia visited the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., to upgrade his skills. He most recently shipped aboard the Endurance. Brother Garcia, who sailed in the deck department, is a resident of Pico Rivera, Calif. CHARLES HAGGINS Brother Charles Haggins, 66, became an SIU member in 1982. He originally sailed in the inland division aboard a vessel operated by Dixie Carriers. Brother Haggins worked in the deck department. He attended classes on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Haggins last shipped on the 1st Lt. Harry Martin. He resides in Marrero, La. LOICY JONES Sister Loicy Jones, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1994. She initially shipped on the USNS Regulus. Sister Jones upgraded often at the Seafarersaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. She sailed in the steward department. Sister September 2010 Jones’s last ship was the Seabulk Energy. She continues to make her home in her native state of Texas. 1973 at the Piney Point school. He last shipped aboard a Bay Tankers Inc. vessel. Brother Nortava resides in Costa Rica. OTTO KURTZ Brother Otto Kurtz, 77, was born in Darmstadt, Germany. He began sailing with the union in 2002 from the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Brother Kurtz, a member of the steward department, was originally employed on the Cape Island. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Kurtz’s final voyage was aboard the Observation Island. He settled in Cocoa, Fla. WILLIAM RAKESTRAW Brother William Rakestraw, 65, became an SIU member in 1964. He first sailed on an ISCO Inc. vessel. Brother Rakestraw sailed in the engine department and attended classes on three occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. His final voyage was with Crowley American Transport. Brother Rakestraw makes his home in Spring, Texas. MANUEL LIMON Brother Manuel Limon, 66, began sailing with the union in 2001. Brother Limon first sailed on the Cape Inscription. He was born in Lima, Peru, and shipped in the deck department. In 2001, Brother Limon enhanced his skills at the Paul Hall Center. His final trip was aboard the Maj. Stephen W. Pless. Brother Limon calls Los Angeles home. GUALBERTO MIRADOR Brother Gualberto Mirador, 68, joined the union in 1990, initially sailing aboard the Overseas Valdez. He was born in the Philippines. Brother Mirador frequently took advantage of educational opportunities at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His most recent trip was on the American Tern. Brother Mirador, who sailed in the steward department, is a resident of Norfolk, Va. PERTTI NORTAVA Brother Pertti Nortava, 66, donned the SIU colors in 1967. His first voyage was with Victory Carriers Inc. Brother Nortava, who sailed in the steward department, upgraded his skills in ALI SIDEK Brother Ali Sidek, 69, joined the SIU ranks in 1989 while in the port of New York. He first sailed on the Independence; his last ship was the Horizon Reliance. Brother Sidek was a member of the engine department. In 1992 and 2001, he enhanced his skills at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Sidek was born in Singapore but calls Honolulu home. CARLTON STAMP Brother Carlton Stamp, 65, started his seafaring career in 2000 in the port of New Orleans. The deck department member originally shipped aboard the Chemical Trader. Brother Stamp was born in Roatan, Honduras. He most recently sailed on the Puget Sound. Brother Stamp is a resident of Louisiana. Crescent Towing & Salvage of Savannah. Brother Howe resides in Georgia. GREAT LAKES CLIFFORD LIND Brother Clifford Lind, 62, signed on with the union in 1998 in Detroit. He primarily worked aboard Great Lakes Towing Company vessels. Brother Lind was born in Evansville, Ind. He settled in Superior, Wisc. INLAND JAMES HOWE Brother James, Howe, 68, began sailing with the union in 1987. Throughout his career, Brother Howe primarily sailed with T h is M o nt h I n S I U H i s t o r y Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG American flag if necessary to fill domestic tanker needs. 1944 1967 One of the most modern union halls in the country was officially opened last week by the SIU. The six-story building at 51 Beaver Street will house both the New York Branch and the Atlantic & Gulf District offices. The union occupies the top five floors with the shipping hall taking the entire second floor. The lounge, complete with card and writing tables, takes the third floor. The stewards’ offices and the baggage room, which offers free baggage checking for members in good standing, are on the fourth floor, and branch offices, including the office of the Seafarers LOG, take up the fifth floor. Atlantic & Gulf District headquarters comprises the top floor. The reaction of the membership to their new home has been very favorable. Commenting on the new building, one Seafarer said, “From now on we don’t have to take off our hat to nobody.” Seafarers at regular monthly meetings in all constitutional ports enthusiastically voted to endorse and support the newly formed Maritime Defense League. In approving the purposes of the new organization, the membership called for maximum publicity in support of the league by all Seafarers. The new organization is a voluntary body set up to assure that maritime workers, faced with legal problems or charges threatening their personal liberties, are assured their fundamental American rights to counsel and other assistance. Robert A. Mathews, SIU vice president in charge of contracts and contract enforcement, has been selected chairman of the Maritime Defense League, and offices have been established on One Hanson Place in Brooklyn, N.Y. 1956 1978 A vigorous SIU protest on proposals to use foreign-flag tankers in the domestic trades has drawn a prompt denial from the Maritime Administration of any such intention. However, Maritime Administrator Clarence Morse left the door open to such an operation in the case of a “critical tanker situation.” Instead of considering an invasion of the domestic trades, the SIU demanded that runaway-flag tankers be brought back under the The SIU-manned ST Alliance was cited by the American Institute for Merchant Shipping and the National Safety Council for rescuing five people aboard a foundering sailboat off the Boston coast. The tanker was running eight miles off Boston Pilot Station in 10-foot waves and gale-force winds when the crew spotted a sloop-rigged sailboat that was without engine power and radio. The sailboat’s mast and sails were also in the water. Seafarers LOG 17 �Fina l De pa r tu r e s DEEP SEA RAFFAELE ASCIONE Pensioner Raffaele Ascione, 69, passed away March 15. Brother Ascione began shipping with the Seafarers in 1968 from the port of New York. He was born in Italy and sailed in the steward department. Brother Ascione’s earliest trip to sea was aboard a Crest Overseas Shipping Company vessel. He last worked with Sealift Tankship Inc. Brother Ascione started collecting retirement in 1999 and made his home in Houston. CONFESSOR AYALA Pensioner Confessor Ayala, 96, died March 21. Brother Ayala joined the SIU ranks in 1953 while in the port of New York. He initially sailed on the Lafayette. Brother Ayala, a member of the steward department, was born in Puerto Rico. His final voyage took place aboard the Tampa. Brother Ayala became a pensioner in 1982. He resided in Hollywood, Fla. MORRIS DANZEY Pensioner Morris Danzey, 83, passed away Feb. 13. Brother Danzey started sailing with the union in 1943 from the port of New Orleans. He first sailed on the Strath Bay. Brother Danzey’s last vessel was the Liberty Wave. He worked in the deck department. Brother Danzey lived in Louisiana and went on pension in 1991. CARL FRANCUM Pensioner Carl Francum, 82, died May 15. Brother Francum was born in Caldwell, N.C. He signed on with the SIU in 1945. Brother Francum’s first voyage was on the Morning Light. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Francum’s final trip was aboard the OMI Missouri. He retired in 1992 and called Linville, N.C., home. 18 Seafarers LOG GUISEPPE GALLIANO Pensioner Guiseppe Galliano, 87, passed away April 13. Brother Galliano became a Seafarer in 1951 while in New York. His earliest trip was on the Del Sud. Brother Galliano was a native of New Jersey. He shipped in the engine department. Prior to his retirement in 1985, Brother Galliano worked aboard the Robert E. Lee. He settled in Las Vegas. CECIL LEWIS Pensioner Cecil Lewis, 85, died May 26. Brother Lewis first donned the SIU colors in 1945 while in the port of New Orleans. He primarily sailed with Waterman Steamship Corporation as a member of the engine department. Brother Lewis started collecting his pension in 1987. He continued to live in his native state of Florida. 1972 and called Gretna, La. home. INLAND PAUL GEBHARDT Pensioner Paul Gebhardt, 84, died March 29. Brother Gebhardt became a union member in 1978. He initially sailed with McAllister Towing of Philadelphia. Brother Gebhardt was an Ohio native. He shipped in the steward department. Brother Gebhardt’s final trip was aboard a vessel operated by Mariner Towing. He began receiving his retirement pay in 1991. Brother Gebhardt resided in Florida. LINWOOD BOYD Pensioner Linwood Boyd, 85, passed away April 6. The North Carolina native went on pension in 1985. Brother Boyd made his home in Baltimore. Pensioner Edgar Brown, 85, died April 6. Brother Brown, a native of Georgia, became a pensioner in 1984. He lived in Bronx, N.Y. Pensioner Terry Leblanc, 75, died March 3. Brother Leblanc joined the union in 1962. He was employed with G&H Towing Company for the duration of his career. Brother Leblanc was born in Aransas, Texas. He retired in 1999 and continued to make his home in Texas. Pensioner James Swank, 90, passed away May 23. Brother Swank was born in New Orleans. He retired in NATIONAL MARITIME UNION Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. EDGAR BROWN TERRY LEBLANC JAMES SWANK Pensioner Robert Murray, 86, died April 1. Brother Murray was born in Seattle. He retired in 1988. Brother Murray continued to call Seattle home. Pensioner Richard Jervas, 76, passed away April 21. Brother Jervas signed on with the SIU in 1980. He originally worked on the Harriette as a member of the deck department. Brother Jervas was born in Camden, N.J. He last sailed with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Jervas went on pension in 1998. He lived in Waterford Township, N.J. Pensioner William Lowry Jr., 69, passed away April 30. Brother Lowry was born in Maryland. He joined the union in 1966 while in the port of New York. Brother Lowry originally shipped with Penn Navigation Company. The deck department member most recently worked on the Maersk Carolina. Brother Lowry went on pension in 2008. He was a resident of Sealevel, N.C. Pensioner Phillip Pron, 83, died April 1. Brother Pron began sailing with the Seafarers in 1946. His earliest trip was on the Stathport. Brother Pron’s last voyage was aboard the Express. He made his home in Hudson, N.J. Brother Pron became a pensioner in 1985. ROBERT MURRAY Pensioner Harold Whightsil, 80, died March 11. Brother Whightsil first donned the SIU colors in 1966. The engine department members first shipped with Coyle Line Inc. Brother Whightsil’s final trip was on a vessel operated by Moran Towing of Texas. He was born in Chicago and called Chalmette, La., home. RICHARD JERVAS WILLIAM LOWRY JR PHILLIP PRON HAROLD WHIGHTSIL JOHN PARKS Pensioner John Parks, 77, passed away April 16. Brother Parks started shipping with the union in 1989. He worked mainly in the deck department aboard vessels operated by Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Company. Brother Parks became a pensioner in 1995. He continued to reside in his native state of Michigan. TOMMY PETTY Pensioner Tommy Petty, 80 died April 7. Brother Petty joined the SIU ranks in 1969. The North Carolina-born mariner primarily sailed with Allied Transportation Company. Brother Petty was a member of the engine department. He became a pensioner 1993. Brother Petty was a resident of Virginia Beach, Va. GERALD TYLER Pensioner Gerald Tyler, 77, passed away March 2. Brother Tyler was born in Maryland. He began shipping with the union in 1962 aboard a Maritrans vessel. Before his retirement in 1996, Brother Tyler worked with Piney Point Transportation. He settled in Crisfield, Md. WILLIAM GILBERT Pensioner William Gilbert, 91, passed away April 22. Brother Gilbert was born in Rhode Island. He retired in 1968 and continued to reside in his native state. ROBERT ROTH Pensioner Robert Roth, 89, passed away March 23. Brother Roth was a New Orleans native. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1972. Brother Roth lived in Louisiana. MICHAEL SAKELLIS Pensioner Michael Sakellis, 90, died March 10. Brother Sakellis, a native of Egypt, became a pensioner in 1982. He settled in Norfolk, Va. PAUL WARD Pensioner Paul Ward, 81, passed away March 5. Brother Ward was a native of California. He began receiving his pension in 1988. Brother Ward lived in Oceanside, Calif. JOHN WILLIAMS Pensioner John Williams, 80, died March 3. Brother Williams was born in Charleston, S.C. He went on pension in 1984 and resided in Port Arthur, Texas. EARL WILSON Pensioner Earl Wilson, 79, passed away March 23. Brother Wilson was an Alabama native. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1986. Brother Wilson continued to make his home in Alabama. GEORGE YEP BERNARDO GONZALEZ Pensioner Bernardo Gonzalez, 93, died May 2. The Puerto Rico-born mariner became a pensioner in 1981. Brother Gonzalez was a resident of Punta Gorda, Fla. Pensioner George Yep, 82, died April 9. Born in St. Paul, Minn., Brother Yep retired in 1968. He was a resident of Philadelphia. Name Age DOD Becknell, Benjamin 82 April 6 Chiofolo, Joseph 85 April 15 Diaz, Luis 96 April 7 Jones, Andy 79 April 14 Klovanich, George 92 April 30 PAUL MODRAK Marcell, Thomas 72 April 4 Pensioner Paul Modrak, 82, passed away April 16. Brother Modrak was a native of Aliquippa, Pa. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1987. Brother Modrak lived in Marshall, Ark. Miralda, Alexander 91 May 6 Morel, Max 95 April 23 RICHARD MOORE Pensioner Richard Moore, 84, died April 12. Brother Moore was born in Baltimore. He settled in Hollywood, Fla. Nazario, Abelardo 84 May 4 Okamura, Yoshio 88 April 24 Pennington, William 82 April 2 Sanford, Robert 73 April 4 Singh, Surendar 72 April 18 Smith, Thomas 87 April 29 CARDY MORELAND Pensioner Cardy Moreland, 81, passed away April 4. Brother Moreland was a native of Honduras. He went on pension in 1986. Brother Moreland made his home in Tampa. September 2010 �D i g es t o f S h ip b oa r d U n io n M e et i ng s GOLDEN STATE (Crowley), June 28 – Chairman Juan Tizon, Secretary William E. Bragg, Educational Director Sherrod Frazier, Deck Delegate Larry A. Rawlins, Engine Delegate Noli Aguirre, Steward Delegate Cesar Santos. Chairman suggested crew members keep credentials and other union-related information up-to-date. He reminded them to make sure BST entries are recorded in their TRB and anticipate vetting inspection at next port. Secretary reviewed prior meeting minutes and informed crew that all union forms were available upon request. Educational director urged members to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He recommended they read the Seafarers LOG and safety bulletins as posted to stay informed about issues that affect the maritime industry. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks was given to steward department. Chairman led a brief Q&A session regarding union benefits and shipping rules. Crew felt this was very informative. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. MAERSK IDAHO (Maersk Line, Limited), June 28 – Chairman Timothy Girard, Secretary Zein Achmad, Educational Director Alfredo Cuevas, Engine Delegate Osvaldo Sanchez. Chairman reported excellent voyage and crew. Educational director reminded mariners to take every opportunity to upgrade their skills at the Piney Point school. Treasurer stated $2,100 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made to increase vacation days and reduce sea time requirements needed for retirement. Next port: Newark, N.J. HORIZON CHALLENGER (Horizon Lines), July 20 – Chairman Frank P. Hedge, Secretary Antoinette Amato, Educational Director Anthony Kimbrell, Engine Delegate Gregory L. Howard, Steward Delegate Robert Arana. Bosun thanked crew for a job well done. Educational director suggested mariners take advantage of upgrading opportunities at the union-affiliated school located in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer discussed the possibility of purchasing exercise equipment or a computer with ship fund money. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made to raise pension pay. It was reported that crew e-mail was not readily available and that movie library had a lot of empty cases. Next ports: San Juan, P.R. and Houston. LIBERTY GLORY (Liberty Maritime), July 25 – Chairman Errol Pinkham, Secretary James Harris, Educational Director Anthony L. Bartley, Deck Delegate Fitsum Yohannes, Engine Delegate Stanley Williams. Chairman announced payoff in Houston on July 29. He reminded crew members of the recent change of command aboard ship. Secretary asked those leaving the vessel to September 2010 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. From One Seafarers-Crewed Ship to Another In this July 11 photo taken in the Pacific Ocean, an MD-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from the Seafarers-crewed U.S. Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy conducts a vertical replenishment with another SIU-crewed vessel, the MSC dry cargo/ammunition ship USNS RIchard E. Byrd. As previously reported, the hospital ship is conducting Pacific Partnership 2010, the fifth in a series of annual U.S. Pacific Fleet humanitarian and civic assistance endeavors to strengthen regional partnerships. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications SPecialist 2nd Class Eddie Harrison) strip the beds. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade and make sure they stay up-todate on their TWIC and MMD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Seafarers requested a juice machine be installed. Motion was made to increase pension benefits and vacation days. Crew expressed gratitude for great meals prepared by the steward department. Next port: Houston. LIBERTY SPIRIT (Liberty Maritime), July 4 – Chairman Ronald Charles, Secretary Veronika Cardenas, Educational Director Joseph Krajnik, Deck Delegate Ronald Owens, Steward Delegate Sharon Baham. Chairman stated payoff to take place on July 7 in New Orleans. Educational director advised members to upgrade, which can lead to better opportunities and advancement. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for additional clothes dryer, so work and non-work clothes do not have to be mixed. Crew thanked Baham for her good cooking. MAERSK UTAH (Maersk Line, Limited), July 11 – Chairman Herbert Charles, Secretary Jack Hart, Educational Director John E. Conn, Deck Delegate Francisco Rochez, Steward Delegate Rene Gil. Bosun announced payoff in New Jersey on July 13 and thanked members for a smooth voyage. Secretary talked about the DOT’s announcement concern- ing the Marine Highway initiative. Educational director encouraged mariners to attend classes at the Piney Point school to enhance seafaring abilities. He also reminded them to keep documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members would like more washcloths and an upright vacuum cleaner for crew quarters. Thanks given to the steward for a great Fourth of July cook out. It was reported that while passing through potential danger zones in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, members noticed a lot of military presence, which made them feel safe. Next ports: New Jersey, and Charleston, S.C. OVERSEAS NIKISKI (OSG Ship Management), July 27 – Chairman Victor Beata, Secretary George Monseur, Educational Director Michael Williams, Deck Delegate Ashward Rankin, Engine Delegate Roberto Sabio. Chairman went over ship’s itinerary and reminded members that only approved electrical equipment is allowed. He reminded mariners getting off this trip to leave rooms clean for next person. Secretary requested crew clean lint filter in dryer after use. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to donate to SPAD (Seafarers Political Action Donation). No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made regarding pension benefits. Clarification of smoking regulations was requested. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif., and San Francisco. PEARL (APL Maritime), July 10 – Chairman Brian P. Corbett, Secretary Franklyn J. Cordero, Educational Director Eddie Almodovar, Deck Delegate Darrell Crim, Steward Delegate Radfan Almaklani. Chairman thanked all departments for working well together. Secretary expressed his gratitude for crew’s help keeping ship clean. He asked that members please leave fresh linen for arriving crew. Educational director reminded mariners to check expiration dates on all necessary seafaring documents. He thanked union officials and their staffs for looking out for the best interest of the union. Treasurer noted $300 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for great meals. Next port: Charleston, S.C. SEABULK ARCTIC (Seabulk Tankers), July 11 – Chairman Jeremy Scheil, Secretary Alan W. Bartley, Educational Director Reginald R. Hunter, Deck Delegate Cesar Bugtai, Engine Delegate Bruce Landos, Steward Delegate Leslie P. McGirt. Chairman reminded members to not slam doors at night or while others are sleeping; signs will be posted. Secretary expressed gratitude for crew’s help keeping messhall clean. He asked them not to store personal items in laundry closet, as that is for cleaning gear only. Educational director suggested crew members take advantage of upgrading opportunities at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. Members were reminded to renew documents early so they won’t miss job opportunities. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to change wording concerning vacation check. Request was made for new linen and pillows. Kudos given to the steward department for excellent food. Next ports: Kenai, Alaska and Valdez, Alaska. USNS SODERMAN (Ocean Ships), July 19 – Chairman James D. Orlanda, Secretary Linda Rotter, Educational Director Kevin Quinlan, Deck Delegate Richard Trovillo, Engine Delegate Kenneth Couture. Chairman went over procedures for solving problems aboard vessel. Motion was made regarding wages and vacation benefits. Educational director advised mariners to attend classes at the Piney Point school to enhance seafaring abilities. Treasurer reported ship’s fund money was used to purchase new TV for crew lounge. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was noted that air conditioning had been installed in guard shack and that a new freezer was on order for crew mess. Seafarers LOG 19 �Crowley Honors Retirees Seafarers-contracted Crowley in late April threw a party for its retirees at a restaurant in Jacksonville, Fla. “It was a wonderful thing to do for retirees,” said SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware, who submitted these photos. Among those in attendance, many of whom are shown in the group photo at the bottom of this page were: Harold Sevland, Bobby Sterns, Fred Shiferdek, Vern Barfield, Don Smith, Bill Gosset, John Bryan, Roger Rothchild, John Payne, Mark Bailey, Willie Pettaway. Jeff Poulos, Kenny Griggs, Spike Miller, Bobby August, Dewey Routh, Joe Stephens, John Valez, Mike Getchell, Antonio Silva, Eddy William, Martin Cooper and Edwin Colon. Enjoying the event in the photo at left (from left to right) are Rich Lyons, Charles Jones and Willie Pettaway. In the photo above, SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware (second from left) is pictured with Don Smith, Bobby August, John Valez and Edwin Colon. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by 20 Seafarers LOG certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION—If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. September 2010 �S e a f a r e r s P a u l H a l l Ce n t e r U p g r a d i n g C o u r s e S c h e d u l e 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 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic & Advanced Firefighting October 18 October 29 BST/Basic Firefighting September 20 October 18 November 15 September 24 October 22 November 19 Medical Care Provider November 1 November 5 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Steward Department Upgrading Courses Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman October 11 November 5 ARPA September 27 November 8 October 1 November 12 Bosun Recertification October 18 November 8 Academic Department Courses Lifeboatman September 27 October 10 Radar Observer (Unlimited) September 13 October 25 September 24 November 5 Radar Recertification (1 day) September 8 November 15 September 8 November 15 General education and college courses are available as needed at the Paul Hall Center. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, two weeks prior to the beginning of a vocational course. The following opportunities are currently available: Adult Basic Education (ABE), English as a Second Language (ESL), a College Program and a Preparatory Course. When applying for preparatory courses, students should list the name of the course desired on upgrading application. An introduction to computers course, a self-study module, is also available. STOS October 18 October 29 Tank PIC Barge DL September 27 October 10 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 Aug. 23. Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Container Maintenance November 15 December 10 Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations September 13 November 8 October 8 December 3 FOWT October 11 December 17 Government Vessels (1 week) September 20 November 29 September 24 December 3 Junior Engineer October 25 December 17 Machinist November 29 December 17 Pumpman October 4 October 15 Welding September 27 October 25 November 29 October 15 November 12 December 17 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ____________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________ Students who have registered for classes at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover—for whatever reason—that they cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twentyfive (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. _________________________________________________________________________ Date of Birth ______________________________________________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ Deep Sea Member ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ 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_____________________________ COURSE DATE OF COMPLETION _______________ Department______________________ Home Port_____________________________________________________________ E-mail________________________________________________________________ LAST VESSEL: __________________________________Rating: ______________ 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_____________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ September 2010 The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 9/10 Seafarers LOG 21 �P a u l H a l l C en t er C l a s s es Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 732 – Twelve unlicensed apprentices on May 28 completed their requirements in this 60-hour course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Austin Anderson, Antajuan Beasley, Major Brooks Jr., James Robert Charles Burnett Jr., Marcus Fields, Antonio Hernandez, Sean Hughes, Joseph Panella, Roman Pauley, Andrew Saraceno, Jonathan Scalasky and Richard Swartz. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Chief Cook – Three upgraders completed their requirements in this class July 2. Graduating (above, from left to right) were Manual Aguio, Alfrancis Bauzon and Jamie Serrano. Welding – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this 103-hour course June 25: Danilo Achacoso, Marcus Crumpton, Merlin Flores, Eddy Newman, Robert Ott and Antoine Rainey. Buzzy Andrews, their instructor, is at left. Fast Rescue Boat – Three mariners graduated from this 30-hour course June 25. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jose Boza, Justin Nichols and Mike Washburn. Their instructor, Stan Beck, is at right. Able Seaman – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed their requirements June 21 in this course: Timothy Bryant, Durant Devarian, John Edwards, Johnny Hunter, Eduardo Jorge, Patrick Lindauer, Sunnil Motley, Tyrell Perry, Andre Robinson Sr., Adam Sanders, Rosalind Sparrow, Dean Trott and Clayton Walker. Tom Truitt, their instructor is at right. Government Vessels – Five individuals earned certificates July 16 following the completion of their requirements in this course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Walker Boot, Emmanuel Essien, Eric Johnson, Chris Paul and Richard Riley. Basic & Advanced Fire Fighting – Twelve upgraders finished their requirements in this 41-hour course. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: David Brown, Frank Coburn, Thomas Hailiburton, Charles Horton, Phillip Hurlbutt, Wilfredo Martinez, Gustavo Osoric, Jawaid Pardesi, Angelo Schiraldi, Michael Sherman, Donna Sylvia and Kwamena Watson. Tank Ship Familiarization DL (Phase III) – The following Phase III unlicensed apprentices on July 9 completed their training in this 63-hour course. Graduating and receiving certificates (right, in alphabetical order) were: Brandon Blue, Curtis Church, Paul Elia, Jonathan Green, Daniel Harris, Thomas Haley, Laura Hollar, Daryl Holloway, Leland Jordan, Garett Leopard, Daniel Linkletter, Josue Marin, Badi Mohamed, Jason Newsham, Eric Noetzel, Zachary Pollman, Lionel Rivera, Charles Searfass, Marcel Soares, Vincent Steppits, Jonda Tanner, James Washington and Gary Youman. 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. 22 Seafarers LOG September 2010 �Pa u l H a l l C e n t e r C l a s s e s Machinist – Four upgraders on July 16 finished their requirements for this 102-hour course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Janis Kalnins, Eddy Newman, Rodney Payne and Daniel Tapley. Steve Haver, their instructor, is second from left. Radar Observer – Six upgraders completed this five-day course July 23. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Glenn Agustin, Cario Balajadia, Mohamed Jebokji, Samuel Khin Naing, Mykota Smirnov and Alexander Ward. Their instructor, Stacey McNeely, is fourth from left. FOWT – Nine upgraders finished their requirements in this course July 16. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Todd Favaza, Amber Fisher, Michael Kelly, Sean Mannix, Mauriceio Qubre, Mohamed Sheriff, Jose Smith, Louie Smith and James Williamson. Their instructor, Tim Achorn, is at right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) STCW/BST – Twenty–two upgraders graduated from this course June 25. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Michael Hilton, Abubaker Danjuma Idris, Nick Keklikos, Joseph Laguana, Nelson Lazo, Julio Lobo, Gary Lowry, Carlos Marcial, Marc Marcus, Eugene McLendon, Jessie Mixon, Monroe Monseur, Kenneth Moore, Johnny Morris, James Muldowney, Samual Khin Naing, Errick Nobles, John Osburn, Dimitrios Papandreou, Eugene Perez Jr., Edwin Rivera and Napoleon SanMartin. Joe Zienda and Wayne Johnson, their instructors, are at the far left and far right respectively. September 2010 Vessel Security Officer (Allied Towing) – Four individuals from Allied Towing completed this course June 29. Thos graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jonathan Hendrickson, Bryan Kneeland, James Pearson and Semuel Zapadinsky.. Mobile Pilots (Crescent Towing) – Four individuals from Crescent Towing completed this course June 30. Shown above are those graduating along with their instructor. Pictured (from left) are John Panepinto Jr., Instructor Mitch Oakley, Ronnie Walker, Johnny Johnston and Thomas Lambard. STCW/BST – Twenty-three Seafarers completed this course June 25. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Mercurion Abuan, Gregory Agren, Armondo Alvarez, Efrain Alvarez, Rocel Alvarez, Fausto Dario Aranda, Victor Arzu-Martinez, Eric Bain, James Blitch, Ramon Borrero, William Burdette, James Castillo, Celso Castro, Cleofe Castro, Herman Castro, Gregorio Clotter, John Coleman, Dante Cruz, John Ferreira, Gerald Figg Jr., Noel Gemo, Adele George and Feliciano Gimutao Jr. Their instructors, Joe Zienda and Wayne Johnson are at the far left and far right respectively. STCW/BST – Twenty-three Seafarers completed their requirements for graduation from this course June 25. Finishing the course (above, in alphabetical order) were: Larry Ballard, Alexander Bermudez, Walter Boot, Al Caulder, Julian Dingzon, Leopoldo Emnace, Domingos Ferreira, Karl Meyer, Gheorghe Savencu, Lexie Shaw, Jonathan Singleton, Donald Spangler, Brett Sunderland, Norman Taylor, Gary Van Staden, Jose Villot, Richard Vigor, Daniel Wehr, Charles Wharton, Boyce Wilson, John Wilson, Bryan Wynn, Matilde Zuniga and . Their instructors, Joe Zienda and Wayne Johnson are at the far left and far right respectively. Seafarers LOG 23 �Volume 72, Number 9 September 2010 Seafarers Earn Safety Award Page 8 More New Tonnage! Empire State Takes Place in Seafarers-Crewed Fleet T he Crowley-operated Empire State recently made its debut in the SIU-crewed fleet. As reporter earlier in the Seafarers LOG, the new 600-foot tanker was christened and put into service July 14 at General Dynamics’ San Deigo, Calif.-based National Steel and Shipbuilding Company. A double-hulled vessel, the Empire State is under the operational control of the Military Sealift Command. Its role will be to transport petroleum products for the Department of Defense. The photos appearing on this page were submitted by SIU Port Agent Jeff Turkus and were taken when the vessel made stops in Cherry Point, Wash., and the Port of Wilmington Calf. Members of the vessel’s unlicensed crew during the Wilmington visit—many of whom appear in these photos and are all Seafarers—are: Recertified Bosun Ramon Castro; ABs Roland Adriano, L. Johnson, Daniel Babatunde, Eduardo Morre and Tareq Ahmed; QE Troy Banks; Oilers Mohsen Hubair, Noorudin Muthala and Spenser Hiruko; Recertified Steward Nee Tran and ACUs Michael Sheehan and Dominador Guerrero. The Empire State is the fourth in a series of five tankers being operated by Crowley for American Petroleum Tankers LLC. Members of the Empire State crew pose outside the vessel’s wheelhouse. � 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 September 2010 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES PRESIDENT OBAMA SAYS ‘MADE IN AMERICA’ ESSENTIAL FOR STRONG ECONOMIC RECOVERY INTERMARINE ADDS HEAVY LIFT SHIP OCEAN CRESCENT CROWLEY CHRISTENS ATB INNOVATION/659-9 SIU’S HEINDEL ELECTED ITF SEAFARERS’ SECTION CHAIR U.S. REPS. SANCHEZ, TAYLOR SPEAK OUT FOR JONES ACT REP. CUMMINGS CALLS FOR EXPANDED U.S. FLEET LATE SENATOR STEVENS WAS WRONG SUPPORTED OF U.S. MERCHANT MARINE CAPT. ANTHONY LLOYD TAKE NMC HELM AGENCY MARKS 220 YEARS OF SERVICE NAVY LEAGUE PRESIDENT EMPHASIZES U.S. MERCHANT MARINE’S IMPORTANCE OBERSTAR, STUPAK SPONSOR ‘HISTORIC’ LEGISLATION ALL HANDS SAFE ABOARD SAGAMORE U.S.-FLAG FLEET ROLE COULD SEE EXPANSION USNS WHEAT SEAFARERS DONATE TO FUND BACKING MARINES, SAILORS RETIRED OFFICIAL CARK PETH DIES AT 69 NEW YORK NEW JERSEY RAIL EARNS SAFETY AWARD FOR SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR REMEMBERING A MID-CENTURY MERCHANT MARINER COUNCIL SHARPENS PRO-WORKER STRATEGIES UNION MEMBERS RALLY IN LOS ANGELES, CALL FOR CREATING, KEEPING GOOD JOBS NEW BOOK CHRONICLES SIU HISTORY THE ED WOODS STORY- A TEENAGER IN WORLD WAR II MORE NEW TONNAGE! 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 09/01/2010 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. 9 2010 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/357f3645e09b32210327c4dcf6262e02.pdf 95fd2fb6f81eb42b009e821b6166e74c PDF Text Text 66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:15 PM Page 1 Volume 73, Number 9 September 2011 Waterman Reflagging Cargo Ship ‘Ice Class’ Vessel Will Sail Under Stars and Stripes Following an early August announcement that Seafarers-contracted Waterman Steamship had won a U.S. Military Sealift Command bid to operate a dry cargo “ice class” ship for up to five years, the company moved ahead with plans to bring the MV Federal Patroller (photo at right) under the American flag. The vessel is expected to sail to McMurdo Station in Antarctica and Thule Air Force Base in Greenland. Page 2. (Photo by Stan Laundon) SIU Boatmen Welcome New OSG Tug, Barge Seafarers Stand in Solidarity With CWA, IBEW Workers at Verizon OSG America earlier this summer took delivery of the tug Courageous (photo below) and a corresponding barge, the OSG 244. The new ATB will operate in the Jones Act trade, carrying refined petroleum products in the Gulf of Mexico. A sister ATB is slated for delivery in the near future, possibly as soon as this month. Pictured aboard the Courageous during a recent stop near Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., is Cook Bob Simpson. SIU members and officials on the East Coast turned out in several locations to demonstrate support for striking Verizon employees who are members of the Communications Workers of America or the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The CWA and IBEW members returned to work Aug. 22, under an extension of their old agreements, as the unions and company went back to the bargaining table. Among the SIU personnel taking part in the picket lines were (photo above) President Michael Sacco (second from left) and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (far right), meeting with CWA personnel in Leonardtown, Md., and (photo below, in white T-shirts, from left) Norfolk, Va.area Seafarers Willie Lupton, McKinley Thorne and Mary Slade. Page 3. CIVMAR News Pages 2, 11, 20, 24 SOS Campaign Update Page 4 Union Plus Scholarships Page 14 �66070_SIU_LOG_X 8/30/2011 7:29 PM Page 2 P re s i d e n t ’ s R e p o r t A Nation Remembers As our nation approaches the 10th anniversary of the tragic, worldaltering attacks of September 11, 2001, I’m sure millions of our fellow Americans are or soon will be feeling some of the same powerful emotions we all shared back on that incomprehensible Tuesday morning. On September 11 of this year (still more than two weeks away at the time of this writing), we will mourn the victims who worked in the Twin Towers, in the Pentagon and aboard the four airplanes, along with the passengers, remembering them with heavy hearts. Those of us in the labor movement surely will recall particularly painful-yet-proud memories of the hundreds of emergency workers – many of them union members, as were the flight crews – who gave their lives while trying to save others. We also remember the first responders, construction workers, transit Michael Sacco workers and others who raced to the scenes to secure victims. For sure, it’s a time for reflection and for respectful remembrance. Inevitably, it’s also a period to take stock of our nation’s current security efforts and how they might be strengthened moving forward. But the anniversary itself is no time for political agendas or partisanship or arguing about whether TWIC cards are worth it. Our countrymen who lost their lives on 9/11 deserve better, as do those who’ve gone to war to fight terrorism around the globe. In the SIU, we remember our own brothers and sisters who answered the nation’s call on September 11. Those unfamiliar with our history may not know that SIU-crewed NY Waterway ferries evacuated an estimated 160,000 citizens from lower Manhattan starting almost immediately after the attacks. Also, the Seafarers-crewed hospital ship USNS Comfort was activated, and it assisted by transporting medical and other support personnel to New York in addition to carrying supplies and food. (Rescue workers eventually used the ship for lodging, a precious commodity for that time and place.) Since then, thousands of Seafarers have supported our troops in the war on terror, delivering materiel to the Middle East and to other key positions and also bringing it back home. We definitely have lived up to the U.S. Merchant Marine’s historic role as the nation’s fourth arm of defense, and while I’d expect nothing less, I salute our SIU sisters and brothers for everything you’ve done in upholding our traditions. You have helped make America and indeed the world a safer place – a point that’s been made by some of America’s highest-ranking military leaders. As an American, my memories of September 11 probably aren’t all that different from those of most others. I remember the feelings of shock and anger, the sorrow for the victims and their families, and the determination to fight back. But specifically as the president of the SIU, I have powerful and inspiring memories of our members going to the union halls or constantly staying in touch right after 9/11, because they were eager to do whatever they could to pitch in. I heard from our port agents and in some cases saw for myself the serious, unmistakable resolve in our members even when we were all uncertain about the exact nature of our military response. Those Seafarers didn’t have to be asked if they were ready and willing and able. They stepped forward and asked, “What can we do to help defend our country?” (Some put it in more colorful terms, but the patriotic message was the same.) It was said over and over again right after September 11 that “everything changed,” and that America would never be the same. While I think that’s proven to be true in some ways, and certainly not all of them bad, the attacks did not lessen America’s greatness. If anything, the selflessness and heroism displayed by the rescue workers that day reflected the very best of the human spirit – the very best of the United States. We also proved that we’re capable of truly uniting as a people, and that’s something I hope comes back to the surface as we mourn together this month. Those of us in the nation’s capital when the recent earthquake struck on August 23 showed that spirit is still within us. Much of our nation’s excellence stems from our diversity. Yet, we are all Americans first. And when we stand united, no one can take us down. Volume 73, Number 9 September 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 The Federal Patroller soon will sail under the American flag, with an SIU crew. (Photo by Stan Laundon) Waterman Flagging In Cargo Ship SIU-contracted Waterman Steamship in early August won a U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) bid to operate a dry cargo “ice class” vessel for up to five years – an award signaling job security for Seafarers. As a result, the company is in the process of reflagging the MV Federal Patroller under the Stars and Stripes. The 11-year-old vessel currently sails under the Cyprus flag. It is 469 feet long and can sail at slightly more than 15 knots. The ship’s main missions are expected to be re-supply voyages to McMurdo Station in Antarctica and Thule Air Force Base in Greenland. “This award means that the SIU will retain work that Seafarers have very ably handled for many years,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “It’s great news for the membership, and Waterman is to be congratulated.” MSC notified the company in a letter dated Aug. 3. The agency indicated that the vessel is to commence operations between mid- and late December of this year. The respective voyages to Antarctica and Greenland will offer Seafarers a chance to continue a decades-old tradition of support by U.S. Merchant Mariners. The Antarctica mission, known as Operation Deep Freeze, consists of not only delivering vital supplies to the National Science Foundation’s McMurdo Station, but also bringing back items ranging from valuable ice core samples to all the waste that the station accumulates during the prior year. That operation has been backed by the U.S. Merchant Marine since 1952. The trip to Greenland, meanwhile, has been a regular run for American crews since 1956. Known as Operation Pacer Goose, it is the main supply line for Thule Air Force Base, which is located halfway between the North Pole and the Arctic Circle. There are no local resources to sustain the base’s residents. More Progress in CMPI 610 Negotiations The SIU Government Services Division, the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) and the Military Sealift Fleet Support Command (MSFSC) are continuing negotiations on the Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction (CMPI) 610. The negotiations started in January 2010 and most recently continued in early July at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. The parties are close to completing substantive negotiations with only a few provisions remaining that need to be drafted or further refined. The bargaining teams did not meet in May but resumed their negotiations in June at SIU headquarters, assisted by Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) Mediator Rob Henninger. The June meeting lasted four full days and covered a wide range of topics. Among the major subjects discussed were: meals served to extra persons, meal hours, compensatory time, gangway watches, working aloft and reduced operation status (ROS). The parties also analyzed the data gathered from surveys distributed to the fleet regarding engine department welding. SIU Government Services Division officials described the July negotiating session as very important and productive. The parties revisited every newly drafted provision to ensure consistency and clarity. While little substantive language was changed, the negotiators succeeded in revising several previously drafted provisions to make them easier to understand and more coherent within the larger document. Moreover, the parties revisited many of the previously drafted sections in order to further refine and update the language based on information requests and surveys. The negotiating teams also focused on the overall organization of the new CMPI 610 with the goal of making it more userfriendly and concise than the current version. As previously reported, these negotiations are intended to ensure that the new CMPI 610 will be as clearly written as possible and, as a result, will be applied consistently on all vessels throughout the fleet. Along with uniformity and clarity in the revised document, the union is focused on ensur- ing that as work rules are modified, the overtime and penalty wages of CIVMARS are protected to the greatest possible extent. All consensus agreements will be reviewed at the end of the negotiations to determine if, as a result of any changes, CIVMARS have experienced more than a minor negative impact. The rules will also be reviewed to ensure that CIVMARS have not experienced an unintended gain. In addition to finalizing the substantive negotiations, the SIU and MSC are moving through the CMPI 610 financial modeling process. The purpose of financial modeling is to achieve two main goals. From the SIU’s perspective, the goal is to ensure that as a result of rule changes to the CMPI 610, unlicensed CIVMARS will not experience a significant adverse economic impact. From MSC’s perspective the changes must fit into the negotiation ground rule which requires that the cost of the rule changes will remain within one percent (plus or minus) of MSC’s fleet-wide overtime budget. Financial modeling is completed by MSC representatives, MSC subject matter experts, union representatives, accountants and legal department members. Rule changes are analyzed in detail using payroll information from 22 MSC vessels. In addition to the information in the payrolls, financial modeling team members review ships’ logs and vessel masters’ certificates as well as consult various vessel personnel to ensure that the information collected is as accurate as possible. The union anticipates that the financial modeling for SIU-proposed CMPI 610 provisions will be completed this fall. If the SIU and MSC believe that changes are within the ground rule parameters, CMPI 610 negotiations will be complete and the implementation process will begin. If the parameters are not met, the parties will return to the table to complete negotiations and work through issues to ensure that the parties’ goals are met. The union will keep MSC CIVMARS advised of the progress through future LOG articles and CIVMAR-GRAMS. September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:15 PM Page 3 SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (center) walks with CWA members in La Plata, Md. Members of CWA Local 2107 deliver their message in southern Maryland. SIU Supports CWA, IBEW Members More than 45,000 members of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) spent over two weeks on strike from early to midAugust following the breakdown of negotiations between the unions and Verizon Communications. Workers from all over the East Coast decided to strike in order to combat anti-worker and badfaith negotiating tactics by the company. SIU members and officials walked picket lines in solidarity with the striking workers knowing full well that the CWA/IBEW fight is a stand for working people across the country. Rank-and-file members and officials walked the line in several locations, including Baltimore, Leonardtown, Md., and La Plata, Md., as well as Norfolk, Va. After more than two weeks of struggle, Verizon decided to return to the table and practice good-faith negotiating and the workers returned to their jobs with questions remaining about the future of their contracts. Negotiations for a new labor agreement began in late June and since that time Verizon has been pushing for billions in concessions, effectively attempting to roll back more than 50 years of gains. According to the CWA, management wanted “to freeze the pension plan for covered workers and eliminate it entirely for all others, dramatically increase health care costs for active workers and retirees, and base wage increases on subjective evaluations by supervisors.” And while CWA and IBEW members have returned to work, the issues surrounding the clash between rich corporations and the working class still stand. “We cannot stand by while one of the richest, most successful corporations in the world joins the race to decimate the middle class of this country,” said IBEW President Edwin Hill at the height of the strike. “We remain ready to meet with Verizon to work out a fair agreement, but at this point, we had no choice.” After a month of half-hearted negotiations by the company, CWA workers overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike if Verizon continued to make counterproductive and unrealistic demands. On Aug. 8, workers decided that enough was enough and hit the streets. “Verizon employees have been waiting since June 22 for management to bargain at all,” said Candice Johnson, CWA communications director. “Even at contract expiration, Verizon continued to demand $1 billion in concessions per year. That’s $20,000 for every worker. That demand is coming from a $100 billion company, where the top five executives got compensation of $258 million over the past four years.” Members of both unions offered numerous concessions to the company, but Verizon refused to compromise and move off their demands for serious cuts and benefits rollbacks. At the start of the strike, according to CWA, there were nearly 100 of the company’s demands still on the table with the company offering no signs that it would negotiate seriously. The demands that Verizon is making of their workers, according to the AFLCIO, come down to simple greed. The company is attempting ride a wave of anti-worker sentiment now and keep wages low for years to come. The company rationale is that its landline sector, where most of the striking workers are employed, has suffered losses over the past decade. However, financial statistics point out that the company has 2011 revenue of $108 billion with net profits of $6 billion. In addition, the com- pany received a $1.3 billion tax credit from the U.S. government. The strike was effectively called off on Aug. 20 after Verizon and the unions agreed to continue negotiations. Workers began going back to their jobs on Aug. 22. In a joint announcement, the CWA and IBEW expressed gratitude for the support they received from people around the country and remained cautiously optimistic about the future negotiations. “We have reached agreement with Verizon on how bargaining will proceed and how it will be restructured,” the statement read. “The major issues remain to be discussed, but overall, issues now are focused and narrowed. We appreciate the unity of our members and the support of so many in the greater community. Now we will focus on bargaining fairly and moving forward.” ACU Nkrumah Bond (center) and AB Julius Morala (right) are pictured with a CWA demonstrator in Norfolk, Va. Flanked by members of the Communications Workers of America on a picket line in Norfolk, Va., (photo at left) are Seafarers (left to right, starting second from left) AB Lamar Walton, AB Timothy Squire and GVA Anthony Michael. In the photo above, Seafarers and Phase 1 Unlicensed Apprentices from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., join CWA picketers in Leonardtown, Md., the day before the strike was called off. Sealand Comet Rescues Yachtsman Stranded in Pacific Ocean Seafarers aboard the Maersk Line, Limited containership Sealand Comet recently participated in a daring rescue of a stranded yachtsman. The ship, which was crossing the Pacific from Japan to Los Angeles, rescued the man from his sailboat during a typhoon. In the early morning hours of July 24, the vessel received a distress call from Japanese Coast Guard personnel who were September 2011 looking for the distressed sailboat. The containership chose to divert its course and assist in the search. At around 7 a.m., the boat – by then without sails – was spotted in rough seas. In the midst of a category 1 typhoon, the boat was being thrashed with gale winds of at least 40 knots. The crew found the sailor, identified as Joe McCracken, and brought him to safety. He is reported to be in good condition and is extremely grateful for the actions of all those aboard the Comet for his rescue. “The saving of Mr. McCracken’s life can be directly attributed to the training and skill of the Sealand Comet officers and crew, capably demonstrated under extreme weather conditions,” said Ed Hanley, Maersk Line, Limited vice president. The crew also received commendation from the Japanese Coast Guard for their “excellent seamanship.” SIU members aboard the vessel at the time of the rescue included Bosun Matthew Bevak; ABs Emmanuel Buyser, Victor Frazier, Eric Lund, Robert Stenehjem, Gil Villena, and Samuel Lampshire; QE Alton Hickman, Sr.; QEE Rene Rosario; SB Howard Lewis; GUDE Rezk Mohamed; Chief Cook Wiley Owens; and SA Ziyad Omar. Seafarers LOG 3 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:15 PM Page 4 Early stages of the project include removing old piers and bulkheads, as shown in these two photos. Piney Point Project ‘Moving Right Along’ Numerous Upgrades Planned During Waterfront Restoration Upgraders, unlicensed apprentices, and guests at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., might notice some changes happening on the union-affiliated school’s waterfront in the coming months. The waterfront restoration project is in full swing and school officials are optimistic about the progress being made. As of press time, construction crews are in the process of deconstructing over 1,500 feet of the old piers and removing over 1,000 feet of old bulkheads to make way for a variety of new and improved features to the waterfront. “We’re moving right along with the first stage of this project,” said Don Nolan, vice president of the Paul Hall Center. “In fact, in addition to still being on budget, our plans are progressing according to schedule.” The waterfront restoration project is a much-anticipated venture aimed at adding to the aesthetic value of the school and, more importantly, improving facilities for students and their families. In addition to the new pier, the project includes plans for a new seawall, a waterfront park, a 250-foot breakwater, a single-point davit with fast rescue boat Support Grows for ‘SOS’ Campaign The Save Our Seafarers campaign recently reported a milestone: More than 20,000 individually signed letters have been sent from www.saveourseafarers.com to the heads of governments across the globe. “This is a great achievement in such a short time and we also wanted to update you on campaign achievements and news highlights,” a campaign spokesperson said in an early August communication. “Since our launch in March, SaveOurSeafarers has continued to gather support. Supporters from 73 countries have sent letters to their heads of state. Also, www.saveourseafarers.com has had over 65,000 visitors from 175 countries to the site since its launch. Our Facebook page now has 3,748 fans and we have 657 followers on Twitter.” The message continued, “Our campaign has attracted significant global media attention…. We’ve had incredible results in a very short timescale. Your support has been overwhelming. Thank you for every letter, every like and every tweet.” The campaign is far from finished, though. For the latest updates, visit the campaign site. Meanwhile, campaign sponsors – includ- ing the International Transport Workers’ Federation, to which the SIU is affiliated – recently said that piracy is “claiming lives and threatening global trade on a daily basis.” In a joint message on the campaign site, the organizations said, “We understand the problems Somalia faces (the most prolific area for attacks) after 20 years of vicious civil war but we believe our innocent seafarers and the global economy have the right to protection. All we ask is for governments to take a firmer stance to help eradicate piracy. We need committed action now and want governments around the globe to prioritize six key actions: reducing the effectiveness of the easily identifiable motherships; authorizing naval forces to hold pirates and deliver them for prosecution and punishment; fully criminalizing all acts of piracy and intent to commit piracy under national laws, in accordance with their mandatory duty to cooperate to suppress piracy under international conventions; increasing naval assets available in the affected areas; providing greater protection and support for seafarers; and tracing and criminalizing the organizers and financiers behind the criminal networks.” The SOS web site features numerous resources including news updates, videos and more. 4 Seafarers LOG capabilities, a new gravity davit for lifeboat training, a pier site for the training vessel MV John F. Fay, and other state-of-the-art equipment that will serve to reinforce what Seafarers learn in the classroom. Ground was broken on the project in May 2010. The development is expected to be completed next year. The LOG will run regular updates on the project from now to completion. International Bargaining Forum Reaches Three-Year Agreement The International Bargaining Forum (IBF), consisting of representatives of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF, representing mariners) and the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG, representing employers), recently announced that it has reached a three-year agreement. The announcement followed negotiations that took place in Miami in late July. Established in 2003, the IBF is a mechanism through which representatives from maritime labor and management negotiate wages and conditions of employment for mariners serving aboard thousands of ships worldwide. IBF agreements are only available to ship operating companies that are members of the JNG and only may be signed by ITF-affiliated unions. According to a joint statement, the bargaining was “hard-fought by both sides.” The new pact takes effect in January 2012; it includes annual wage increases, financial incentives to bring more vessels under an IBF agreement, and revisions reflecting the current scourge of piracy. Many other components also are included in the updated agreement, including provisions aimed at helping companies develop disciplinary and grievance procedures, as well as helping ensure a steady supply of qualified shipboard manpower. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who serves as chair of the ITF Seafarers’ Section, stated, “The last few years have put a great pressure on both sides of the IBF to be seen as acting responsibly in support of both the seafarers and those that employ them. The collapse in the world financial market has led to employers wanting to minimize their cost increases in difficult times and has put pressure on those who represent the seafarers to understand this financial situation, while ensuring that they are protecting the interest and livelihoods of their members. The final agreement that we have reached has demonstrated the ability of the two sides to work together being both constructive and representative. This agreement bears testament to the strength of the IBF process and its ability to reach conclusions in difficult times, on difficult issues.” Giles Heimann, secretary-general of the International Maritime Employers’ Committee (IMEC) and joint secretary of the JNG, added, “The final outcome reached by the IBF is both a pragmatic and mutually acceptable agreement for both sides. The IBF system has yet again demonstrated the ability of both sides of the table to work closely together in examining the core issues at hand; and through debate, negotiation, respect for each other’s opinions and understanding, a solution has been found, which allows us all to confirm that we have achieved a good result for our constituents.” According to the ITF (to which the SIU is affiliated), IBF negotiations are separate from the discussions about the ITF benchmark and other ITF agreements. Negotiations take place every two years for the IBF framework agreement. Once the framework agreement has been negotiated, ITF-affiliated unions begin local negotiations with companies in their country. These local negotiations result in national and sometimes company-wide IBF agreements. While the entitlements may vary slightly, all IBF agreements must be within the IBF framework agreed for the period. September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG_X 8/30/2011 7:14 PM Page 5 Retired ILA President Bowers Dies at 88 John M. Bowers, the seventh international president of International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), AFL-CIO, passed away Aug. 21 in his home on Long Island, N.Y. He was 88. A native of Manhattan, N. Y., Bowers also served as president of the ILA’s Atlantic Coast District for 20 years and was Vice President on the Executive Boards of the AFL-CIO’s Maritime Trades Department and Transportation Trades Department. During his term as ILA president, he served as the union’s chief negotiator in wage scale meetings with shipping employers and was responsible for bringing stability and growth to the industry for decades. Bowers was the architect of the six-year Master Contract covering ILA workers from Maine to Texas which remained in effect until September 2010 and brought wage increases and protection of health benefits to tens of thousands of ILA members and their families. “He provided a steady hand during a critical time for the industry,” said SIU President Michael Sacco upon receiving news of Bowers’ passing. “He was a very responsible man who brought a lot of stability to the waterfront. “John was a good trade unionist and he will be missed,” Sacco concluded. “The ILA family and the entire labor movement today has lost one of its most outstanding and important figures…. John Bowers helped shape this ILA into one of the most successful unions,” said Harold Daggett, who was elected ILA president in July. “I have lost my friend, my mentor,” said Richard P. Hughes Jr., a close friend and ally who succeeded Bowers as president in 2007 and who retired earlier this year. A highly decorated military veteran, Bowers served in the U.S. Army during World War II as a radio operator in the Fourth Armored Division. His unit was involved in campaigns throughout Europe, winning a Presidential Citation and five battle stars in the process. Following the war, Bowers joined ILA Local 824, which was headed by his father and uncle and whose members manned the passenger ship piers on the West Side of Manhattan. John M. Bowers He was elected to a series of local and regional union offices before his election as executive vice president. Bowers continued to hold elective office until his death, serving for nearly 50 years as Local 824 president, and as an executive board member of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), a worldwide labor Union, School, SIU-Contracted Companies Help Lead the Way For Military Veterans In response to the sometimes-overwhelming hurdles that veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are facing upon returning from overseas, President Barack Obama has proposed a new tax credit that would benefit employers that hire veterans. The $120 million dollar credit will encourage companies to hire these returning warriors, who at present face a disproportionately high unemployment rate. The unemployment rate for veterans in July was 12.4 percent whereas the national unemployment rate was 9.1 percent for the same time period. The new tax credit plan, dubbed the “Returning Heroes Tax Credit,” would give companies and businesses a $2,400 credit for each veteran hired who has been unemployed for less than six months. The credit doubles for hiring those who have been out of work for more than six months. While many businesses see added incentive to hire those who have fought for their country, the SIU and a number of its contracted companies are far ahead of the curve on this front, according to union officials and members of the staff at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. For example, more than 200 veterans have taken classes at the school this year, and more than 1,200 have enrolled in courses at the Paul Hall Center since April 2008. “Civilian life and the military life are two different worlds, especially if your entire career had been in the Navy like me,” said J.C. Wiegman, director of vocational education at the Paul Hall Center and Navy veteran. “Most veterans look for work that is close to their training and that’s why the merchant marine is attractive to Navy and Coast Guard veterans. We speak the same language, we have worked together. A seaman on a ship is the same whether it is a combatant or noncombatant. We all need to do our part to assist them more.” At any given time, there are numerous veterans of all branches of the armed services going through training at the Paul Hall Center and September 2011 working aboard civilian and military support vessels under the SIU colors. Unlicensed Apprentice (UA) Christian Bryant, a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, points to several experiences and skills obtained while he was serving our country that have helped him adjust to life as a merchant mariner. “There are a lot of similarities between my military training and the training I’m doing here at the school,” said Bryant. “The discipline, the attention to detail, and the structured lifestyle are all things that I’m used to.” UA Matthew Bailer, a U.S. Navy veteran, agreed that the discipline one learns in the military is a real asset for preparing for a life at sea. “The discipline is important if you’re going out to sea,” Bailer said. “You need to learn to get along and work together.” Bailer also pointed out that work ethic, a trait that is driven into service members during their military careers, is alive and well at the school and very important. “The work ethic I’m learning at the school is similar to what I learned in the military,” said Bailer. “If you can’t work hard, you won’t make it at the school.” American veterans are returning to civilian life in vast numbers and they are ready and willing to work. The SIU, the Paul Hall Center, and SIUcontracted companies are thankfully already leading that charge. “It’s a great thing to know for sure that I’ll be working when I leave the school,” said Bryant. The school also remains ready to help anyone looking to upgrade who meets the school’s eligibility requirements. “There’s room for advancement if you’re ready to work hard and apply yourself,” Bryant noted. Veterans at the Paul Hall Center, like Bryant and Bailer, are ready to get to work. “I’m looking forward to working,” said Bailer. “I know what to expect and as long as I hold up my end of the bargain, I’ll be doing well by the time I leave.” organization representing more than six million transport workers in 78 countries. He was elected as a vice president to the ITF in March 1990 and reelected in 1994, 1998 and 2002, respectively. Bowers was also the onetime Chairman of the ITF’s Dockers Section. In 1991, he founded the ILA’s Civil Rights Committee and, at the personal invitation of the late Coretta Scott King and the Martin Luther King Center, served as Grand Marshal for the 1994 Martin Luther King Day Parade in Atlanta. Bowers also established the ILA Children’s Fund in 1993. This charity since then has raised more than $2 million for the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp in Ashford, Conn., benefiting children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. Bowers was a forerunner in instituting scholarship programs for ILA dependents. In 1960, he was responsible for the formation of the ILA Local 824 Scholarship later named the Michael Bowers Memorial Scholarship Fund in honor of his father. He later served as the labor co-chairman for the NYSA-ILA Teddy Gleason Scholarship Program. In October 1992, Bowers was awarded one of the maritime industry’s top honor – the Admiral of the Ocean Sea Award – presented by the United Seamen’s Service. He was also the recipient of the 1994 Connie Award presented by the Containerization and Intermodal Institute. Other maritime honors bestowed upon him included the Golden Compass Award, presented by the Seafarers House at Port Everglades, Fla.; and induction into the International Maritime Hall of Fame by the Maritime Association, Port of New York and New Jersey. Other organizations to honor Bowers in recent years included the American Cancer Society; Irish American Labor Coalition; Intrepid Sea-Air Space Museum and the Greater New York Councils Boy Scouts of America. He was the Man of the Year of the Irish American Labor Coalition in January 1992. Bowers is survived by his wife, Marcy, their two children John and Christine, and one granddaughter, Meagan. A funeral mass in his honor was celebrated Aug. 24 at the Guardian Angel Roman Catholic Church in Manhattan. SIU Executive Vice President Lands Appointment from DOT SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez in late July received a congratulatory letter from U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood informing him of his appointment to the DOT’s Marine Transportation System National Advisory Council (MTSNAC). Tellez’s two-year appointment began on July 28. The council’s first public meeting is planned for later this year, though the exact date hasn’t been set. In the communication to Tellez, LaHood pointed out that the MTSNAC was reestablished in May 2010 “to provide advice and make policy recommendations to the Secretary of Transportation on transportation development issues that address impediments to the effective use of America’s overall Marine Transportation System. However, the council will pay specific attention to the expansion and development of the Nation’s Marine Highway and port system through its Marine Highway subcommittee and the Secretary’s Port Advisory Council. The MTSNAC will comprise leaders from commercial transportation firms, port and water stakeholders, labor, academia, and federal, state and local public entities.” The council likely will meet at least twice per fiscal year, and the meetings normally will be open to the public. According to the organization’s charter, “Timely notice of each meeting shall be published in the Federal Register, and the Chair may pre- SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez scribe other types of public notice as well.” According to the DOT’s Maritime Administration, the nation’s Marine Transportation System “consists of waterways, ports, and intermodal landside connections that allow the various modes of transportation to move people and goods to, from, and on the water. The MTS includes the following: 25,000 miles of navigable channels; 238 locks at 192 locations; Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway; more than 3,700 marine terminals; numerous recreational marinas; more than 174,000 miles of rail connecting all 48 contiguous States, as well as Canada and Mexico; more than 45,000 miles of interstate highway, supported by over 115,000 miles of other roadways; and more than 1,400 designated intermodal connections.” Seafarers LOG 5 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:15 PM Page 6 Starlight Marine Crews Approve New Contract Seafarers employed by Starlight Marine Services have ratified a new three-year contract that calls for annual wage increases and other gains. Overwhelmingly approved by rank-and-file members, the new agreement took effect July 1. In addition to stipulating annual wage increases, the pact boosts contributions to the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan (SMPPP) as well as reimbursements for work clothes and expenses associated with the costs of transportation. Starlight Marine operates a fleet of five state-ofthe-art tugs and one barge in the San Francisco Harbor. In addition to ship assist services, the company specializes in the bunkering and crude oil, fuel oil and diesel oil transportation business. The contract covers 25 SIU members. “A lot of hard work went into this contract, but it was a good negotiation and the end result is very pos- The company operates five tugs including those pictured above and below. itive for the membership,” stated SIU Assistant Vice President Nick Celona, who teamed with SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone and Seafarer Bryan Wynn on the union’s bargaining team. This is the third SIU contract at Starlight. The first was an initial five-year agreement ratified in 2003, the year Starlight Marine boatmen unanimously chose SIU representation. The second was approved in 2008. Gathering to discuss the new contract are (from left) Seafarers Bryan Wynn, Stephanie Sandoval, Mike Limon, Eric Vuoso, Matt Fike and Jacob Laprado, SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona and Seafarer Jonah Petrick. AMO Agreement Extended on Lakes Following a brief work stoppage, the American Maritime Officers (AMO) and American Steamship Company (ASC) early last month agreed to extend their current contract at least through the end of the 2011 Great Lakes shipping season. Both sides expressed optimism about a successor agreement. AMO National President Tom Bethel described the union and the company as being “confident and committed to reaching an agreement prior to the beginning of the 2012 operating season – an agreement that ensures the job and benefit security of AMO members and addresses the company’s competitive needs.” David W. Foster, president of ASC, said, “We 6 are pleased that ASC and the AMO have agreed on a path forward…. It remains our goal to reach a fair and equitable long-term agreement with our licensed crew members that allows ASC to become more competitive on the Great Lakes.” The AMO was on strike (and the ASC fleet was idled) for less than a week in early August – its first work stoppage on the Lakes in 31 years. The union is an autonomous affiliate of the Seafarers International Union of North America (SIUNA). SIU members sail aboard 11 ASC vessels. Earlier this year, Seafarers approved a five-year contract covering the ASC ships through June 2016. St. Louis Agent Nabs Key Appointment Catching Up with Crowley Captain SIU St. Louis Port Agent Becky Sleeper (above) recently took the oath of office for her new appointment to the Jefferson County (Mo.) Port Authority. Her four-year term was confirmed in mid-July by County Executive Kenneth B. Waller. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (right) and VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey chat with Seafarer Hector Guzman, docking master for Crowley in the port of San Juan, P.R. The photo was taken last month at the union hall in Puerto Rico. Seafarers LOG September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG_X 8/30/2011 7:14 PM Page 7 M a r i ti m e B r i e f s SIU Officials Meet Virginia Congressman Paul Hall Center to Host ITF Maritime Women’s Conference The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is scheduled to host the International Transport Workers’ Federation Maritime Women Strategic, Leadership and Organizing Conference Sept. 25-30. According to the ITF, the event “aims to strengthen women’s leadership, strategy and organizing skills within the ITF and its affiliates.” (The SIU is an ITF affiliate.) The school is located in Piney Point, Md. For more information about the ITF, visit www.itfglobal.org. IMO Announces Theme for 2012 World Maritime Day The International Maritime Organization Council recently backed a proposal by IMO Secretary-General Efthimios Mitropoulos to adopt “IMO: One hundred years after the Titanic” as the World Maritime Day theme for 2012. One result of the sinking of the Titanic (in 1912), in which 1,503 people lost their lives, was the adoption two years later of the first International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (the SOLAS Convention). The 1914 version of the Convention was gradually superseded by amended versions; SOLAS 1974 is still in force today, itself amended and updated many times. Mitropoulos said that among other potential benefits, the theme would provide an opportunity to take stock of improvements in maritime safety during the 100 years since the sinking of the Titanic; pay tribute to the memory of those who lost their lives in the freezing waters of the North Atlantic on that fatal night of April 14, 1912; examine whether the lessons drawn from that tragedy have been fully learned; examine the safety record of shipping and identify those areas that have contributed the most to its improvement over the years; and examine which areas, within the overall spectrum of maritime safety, should be given top consideration in the years to come. Reminder: Forms Available for SHBP Dependent Coverage The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan reminds members that, as previously reported, effective Jan. 1, 2011, the SHBP began offering coverage to eligible participants’ children up to age 26, regardless of whether the child is in school, as long as the child does not have access to health insurance through their employer. A letter and affidavit form was mailed to eligible participants in October 2010. The letter and form also may be downloaded from the SIU web site, www.seafarers.org, under the “Member Benefits” section. There is no cost to enroll. Seafarers are asked to note that dependent children who were previously enrolled for SHBP coverage based on being college students must now be enrolled by completing the affidavit. Coverage for all eligible children will commence as of the first of the month following the Plan’s receipt of a completed form. Maritime Observance, Symposium Slated for Sept. 29 in Port Arthur The Apostleship of the Sea of the United States has announced that the Port Arthur (Texas) International Seafarer Center will host a maritime observance and symposium Sept. 29, which is World Maritime Day. The Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO, is one of several organizations sponsoring the event. The day’s agenda features numerous guest speakers and topics including the Save Our Seafarers anti-piracy campaign. The speakers will offer perspectives from throughout the maritime industry concerning piracy. (The theme of this year’s World Maritime Day is “Piracy: Orchestrating the Response.”) For more information, call the Apostleship of the Sea in Port Arthur at (409) 9858010. Agency Announces Meetings to Receive STCW Comments The U.S. Coast Guard in early August announced a series of meetings to receive comments on the agency’s proposal for implementation of the latest amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). The August meetings were slated for Miami (Aug. 22), New Orleans (Aug. 24) and Seattle (Aug. 26); the September meeting is scheduled for Sept. 7 in Washington, D.C. Written comments may be submitted on or before Sept. 30. Additional information is available in the Aug. 2 Federal Register. SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (right) and Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny (left) discuss maritime issues with U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Va.) during the Virginia AFL-CIO Convention in Williamsburg, in early August. U.S. Merchant Marine’s Valiant History, Modern Value Highlighted at Ceremony The U.S. Merchant Marine has been vital to America’s national and economic security since the country’s origins – and remains so today. That was a key part of the message delivered by U.S. Maritime Administrator David Matsuda July 28 during a stamp-unveiling ceremony at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in King’s Point, N.Y. The occasion marked the official launch of four new postage stamps paying tribute to the U.S. Merchant Marine. “Today you have heard about the integral role that America’s Merchant Marine has played in our nation’s unfolding history,” Matsuda remarked. “From America’s infancy – when a fleet of American civilian mariners fought and defeated British forces in a naval skirmish near Machias, Maine – to the California Gold Rush, when the legendary clipper ships set speed records in pursuit of treasure; to World War II, when the merchant marine delivered nearly 270 billion tons of cargo to the frontlines and suffered some of the war effort’s highest casualty rates; to one of the largest sealifts from American soil, on September 11, just 25 miles from here, when seafarers sailed toward danger in lower Manhattan to help transport 130,000 men and women to safety.” He continued, “While these stamps depict the ships of the merchant marine, it is the men and women who sail, and the ones who built these ships, who leave their mark on our prosperity, our liberty and our way of life…. While we honor our past, we must not forget the lessons we have learned that so many have sacrificed for: having ships and trained crews ready to carry the nation’s cargo is critical to our security and our economy. Economically, America is basically an island. So, our founders learned long ago that if we want to remain a trading nation, get our exports to market, and access other trading nations around the world, we cannot be subject entirely to another country’s flag fleet.” Such considerations extend beyond commercial cargo, the administrator added. “We’ve learned from every military conflict in the last century that while we can project America’s military power anywhere in the world, we need a strong merchant marine to sustain any war effort,” he explained. “This is true for our ability to provide humanitarian assistance as well.” As previously reported, the four “forever” stamps depict vessel types spanning U.S. history. They show (respectively) a clipper ship modeled after one from the mid-1800s, an auxiliary steamship, a World War II Liberty ship, and a containership based on Seafarers-contracted Matson Line’s R.J. Pfeiffer. Illustrator Dennis Lyall created the stamps under the art direction of Phil Jordan. Matsuda concluded by reinforcing the ongoing need to maintain a strong U.S.-flag fleet and a pool of reliable, well-trained U.S. citizen seafarers. “Today, the maritime industry continues to be an integral part of America’s economy and national security,” he stated. “In times of peace, [U.S. mariners] will be the backbone that supports our nation’s economy, shipping American goods to foreign shores and moving other products within our borders. In times of conflict, they will be called upon to bring supplies and support services directly to the front lines. As I mentioned earlier, without their service, our military could not succeed. And in times of natural disaster, they will be among our first responders, bringing relief and expertise to those in need, across our nation and across the globe. “So, as the American people enjoy these gorgeous postage stamps honoring our maritime roots, I hope that they will pause to consider the vital role our seafarers and maritime workers continue to play keeping America safe and strong.” Mariner Publishes Book Recalling Diving Exploits Former Seafarer and current MEBA member H.C. Solomon has written a book about his adventures in and around locales including Hong Kong, Mexico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and elsewhere. “The 1994 Explore Diving Calendar” is a 68-page paperback featuring a blend of text and color photos taken at and beneath the sea as well as ashore. Solomon noted, “Growing up in New York, I had many dreams of grand adventures. I read the books of Joshua Slocum about sailing alone around the world. Jack London was another favorite, along with Joseph Conrad and Rudyard Kipling. I dreamt of cruising Lake Victoria and Mt. Kilimanjaro, Rio de Janeiro, with [Copacabana] Beach and carnival, and Barcelona. I read about the maroons of Jamaica and the runaway slaves during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries who roamed the countryside harassing the British until the abolition of the slave trade in 1807. A lot of these dreams have become reality, and this book is a record of some of the places I visited. Hope you enjoy it.” The book is available online through: www.borders.com, www.rosedogbookstore.com and www.amazon.com. September 2011 Four new “forever” stamps pay tribute to the nation’s maritime heritage. (Images Copyright© USPS, reprinted with permission) Seafarers LOG 7 �66070_SIU_LOG_X 8/30/2011 7:16 PM Page 8 ITF Inspector: ‘I’m Proud to be an American’ The morning after formally being sworn in as an American citizen Aug. 17 in Houston, Shwe Aung summed up his feelings in one word: “Fantastic!” Aung is an International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) inspector for the SIU. If it sounds like a cliché to say he came a long way in his journey to U.S. citizenship, consider his circumstances in the year 2000. A native of Burma, Aung was in his late twenties and sailing aboard a ship that sank in Venezuela. He survived the ordeal, but his credentials and other paperwork were lost. His only option for securing a new passport involved returning to Burma, where he would have been jailed because of pro-union activities. After a complicated sequence that included long stays in Venezuela and Brazil, Aung, with the ITF’s backing, found his way to the U.S. in December 2001. Aung didn’t exactly begin living the American dream upon his arrival. He was detained by the Immigration and Naturalization Service, but – with key assistance from the SIU, the ITF and U.S. Rep. Gene Green’s office – was granted asylum in 2002. Since then, Aung has been an effective ITF inspector (his honors include recognition from the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance) who embraces his chance to assist fellow mariners. “I was a foreign crew member, and I know what it’s like to not get paid and to need the ITF’s help,” he explained. “Now, I’m the one helping. The cycle is complete.” Congressman Green (D-Texas), an ally from Shwe’s earliest days in America, presented his citizenship certificate at last month’s ceremony, which took place at a local education center. SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey was among Aung’s other supporters in attendance. Corgey noted that Aung had the honor of taking the citizenship oath not only for himself but also as a representative of the many other immigrants being naturalized that day. (For practical reasons, one person – Aung – was chosen to stand on behalf of everyone.) “I think that’s a real tribute to his reputation, the great work that he’s done, and his standing in the community,” Corgey said. “We’re proud that he was selected and we’re proud to be a part of Shwe’s successful story and his journey to citizenship. He’s a great guy, and his family was so happy. This is what America is all about.” Reflecting on the last nine years, Aung emphasized his gratitude to a host of backers including Rep. Green, Aung (standing at left) takes the citizenship oath not only for himself but as a representative of other immigrants. Feathered Ferry Passenger Unexpected but Welcome Seafarers working aboard NY Waterway’s Thomas Jefferson have found themselves sailing alongside an unusual guest lately, and his presence has drawn a fair amount of attention to the members. “Tony,” like many others in the New York City metropolitan area, commutes to and from Manhattan daily. However, Tony does it a bit differently than most members of his species. Instead of flying, Tony the Pigeon takes the ferry. Tony’s longtime devotion to the ferry has caused something of a sensation for commuters, the media, and especially the SIU members who’ve sailed with the bird every day for the last three years. “I’ve been working this job for 23 years and I’ve never seen anything like this,” senior deckhand and SIU member George Schumpp recently told a reporter. “Three years ago, this pigeon shows up and starts going through the cabin and eating crumbs. Next thing you know, he’s here every day at the exact same time. And he does more work cleaning than my partner.” News articles in various local papers, passenger-made videos, and even a Facebook page have all been devoted to Tony the Pigeon. Workers aboard the Thomas Jefferson have made the bird an unofficial mascot of the vessel. According to the deckhands and the New York Daily News, every day for the past three years, Tony comes aboard the ship every morning at Pier 79 in Manhattan and searches for food dropped by passengers. When the ship arrives in New Jersey, he exits briefly and then gets back on. Finally, after the ship has made its rounds, he simply walks off the boat and continues his day. When the evening rush hour starts, Tony’s back on deck and repeating the same trip all over again. Passengers and workers alike have gotten a kick out of the bird’s antics, which have altered the outlooks of many New Yorkers who are usually pigeon-adverse, to put it mildly. “I’ve been a New Yorker my whole life and we’re not big fans of pigeons, but Tony has changed the way I think,” said Schumpp. 8 Seafarers LOG Shwe Aung (second from left) thanked many people for supporting him, including his son, Ryan Tun Aung (getting a lift from Dad); his wife, Nyunt Nyunt Wai (center); U.S. Rep. Gene Green (D-Texas) (second from right); and SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (right). Corgey, SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who also has been an ITF official for many years. Aung further noted the invaluable support of ITF officials David Cockroft, Steve Cotton, Anna Llewellyn and Antonio Fritz, local contacts Stefani Nguyen and Jimmy McAuley, shipmates from the MV Global Mariner, his family and others. “There are so many people who’ve helped me along the way,” Aung stated. “I’m so proud to be in the SIU family and to also be part of the ITF. When I got here, the SIU took me in. Dean and Jimbo ( SIU Assistant Vice President Jim McGee) came to see me on a ship around midnight. They didn’t even know me. I had lost my hope, but they worked with me…. Without the SIU, I wouldn’t be here.” Heindel, who serves as chairman of the ITF Seafarers’ Section, noted, “It’s inspirational to see that Shwe has made a good life for himself in the U.S. Meeting this young man in Brazil in late 2001 and hearing that Brazil was going to deport him back to Burma to face prison just for standing up for himself and fellow crew – something that we daily take for granted – was just too much not to assist him. I am proud that we, with the help of Representative Green, were able to assist Shwe in making his way to the States and being there when he landed. I’m sure over the years it has not been easy for him to be away from his family in Burma, but his is a great American story; he has assimilated into our culture and now started a family of his own. Congratulations, Shwe!” Aung concluded, “I’m proud to be an American. It’s really great.” Indy-Connie Reunion Set for Oct. 28-Nov. 1 Former crew members from the American Hawaii Cruises vessels SS Independence and SS Constitution are organizing a reunion that’s scheduled to take place Oct. 28-Nov. 1 at the Royal Kona Resort in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. As of midAugust, more than 120 people indicated they plan to attend, while nearly 200 more were considering it. Details are available on a Facebook page specifically set up for the reunion. Just go to Facebook and search for AHC Reunion October 2011. Pictured in the photo below are crew members aboard the Independence in 1986 (courtesy of Recertified Steward Judi Chester); at right, the Constitution sails in 1983. September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:15 PM Page 9 Checking one of the life rafts on board the Pride of America are Bosun Rafael Lanila and deck gang members Gary Hunt, Joe Whitmore, Dominador Diaz, Justin Pierce and Rolando Dinong. AB Nestor Rapusas (right) receives his B-seniority full book and a congratulatory handshake from Port Agent Hazel Galbiso. Port Agent Hazel Galbiso (left) congratulates AB Ricardo Salazar for receiving his Aseniority full book. With Seafarers in Honolulu These recent photos were taken at the SIU hall in Honolulu, Hawaii, and aboard the nearby cruise ship Pride of America First Voyage to Sea – World War II AB Marie Acosta Editor’s note: Retiree Vincent Patterson sailed with the SIU from June 1942 to July 1951. He sent this story to the LOG in order to share recollections of some his earliest days at sea. Brother Patterson made his first trip as a messman and then switched to the engine department. He sailed throughout World War II, and afterward sailed on Alcoa and Delta passenger liners. He also sailed in the Korean War before coming ashore. War broke out between the United States and Japan on December 7, 1941. I was 15 years old and lived in the port city of New Orleans, Louisiana. As much as I wanted to fight for my country, I knew that the armed forces would not accept me, because I was too young. In January of 1942, I turned 16 and asked my parents to sign for me to join the United States Navy. From a younger age, maybe 10 or 12, I had always wanted to be a sailor, as was my grandfather. When my parents turned me down for the Navy, I found the next way to become a sailor. At 16 my parents signed for me to join the United States Merchant Marine. I told them it would not be as dangerous. (Little did I know.) I did not go to a maritime school as most of the young recruits did. I passed my Coast Guard physical and received my seaman’s papers in June of 1942. In July I was assigned to a new Liberty ship, the S.S. Mirabeau B. Lamar in Houston, Texas. The ship was still in the yard, and we were the first to crew it. We left Houston and sailed for New Orleans to load cargo. A day before we arrived at Southwest Pass, the troop ship Robert E. Lee was torpedoed and sunk by a German submarine, July 30, 1942. There were a few survivors, and she went under the waves in 15 minutes. As we approached the Southwest Pass at the mouth of the Mississippi River, two of our destroyer escorts began dropping depth charges off our port bow. They were picking up sonar soundings from a submarine that was stalking our ship. (When underwater radio signals are sent and they September 2011 AB Jaroslav Dvorak The SIU-crewed Pride of America is the only U.S.-flag deep sea cruise ship. strike an object, the signals will bounce back.) Both escorts gradually worked their way – and the submarine’s – into the shallow water of the coastline and the Louisiana marshes. I was on deck watching all that was happening. Being a kid of 16, this was extremely exciting stuff; I didn’t think about the danger or the horror that was being played out on the submarine. The submarine would not or could not surface. A twin-engine plane from Alvin Callender Airfield at Belle Chase, Louisiana, helped with the search. The plane flew over a spot near the two destroyer escorts and dropped a floating smoke flare and flew off. In a minute or two it returned and dropped a large bomb. This seemed to blow the bottom out of the Gulf of Mexico with a tall geyser of mud, debris and water and, I assumed, parts of the submarine. We were now headed up the Mississippi River and stopped at “pilot town,” a small distance up from the mouth of the river. Pilot town consisted of a couple of houses built on stilts above the marsh, where the pilots stay between bringing ships up and down the river. A pilot climbed aboard our ship, and we headed up river about 90 miles to New Orleans. Upon reaching the city, our steering gear went haywire and we are unable to steer the ship. It takes a long time to stop a ship making headway, even going up river against the current. Both anchors were dropped, and with the engine going full astern we still plowed into the dock. We hit and crunched the dock between two ships. One was a British ship loaded with munitions. Luckily for us and the city of New Orleans, we did not blow up the town. I got to visit with my family, which also was fortunate, because I suspected we would be on a long voyage. After several of weeks loading cargo, we sailed for the Gulf of Mexico. We joined with a convoy of ships; our convoy was going through the Caribbean Sea and headed for the island of Trinidad. We heard depth charges, but no ships were sunk. We took shore leave in Trinidad and this was the first time I had seen people sleeping and living on the streets. Our stay was short, but I got to see a small portion of Trinidad and visit the USO Club. We danced in a conga line but had to leave the pretty girls on shore. It was time to weigh anchor and go to war; we were on our way to Cape Town, South Africa. We had no destroyer escorts to protect us, so we were on our own. We had four 20-MM guns and one three-inch gun forward. On our stern we had an old five-inch gun left over from World War I. This we loaded with powder bags with a ramrod and a projectile. There were German “raiders” disguised as merchant ships that carry many more and larger guns than we do. German submarines were also along our route. We were lucky, arriving at Cape Town without incident. Another ship that left Trinidad with us, the West Chetac, had not arrived; it was way overdue. Cape Town is a beautiful city, located below Table Mountain on the southern tip of Africa. We visited some of the sights and outlying villages, and ate at a café on the mountain. The people were friendly. Large fellows of the Zulu Tribe unloaded our ship. Some had fancy, round, painted spools in their ears. Many had rods through the bottom parts of their noses and scar markings on their faces. The bottoms of their bare feet looked two inches thick. With part of our cargo unloaded, we were on our way to Port Elizabeth, located on the east coast of South Africa. Our shore leave there was short, but we managed to see some of the city. Our next scheduled stop was Durban, South Africa, but we got lost at sea. We spent three or more days by dead reckoning. We were looking for the entrance to the harbor at Durban, but the weather was very bad and we could not take a sighting with our sextants. All the while, we were mindful of the fact that Japanese submarines patrol these waters. The weather finally cleared and we were not too far off course. We arrived at Durban and unloaded for four days. We were then on our way up through the south Atlantic Ocean to Suriname, located in the northeastern part of South America. Our ship was 100 miles from the South American shore and night was Tending the shuttle at the Kona Pier are AB Bill Carney and OS Peter Hamm. falling when we were attacked by a submarine. The Navy gun crew gave a good account of themselves and drove the submarine off. The submarine may have fired a torpedo at us, but since it was night we didn’t know. We arrived the next morning at Paramaribo in Suriname and continued up river to Paranam to load bauxite. Our next stop was Trinidad to top off the cargo holds with additional bauxite. The ship was now on the last leg of the journey and we dropped anchor in sight of the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor, just in time for a white Christmas, 1942. History later proved that the first submarine in this story was the German U172, which escaped our destroyers on that August morning. But, the U-172 eventually was sunk on Dec. 12, 1943, west of the Canary Islands by USS Clemson, USS Dupont, USS Badger and the USS Ingram. There were no survivors. The troop ship Robert E. Lee was torpedoed and sunk by the German submarine U-166 on July 30, 1942. Ten crew members and 15 passengers were lost, including some who were from other torpedoed merchant ships. As mentioned, the Robert E. Lee sank in 15 minutes. The U-166 was sunk on the same day by the destroyer escort PC-566. The U-166 was sunk by a depth charge blowing her bow off, and there were no survivors. The captain of the U-166 was HansGunther Kuhlmann, 28-year-old son of a wealthy German family. The U-166 and the Robert E. Lee lie about 100 yards apart in the Gulf of Mexico, both in 5,000 feet of water about 25 miles southeast of the entrance to the Mississippi River. The ship that left Trinidad with us, the SS West Chetac, did not make it. Many of our crew had friends on board. The West Chetac was sunk shortly after leaving Trinidad on September 24, 1942 by submarine U-175. The ship sank in two minutes; 22 crew members and nine Navy Armed Guard personnel were lost, including the captain. The U-175 was sunk southwest of Ireland on April 17, 1943 by U.S. Coast Guard cutter Spencer. There were 41 survivors. Seafarers LOG 9 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:15 PM Page 10 PRESENTATION IN PINEY POINT – Upgrader Leonard Gregg (right) receives his Bbook during the August membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. Gregg, who sails as an AB, joined the union in 2004. Swearing him in is Port Agent Pat Vandegrift. STANDING UP FOR SOCIAL SECURITY – Seafarers showed their support for protecting Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid during a July 25 rally in the Baltimore suburb of Woodlawn, Md. Approximately 300 supporters participated in the demonstration, sponsored by the Maryland-D.C. AFL-CIO and conducted at the national headquarters of the Social Security Administration. Featured speakers included Maryland-D.C. AFL-CIO President Fred Mason and American Federation of Government Employees President John Gage. The SIU contingent (group photo) included Baltimore Port Agent Elizabeth Brown (front row, far right) and Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift (second row, far left). At Sea And Ashore With the SIU BACKING UNION FAA WORKERS – Houston- area Seafarers turned out to support fellow trade unionists who were affected by the recent Federal Aviation Administration shutdown. During an August 4 rally at George Bush Intercontinental Airport, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (DTexas) and others voiced support for airport workers from the ALPA, Flight Attendants, Teamsters, Machinists, AFGE and Building and Construction Trades unions who suffered as a result of the shutdown. (An agreement was reached later that same day that led to the FAA resuming operations.) In addition to the SIU, the rally also featured numerous other unions affiliated with the Harris County AFLCIO and the West Gulf Ports Council of the Maritime Trades Department. Pictured from left to right in the group photo are AB Joseph Merriweather, Chief Cook John Noel, Rep. Lee, Corgey, QMED Jerome Dooms, SIU Houston Safety Director Brian Kinard and SIU ITF Inspector Shwe Aung. Standing left to right (front row) in the other photo are Corgey, Rep. Lee and Mario Diaz, director of aviation for the Houston Airport System. TRULY IMPECCABLE CREW – This recent snapshot from the USNS Impeccable includes three members of the galley gang and Medical Department Representative/RN Brandon Maeda (left), who formerly sailed as a recertified steward. Standing left to right are Maeda, Chief Cook Jose David, Chief Steward Edward Villanda and SA Ahmed Omar. “This is a really good bunch of guys and they feed over 50 people per voyage,” Maeda wrote, adding that he appreciates the energy required for such a task. UNION OATH IN HOUSTON – In early August, SA Gladiz David (left) happily gets her B-book at the SIU hall in Houston. Her most recent ship was the Noble Star. Administering the union oath is Port Agent Mike Russo. REMEMBERING BROTHER EXPOSITO – WELCOME ASHORE – At the hall in Tacoma, Wash., Port Agent Joe Vincenzo (right) congratulates retiree George Gauggel and presents him with a pension check. Gauggel sailed in both the steward and deck departments at various times during his 20-year career with the SIU. 10 Seafarers LOG On July 28, in accordance with his wishes and those of his family, the cremains of SIU retiree Jose Exposito were committed at sea from aboard the Maersk Wyoming. Vessel Master Kevin Coulombe reported that the memorial ceremony took place on the Atlantic Ocean at position L 41-22.9 N/Lo 036 24.7. September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:15 PM Page 11 Byrd Completes Historic Visit to Vietnam Port The Seafarers-crewed, U.S. Military Sealift Command dry cargo/ammunition ship USNS Richard E. Byrd in late August left Cam Ranh Bay in southern Vietnam, marking the end of an historic visit – the first by a U.S. Navy ship to the port in nearly four decades. Manned in the unlicensed slots by members of the SIU Government Services Division, the Byrd spent seven days at Cam Ranh Shipyard for routine maintenance and repairs that included underwater hull cleaning, polishing of the ship’s propeller, repairing shipboard piping, and overhaul of the saltwater cooling system that keeps the ship’s engines cool and runs the air conditioning. The vessel left port Aug. 24. Cam Ranh Bay is 180 miles north of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly called Saigon. From 1965 to 1973, Cam Ranh Bay was one of the largest in-country U.S. military facilities during the Vietnam War. MSC Ship Support Unit Singapore routinely contracts shipyards throughout Southeast Asia to conduct maintenance and repairs on the command’s Combat Logistics Force ships, according to the agency. “The Navy saves both time and money by using multiple commercial shipyards throughout the region, reducing transit times to more distant shipyards, and thereby also reducing the amount of time these ships are off-mission,” MSC said in a recent news release. In addition, these ship visits foster positive relations between the U.S. and Vietnam. (The U.S. normalized diplomatic relations with Vietnam in 1995.) Cam Ranh Bay is a deep-water and sheltered harbor which can easily accommodate larger naval vessels with deep drafts. The Byrd, part of the Navy’s TAKE class, measures more than 680 feet in length and displaces more than 41,000 tons. The Byrd’s repairs in Vietnam are the third such repairs on MSC vessels in that country over the last two years. The Seafarers-crewed rescue and salvage ship USNS Safeguard completed repairs at Saigon Shipmarin Shipyard near Ho Chi Minh City in September 2009. Cam Ranh Shipyard performed maintenance on the Byrd in March of last year, but the work was performed at Van Phong Bay, located about 80 miles north of Cam Ranh Bay. The more recent work was completed Taking the Oath in Oakland The USNS Richard E. Byrd sits at anchor in the port of Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam, Aug. 18 while undergoing routine maintenance. (U.S. Navy photo by Anh Ho) Aug. 22 and the Byrd got underway two days later to return to normal duties as one of U.S. 7th Fleet’s primary supply vessels operating in the Western Pacific. The vessel is one of 11 Seafarers-crewed Notice/Reminder dry cargo/ammunition ships that operate worldwide delivering ammunition, provisions, stores, spare parts, potable water and petroleum products to U.S. Navy ships at sea. SHBP Enrollment-Beneficiary Cards The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) regularly reminds Seafarers about the vital importance of completing and submitting a new SHBP EnrollmentBeneficiary Card whenever a member has a change in his or her family status – such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, death of a family member, or change in beneficiary. This form enables the Plan to process the member’s Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan benefits correctly and expeditiously. Having an updated card on file is especially important in the event of a member’s death. Death benefits for eligible participants are payable to the beneficiary listed on the most recent beneficiary card on file with the Plan. If a member’s beneficiary has predeceased the member, or if the member does not name a beneficiary, a maximum amount of $1,000 may be payable to the member’s estate. Also, in order for the member’s beneficiary to claim the full amount of the death benefit, the beneficiary must be a close relative. “Close relative” is defined by the Plan as follows: Spouse Child Grandchild Grandfather Grandmother Stepchild Mother Father Stepmother Stepfather Half-sister Half-brother Brother Sister Stepsister Stepbrother Nephew* Niece* (*Niece and nephew are defined as the children of the brother or sister of a deceased employee.) During the August membership meeting in Oakland, Calif., AB Chris Malbas (left) receives his full book and takes the union oath. He is sworn in by SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (center) as Safety Director Kathy Chester looks on. Attention Seafarers Keep Old Glory Afloat ... If the beneficiary named by a member is not a relative on this list, the maximum amount he or she can receive as a death benefit is $1,000. This could greatly reduce any amount payable under the Plan’s Graduated Death Benefit rules. Please check the new member portal on the SIU website (www.seafarers.org) to view the beneficiary information that we have on file to see if it is up-to-date. If the information is outdated, members are urged to submit a current SHBP EnrollmentBeneficiary Card as soon as possible. Those cards are available at the union halls. Also, members may call 1-800-252-4674 and request that a card be mailed to them. Donate To SPAD (Seafarers Political Action Donation) September 2011 Seafarers LOG 11 �66070_SIU_LOG_X 8/30/2011 7:21 PM Page 12 T he Por Daily Sc Bosun Luis Ramirez, AB Jorge Soler El Yunque Cargo is loaded onto the El Yunque. Pictured at the hall (foreground, from left) are GUDE Darius Edwards, GUDE David McCarthon, SA Lawa Dowdell and AB Ogden Lee. Members check out the job board. 12 Seafarers LOG The port of Jacksonville, Fla., normally features a number of SIU-contracted ships loading and unloading various cargoes. That was the case earlier this summer when the photos on these two pages were taken. Likewise, the SIU hall on Belfort Road typically remains busy. Whether members are throwing in for a job, registering, or just spending time with fellow Seafarers, the hall has been a friendly gathering point The Horizon Producer is pictured in Jacksonville, Fla., on July 19 With college football season approaching, AB Tavell Love (left) an spirit by testing their skills in a popular gridiron video game. September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG_X 8/30/2011 7:21 PM Page 13 o r t o f J A CK S O NV I L L E SA John Fitzgerald, Chief Cook Adalberto Colon Rosa, Steward/Baker Allen Van Buren El Yunque ily Scenes From In And Around rge Soler sa unloading sume taken. for a ellow ring point Recertified Bosun John Wilson is congratulated on his retirement by Karen Shuford, secretary at the hall. Wilson started sailing in 1968. His first ship was the Seatrain Georgia. since its opening in November 2009. SIU-contracted companies whose vessels call on Jacksonville include American Roll-On/Roll-Off Carrier, Crowley Maritime Corp., Horizon Lines, Liberty Maritime, Maersk Line Limited, Sea Star and others. They carry commercial and military cargoes – most frequently aboard RO/ROs, but also sometimes aboard containerships and tankers Asst. VP Archie Ware (center) is pictured with Safety Director Ashley Nelson (right) and Patrolman Brian Guiry. ove (left) and AB Randy Cash get into the eo game. September 2011 The Liberty Promise is one of many SIU-crewed roll-on/roll-off vessels that call on the port. Seafarers LOG 13 �66070_SIU_LOG 14 8/29/2011 5:17 PM Seafarers LOG Page 14 September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 7:41 PM Page 15 Coast Guard, National Maritime Center Release New Customer Survey The U.S Coast Guard, in conjunction with its National Maritime Center (NMC), has issued its new online Mariner Credentialing Program Customer Satisfaction Survey. Released Aug. 11, the new assessment vehicle has been under development for the past several years. It replaces a previous edition which customers had utilized to provide feedback. Agency officials say the new survey should further enhance customer service to the nation’s merchant mariners. The NMC is committed to providing mariners with exceptional service, according to Capt. Anthony Lloyd, commanding officer, U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center. For this reason, mariners’ opinions regarding their personal experiences with the NMC are vitally important, he said. Feedback provided through the survey will guide improvements to the products and services provided by the NMC. Therefore, mariner and stakeholder involvement in the feedback arena is critical, according to Lloyd. Future improvements depend on it. Currently, mariners and stakeholders have two ways to access the new survey: A link to access the survey automatically will be sent to mariners who provided email addresses as part of their application information for Merchant Mariner Credentials. This link will be sent to mariners 10 days following the issuing of their credentials. Another access link prominently is displayed on the NMC Website (www.uscg.mil/nmc) for those mariners – and others – who did not provide email addresses as part of the information contained in their respective applications. Once accessed, the 12-question survey will provide mariners with an anonymous method to provide feedback about the NMC’s credentialing process and their customer service experience. The entire process should take less than seven minutes to complete. Those who require assistance or desire further information may contact the NMC by email at IASKNMC@uscg.mil or by phone at 1-888-427-5662. P e r so n al Kathy Dehlbom would like people who sailed with Robert Dehlbom in the engine department to contact her. Brother Dehlbom passed away February 2011. She may be reached at (509) 935-6217 or (509) 675-1590. October & November 2011 Membership Meetings Piney Point................................Monday: October 3, November 7 Algonac ....................Friday: October 7, *Monday: November 14 Baltimore...............................Thursday: October 6, November 10 Guam...................................Thursday: October 20, November 24 Honolulu ...................................Friday: October 14, Noverber 18 Houston..............**Tuesday: October 11, Monday: November 14 Jacksonville...........................Thursday: October 6, November 10 Joliet....................................Thursday: October 13, November 17 Mobile..............................Wednesday: October 12, November 16 New Orleans..............................Tuesday: October 11, November 15 New York..................................Tuesday: October 4, November 8 Norfolk.................................Thursday: October 6, November 10 Oakland ...............................Thursday: October 13, November 17 Philadelphia.........................Wednesday: October 5, November 9 Port Everglades ...................Thursday: October 13, November 17 San Juan................................Thursday: October 6, November 10 St. Louis .................................Friday: October 14, November 18 Tacoma....................................Friday: October 21, November 25 Wilmington............................... Monday: October 17, November 21 * Algonac change created by Veterans Day holiday ** Houston change created by Columbus Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. September 2011 D i s p a t ch e r s ’ R e p o r t f o r D e e p S e a July 16, 2011 - August 15, 2011 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C 25 0 9 17 1 2 59 35 7 6 13 36 16 27 8 0 12 32 2 31 338 20 3 2 10 5 2 15 30 8 9 7 21 22 10 7 2 3 23 5 19 223 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 10 0 2 14 0 7 16 18 6 5 6 16 9 12 4 1 4 15 2 9 156 2 0 5 4 2 2 11 26 6 2 2 13 18 6 3 3 3 5 2 11 126 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 0 5 9 2 7 13 32 1 8 6 25 11 22 2 1 2 15 0 27 191 4 0 1 7 2 1 5 3 3 3 1 5 5 4 0 2 0 2 1 3 52 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 0 0 0 3 2 2 1 0 1 5 1 2 0 0 1 5 0 3 32 19 1 3 10 3 6 14 17 2 6 4 29 19 12 2 19 2 13 0 15 196 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 GRAND TOTAL: 717 597 Total Shipped All Groups A B Deck Department 3 28 18 0 0 0 1 2 2 1 17 8 0 3 3 0 1 1 2 34 10 0 30 20 2 7 8 0 9 4 0 12 5 4 31 10 5 12 17 1 18 7 0 3 3 0 0 1 2 4 4 2 25 10 0 0 1 1 28 11 24 264 143 Engine Department 1 9 4 0 0 0 0 2 4 0 4 3 0 1 0 2 2 2 0 11 5 0 15 14 0 4 4 0 3 0 2 4 0 1 16 5 1 12 11 0 6 4 0 4 0 0 1 1 0 2 4 0 12 7 0 0 0 3 6 9 10 114 77 Steward Department 0 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 9 3 0 0 1 1 8 0 1 18 8 0 14 4 1 1 4 0 3 1 0 5 0 0 15 7 0 3 10 0 14 3 0 2 2 0 2 2 0 1 0 0 14 4 0 0 2 0 17 4 4 130 60 Entry Department 18 2 12 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 0 10 0 0 0 2 2 6 4 1 10 6 2 14 3 0 3 1 0 3 3 1 4 7 4 24 17 0 14 7 0 8 1 0 1 21 0 20 0 1 0 2 4 9 0 0 1 6 2 7 102 19 146 140 527 426 C 3 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 2 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 17 Trip Reliefs 5 0 1 8 0 0 20 11 0 4 8 14 11 11 2 0 2 19 0 16 132 Registered on Beach All Groups A B C 31 0 13 23 2 8 93 60 6 15 20 82 27 54 14 1 18 68 4 43 582 21 4 4 13 5 4 25 54 3 11 11 39 33 23 10 2 6 37 5 35 345 0 1 0 0 0 1 5 3 0 2 2 6 6 1 0 0 2 2 0 6 37 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 6 0 0 2 2 0 1 5 10 0 1 2 7 4 7 2 1 4 10 1 5 64 11 0 5 19 3 14 33 27 3 14 10 24 12 20 1 1 7 30 4 16 254 3 1 7 10 2 7 25 37 4 4 4 17 30 18 7 4 8 13 2 23 226 1 0 0 0 1 2 2 0 1 0 2 4 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 3 19 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 0 0 0 2 0 1 11 5 0 0 4 9 3 11 3 2 0 8 0 6 65 3 0 7 15 2 15 23 36 1 11 7 35 17 31 7 4 5 29 2 45 295 2 0 2 11 3 2 10 6 1 2 4 6 13 7 0 4 1 4 1 4 83 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 11 0 0 0 0 4 2 6 3 0 0 0 4 4 0 19 0 2 0 1 56 1 0 0 1 0 0 5 1 0 2 2 2 3 1 1 0 0 4 0 1 24 8 0 1 1 0 4 3 4 1 0 1 10 1 5 0 0 1 5 0 10 55 22 2 5 14 2 11 31 38 0 6 7 60 28 30 4 5 3 16 1 26 311 29 2 5 10 0 6 8 19 0 1 6 16 36 14 1 3 4 10 0 16 186 82 285 1,186 965 251 Seafarers LOG 15 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 6:29 PM Page 16 Inq uiring Seaf are r S ea f a r e r s I n t e r n a t i o n a l U n i o n D i r e c t or y Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 Editor’s note: Responses to this month’s question were provided by members at the union hall in New Orleans. Question: What are your views on the piracy issue and what would you do to combat it? Calvin Miles Recertified Bosun The piracy situation is getting worse. Three out of the last four ships I’ve been aboard went overseas. Two of them had security teams aboard and a third had a U.S. Navy escort. We did not have any security at all on the fourth ship, but we had plans in place with respect to places to go to on the ship if we were boarded – which, fortunately, we were not. I think more should be done to have security teams aboard vessels rather than rely on officers and members of the crews to fend off the bad guys. We have water hoses rigged up to fight pirates off should they attempt to board our vessel, but to me this won’t do very much during an actual attack. I was aboard a ship last year (ITB Philadelphia) headed to Kenya and the pirates on three boats tried to board us. Luckily, we had a security team aboard plus we had a Navy escort. Two of the boats got away, but the Navy caught the third, captured the pirates and sunk their vessel. Justin White AB I have had to stand pirate watch while on a ship. I believe that self-protection aboard ship is a very important thing. It has become increasingly more important because incidents involving piracy seem to be increasing. Still, you can’t expect the Navy or Coast Guard to always be in the areas where acts of piracy might take place. Therefore I think a certain amount of self-protection aboard the vessel is important. I also think the SIU should continue to play a leading role in determining what measures should be taken to combat this problem since it represents so many mariners aboard so many ships. The companies also have a responsibility to help keep us safe. Clinton Crowden AB P i c - F r o m - T h e -P a s t I know that the union is involved in trying to get this problem solved. I do think that more should be done from within the international community. If countries around the world would come together to help solve some of Somalia’s economic problems, I think things would be different. The pirates are doing what they are doing out of desperation. Their country is in a desperate situation economically; they are living by any means necessary to survive. So rather than concentrating on trying to police such a large area and stop the attacks, more effort should be made to assist these people and stand behind them. The United Nations should take the lead in getting all other countries together to help these people improve their lives. The problem of piracy might not go away completely, but I think that it would not be as bad as it is now. Hermen Crisanto AB I think the piracy problem is bad right now, but I’m not sure about the best way to stop it. When we are out there, we have to do our parts to protect ourselves and this includes safety. We should do everything safely while aboard ship. It should be our main focus. Next we need to be sure to follow the directions of our officers if they think we are about to be attacked. Everyone aboard the ship needs to be familiar with plans about where to go and hide if the pirates attack us. When we are in foreign ports at anchor, everyone should keep their eyes open and make sure that no unauthorized people come aboard. Jermaine Robinson Chief Cook Piracy is definitely a big problem and having armed military security teams aboard vessels is probably the best way to get it under control or stop it. Money is the pirates’ main motivation. In the event of a pirate boarding, all crew members should put into play all the practices and techniques that we learned during our training. 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 Retiree Bill Kambar (fourth from left) submitted this photo of the first-class dining room waiters aboard the SS Independence, taken around December 1950. “I was a waiter for a while and in 1951, I was promoted to chef’s yeoman,” Kambar recalled. He sailed aboard the American Hawaii Cruises vessel for 18 years and later worked as a marine personnel manager for SIU-contracted Ogden Marine, which in 1983 became OMI Corp. 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 September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:18 PM Page 17 W e l c o me A sh 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. DEEP SEA SAYED AMASHA Brother Sayed Amasha, 63, became a Seafarer in 1980 while in the port of New York. His first trip was aboard the Liberator; his last was on the Maersk Wisconsin. Brother Amasha was born in Egypt and worked in the steward department. He upgraded three times at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Amasha lives in Brooklyn, N.Y. JOHN BULAWAN Brother John Bulawan, 69, joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards in 1974 in San Francisco. He was initially employed aboard the Santa Mercedes. Brother Bulawan was a member of the steward department. The Hawaiiborn mariner’s final trip was on the R.J. Pfeiffer. Brother Bulawan attended classes on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. He now calls Las Vegas home. MATTHEW DUNLAVY Brother Matthew Dunlavy, 76, began sailing with the SIU in 1958. His earliest journey was on the Waldo. Brother Dunlavy shipped in the engine department. His final voyage was aboard the Houston. Brother Dunlavy resides in his native state of Texas. GERALD GAVIN Brother Gerald Gavin, 66, signed on with the Seafarers in 1998. He originally worked on the USNS Pathfinder. In 1999, Brother Gavin took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He most recently sailed aboard the USNS Effective. Brother Gavin worked in the engine department. He makes his home in Reno, Nev. CARLOS GONZALEZ Brother Carlos Gonzalez, 64, started shipping with the union in 1972 while in the port of New Orleans. He initially sailed on the Steel Traveler. Brother Gonzalez shipped in the deck department of both the deep sea and inland divisions. His last trip was aboard the Boomtown. September 2011 Brother Gonzalez is a resident of Marrero, La. BRENT JOHNSON Brother Brent Johnson, 71, donned the SIU colors in 1991. His earliest trip was on the USNS Titan. Brother Johnson enhanced his skills in 2010 at the Paul Hall Center. His most recent trip was aboard the Horizon Kodiak. Brother Johnson, who sailed in the deck department, lives in Bothell, Wash. LAMONT LOVICK Brother Lamont Lovick, 54, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1981. His first trip was on the Inger. Brother Lovick worked in the deck department. He upgraded often at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Lovick’s final voyage was on the Virginian. He was born in Norfolk, Va., and settled in nearby Newport News. SANTIAGO RAMOS Brother Santiago Ramos, 56, started his SIU career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the SIU. The deck department member’s last trip was aboard the Chelsea. Brother Ramos calls Brooklyn, N.Y., home. MOHAMED SHAIBI Brother Mohamed Shaibi, 65, became an SIU member in 1978. His earliest trip was on the Thompson Pass. In 1987, Brother Shaibi upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center. He last sailed aboard the Global Sentinel. Brother Shaibi was a member of the steward department. He makes his home in Seattle. ALFREDO SILVA Brother Alfredo Silva, 65, signed on with the union in 1998. He initially worked on the Global Mariner. On numerous occasions, Brother Silva took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. The engine department member’s final trip was aboard the Sunshine State. Brother Silva resides in Hialeah, Fla. DANIEL TAYLOR Brother Daniel Taylor, 61, began sailing with the SIU in 2001. He shipped aboard vessels such as the Benavidez and the Eagle. Brother Taylor attended classes frequently at the Paul Hall Center. He worked in the steward department. Brother Taylor is a resident of Laporte, Texas. 2002, Brother Whitt visited the Seafarersaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md., to enhance his skills. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Whitt’s last voyage was aboard the Faust. He calls Houston home. JOHNNY WESTBERRY CHARLES JONES Brother Johnny Westberry, 62, became an SIU member in 2001 when the SIU and NMU merged. The steward department member upgraded his skills in 2005 at the Piney Point school. Brother Westberry most recently sailed on the Green Lake. He lives in Savannah, Ga. HENRY WHITT Brother Henry Whitt, 63, was born in Cincinnati. He started his SIU career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the SIU. In 2001 and INLAND Brother Charles Jones, 55, joined the union in 1980. He initially signed on with Sabine Towing. Brother Jones sailed as a member of the deck department. He upgraded on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Jones’s final trip was with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville, Fla. He makes his home in Jacksonville. was mainly employed with Sheridan Transportation Company. Brother Meyer worked in the deck department. Brother Meyer lives in Dania Beach, Fla. GREAT LAKES DENNIS WYLLIE Brother Dennis Wyllie, 65, signed on with the union in 1976. Brother Wyllie worked in the deck department. His first ship was the Richard J. Reiss; his last was the Walter J. McCarthy. In 1979, Brother Wyllie took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He resides in Port Huron, Mich. WILLIAM MEYER T h i s M o n t h I n S I U H i st o r y Brother William Meyer, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1985. He Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. stave off a contract with SIU, Hall told of extensive use of crimps and other questionable hiring practices prevailing in the unorganized tanker field. One of the most modern union halls in the country was officially opened last week by the SIU. The sixstory building at 51 Beaver Street will house both the New York branch and the Atlantic & Gulf District offices. The union occupies the top five floors with the shipping hall taking the entire second floor. The lounge, complete with card and writing tables, takes the third floor. The stewards’ offices and the baggage room, which offers free baggage checking for members in good standing, are on the fourth floor and branch offices, including the office of the Seafarers LOG, take up the fifth floor. Atlantic & Gulf District Headquarters comprise the top floor. The reaction of the membership to their new home has been very favorable. Commenting on the new building one Seafarer said, “From now on we don’t have to take off our hat to nobody.” 1968 1944 The SIU’s four-year fight for a Cities Service contract produced ample evidence of an anti-union conspiracy among the big oil tanker companies, Secretary-Treasurer Paul Hall told a Senate Labor Subcommittee, as a probe of labor-management relations in the East Coast tanker industry got under way on September 25. In a statement to the subcommittee, headed by Sen. James Murray (D-Mont.), SIU officials declared that the Cities Service Oil Company and its allies in the industry thumbed their noses at the law, at the community, and the men who man their ships. Describing the labor spy set-up, mass firing, company unions, stalling, and similar techniques employed by the marine division of Cities Service to 1950 The SIU’s Welfare and Vacation plans have paid out a total in benefits of $101,039,786.89. The SIU Welfare Plan was first launched in 1950 and, since that time, more than $41,555,958.55 has been paid out for hospital, death, disability, maternity, dependent, optical and outpatient benefits. In February 1952, the SIU Vacation Plan was inaugurated and it has since paid a total of $59,483,828.34 in vacation benefits for SIU members. The total value of welfare benefits is actually considerably higher, since the cost of scholarship payments, meal books, training facilities, and medical examinations – for SIU members and their dependents – are not included in the above figures. The SIU-AGLIW District and its contracted companies have reached an agreement on a new contract. The contract provides wage increases giving SIU members the highest base wage scale on the East and Gulf Coasts coupled with a new earlier retirement pension program. The wage and pension combination together with an increased contribution to the Seafarers Welfare Plan brought the total value of the package to more than $100 per month. Monthly wage increases ranged from a low of $24.04 to a high of $45.63. The new Pension Plan provides that effective January 1, 1971, a seaman who has 20 years sea time and is 55 years of age may retire at $250 per month. The current pension benefits, including retirement at 65 with 15 years sea time and retirement on disability with 12 years of sea time, remain in effect. 1970 Seafarers LOG 17 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:18 PM Page 18 Fina l De pa r tu r e s DEEP SEA LLOYD AKIN Pensioner Lloyd Akin, 86, died March 18. Brother Akin was born in McKinney, Texas. He signed on with the SIU in 1953. Brother Akin, a member of the deck department, originally worked with Bloomfield Steamship Company. He last sailed aboard the Liberator. Brother Akin went on pension in 1987 and lived in Humble, Texas. MICHAEL ANZALONE Pensioner Michael Anzalone, 74, passed away April 6. Brother Anzalone became a Seafarer in 1957 in the port of New York. He initially sailed on the Ft. Hoskins. The Brooklyn-born mariner was a member of the steward department. Prior to his retirement in 1996, Brother Anzalone worked aboard the Charles L. Brown. He settled in Phoenix, Ariz. ALFRED BERTRAND Pensioner Alfred Bertrand, 79, died April 14. Brother Bertrand joined the union in 1961. He originally worked aboard a Hercules Steamship Corporation vessel. Brother Bertrand’s final trip was on the Overseas Chicago. The engine department member was born in Houston. Brother Bertrand retired in 1997 and called Pasadena, Texas, home. GLENN BERTRAND Brother Glenn Bertrand, 53, passed away January 15. Brother Bertrand first donned the SIU colors in 1975. He initially shipped aboard the Long Lines. Brother Bertrand, who sailed in both the steward and deck departments, was born in Houston. He last worked on the Westward Venture. Brother Bertrand made his home in Pearland, Texas. JAMES DICKINSON Pensioner James Dickinson, 86, died March 23. Brother Dickinson began shipping with the union in 1943. He was an Alabama native and worked in the engine department. During his seafaring career, 18 Seafarers LOG Brother Dickinson sailed with Waterman Steamship Corporation and V Ships Marine. He went on pension in 1987 and lived in Denver. RANDOLPH FEREBEE Pensioner Randolph Ferebee, 85, passed away March 28. Brother Ferebee signed on with the SIU in 1956 while in the port of New York. The engine department member initially shipped on the Robin Mowbray. Brother Ferebee was born in Norfolk, Va. His final trip was aboard the USNS Prevail. Brother Ferebee called Elizabeth City, N.C., home. ARTHUR HARRINGTON Pensioner Arthur Harrington, 82, died March 18. Brother Harrington was born in Massachusetts. He started sailing with the SIU in 1952 while in the port of New York. Brother Harrington, who sailed in the deck department, was first employed with Ore Navigation Corporation. His last voyage was aboard the ITB New York. Brother Harrington retired in 1991. He was a resident of Charleston, S.C. LEON KLEINMAN Pensioner Leon Kleinman, 87, passed away March 20. Brother Kleinman was born in New York. He started sailing with the Seafarers in 1956 while in the port of New Orleans. Brother Kleinman sailed in the engine department. He was primarily employed with Waterman Steamship, sailing on vessels such as the Hurricane and the Stonewall Jackson. Brother Kleinman became a pensioner in 1988. He was a resident of Kenner, La. ROBERTO MACATUNO Brother Roberto Macatuno, 50, died February 14. Brother Macatuno joined the union in 1998 in Baltimore. During his SIU career he sailed aboard vessels operated by TYCO such as the Charles Brown and the Global Link. Brother Macatuno was born in the Philippines and shipped in the deck department. He settled in Dundalk, Md. LOUIS MCDUFFIE Pensioner Louis McDuffie, 64, passed away March 14. Brother McDuffie became an SIU member in 1967 while in the port of Mobile, Ala. His earliest trip was aboard a Hudson Waterways Corporation vessel. Brother McDuffie last shipped on the Overseas Natalie. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother McDuffie started receiving his pension in 1990 and made his home in Mobile. MAURICE OLSON Pensioner Maurice Olson, 93, died April 8. Brother Olson began sailing with the Seafarers in 1944. He was born in Milwaukee, Wis. Brother Olson initially shipped with Waterman Steamship Corporation. His final ship was the Inger. Brother Olson, who sailed in the deck department, went on pension in 1983. He lived in Tewksbury, Mass. Editor’s note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION DONALD BERGER Pensioner Donald Berger, 89, passed away January 12. Brother Berger retired in 1986 and resided in Ephrata, Wash. HUMBERTO BOCANEGRA Pensioner Humberto Bocanegra, 81, died February 24. Brother Bocanegra, a native of Kingsville, Texas, became a pensioner in 1995. He called Robstown, Texas, home. PEDRO BOU Pensioner Pedro Bou, 87, passed away March 7. Brother Bou was born in Corozal, P.R. He went on pension in 1971. Brother Bou settled in Puerto Rico. PERCIVAL BUCHANAN Pensioner Percival Buchanan, 89, died March 11. The Jamaican-born mariner became a pensioner in 1977. Brother Buchanan was a resident of St. Petersburg, Fla. ARTHUR BURNS Pensioner Arthur Burns, 84, passed away February 5. Brother Burns was a native of New York. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1985. Brother Burns lived in the Bronx, N.Y. ANTONE CASIMERO Pensioner Antone Casimero, 85, died January 28. Brother Casimero was born in Hawaii. He went on pension in 1987 and called El Paso, Texas, home. MARTIN CRUZ Pensioner Martin Cruz, 96, passed away February 3. Brother Cruz was a native of Yabucoa, P.R. He retired in 1972. Brother Cruz continued to make his home in Puerto Rico. ANTHONY DELSIE Pensioner Anthony Delsie, 97, died March 3. Brother Delsie was born in Boston. He became a pensioner in 1975. Brother Delsie settled in Brockton, Mass. EUGENE DICKERSON Pensioner Eugene Dickerson, 83, passed away February 15. Brother Dickerson was a Banes, La., native. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1974. Brother Dickerson lived in Dallas. MIGUEL FARINA Pensioner Miguel Farina, 97, died February 21. Brother Farina, a native of Spain, went on pension in 1980. He was a resident of Middle Village, N.Y. HENRY FRANKLIN Pensioner Henry Franklin, 84, passed away March 3. Brother Franklin was born in Norfolk, Va. He began receiving his pension in 1972. Brother Franklin lived in Wilson, N.C. LAURO GONZALES Pensioner Lauro Gonzales, 86, died February 18. Born in Maxwell, Texas, he became a pensioner in 1989. Brother Gonzales was a resident of New Orleans. ERNEST HAGGER Pensioner Ernest Hagger, 73, passed away January 27. Brother Hagger was a Lake Charles, La., native. He retired in 2000. Brother Hagger continued to reside in Lake Charles. EUGENE JONES Pensioner Eugene Jones, 71, died February 25. Brother Jones was born in Kansas City. He went on pension in 2002. Brother Jones settled in Snohomish, Wash. 86, died February 17. Brother Lockwood was born in Indiana. He began receiving his pension in 1986. Brother Lockwood resided in New Salisbury, Ind. JAMES McCONNELL Pensioner James McConnell, 87, passed away February 14. Brother McConnell was a native of Winston-Salem, N.C. He became a pensioner in 1989. Brother McConnell made his home in Camden City, N.J. JOSEPH PATRIARCA Pensioner Joseph Patriarca, 83, died March 9. Brother Patriarca was born in Italy. He went on pension in 1968 and lived in Liverpool. ANTONIO RODRIGUEZ Pensioner Antonio Rodriguez, 94, passed away March 7. Brother Rodriguez, a native of Puerto Rico, began collecting his retirement compensation in 1967. He was a New York resident. MICHAEL SANOIAN Pensioner Michael Sanoian, 83, died March 4. Brother Sanoian was a New York native. He retired in 1990 and called Ransomville, N.Y., home. HERMINIO SANTIAGO Pensioner Herminio Santiago, 80, passed away March 14. Brother Santiago was born in Puerto Rico. He became a pensioner in 1981. Brother Santiago settled in Florida. Name Age DOD Cameron, John 83 March 4 Charles, Rosie 79 Feb. 9 Ebanks, Harris 93 Jan. 16 Emilien, Raymond 81 March 16 Escudero, Gabriel 95 Feb. 20 Freeman, Thomas 85 Jan. 27 Goodman, Carlton 85 March 15 Harris, Willie 86 Feb. 5 Hart, Louis 95 Jan. 14 Haylock, Edward 86 Feb. 16 Hubbard, Samuel 83 Jan. 19 Leung, Albert 85 Jan. 25 Marshall, James 70 Feb. 15 Mottola, Michael 87 Feb. 24 Ortiz, Heriberto 91 Feb. 7 Preston, Manuel 85 Feb. 4 Rodriguez, Fabian 90 Feb. 16 Villanueva, Alfonso 77 March 7 WILLIAM KUKLA Pensioner William Kukla, 88, passed away March 11. Brother Kukla, a native of Cass, Pa., started collecting his retirement compensation in 1988. He called Williamstown, N.J., home NEWTON LOCKWOOD Pensioner Newton Lockwood, September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:18 PM Page 19 D i g es t o f S h ip b oa r d U n io n M e et i ng s SEABULK TRADER (Seabulk International), June 19 – Chairman Jessie Natividad Jr., Secretary John McGill, Educational Director Gilbert L. Johnson, Deck Delegate Melvin Smalls, Engine Delegate Matthew Wright. Chairman went over procedures for getting and renewing MMDs/merchant mariner credentials. Secretary reported smooth sailing and reiterated the need to renew documents in a timely manner. He also advised all mariners to enhance skills at the union-affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. Educational director suggested that members visit www.seafarers.org or read the Seafarers LOG to get class schedules for the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun discussed unemployment issues and gave a recommendation how they may be avoided. ALASKAN FRONTIER (Alaska Tanker), July 17 – Chairman Richard A. Szabo, Secretary Gregory S. Lynch, Educational Director Rollin R. Crump, Deck Delegate Jose M. Calong, Engine Delegate Alberto B. Semeda, Steward Delegate Roberto Martinez. Chairman noted a good gang on deck including five extra DEUs riding for the summer. Secretary explained to the crew that company “Wellness Program” is beginning to settle in. Soda products have been discontinued; new juice machines have been installed with Gatorade and iced tea in them. He advised them to let the steward department know of any health issues so they can try to accommodate them. Educational director urged mariners to renew documents in plenty of time so no job opportunities will be missed. Treasurer reported $8,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members were asked to keep laundry room clean. Kudos given to the steward department for good food. Members would like increased medical, dental and vacation benefits. CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), July 9 – Chairman Gerry Gianan, Secretary Rolando M. Lopez, Educational Director Andrew J. Linares, Deck Delegate Hussein Mohamed, Engine Delegate Amer Ghaleb, Steward Delegate Khaled Taffi. Chairman went over ship’s itinerary and reminded crew to upgrade and to renew documents in timely fashion. He discussed the proper way to operate crew washing machine. Crew was thanked for a safe, accident-free voyage. Secretary expressed gratitude for mariners helping keep ship clean. He asked departing members to strip down beds and send linen to laundry. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and contribute to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation). Beef reported in the deck department; no disputed OT. Request was made for Wi-Fi installation and extra computer in crew lounge. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic Cable Ship Company), July 26 – Chairman Lee Hardman, Secretary Vicki L. Haggerty, Educational Director Vladimir Tkachev, Engine Delegate John Carson. Bosun discussed ship’s itinerary and thanked the steward department for a great Fourth of July BBQ. He talked about issues involving outside contractors aboard vessel. Secretary suggested raising budget. She reported that September 2011 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. Scenes from Cape Intrepid Seafarers from the Crowley-operated Cape Intrepid submitted these photos following a voyage that ended in Portland, Ore. Chief Steward Sally Santiago, Chief Cook Benjamin Sivells, SA Demetri Baker AB Brian Frederick, AB Robert Calvo, OS Mohamed Alghazali new ice machine to be delivered July 28. Educational director advised all mariners to attend classes at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., and stay upto-date on all necessary seafaring documents. Treasurer stated $3,300 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew would like information on contract. HORIZON PRODUCER (Horizon Lines), July 27 – Chairman Edwin Rivera, Secretary Kenneth L. McHellen, Educational Director Angel S. Hernandez, Deck Delegate Jimmy T. Orr, Engine Delegate Hector J. Ginel, Steward Delegate Juan J. Vallejo. Chairman announced payoff on July 28 before arrival in Puerto Rico. He reminded crew two forms of ID were required at all APM terminals and in Puerto Rico. He thanked steward department for a great job. Secretary urged mariners to keep trash separated from plastics. He reminded them that when washing clothes, one washer is for work clothes, the other is for street clothes. Educational director urged members to enhance their skills, which can lead to better opportunities and advancement. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members talked about issues directly and Bosun LBJ Tanoa, OS Mohamed Alghazali, AB Raul Molina QMED/Chief Electrician Phillip Greenwell indirectly related to Seafarers Vacation Plan. They also discussed maintaining possession of passports. Next ports: Jacksonville, Fla., and San Juan, P.R. HORIZON TIGER (Horizon Lines), July 3 – Chairman Lawrence L. Kunc, Secretary Terry L. Allen, Educational Director Mohamed Y. Abdullah, Deck Delegate James E. Murphy, Engine Delegate Lonnie Carter. Chairman stated payoff to take place before arrival in Los Angeles. He thanked crew for a great job getting ship ready for sea after shipyard stay. Secretary informed members that as of June 1 they can get medical records, seatime and forms from www.seafarers.org. Educational director reiterated the need to renew documents in a timely manner and advised all mariners to enhance skills at the union-affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report from the June Seafarers LOG was read and discussed. Need for new mattresses was noted. Crew would also like company to provide internet service and satellite phone. Vote of thanks given to the steward department for excellent food. Next ports: Los Angeles and Oakland, Calif. HORIZON TRADER (Horizon Lines), July 3 – Chairman Tony Mercado, Secretary Kevin M. Dougherty, Educational Director Thomas M. Flynn, Engine Delegate Jermaine Love, Steward Delegate Richard Jones. Bosun announced payoff before scheduled July 8 arrival in Jacksonville, Fla. He thanked steward department for BBQs and fine food. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., and make sure they stay up-to-date on their TWIC and MMD/MMC. Treasurer reported $2,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made to increase pension benefits. Clarification requested about Horizon Lines yearly stress test and physical policy. Next ports: Jacksonville, Fla. and San Juan, P.R. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line, Limited), July 17 – Chairman Wilfred P. Maurice, Secretary Alexander Banky III, Educational Director Kevin M. Cooper. Chairman reported another safe trip with no lost-time injures; that makes 2,564 days. He reminded AB Moses Shaibi crew to keep garbage room locked in port and thanked them for working professionally. Secretary requested an additional steward assistant to offset the increased workload due to extra personnel on vessel. He advised mariners to read the Seafarers LOG to stay informed on any changes to benefits or shipping rules. Educational director reminded crew to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions were made regarding pension, medical and vacation benefits MAERSK GEORGIA (Maersk Line, Limited), July 31 – Chairman Michael Brewley, Secretary Darryl K. Goggins, Educational Director Bryan E. Maddox, Deck Delegate Ion Boros. Chairman read and discussed the latest issue of the Seafarers LOG. Secretary asked members departing vessel to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen. Educational director urged members to enhance their skills, which can lead to better opportunities and advancement. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew made recommendations pertaining to medical and dental benefits. Next port: Norfolk, Va. Seafarers LOG 19 �66070_SIU_LOG_X 8/30/2011 7:25 PM Page 20 The USNS Lewis and Clark sails in the Pacific Ocean as cargo is transferred from the dry cargo-ammunition ship to the USNS Comfort. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Alesia Goosic) A U.S. military helicopter carries gear to the hospital ship USNS Comfort from the USNS Lewis and Clark during an underway replenishment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Eric C. Tretter) The unrep continues with the aid of an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jonathen E. Davis) SIU CIVMARS Support Various Missions Members of the SIU Government Services Division sail aboard different types of U.S. Military Sealift Command vessels supporting our armed forces. They also back humanitarian missions, research projects and other assignments sponsored by the U.S. government. Pictured on this page are recent scenes of two CIVMAR-crewed ships in action: the USNS Comfort and the USNS Lewis and Clark. As previously reported, the Comfort is sailing on a fivemonth humanitarian mission known as Continuing Promise 2011. All photos were taken in late July. FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return 20 Seafarers LOG Bosun Gerald Butch places chaffing gear on mooring lines as the USNS Comfort is docked in El Salvador. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Eric C. Tretter) Kn ow Y o u r R i gh t s Personnel embarked aboard the USNS Comfort accept cargo from the USNS Lewis and Clark. (U.S. Air Force photo by SSgt. Courtney Richardson) 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. September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:18 PM Page 21 P a u l H a ll C e nt e r U p g ra d ing C o u rs e Sc he d u le 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 Bosun Recertification October 28 November 7 November 12 GMDSS November 18 November 26 Lifeboat December 9 September 17 October 15 November 12 STOS September 30 October 28 November 25 October 29 Radar renewal (one day) November 11 September 7 November 7 Radar Observer September 7 November 7 August 6 Tanker Asst. Cargo DL FOWT October 1 October 15 ECDIS BAPO Date of Completion Deck Department Able Seaman Tank Barge PIC Start Date September 30 October 8 October 14 Engine Department September 17 November 12 October 14 December 9 October 15 November 11 October 22 Marine Electrician December 16 September 24 November 18 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_____________________________________________________________ Start Date Pumpman September 17 Welding October 1 October 29 November 26 Steward Department Date of Completion September 30 October 21 November 18 December 16 Chief Steward October 8 November 18 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The most recent class began August 22. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Advanced Firefighting Safety Upgrading Courses September 17 November 12 Basic Firefighting/STCW September 10 October 1 Government Vessels August 13 Medical Care Provider October 1 November 26 Vessel Security Officer August 19 September 17 Junior Engineer Title of Course NOTICE: October 15 September 30 November 25 September 16 October 7 August 19 October 7 December 2 October 18 NMC Web Site is Vital Resource for Mariners The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive web site covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guardapproved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at:http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC web site. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twentyfive (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. COURSE ____________________________ ____________________________ ____________________________ ____________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ LAST VESSEL: __________________________________Rating: ______________ E-mail________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ 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. 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. 9/11 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_____________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ September 2011 SIGNATURE ________________________________ DATE___________________ Seafarers LOG 21 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:18 PM Page 22 P a u l H a l l C en t er C l a s s es Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 748 – The following individu- als (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this 60-hour course July 8: Kenneth Atkinson, Matthew Bailer, Darvin Brown, James Burnett Jr., Paul Douglas, Elizabeth Ibanez, Christopher King, Do Quoc Luong, Forrest McGee, Kaleb McGill, Orvin Mejia, Yancey Mitchell, Nathan Nicholson, Lucas Osborn, Ryan Papa, Steven Patton, Andrew Powell, Adolph Romero IV, Jerry Semper Jr., Daunteley Signal, John Sorsdal, Burton Uys, and Steven Whiting. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Welding - Eight upgraders completed their requirements in this course July 29. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Matthew Bryant, Robert Glenn, Creg Gumanas, Jose Liwag, Joe Ng, Charlotte Tuggle, Alexander Ward and Clarence Wilson Jr. Class Instructor Buzzy Andrews is standing at the far left. Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 749 – Sixteen individuals completed this course Aug. 5. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ali Ali, Tania Carson, Omar Custis, Matthew Dalgetty, Edward English, Carlo Gentile, Warren Gormon, Elizabeth Ibanez, Derrick Martin, Angela Puchalsky, Nikita Ryshkov, Joshua Schwartz, Muthana Shaibi, Brandon Simken, Justin Smith and Brett Tiedeman. (Note: Not all are pictured.) FOWT – Thirteen individuals finished this course July 22. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Terrance Bing, John Cacella, Darrin Cobb, Manolito Garcia, Elliott Kolner, Andre MacCray, Deven McCoy, Terrence Meadows, Jhon Moreno, Osamah Saleh, Buck Sampson, German Solar Cortes and Ricardo Vazquez Jr. Their instructor, Tim Achorn, is standing at the far left. Tankship Familiarization DL – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) finished this course Aug. 5: Oheneba Ackon, Dennis Blake, Charles Gaitu, Leonard Gregg, Alvin Jackson, Alexander Kramer, Reynaldo Lacayo, Derek Melvin, Jhon Moreno, Jesse Osborne, Efren Pahinag, Mark Pesola, Tijani Rashid, Randall Rodgers, Benjamin Sandoval, Milan Taigan and Robert Taylor. Brad Wheler, their instructor, is standing at the far left Tank PIC Barge – Seventeen upgraders completed their training in this course May 20. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Daniel Coffman, Burkley Cooper, John Crawford, Manuel Enrico, Victor Gonzalez, John Haller, Leroyal Hester, Mark Hoffman, Dwight Hunt, Edgardo Ines, Yakan Isreal, Eric Lund, John Mbelwa, Costica Oprisoru, Michael Phillips, Donato Surell and Thomas Tramutola. Class Instructor Mitch Oakley is standing seventh from the left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Tankship Familiarization – Twenty-five Phase III unlicensed apprentices finished this course July 15. Among those graduating (right, in alphabetical order) were: Jatniel Aguilera, Cliff Alexis, Mutea Alnuzely, Jason Amy, Brett Arcouette, Frances-Brian Bautista, Juan Bautista, Terence Brennan, Marco Brown, Cory Ellis, Phillip Gifford, Brandon Grace, Joseph Haines, Evan Jones, Roosevelt Osborne, Michael Paiko, David Simon, Patrick Slade Jr., Adam Smith, Steven Supplee, Zara Tchitanava, Zachary Thibeault, Timothy Van weezel, Jason Wagner and Steven Welcome. 22 Seafarers LOG September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:18 PM Page 23 Pa u l H a l l C e n t e r C l a s s e s Marine Electrician – Twelve Seafarers graduated from this course July 1. Completing their requirements (left, in alphabetical order) were: Arkady Bichevsky, Mervin Cruzat, Archie Eldridge Jr., Montree Nakwichet, Andrew Peprah, Ahmed Sharif, Enrique Velez Vallejo, Joseph Waller Jr., Ronald Westerfield, Eeric White, Jason Young and Christopher Zaucha. Class Instructor Jay Henderson is at the far right. (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 cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. ECDIS – Two upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Juy 22. Gradating were Thomas Halliburton and Felix Nunez. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is at the right. Junior Engineer – Fifteen upgraders finished their requirements in this course July 1. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Azad Ardeshirdavani, Antoine Best, Jeremias Cepeda, Marion Collins, James Fells, Spencer Hiruko, Andy IIiscupidez, Reynaldo Lacayo, Brent Morris, Gregorio Orara Jr., Ernest Smith, Peter Solis, Kevin Tyson, Lee Weygandt and Joshua Zelinsky. Class Instructor Robert Ott is seated at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) completed their requirements in this course July 22: Felsher Beasley, Arkady Bichevsky, Gregorio Blanco, Rafael Borja, David Dinan, Edward English, Obencio Espinoza, Leonard Gregg, Elizabeth Ibanez, Reynaldo Lacayo, Detrell Lambey, Jesse Osborne, Thomas Paytosh, Mark Pesola, Tijani Rashid, Milan Taigan, Kenneth Taylor, Fernando Vega Mercadi and Richard Wittwer. Their instructor, Mike Roberts, is at the far right. BST (HAWAII) – The following individuals (above, in no particular order) completed this course July 2 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Marie Alikpala, Kemberly Born, Michael Bradford, Editha Caluya, Juan Garcia, Summer Gilmer, Orlando Guzman, Paul Herrin, Kyle Isaken, Cashira Maddox, Trace McGinley, Shana Rawls, David Rhodes Jr., Anne Sansone, Robin Taylor, Marino Cendana, Elvin Garcia and Christopher Wagner. September 2011 ECDIS – Fourteen Seafarers finished their requirements in this course May 7. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Joel Anderson, Darren Bates, Douglas Crawford, William Davis Jr., Michael Eaton, Lewis Findley, Nicole Geideman, Andrew Higbee, Randy Isenhart, Keith Langley, Matthew Parker, Charlie Pierce, Lawrence Soulier and Troy Tadlock. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST (HAWAII) - Eight individuals finished their requirements in this course July 23 at the Hawaii-based Seafarers Training Facility. Graduating (above, in no particular order) were: Cary Bostick, Travis Dorsett, Jeremiah Langbehn, Scott Malmros, Yohanly Martin, Donley Harris, Richardo Baltazar and Lauren Hixon. Seafarers LOG 23 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:19 PM Page 24 Volume 73, Number 8 September 2011 U n io n Pl u s S c h o l a r s h i p In f o r m at i o n P ag e 1 4 CIVMAR Crew’s Diligence, Experience Pay Off S uperior training, attention to detail and an unwavering ability to consistently deliver the goods are firmly entrenched attributes of mariners who wear the SIU colors. The benefits associated with these traits over the years have been reaped by SIUcontracted companies as well as by the maritime transportation industry, each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces and the American public as a whole. The recent actions of AB Battiste Broadus and his shipmates provide an excellent example of how others often gain from the skills of Seafarers. Thanks to his SIU CIVMAR AB Batiste Broadus stands watch aboard the MSC fleet replenishment oiler USNS Guadalupe off the coast of San Diego. (U.S. Navy photo by John Jacob) unrelenting diligence, some 2,200 pounds of marijuana – with a street value of $8.5 to $11.5 million – were seized in July by California Customs and Border Protection agents and the U.S. Coast Guard in California. A CIVMAR in the union’s Government Services Division, Broadus currently sails aboard the Military Sealift Command (MSC) operated USNS Guadalupe. During the early evening hours of June 30 near San Diego, Broadus and his shipmates were going about their normal duties aboard the 670-foot fleet replenishment oiler which was headed to its steam box (an area designated close to shore where a vessel operates between duty assignments, often overnight), located some 20 miles off shore. The Guadalupe’s radar earlier had identified a small boat that was positioned in its route. Broadus was standing watch aboard his vessel along with fellow crewmembers OS Travis Laws, AB Frederick Beck and Third Officer John Jacob. Collectively, they were monitoring conditions aboard the Guadalupe while also keeping close watch over local boat traffic, which included fishing and other recreational craft. Just before dusk, the small boat that earlier had been picked up by radar came into focus for Broadus, who was scanning the surrounding area with his binoculars. Almost instantly, Broadus, who has sailed in the SIU’s Government Services Division for some 10 years, noticed something very strange about the small boat: no evening lights were lit and nobody could be seen moving about on its uncovered deck. “Three things made me suspicious of the boat,” he said. “The vessel was stationary, it had no type of lighting on whatsoever and I was not able to see anyone moving about on its deck. “The fact that no one was visible on deck was very much out of the ordinary because the vessel was open-topped…it looked abandoned,” he continued. “In situations such as this, you might have a medical emergency. Someone may have been out there fishing, had a heart attack and perhaps collapsed onto the deck. My experience has taught me that anytime you see what appears to be an abandoned vessel and no movement aboard something could be wrong…. It gives you cause to look a little closer,” Broadas said. And look closer Broadus and his shipmates did. While the two the other watch standers (OS Laws and AB Beck) directed their attention to the small boat, Broudas briefed Third Officer Jacob who in turn called Capt. Robert Wiley, the Guadalupe master, to the bridge. After assessing the situation, Wiley directed his third officer to take the vessel in for a closer look. Just as the Guadalupe’s search lights were switched on, however, the suspicious boat took off at full speed headed offshore, still with no lights. Captain Wiley immediately called the Coast Guard and apprised them of what Broudas had observed and the boat’s odd behavior. Wiley was told that earlier in the evening, a commercial commuter pilot had alerted the Joint Harbor Operations Center of a suspicious boat transiting near San Clemente Island. The Coast Guard asked Wiley and his crew to follow and track the boat, maintain radar contact and keep them updated on its location. Wiley complied and some 90 minutes later, a Coast Guard Cutter arrived at the Guadalupe’s location. Its crew informed Wiley that this was the boat that they had been searching for. Shortly thereafter, an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter joined the cutter and the suspicious boat was stopped. At that point, the Guadalupe departed the scene with the crew feeling positive about having been able to help the Coast Guard. They wondered, however, about exactly what it was that they had done and its implications. They did not have to wait very long to find out. An early morning phone call from the Coast Guard to the Guadalupe confirmed that Broadus’ initial suspicions about the boat were well founded and right on mark. Upon seizing the boat, the Coast Guard team took two individuals into custody and discovered 1,200 pounds of marijuana on board. The Guadalupe’s boat chase also was credited for playing a role in another positive development. The following morning, Customs and Border Protection officials and the Coast Guard seized another boat in the vicinity as it was fleeing to the south. Two suspects were apprehended and officials later recovered 21 bales of marijuana that the smugglers had jettisoned during the pursuit. Meanwhile, Broadus and the crew of the Guadalupe began to receive recognition for their actions. “The crew tracked the vessel until Maritime Unified Command assets were able to arrive on scene and seize the suspect vessel, which was found to be smuggling illegal drugs,” wrote Coast Guard Capt. Sean Mahoney in a message sent on behalf of the U.S. Coast Guard San Diego Sector. “This kind of outstanding operational success does not just happen, but is the result of sharp, diligent personnel and great cooperation.” Broadus, a Navy veteran who received his civilian maritime training at MSC-affiliated schools in New Jersey, was grateful for the accolades he and his shipmates received, but insisted that he and his fellow watch standers did nothing out of the ordinary. According to him, watch standers are alert at all times; they commence each watch with the intent of identifying something that is out of the ordinary, but most of the time they see nothing remarkable. “Everything involving the boat took place about a half-hour to 45 (minutes) after sunset,” Broadus said. “Sure, it was dark, but when you’ve been out there as long as I have, you still don’t miss much.” During his career he has sailed on a host of MSC-operated and SIU-contracted vessels including the Diamond State and Cape Lambert, which transported military equipment to Kuwait. “My experience as a seaman enables me to be able to look on the water and see things that the average person would not notice,” Broadus concluded. “We [watch standers] have a certain way that we look at the horizon with binoculars. We take our time and carefully scan the area being certain not to overlook anything out of the ordinary.” Editor’s note: Megan Patrick of the MSC Public Affairs Office contributed to this report. The Seafarers-crewed Guadalupe conducts routine operations in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo) CIVMARS (left to right) OS Travis Laws, AB Frederick Beck, AB Batiste Broadus and Third Officer John Jacob stand aboard the Guadalupe in front of the San Diego skyline in July. These four CIVMARs were on watch June 30 when Broadus spotted the suspicious boat. (U.S. Navy photo) The U.S. Coast Guard found 1,200 pounds of marijuana aboard a suspicious boat that Broadus spotted and reported, as well as a nearly equal amount in a similar boat seized a short time after. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Henry Dunphy) � 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 September 2011 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES WATERMAN REFLAGGING CARGO SHIP ‘ICE CLASS’ VESSEL WILL SAIL UNDER STARS AND STRIPES SIU BOATMEN WELCOME NEW OSG TUG, BARGE SEAFARERS STAND IN SOLIDARITY WITH CWA, IBEW WORKERS AT VEIZON WATERMAN FLAGGED IN CARGO SHIP MORE PROGRESS IN CMPI TO NEGOTIATIONS SIU SUPPORTS CWA, IBEW MEMBERS SEALAND COMET RESCUES YACHTSMAN STRANDED IN PACIFIC PINEY POINT PROJECT ‘MOVING RIGHT ALONG; SUPPORT GROWS OF ‘SOS’ CAMPAIGN INTERNATIONAL BARGAINING FORUM REACHES 3 YEAR ARGUMENT RETIRED ILA PRESIDENT BOWERS DIES AT 88 UNION, SCHOOL, SIU CONTRACTED COMPANIES HELP LEAD TE WAY FOR MILITARY VETERANS SIU EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT LANDS APPOINTMENT FROM DOT STARLIGHT MARINE CREWS APPROVE NEW CONTRACT AMO AGREEMENT EXTENDED ON LAKES U.S. MERCHANT MARINE’S VALIANT HISTORY, MODE HIGHLIGHTED AT CEREMONY ITF INSPECTOR: ‘I’M PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN’ FEATHERED FERRY PASSENGER UNEXPECTED BUT WELCOME FIRST VOYAGE TO SEA- WORLD WAR II BYRD COMPLETES HISTORIC VISIT TO VIETNAM PORT SHBP ENROLLMENT-BENEFICIARY CARDS SCENES FROM IN AND AROUND THE PORT OF JACKSONVILLE SIU CIVMARS SUPPORT VARIOUS MISSIONS CIVMAR CREW’S DILIGENCE, EXPERIENCE PAY OFF 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 09/01/2011 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. 9 2011 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/1ca9d80385b022d930f42e87ec18628a.pdf 8f54a7fe8b6c2a06043cee8c9d97fe3e PDF Text Text Volume 74, Number 9 September 2012 American Phoenix Lands in SIU Fleet Seafarers Sail Aboard New Jones Act Tanker The double-hulled tanker American Phoenix (above, in Mobile, Ala.) is a recent addition to the SIU-contracted fleet. The first SIU crew members aboard the Jones Act vessel included (group photo, first row, from left) AB Daniel Laitinen, OMU Laura Hollar, AB Luis Garcia, OMU John Cacella, (back) AB Wilmer Herrera, AB Victor Chevalier, Bosun Samuel Duah, AB Edward Gavagan, OMU Moriah Collier and QMED Kelly Mayo. Page 3. Union Backs Workers Stand for America Rally Dozens of SIU members, officials, and apprentices from the Paul Hall Center were among the approximately 40,000 people who gathered in Philadelphia Aug. 11 for a peaceful but powerful demonstration promoting America’s working families. Part of the SIU contingent is pictured below. Pages 12-13. SIU Gains Jobs Aboard MSC’s USNS Wheeler CIVMAR News Page 2 11767_Log.indd 1 The USNS Wheeler (above) and its support ship, the Fast Tempo, recently were added to the SIU-crewed fleet as Interocean American Shipping won the government bid to operate the vessels. Page 3. DOL Honors Paul Hall Center Page 4 SIU Election Update Pages 4, 6, 7 8/23/2012 10:04:32 AM �President’s Report What it Means to be Union When it comes to the general public’s perception of the labor movement, one of the most accurate – and most sobering – descriptions I’ve read said that we’re living in a period of “historical amnesia.” That phrase was used in an opinion piece by a history professor who went on to remind readers about organized labor’s hard-won benefits that lift all workers, not just union members, and about why our nation needs a viable labor movement. Within our own ranks, it’s no secret that we need to do a better job of telling our story to fellow citizens and to the politicians whose decisions affect our livelihoods. In many ways I’m reminded of a long-time lament in the maritime industry: Why don’t more people know about us? But while we readily acknowledge that we have to do more to spread the word about workers’ rights, it doesn’t help when governors unfairly attack collective bargaining, or when employers routinely get away with breaking the law in representation elections, or when blowhards in certain segments of the media and even in Congress try to blame working people for the damage done by Wall Street and corporate CEOs. That’s not to say we never hit the mark in setting the record straight. One of the times we really made an impact was with our “from the people who brought you the weekend” ad campaign. It’s more than a clever saying – it’s an accurate reflection of the fair treatment we fight for every day. There has also been a potential silver lining to state-level attacks on collective bargaining that have taken place in recent years. The public debates that are happening on the heels of those attacks have helped educate people about why collective bargaining exists, how it benefits union and unrepresented workers alike, and how communities with a strong union workforce enjoy greater productivity and higher living standards. In any poll that doesn’t come from Fox News, a solid majority of Americans now say that everyone should have the right to join a union and bargain for a better life. We have to capitalize on those feelings by explaining what it means to be a union member. And this effort isn’t limited to op-eds or TV advertising or marketing campaigns. It starts with each rank-and-file member, and on that note I encourage all Seafarers to take every opportunity to talk to your friends and neighbors about what we stand for. I’m not asking you to buy radio ads, but when the chances present themselves in general conversations, social settings, community activities – wherever – stand up for your union and your movement. We have a lot to be proud of, in the SIU specifically and in the union movement as a whole. We stand for freedom and democracy and the American Dream. We stand for rewarding an honest day’s work with an honest day’s pay. We want our contracted companies to succeed – and we want to ensure that everyone who helps generate that success is rewarded, not just in the executive board room but also on the factory floor. As we’ve shown in our union, we also are willing to sacrifice in order to help our companies through tough times. Brothers and sisters, we have a lot to offer, and our nation as a whole has a lot to gain if we’re successful in spreading the word about what it really means to say, “Union Yes!” We can start right now, by making sure we’re registered to vote on Election Day, by supporting pro-worker candidates, helping get out the vote, and then holding the winners accountable for all the promises they made. It may sound tiresome to say our future is at stake, but if we don’t succeed, that historical amnesia will worsen, and the resulting conditions will undo decades and decades of workers’ rights that literally were secured with blood, sweat and tears. Please keep that in mind with Election Day on the horizon, and don’t be afraid to speak up – politely but firmly – the next time you hear or read attacks on our way of life. Because ultimately, what we stand for is fairness, decency, solidarity and productivity for all working people and their families. Those things are worth defending, at sea and ashore. Volume 74, Number 9 September 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 11767_Log.indd 2 CMPI 610 Negotiations Conclude Unions, MSC Await SECNAV Approval; Instruction Roll-Out Planned This article is part of a series describing the Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction (CMPI) 610 negotiations covering the hours of work and premium pay Instruction for CIVMARS working aboard Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessels. As noted previously, this Instruction does not impact CIVMAR base wages. The Instruction covers only what CIVMARS earn when working during overtime, premium and penalty time aboard MSC vessels. The SIU and MSC recently completed negotiations over CMPI 610. The completion of negotiations marks the culmination of a roughly 24-month process in which the two parties engaged in a series of negotiating sessions using the interest-based bargaining (IBB) method. Also participating in these negotiations were unlicensed CIVMARS who served as subject matter experts. CIVMARS attended negotiations in person and also participated in the talks via conference call and written surveys. CIVMAR comments and suggestions throughout the negotiation process were extremely helpful, bringing the most up-to-date shipboard experience to the attention of the negotiators, and their comments helped to frame the new work rules. Concurrent negotiations between MSC, the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA) and the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P), the unions representing the agency’s licensed CIVMARS, also have concluded. MSC Commander Rear Admiral Mark Buzby delivered the completed Instruction to the Office of Civilian Human Resources (OCHR) who must review and approve the document for the Secretary of the Navy. The parties hope for a swift approval process in order to meet an October implementation date. As the negotiations concluded, the parties conducted a thorough financial analysis to ensure, as accurately as possible, that the financial negotiation goals noted below would be met. Much earlier, at the start of negotiations, the parties adopted detailed ground rules and goals to guide them through the difficult and complicated bargaining and implementation process. Additionally, as this is the first time in a quarter century that the entire Instruction has been revised, certain protections were agreed to and will go into effect as the Instruction is implemented. Both of these topics are discussed in greater detail below. Negotiation Goals The goals of the negotiations were to: 1. Ensure that CIVMARS would be fairly compensated by the new work rules; 2. Ensure that the changes would be cost-neutral for MSC. This means that MSC would not have to pay much more money to implement the rule changes or save significant amounts of money by cutting pay through work rule changes; 3. Develop work rules that would be applied fairly and consistently on every vessel; 4. Streamline the Instruction, to delete repetitive, confusing and inconsistent language that was found throughout the previous Instruction. 5. Develop work rules covering unlicensed CIVMARS which could be applied whenever possible to both coasts; and 6. Develop a document that is easy to read and allows CIVMARS to find the information they are looking for quickly and efficiently. Program Protections The protections built into the implementation of the new CMPI 610 include reviewing CIVMAR feedback and other shipboard documents as well as evaluating payrolls in a timely manner to ensure that CIVMAR wages have not been impacted significantly – in a negative or positive way, or in a way that was not anticipated by the parties. The SIU and MSC have also agreed to meet yearly to review the financial impact of the rules for the next five years. As in the previous CMPI 610 there is a mechanism to dispute or grieve a situation where a CIVMAR believes he or she has not been paid accurately for the overtime or premium pay work performed. There will also be a process to advise the union and the agency if a CIVMAR believes that a specific work rule has resulted in significant pay loss. Once this is brought to the attention of the union and MSC, the parties will reconvene to determine whether the new rule creating the impact needs to be revised. The new rules will have to be implemented for several months before CIVMARS, the SIU and MSC will be able to determine whether there is a significant impact one way or the other. This is be- cause premium pay varies from vessel to vessel. Additionally, while a few of the old rules which have been eliminated may diminish pay under certain circumstances, this change may be offset by new rules which will now provide pay to CIVMARS for previously uncompensated work. CIVMAR comments and financial data will help the parties with this evaluation. Layout and Organization of New CMPI 610 While the new CMPI 610 still contains a majority of the rules in the old Instruction, overall the newly negotiated Instruction is noticeably shorter. CIVMARS will find that the language is much more concise compared to the previous Instruction. The new CMPI 610 is user-friendly and logically organized. It is designed to enable the reader to quickly and definitively answer practically any question regarding a CIVMAR’s hours of work and premium pay. The new CMPI 610 is also organized in a way that is entirely different from the previous Instruction. The new CMPI 610 is now organized by type of work or work event rather than by department and sailing coast. While it may take some time for CIVMARS to adjust to the new format, the document itself is more cohesive and understandable. For example, one major section deals with premium pay associated with moving cargo. This section covers scenarios when any CIVMAR, regardless of department, handles or moves any type of item deemed to be cargo. In the previous document, pay provisions regarding cargo were located in several different sections. This required a review of multiple pages and referring to several sections to analyze the cargo work rules. Many CIVMARS advised negotiators that the language could be confusing and contradictory. In response to those concerns, negotiators included all language pertaining to a specific rule or evolution of work into a specific section. The document now contains a detailed, cross-referenced index which will help CIVMARS quickly locate any CMPI 610-related information they need. CMPI 610 Roll-Out and Training While negotiations are complete, work must be done to ensure a successful implementation period. As with any new program, there will be many questions. It is expected that full implementation of the Instruction will commence on Oct. 7, 2012 at which time the new provisions will take effect. While the parties wait for final approval, the SIU and MSC have begun planning the roll-out training sessions and writing the educational materials for the new Instruction. Some CMPI 610 negotiators will be will be visiting ships and the East and West Coast CIVMAR Support Units (CSUs) to educate the fleet about the changes and to answer questions. The parties are in the process of producing a DVD which explains the changes and highlights the important aspects of the new CMPI. These DVDs will be made available to all vessels and each CSU. Each CIVMAR will have available on a CD and the ship’s LAN, a copy of the new Instruction and a user guide. The negotiators have also prepared a document which provides a side-by-side comparison of the new and old Instructions. Other documents describing the new Instruction will also be available, including a “frequently asked questions” document which will be updated as the Instruction is implemented to include the questions which arrive from the fleet. The SIU will continue to publish articles in the LOG to keep MSC CIVMARS updated on the progress of the CMPI 610 implementation. With the help of unlicensed CIVMARS, this Instruction was negotiated by the SIU with all CIVMARS in mind. In these talks, all participants were on equal footing. Negotiations were transparent and hard-fought. The IBB process required negotiators to reach a consensus on every line and section in this Instruction. To make implementation of the new Instruction as successful as possible, the SIU asks all CIVMARS to view the DVD and all other training materials as they become available, and be sure to contact the main e-mail address (provided in your training materials) as well as SIU representatives with questions or concerns. Lastly, the SIU encourages each CIVMAR to read the Instruction carefully, learn its provisions and refer to it often to ensure you are paid fairly and accurately for work done during overtime, premium and penalty pay periods aboard your vessels. September 2012 8/23/2012 10:04:43 AM �American Phoenix Lands in SIU Fleet SIU members are sailing aboard the brand new Jones Act tanker American Phoenix, which was christened June 28 in Mobile, Ala. Operated by Phoenix Crew Management, LLC for Mid Ocean Tanker Company, the American Phoenix is an outright addition to the Seafarerscrewed fleet. The double-hulled ship is 616 feet long, 49,000 DWT and has a capacity of 339,000 barrels. With a beam of 105 feet, it’s equipped to carry petroleum products, crude oil and chemicals. According to news reports, the American Phoenix had been part of a three-ship order by a company that went bankrupt. It was purchased by Mid Ocean at auction; finishing touches then were made to the American Phoenix at the BAE Systems shipyard in Mobile. The state-of-the-art vessel is expected to operate in the Gulf of Mexico. The Jones Act requires that vessels travelling between domestic ports must be crewed, built, owned and flagged American. The law helps sustain a pool of well-trained, reliable American mariners who are available to sail aboard U.S. military support ships. It also supports nearly 500,000 American jobs and contributes billions of dollars to the national economy, according to a study by PricewaterhouseCoopers. Bosun Samuel Duah (right) and Capt. Kurt Yost are pictured aboard the vessel in Mobile, Ala. The first galley gang aboard the new tanker consisted of (from left) Chief Cook Cesar Avila, Steward/Baker Pedro Mena and GVA Leo Battiste. Bipartisan Bill Aims To Reverse Harmful Cuts To Cargo Preference As reported during the July and August membership meetings, the entire industry, along with members of Congress, were blindsided by a last-minute, back-room deal in late June that used the Surface Transportation Bill to repeal longstanding cargo preference laws concerning PL-480 Food Aid cargoes. Among other harmful changes, the mandated U.S.-flag percentage of those cargoes was reduced from 75 percent to 50 percent. The SIU, other maritime unions and allies throughout the industry have been working nonstop to reverse these unjustifiable, sneaky cuts. One result of these efforts is a recently introduced bill called the Saving Essential American Sailors Act, H.R. 6170. Abbreviated as the SEAS Act, this bill has strong bipartisan support. It was introduced by U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) and U.S. Rep. Jeff Landry (R-La.). The bill would restore the 75-percent mandate and thereby help ensure that American food aid is transported by American workers. Additional original co-sponsors include Democratic U.S. Representatives Nick Rahall of West Virginia, Rick Larsen of Washington, Bennie Thompson of Mississippi, Colleen Hanabusa of Hawaii, Cedric Richmond of Louisiana and Tim Bishop of New York and Republican Representatives Michael Grimm of New York and Candice Miller of Michigan. Although there is widespread support for the heart of the SEAS Act, quick passage is far from assured, mainly because it is believed that Congress is essentially shutting down for the year. They have less than two weeks scheduled for September and then are out until after Election Day. Nevertheless, this bill is a top priority for the SIU and many others, and the union will continue fighting for its enactment. After the Surface Transportation Bill passed, Landry said of the reductions to U.S.-flag carriage of food aid cargoes, “This is what happens when Washington rushes bills; we don’t fully debate them or understand their ramifications. Section 100124 will mean that American taxpayers will be paying foreign workers while American mariners sit on the beach. I hope my colleagues from both sides of the aisle will join us in fighting for our American workers and quickly pass the SEAS Act.” Cummings said that when reductions like this one take place, “We risk leaving our economy and indeed our military dependent on foreign-flagged, foreign-owned vessels manned by non-U.S. citizens – a situation that would be intolerable.” For more information about the SEAS Act, visit the News section of the SIU website (www.seafarers.org). September 2012 11767_Log.indd 3 SIU Crews Up USNS Wheeler The union last month welcomed new shipboard jobs as Seafarers-contracted Interocean American Shipping (IAS) took over operations and maintenance of the USNS VADM K.R. Wheeler, a U.S. Military Sealift Command prepositioning ship that’s utilized for offshore petroleum distribution. IAS won the government bid to operate both the Wheeler and its support vessel, the Fast Tempo. Including options, the contract would last for approximately five years. SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker pointed out that the Wheeler and the Fast Tempo are outright additions to the union’s fleet. As of press time, the Wheeler was crewing up in Pusan, South Korea. IAS Vice President for Human Resources Bob Rogers thanked the SIU and the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers “for the support we have received … which allowed us to be competitive in this solicitation.” Built in 2007, the Wheeler works as a pumping station. It is roughly 350 feet long, has a beam of 70 feet and can sail at 15 knots. The USNS Wheeler and its support vessel (both pictured above) are outright additions to the SIU fleet. Seafarers LOG 3 8/23/2012 10:04:45 AM �Labor Dept. Credits PHC Apprentice Program as One of Best The unlicensed apprentice program at the SIU-affiliated Paul Haul Center (PHC) for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., has been recognized by the U.S. Labor Department as one of the best in the nation. The school was honored as an “Innovator and Trailblazer” Aug. 1 during a Washington, D.C., summit celebrating the 75th anniversary of the signing of the National Apprenticeship Act. Presenting the award to the PHC and other top programs, Labor Secretary Hilda Solis emphasized the role apprenticeship programs play in creating a strong middle class. “There’s a reason why industry invests $1 billion every year in apprenticeship programs,” she said. “They improve skills. They improve wages. And they improve a company’s bottom line. When all of these things happen together, they improve our economy and our way of life.” The PHC was founded in 1967 and has operated a DOL-registered apprenticeship program since 2003. The school is America’s largest training facility for merchant seafarers and inland waterways boatmen, and has graduated more than 3,000 entry-level mariners since 2003. John Mason, CEO of American Service Technology Inc., who accepted the award from Solis on behalf of the Paul Hall Center, said the recognition highlights the trainee program’s positive impact on the maritime industry and the country as a whole. “It’s an outstanding example of a labor and management partnership,” he said. “It fulfills the maritime transportation industry’s need for skilled, safe and qualified workers. The trailblazer award honors apprenticeship programs that have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to excellence.” The Aug. 1 event also celebrated the 75th anniversary of the creation of the National Apprenticeship Act. The original measure allowed the Labor Department to enact national labor standards for apprentices. There are now more than 24,000 DOL-registered apprenticeship programs in the country. Citing a study that showed those who complete a registered apprenticeship program earn at least $250,000 more over their lifetimes, Solis said programs like the one at the PHC are vital to the country’s economic future and workers’ financial stability. “Since my very first day as the secretary of labor, I’ve called apprenticeship ASTI CEO John Mason (center) accepts an award Aug. 1 recognizing the apprenticeship program at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center from Labor Secretary Hilda Solis (left) and John Ladd, head of the Labor Department’s Employment and Training Administration. (Photo courtesy DOL) one of America’s best-kept secrets,” she said. “We’re giving hundreds of thousands of Americans industry-recognized credentials. Credentials can help workers For His Intensity, Dedication Union Remembers Late Retired Official Ripoll Gruff and often intense, former SIU official George Ripoll served his union much like he served his country during the Korean War – with a deep sense of duty and pride. The former soldier, Seafarer and businessman spent 37 years with the SIU, leaving a lasting impression with nearly everyone he came in contact with. Ripoll died July 31 in Palm Coast, Fla. He was 78. Ripoll’s time with the SIU began in 1955. He had recently completed service as an Army Ranger during the Korean War – a post that earned him several Bronze and Silver Stars – and was looking for a post-war job. After joining the SIU, Ripoll sailed on ships operated by companies like Waterman, Delta Lines and Victory Carriers, mostly in the engine and deck deRipoll is pictured at a Maritime partments. In 1961, he came Trades Department meeting in ashore to work for the SIU at the Andrew Furuseth School the early 1990s. in New York. Ripoll taught boxing, karate and other courses at the school – utilizing the particular set of skills he developed during his military service. He held a sixth-degree black belt in karate, was the 1961 world jujitsu champion and earned a gold medal in a 1965 international competition against the Soviet Union. “He was one of the soldiers stuck behind enemy lines in North Korea as the troops pulled back,” said retired port agent Edd Morris, who worked closely with Ripoll. “He could be quite an inspiration. He survived challenging circumstances and defied death many times … but, he survived to do many things for the SIU and the labor movement.” That work grew in 1978, following Ripoll’s appointment as a headquarters representative in New York. It was in New York that current SIU Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram first met Ripoll. “He was responsible for my daily training. He took me to the waterfront and taught me how to be a rep and the things we were responsible for. He taught me how to protect the membership,” said Mangram, who arrived in New York in 1981. “He and his wife (Christine) opened up their home to me. He prided himself on protecting the membership. I owe that trait in myself to him.” While in New York, Ripoll earned his GED, attended Staten Island State College and later received a bachelor’s degree from what is now known as St. John’s University. In 1983, Ripoll moved to Jacksonville, Fla., eventually becoming an assistant vice president of the union’s government services division in 1988. 4 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log.indd 4 Florida was where current MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan first met Ripoll. Duncan was beginning his SIU career as a field representative at the Jacksonville union hall and Ripoll was serving the SIU in various capacities. “George was very strong and determined for me to learn what the Seafarers was all about,” Duncan said. “I will always appreciate him for that.” Ripoll was well-known for his rough exterior. SIU colleagues who worked closely with him said that outer seriousness was fueled by an internal desire to better both himself and the union he so loyally served. “He was always tough because he wanted you to learn and understand and do the best you could,” Duncan said. While in Florida, Ripoll earned a master’s degree in accounting and served on many local civic and economic organizations. He retired from the SIU in 1991 after more than 37 years of service. Duncan, Mangram and Morris all said they kept in touch with Ripoll throughout the years, adding they were impressed by his constant desire to better himself. He may have been an intense guy, they said, but that intensity was what made Ripoll so memorable and effective. “There is so much to be said for and about him, it leaves me in awe,” Morris said. “I will be meditating on him for a while.” move up in their job – or move anywhere in America – knowing that their abilities will be recognized and their futures will be secure.” Committee Reviews Nomination Credentials For Upcoming Election The credentials committee, composed of six rank-and-file SIU members, has reviewed all nominating credentials of SIU members seeking office in the 2012 district-wide elections in the union’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/ NMU. After meeting last month and studying the nomination applications to ensure each candidate had complied with the criteria spelled out in the SIU’s constitution, the credentials committee issued its report, which will be presented to the membership for its approval at the September meetings. Twenty-six candidates for 25 ballot positions qualified to run in the election, which takes place Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, the committee reported. Members of the committee were elected at a special meeting conducted at headquarters-port of Piney Point on August 14, 2012. Voted to the committee by their fellow Seafarers were Gerard Costello, Thomas Cyrus, Hazel Johnson, Robert Ott, Nelson Poe and Francis Washington Jr. Ott was selected by the committee to serve as chairman. During the special meeting on August 14, Seafarers had to present their union books in order to be nominated to the committee. After the voting took place, results immediately were made known. The union constitution establishes guidelines for the credentials committee in Article XIII, Section 2. According to those rules, the committee must be elected at the port where headquarters is located (Piney Point). The credentials committee must consist of six full-book members, including two members from each of the three shipboard departments: deck, engine and steward. Continued on Page 7 After his sailing days, Ripoll (right) taught boxing and self-defense courses at the Furuseth School in New York in the early 1960s. See pages 6-7 for the full texts of the committee reports September 2012 8/23/2012 10:04:48 AM �Study Labels Collective Bargaining As Key to ‘Prosperity Economics’ A new report from Yale University identifies collective bargaining and other rights associated with union representation as crucial components of rebuilding an economy that benefits America’s working families. Professor Jacob Hacker and Nathaniel Loewentheil of Yale released their paper titled “Prosperity Economics: Building an Economy for All” during a July 31 event hosted by the respected, non-partisan think tank Economic Policy Institute (EPI) in Washington, D.C. They were joined by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka and officials from the EPI, The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, the Center for Community Change, and other civic-minded organizations. Drawing on recent economic research, lessons from American history, and the success stories of other nations, Hacker and Loewentheil (a graduate student at Yale Law School) argue that the only path to sustainable, longterm growth is through an economy in which the benefits of growth are broadly shared. Prosperity economics depends on what they call the three pillars of prosperity: growth, security and democracy. “To achieve an economy that works for all Americans, we must focus on innovation-led growth grounded in job creation and public investment; security for workers and their families; and an accountable, effective democracy,” said Hacker. “Together, these three pillars will strengthen the middle class and drive our economy forward.” “Prosperity economics, as an integrated set of policies, offers a light at the end of the long economic tunnel of a generation of stagnant wages and financial crises,” said Trumka at the briefing. “Prosperity economics means jobs, it means investment and it means growth.” The 84-page report features numerous specific recommendations for economic growth. They include “ensuring decent wages and job quality by guaranteeing that workers have the right to form unions and to collectively bargain…. Guarantee every worker has a voice in the workplace, including a quick, fair process for workers to choose union representation and have the power to bargain collectively. Enforce stronger penalties on companies that violate labor laws.” The authors also noted, “Corporate power is not reigned in simply by empowering shareholders. Democracy also requires a counterweight to corporate power. Strong unions and community organizations are needed to ensure that workers, and the public more broadly, have an organized voice in our political process.” Other recommendations contained in the report include “investing $250 billion per year for the next six years to rebuild our nation’s crumbling roads, bridges, ports, airports and public transportation systems; restoring America’s manufacturing base by ending the trade deficit and tax incentives for offshoring; providing help to states and localities to hire back teachers, first responders and other public servants; (and) freeing government from corporate interests by reinstating the firewalls between investment and banking.” The report features many additional suggested steps for “investing in people and productivity that will lead to good jobs and rising wages.” The executive director of the Center for Community Change, Deepak Bhargava, stated, “The Great Recession shows us that when an economy is built on unequal policies, everyone loses. Prosperity economics increases revenue and growth and addresses the vast inequality and plummeting living standards that failed conservative economic policies have created.” “Hacker and Loewentheil have created  a serious, economically sound plan that meets the challenges facing America’s working people, specifically job creation and better job qual- ity, the key elements of an economy that works for everyone,” said Lawrence Mishel, president of the EPI. One day after the Yale study was announced, the AFL-CIO Executive Council (on which SIU President Michael Sacco serves) approved a statement that read in part: “Our history and the experience of working people around the world tells us that only when workers have the right to organize and collectively bargain do societies enjoy shared, sustainable prosperity. America desperately needs a reinvigorated middle class, and an economy where dignity and opportunity are rights shared by all and where workers are our economy’s most valuable assets. But this vision will remain unfulfilled so long as the right to organize and bargain collectively remains an empty promise for most American workers. We know from our history and from the example of other countries that without strong unions, shared prosperity will remain out of reach. “This is why Yale Professor Jacob Hacker’s blueprint titled ‘Prosperity Economics’ is so important,” the council’s statement continued. “Professor Hacker has proposed a comprehensive vision for our nation’s economic future—and he understands that for the vision to become reality, workers must be able to organize and bargain collectively. As Professor Hacker states, ‘Restoring the middle class means reversing the disconnect between wages and productivity, which means giving workers power to collectively negotiate for better terms of employment and a larger share of the rewards of growth.’ Shared prosperity requires policies that create good jobs and growth, provide families with economic security and restore democracy both in the public square and in the workplace. Shared prosperity also requires policies that promote collective bargaining as Congress recognized in the preamble to the National Labor Relations Act.” NOAA Ship Starts Arctic Mission In late July, the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration vessel Fairweather (above) began a 30-day survey mission in the Arctic. The Fairweather’s crew includes members of the SIU Government Services Division. The ship was scheduled to check a sparsely measured, 1,500-nautical mile coastal corridor from Dutch Harbor, Alaska, north through the Bering Strait and east to the Canadian border. According to the agency, the mission aimed to cover sea lanes last measured in 1778. September 2012 11767_Log_X.indd 5 SIU Contracts Stay In Place As Maersk Acquires 3PSC SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) in early August completed its acquisition of another Seafarers-contracted company: 3PSC. For SIU members aboard the affected vessels, it is business as usual. The union’s contracts remain in place and, as noted in a separate communication to the ships, the transition is expected to take place over a five-month period. The closing took place Aug. 2 in Norfolk, Va., where MLL is headquartered. 3PSC is based in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Under the terms of the agreement, MLL will take over 3PSC’s current contract for the operation and maintenance of SIUcrewed special mission ships owned by the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command. Those vessels are the USNS Pathfinder, USNS Sumner, USNS Bowditch, USNS Henson, USNS Bruce Heezen and USNS Mary Sears. MLL plans to integrate 3PSC operations into its Norfolk headquarters by the end of the calendar year. A Maersk spokesman said the acquisition “demonstrates MLL’s longstanding commitment to ship operation and management services for the national defense of the United States, and solidifies MLL’s position as a leading government contractor.” “Through the acquisition of 3PSC, MLL will continue its tradition of providing outstanding ship operation and maintenance services to the Military Sealift Command,” said John F. Reinhart, president and CEO of MLL. “During our visits to the Cape Canaveral office, we have been impressed by the technical expertise and professionalism of the 3PSC team. We are pleased to have them join Maersk Line, Limited. “We see a lot of promise in the vessel operation and maintenance segment,” added Reinhart. “The integration of 3PSC will strengthen our team and capabilities. We look forward to competing for new opportunities, for the Military Sealift Command and other programs that support the National Defense requirements.” AFL-CIO Asserts Federal Workers Have Shouldered Enough Sacrifice They do jobs of vital importance for the American people, but the nation’s 2.6 million federal civilian workers are being “substantially” underpaid in the name of deficit reduction, the AFL-CIO Executive Council said in a recent statement. The SIU is an AFL-CIO affiliate, and SIU President Michael Sacco is the longest-serving current member on the federation’s executive council. Referring to the fact that federal workers earn an average of 24 percent less than their private-sector counterparts, the council said federal employees are simply forced to sacrifice too much. Federal workers are the ones who administer Social Security and Medicare benefits, enforce wage and safety standards and provide support to the military, among many other duties. “Federal employees are substantially underpaid for this important work,” the council said in a statement that was released in early August, adding the problem doesn’t just apply to wages. “Their health insurance is (also) less generous than that provided by large firms in the private sector.” While pressure to reduce the deficit has resulted in an unprecedented twoyear pay freeze for federal workers, the council said many of the most successful private-sector workers have not been asked to make any sacrifices of their own. “It is often said there must be ‘shared sacrifice’ to reduce the deficit, but it hardly qualifies as ‘shared sacrifice’ when nobody else shares in the pain,” the council said. “Unlike federal employees, millionaires, billionaires, Wall Street firms and the 1 percent have not been asked to pitch in one dime.” Sacrifices by federal employees, on the other hand, have already produced $60 billion in projected budget savings over the next 10 years. A planned 2013 pay adjustment could raise that number to more than $100 billion. That’s particularly alarming, the council said, when it comes to what federal contractors are allowed to earn. Seafarers LOG 5 8/24/2012 12:01:52 PM �Credentials Approved for Candidates to 25 Union Offices REPORT OF CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE ON CANDIDATES FOR 2012 ELECTION OF OFFICERS, 2013-2016 SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA-ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS DISTRICT/NMU We, the undersigned members of the Credentials Committee, were duly elected at a Special meeting held in Headquarters-Port of Piney Point on August 14, 2012. We have examined the credentials of candidates for elective office or job in the Seafarers International Union of North America-Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU for the years 2013-2016, in accordance with Article XI, Section 1, and submit the following report. Your Committee qualified or disqualified those members who submitted for office based upon the Union Constitution, particularly those provisions contained in Articles XII and XIII. The applicable constitutional provisions are as follows: ARTICLE XII, Qualifications for Officers, Assistant VicePresidents, Port Agents, and Other Elective Jobs Section 1. Any member of the Union is eligible to be a candidate for, and hold, any office or the job of Assistant Vice-President, or Port Agent provided: (a) He has at least three (3) years of seatime in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels. In computing time, time spent in the employ of the Union, its subsidiaries and its affiliates, or in any employment at the Union’s direction, shall count the same as seatime. Union records, Welfare Plan records and/or company records can be used to determine eligibility; and (b) He has been a full book member in continuous good standing in the Union for at least three (3) years immediately prior to his nomination; and (c) He has at least one hundred (100) days of seatime, in an unlicensed capacity, aboard an American-flag vessel or vessels covered by contract with this Union or one hundred (100) days of employment with, or in any office or job of, the Union, its subsidiaries and its affiliates, or in any employment at the Union’s direction or a combination of these, between January 1 and the time of nomination in the election year, except if such seatime is wholly aboard such merchant vessels operating solely upon the Great Lakes or, if such seatime is wholly aboard tugboats, towboats or dredges and contractual employment thereon is for fixed days with equal amount of days off, he shall have at least sixty-five (65) days of such seatime instead of the foregoing one hundred (100) days; and (d) He is a citizen of the United States of America; and (e) He is not disqualified by law. He is not receiving a pension from this Union’s Pension Fund, if any, or from a UnionManagement Fund, to which Fund this Union is a party or from a company under contract with this Union; unless such individual commenced receiving a pension benefit from any such fund by virtue of having reached the age of 70½. (f) He has not sailed in a licensed capacity aboard an American flag merchant vessel or vessels within twenty four (24) consecutive months immediately prior to the opening of nominations. Section 2. All candidates for, and holders of, other elective jobs not specified in the preceding sections shall be full book members of the Union. Section 3. All candidates for, and holders of, elective offices and jobs, whether elected or appointed in accordance with this Constitution, shall maintain full book memberships in good standing. ARTICLE XIII, Election for Officers, Assistant VicePresidents, and Port Agents Section 1. Nominations. Except as provided in Section 2(b) of this Article, any full book member may submit his name for nomination for any office, or the job of Assistant Vice-President, or Port Agent, by delivering or causing to be delivered in person, to the office of the Secretary-Treasurer at Headquarters, or sending a letter addressed to the Credentials Committee, in care of the Secretary-Treasurer at the address of Headquarters. This letter shall be dated and shall contain the following: (a) The name of the candidate. (b) His home address and mailing address. (c) His book number. (d) The title of the office or other job for which he is a candidate, including the name of the Port in the event the position sought is that of Port Agent. (e) Proof of citizenship. (f) Proof of seatime and/or employment as required for candidates. (g) In the event the member is on a vessel, he shall notify the Credentials Committee what vessel he is on. This shall be done also if he ships subsequent to forwarding his credentials. (h) Annexing a certificate in the following form, signed and dated by the proposed nominee: “I hereby certify that I am not now, nor, for the five (5) years last past, have I been either a member of the Communist Party or convicted of, or served any part of a prison term resulting from conviction of robbery, bribery, extortion, embezzlement, grand larceny, burglary, arson, violation of narcotics laws, murder, rape, assault with intent to kill, assault which inflicts grievous bodily injury, or violation of Title II or III of the Landrum Griffin Act, or conspiracy to commit any such crimes.” Dated……………………………. Signature of Member……………….. Book No. …………………. Printed forms of the certificate shall be made available to nominees. Where a nominee cannot truthfully execute such a certificate, but is, in fact, legally eligible for an office or job by reason of the restoration of civil rights originally revoked by such conviction or a favorable determination by the Board of Parole of the United States Department of Justice, he shall, in lieu of the 6 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log.indd 6 foregoing certificate, furnish a complete signed statement of the facts of his case together with true copies of the documents supporting his statement. Any full book member may nominate any other full book member in which event such full book member so nominated shall comply with the provisions of this Article as they are set forth herein relating to the submission of credentials. By reason of the above self nomination provision the responsibility, if any, for notifying a nominee of his nomination to office shall be that of the nominator. All documents required herein must reach Headquarters no earlier than July 15 and no later than August 15 of the election year. The Secretary-Treasurer is charged with safekeeping of these letters and shall turn them over to the Credentials Committee upon the latter’s request. In order to ascertain the meaning of the term “member in good standing” which is used in Article XII, Subsection 1(b), the Committee referred to Article XXIV, Section 9 of our Constitution which reads as follows: Section 9. The term “member in good standing” shall mean a member whose monetary obligations to the Union are not in arrears for thirty (30) days or more, or who is not under suspension or expulsion effective in accordance with this Constitution. Unless otherwise expressly indicated, the term “member” shall mean a member in good standing. Your Committee sought guidance from the Union’s General Counsel and the Secretary-Treasurer as to whether this section would apply to a member who is unable to pay dues because of employment aboard an American flag merchant vessel as stated in Article III, Section 3(e). Your Committee was advised that, in keeping with past practice and constitutional interpretation, the same thirty (30) day grace period should be applied in these situations. Accordingly, when a member who is working on foreign articles leaves the vessel, the dues for the applicable quarter must be paid within thirty (30) days from the date of discharge in order to maintain good standing. Your Committee also referred to Article XXIV, Section 13 for the definition of the term “seatime”. This section reads as follows: Section 13. The term “seatime” shall include employment upon any navigable waters, days of employment in a contracted employer unit represented by the Union or time spent in the employ of the Union or one of the Union’s direct affiliates as an elected or appointed representative. We also noted in Article XXIV, Section 14, the meaning of the term “in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels.” This portion of the Constitution reads as follows: Section 14. The term “in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels” shall include persons employed in an unlicensed or licensed capacity aboard dredges, tugboats, towboats and similar vessels used to tow, propel, or push barges or other conveyances or assist merchant vessels in docking or undocking, or persons otherwise employed in a contracted employer unit represented by the Union. After full and careful deliberations, the Committee made its decisions and sent appropriate notification to candidates. The ultimate decisions of this Committee are later set forth. In arriving at these ultimate decisions, the Committee was most concerned with carrying out a stated principle of our Union which is that “every qualified member shall have the right to nominate himself for, and, if elected or appointed, to hold office in this Union.” In connection with the foregoing, we have also consulted with the Secretary-Treasurer who, under our Constitution, has the obligation to insure appropriate election procedures as legally required (Article XIII, Section 7). Our Secretary-Treasurer has further consulted with the Union’s Counsel as to the law applicable in Union nominations and elections. The following is a complete listing of all members who submitted their credentials to the Committee. Their names and the office or job for which they submitted such credentials are listed in the order in which this Committee feels they should be placed on the general ballot, that is, in alphabetical order under the office or job for which they run, and that the Ports, following the Headquarters offices, beginning with Piney Point, be arranged on the ballot geographically, as has been done in the past. After each member’s name and book number is his/her qualification or disqualification, followed by the reason for that decision. PRESIDENT Michael J. Sacco, S-01288 Qualified Credentials in order EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Augustin Tellez, T-00764 Qualified Credentials in order SECRETARY-TREASURER David W. Heindel, H-01443 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT George Tricker, T-00919 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST Joseph T. Soresi, S-02658 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Dean E. Corgey, C-05727 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST Nicholas J. Marrone, M-02308 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS Michael D. Murphy, M-02483 Qualified Credentials in order Thomas Orzechowski, Jr, O-00601 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Kermett T. Mangram, M-02394 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT Archie Ware, W-01169 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST Nicholas A. Celona, C-01578 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Ambrose L. Cucinotta, C-01795 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST Bryan Powell, P-01987 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS James P. McGee, M-05945 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Chester Wheeler, W-25058 Qualified Credentials in order PINEY POINT PORT AGENT Patrick Vandegrift, V-00488 Qualified Credentials in order NEW YORK PORT AGENT Robert Selzer, S-01258 Qualified Credentials in order PHILADELPHIA PORT AGENT Joseph Baselice, B-02795 Qualified Credentials in order BALTIMORE PORT AGENT Georg Kenny, K-01041 Qualified Credentials in order MOBILE PORT AGENT Jimmy White, W-1600 Qualified Credentials in order NEW ORLEANS PORT AGENT Chris Westbrook, W-05787 Qualified Credentials in order HOUSTON PORT AGENT Michael Russo, R-5772 Qualified Credentials in order OAKLAND PORT AGENT Tracey Mayhew, M-03487 Qualified Credentials in order ST. LOUIS PORT AGENT Rebecca J. Sleeper, S-02497 Qualified Credentials in order DETROIT-ALGONAC PORT AGENT Todd Brdak, B-02684 Qualified Credentials in order In compliance with Article XIII, Section 2(b) of our Constitution, and in an attempt to give every nominee every consideration and to try to prevent any disqualifications by this Committee, Robert Ott, of the Credentials Committee, remained at the entrance of the Headquarters building of the Union until midnight of Wednesday, August 15, 2012, to receive any credentials that might have been delivered by hand after the closing of business hours by the Union. The Committee points out that in the President’s Pre-Balloting Report approved by the membership as per the Constitution and published in the May SEAFARERS LOG the exact offices and jobs for which nominations were to be made was set forth. Our committee was presented with a nomination of Brother Michael Murphy for the position of Vice President In Charge of Southern Region, Great Lakes and Inland Waters. After review- Continued on Page 7 September 2012 8/23/2012 10:04:50 AM �REPORT OF CONSTITUTIONAL COMMITTEE We, the undersigned Constitutional Committee, were elected at a Special Meeting held in Piney Point on August 14, 2012, in accordance with Article XXV, Section 2 of our Constitution. We have had referred to us and studied, proposed Constitutional Amendments contained in Resolutions submitted by our Executive Board. These Resolutions, containing the proposed amendments, prior to their submission to us, were adopted by a majority vote of the membership. The provisions of these Resolutions including their “WHEREAS” clauses, are contained in this report so that all members will have available to them their full text for review and study at the same time that they read this, our Report and Recommendations. First, Whereas, Article XIII, Section 1 of the Constitution of this Union, which deals with the nomination process for the election of officers, specifies that, in addition to satisfying all other constitutional eligibility requirements to run for office, anyone nominated must also sign a certificate certifying that he or she has not been convicted of certain specific criminal offenses or been a member of the Communist Party during the five year period preceding the year of nominations; and Whereas, legal counsel has advised that the relevant law has been amended which extended the disqualifying period from five years to thirteen years; and Whereas, legal counsel has also advised that judicial precedent no longer allows a disqualification from running for or holding union office solely based upon an individual’s Communist party membership, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, an amendment to Article XIII, section 1 of the Constitution of the Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD, be included on the upcoming ballot for the election of officers to change the language on the required certificate to read as follows: “I hereby certify that the during the past thirteen (13) years I have not been convicted of, or served any part of a prison term resulting from a conviction for robbery, bribery, extortion, embezzlement, grand larceny, burglary, arson, violation of narcotics laws, murder, rape, assault with intent to kill, assault which inflicts grievous bodily injury, or violation of Title II or III of the Landrum Griffin Act, or conspiracy to commit such crimes. In addition, I certify that I support the Constitution of the United States of America, its institutions and form of government.” Second, Whereas, the name of this Union was chosen decades ago when several individual districts and entities came together to form one union; and Whereas, all of the individual districts and entities have been successfully merged into one Union which acts as a National Union affiliated with the Seafarers International Union of North America, AFL-CIO; and Whereas, the Executive Board of this Union, upon resolution duly introduced, seconded and voted upon unanimously, on July 20, 2012, agreed to submit to the membership at their next regular membership meeting a proposal to amend the constitution to change the name of the Union; Be it resolved that, if approved by a majority vote of the membership, the name of this Union shall be the Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters. We further recommend, if it is reasonably possible, that a copy of our Committee’s Report containing the proposed Committee Approves Candidates’ Credentials Continued from Page 6 ing his credentials it appeared Brother Murphy failed to include his book number in his nomination letter as required in Article XIII, Section 1. In addition, when signing the certificate as required to be attached to the nomination pursuant to Article XIII of the Constitution, Brother Murphy deleted the section which states he has not been a member of the Communist Party. Our committee, when evaluating Brother Murphy’s qualifications, sought the advice of Union General Counsel who advised us that provisions such as the one in question have been struck down by Courts and consequently, she recommended that it not be used to disqualify Brother Murphy. In addition, the Committee felt that his omission of his book number should not be reason to disqualify as he included his book number on his required certificate. Based upon this fact and the advice of counsel and the cited legal precedent the Committee has decided to qualify Brother Murphy by finding his credentials in order. All credentials received as of August 15, 2012 have been furnished to the Committee in good order. All credentials have been examined in strict accordance with the Constitution. Any defect in the credentials disposed of by the Committee has been the sole responsibility of the sender and no person adversely affected by such defect has denied this to the Committee. ident, secretary-treasurer, vice president, assistant vice president or one of 10 port agent posts had to submit nominating papers between July 15 and Aug. 15. The Seafarers who served on the credentials committee also were elected by their fellow mem- bers to serve on the constitutional committee, in accordance with Article XXV, Section 2 of the union’s constitution. They issued a separate report detailing the proposed constitutional amendments that will appear on the ballot. Dated: August 16, 2012 Fraternally submitted Credentials Committee Panel Completes Review of Nomination Credentials Continued from Page 4 Additionally, no elected official or candidate for union office is permitted to serve on the committee. Members seeking the position of president, executive vice pres- Elected as committee members were (from left, seated) Hazel Johnson, Francis Washington Jr., Robert Ott, (standing) Nelson Poe, Thomas Cyrus and Gerard Costello. September 2012 11767_Log.indd 7 Resolutions and membership action taken to date, be printed in the Seafarers LOG, October 2012 issue, so that the membership will be kept abreast as to all facts and actions taken as of this time. In addition, we recommend that copies of such LOG issue, to the extent possible, be made available to the membership at all Union offices and Halls during the months of November and December 2012. Your Constitutional Committee wishes to thank the Union, its officers, representatives, members and counsel for their cooperation and assistance during our deliberations and to assure all members that we believe the adoption of the proposed Resolutions will serve the needs of the Union and the membership. DATE: August 16, 2012 Fraternally submitted, Constitutional Committee Procedures For Obtaining SIU Absentee Ballot Elections for the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are scheduled for later this year. As in past SIU election years, a comprehensive guide will be published in the Seafarers LOG prior to the balloting. In the case of members eligible to vote who believe they will be at sea during the Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2012 voting period or who otherwise think they will need absentee ballots, absentee ballots will be available. The SIU constitution ensures that members who are eligible to vote and who find themselves in this situation may vote. Procedures are established in the SIU constitution to safeguard the secret ballot election, including the absentee ballot process. Here is the procedure to follow when requesting an absentee ballot: 1. Make the request in writing to the SIU office of the secretary-treasurer, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 2. Include in the request the correct address where the absentee ballot should be mailed. 3. Send the request for an absentee ballot by registered or certified mail. 4. The registered or certified mail envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Nov. 15, 2012 and must be received at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 no later than Nov. 25, 2012. 5. The secretary-treasurer, after confirming eligibility, will send by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the address designated in the request, a ballot, together with an envelope marked “Ballot” and a mailing envelope no later than Nov. 30, 2012. 6. Upon receiving the ballot and envelope, vote by marking the ballot. After voting the ballot, place the ballot in the envelope marked “Ballot.” Do not write on the “Ballot” envelope. 7. Place the envelope marked “Ballot” in the mailing envelope which is imprinted with the mailing address of the bank depository where all ballots are sent. 8. Sign the mailing envelope on the first line of the upper 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, 2012 and received by the bank depository no later than Jan. 5, 2013. Seafarers LOG 7 8/23/2012 10:04:51 AM �Recertified Bosuns Speak of Expanded Opportunities Members Credit Union, School as Gateways to Advancement Weeks of hard work and training paid off recently when six SIU members took the stage at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) to graduate from the school’s renowned bosun recertification program. During their three-week stay at the school’s Piney Point, Md. campus, the bosuns completed sessions covering the Manila Amendments to the STCW Convention, communication skills, safety measures and more. They also participated in meetings at the SIU’s headquarters in Camp Springs, Md., and at the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department offices in Washington, D.C. The PHC’s recertification program provides what is considered the top curriculum available to deck-department Seafarers, and the impact of that training wasn’t lost on the bosuns as they stepped to the podium Aug. 6 to accept their certificates. Addressing a gathering of fellow members, unlicensed apprentices and union officials, Recertified Bosuns Trevorous Ellison, Timothy Fogg, Richard Gathers, Gerry Gianan, Charles Mull and Joshua Mensah praised both the school and the union for helping them get where they wanted to be in their lives. Thanks to the union, they said, they have job security. Thanks to the school, they’ll be even better at performing those jobs. “Had it not been for the SIU, I wouldn’t be here standing before you,” said Gianan, who has sailed out of Wilmington, Calif., since joining the union in 1993. “(The) SIU gave me the opportunity to improve myself and better myself through the various training and upgrading courses here in the Paul Hall Center, which, in return, afforded me better jobs.” Addressing the trainees, Gianan emphasized the importance of safety and maintaining a positive outlook. “Learn, adapt and practice to work and function as a team,” he said. “A valuable, efficient and effective team member, that is.” Ellison, who has sailed out of St. Louis since joining the SIU in 2002, said the course gave him “a better understanding of some subjects or ways to Newly recertified bosuns pose on the grounds of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Pictured from left are Gerry Gianan, Richard Gathers, Trevorous Ellison, Joshua Mensah, Timothy Fogg and Charles Mull. deal with situations on the ship,” adding that he also had many union and school officials to acknowledge for his career and training. “It has allowed me to travel and see some nice places,” he said of his various voyages. “I would like to thank the union leadership and the instructors at the school.” As for the trainees, Ellison’s advice was simple: “When you get out to sea, work hard, carry your load and don’t be afraid to ask questions.” A 25-year union member sailing out of Jacksonville, Fla., Mull said he upgraded at Piney Point twice before and was eager to learn new things and see new places. Among the most useful aspects of his training was “having a better overall knowledge of contracts, shipping rules and membership needs,” Mull said. “I would like to thank everyone here at the school and headquarters for all you do every day.” Mull then addressed the trainees. “The one thing that will carry you through is good seamanship,” he said. “Be part of the solution, not the problem. It makes things easier on everyone.” Fellow Floridian Gathers – who has sailed out of Jacksonville since joining the SIU in 1995 – was just as excited to learn new skills and brush up on old ones. “It’s a good source of information and the teaching was excellent,” he said of the recertification course. “It’s a real honor to be in this union and this recertification class.” Gathers advised the trainees to make the most of the opportunities provided both on- and off-shore. “When you’re out to sea don’t be afraid to ask questions,” he said. “And take advantage of every opportunity in the union.” Fogg said he has upgraded more than a dozen times at the PHC since joining the SIU in 1990, but added he always looks forward to a new trip to Piney Point and the valuable information that comes with it. “For 22 years I’ve been through Piney Point and each time I’m happy to say I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge,” he Continued on Page 14 The bosuns (facing camera) brush up on their computer skills. 8 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log.indd 8 September 2012 8/23/2012 10:04:52 AM �TAKE US OUT TO THE BALLGAMES – Mariners and other union members were recognized at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C., during separate pregame events Aug. 1 and Aug. 3. The earlier date was billed as U.S. Merchant Marine Night, and SIU AB Greg White (far right in photo at right above) from the Crowley-managed SS Wright along with SIU Government Services Division Purser Joseph Schaefer (third from right) helped represent American mariners. Also pictured on the field with the team mascot are (from left) Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander of MSC; former Federal Maritime Commissioner and retired Congresswoman Helen Bentley; and Maritime Administrator David Matsuda. “Labor Night” took place two evenings later, with SIU members, officials and employees in the stands along with thousands of other area trade unionists. Recognized between double-header games were (photo above, from left) Seafarer Daniel Duncan, who is president of the Northern Virginia Labor Federation as well as executive secretary-treasurer of the MTD; Dena Briscoe, president of the American Postal Workers Union of D.C. and Southern Maryland; Kathleen McKirchy, executive director, Community Services Agency; Tionte Lewis, son of an AFGE Local 3615 official; and Ironworkers General President Walter Wise. The event raises money for the Community Service Agency’s emergency assistance fund, which helps union families in times of need. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ARTISTIC DONATION IN TACOMA – Recertified Steward Scott Opsahl (above) this summer donated nautical prints to the union hall in Tacoma, Wash. One of the pieces is pictured here. Opsahl said estate sales near the waterfront may be good sources for finding such artwork. REELING ’EM IN ABOARD USNS STOCKHAM – During a recent voyage from Jacksonville, Fla., around South Africa to Diego Garcia, mariners aboard the USNS Stockham (operated by Maersk Line, Limited) caught numerous mahi-mahis, noted Third Mate Ed McDonnell, who submitted these photos. Pictured from left to right in the photo above are Chief Cook Esper Jordan, OS Chris Hughes and OS Jesus Sanchez. Shown in the photo below are (from left) an unidentified mariner, GUDE Evan Hansen (kneeling), OS Hughes, QMED Nakesha Miller and Storekeeper Jaime Bautista. QMED EARNS MAERSK SAFETY AWARD – Aboard the Maersk Wyoming, QMED Apolinario Calacal (right) recently received a $100 cash award in recognition of his commitment to vessel operator Maersk Line, Limited’s safety culture. The award is part of a long-running Maersk safety program. Standing with Calacal is Recertified Steward John Reid, a permanent member of the ship’s safety committee. (Thanks to vessel master Capt. Kevin G. Coulombe for submitting the photo.) SUCCESSFUL SAFETY SESSION – Pictured in the photo at left are Seafarers and shore-side employees of Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) who in late July completed safety leadership meetings conducted at the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. The conferences are part of an ongoing Maersk program aimed at maintaining and improving workplace safety. Attendees, most of whom are pictured here, included SIU members Munassar Ahmed, Ryver Alexander, Aristeo Aquino, Gregorio Blanco Aranda, Edwin Bonefont, J.K. Borden, Riccardo Ciolino, Thomas Cyrus, Harold Gerber, Billy Gigante, Tim Girard, Michael Hilton, Herbert Hyde, Anson John, Derrick Jones, Andrew King, Alice Kwasnjuk, Raymond Maldonado, William Matthews, Ed Meregillano, Eddy Newman, Jo Postell, Winston Rankin, Simeon Rivas, Edwin Rivera, Chad Rudisill, Victor Sahagon, Peter Schmitt, Melvin Stegall and Neil Sullivan. September 2012 11767_Log.indd 9 Seafarers LOG 9 8/23/2012 10:04:57 AM �Three Generations Heed a Call to Sea, SIU For one reason or another, some sort of invisible current has carried generation after generation of the Georgia-based Sims family out to sea and into the SIU. Ever since Ernest Sims Sr. set sail for Europe aboard a Liberty ship during World War II, the family has looked to the water from the Savannah port with fascination and wonder. For them, seafaring was something they were simply born to do. “I’ve been on the water my whole life,” said 20-year-old Ethan Sims, who just began his seafaring career in the unlicensed apprentice program at SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do.” Hoping to work his way up and become a captain one day, Ethan said his ambition stemmed from a childhood filled with stories about sea-bound adventures. His grandfather was a member of the SIU since the 1940s and his father attended the same Piney Point campus. “He tells me every day how proud he is,” Ethan said of his father, Ernest Jr. “The classes are fun and they’re hands-on. The instructors make sure you know everything. They want you to succeed.” Thinking of his own seafaring experiences, Ernest Jr. said he knows Ethan’s time at sea will profoundly impact him. “You get to see what the world is all about,” he said. “I’m hoping it will make him become a man. To me, that’s what the sea does.” Like his son, Ernest Jr. grew up fascinated with the sea. His father, Ernest Sr., worked as a chief steward and spent most of his time traveling aboard ships. Ernest Jr., meanwhile, cherished hearing his father’s tales of adventure. “My dad had over 30 years of sea time,” he said. “That was his passion and that’s where he felt most comfortable.” In 1969, at the age of 18, Ernest Jr. headed to Jacksonville, Fla., and caught his first ship. “Everybody wants to do what their father did at some time,” he said. “There was no doubt that was going to be one of the things I was going to do.” By 1971, Ernest Jr. was in Piney Point. Training as a bosun, he found himself comfortPiney Point proved a positive influence on Ernest Sims. Jr.’s sailing able with the work days, and now is helping Ethan Sims launch his career. and eager to learn. The late Ernest Sims Sr. poses in this undated photo. Sims sailed to Europe aboard a Liberty ship during World War II and his career included more than 30 years at sea. Ethan Sims, 20, poses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He’s following the footsteps of his father and grandfather with membership in the SIU. A young Ernest Sims Jr. poses while out to sea in this undated photo. Sims’ father joined the SIU in the 1940s and inspired his son to take to sea. Ernest Jr. was determined to better himself with the help of his training and the SIU. “It’s just a really great place,” he said of the Piney Point campus. “I’m really proud my son got to go there. He’s got a great opportunity to better his life.” After spending more than a decade at sea, Ernest Jr. left seafaring and entered the business world in the early 1980s. A decade later, Ethan was born. Ernest Jr.’s seafaring experience and love for the water, however, never left him. “I told (Ethan) about it his whole life,” Ernest Jr. said. “I told him about all the places I got to go to and how much I loved it. And I told him how great of an opportunity it was to advance.” Ethan could attest to that. “My dad didn’t do it (seafaring) when I was growing up, but he told me a lot about it,” he said. “His stories about traveling the world really made me want to do it.” Now, as Ethan embarks on his own seafaring path, Ernest Jr. watches with pride. He sees the same passion that lured his father to the sea and has high hopes for his ambitious son. “It’s a life-changing experience and I hope my son will do well,” he said. “He’s ready to put the pedal to the metal.” Notice COBRA Continuation Coverage The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) would like to notify 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 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 erage. 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 web site, 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 1 (800) 252-4674. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Important Notice To Participants With Children Between Ages 19 and 25 Notice New Summary Plan Description Booklet Describing Pensioners’ Health Benefits Notice SHBP is a Grandfathered Plan Under Affordable Care Act The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan would like to remind you that since January 1, 2011, the Plan has offered health coverage to children between the ages of 19 and 25, regardless of whether the child is a full-time student. Your child does not have to live with you or be supported by you to be eligible for coverage from the Plan; however, you must provide a notarized affidavit which certifies that your child does not have other health coverage. If your child is about to turn 19, you must send the Plan a completed Enrollment Form and Affidavit for Dependent Child in order to maintain your child’s coverage. If the Plan does not receive this form by your child’s 19th birthday, your child will lose coverage from the Plan. Coverage will not be reinstated until the first of the month following the month in which the Plan receives the form. The Enrollment Form and Affidavit for Dependent Child is available at www.seafarers.org, under the Member Benefits Section. You must click on the link for the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. The Plan will also mail this form to you upon request. If you have any questions about the form or about enrolling your child, you may contact the Claims Department at 1-800-252-4674. The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan has revised the summary plan description (SPD) booklet that describes the health benefits available to eligible pensioners and their dependents. The booklet was recently mailed to all pensioners who are eligible for health benefits. It is also available at www.seafarers. org in the Member Benefits section, under the heading “Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan,” by clicking on “Download SHBP Guide (retirees).” You may also request a copy of the booklet by contacting the membership assistance office at 1-800-252-4674. Booklets will also be available at the union halls. If you are thinking about retiring in the near future, the SHBP suggests that you read this booklet, as it explains the requirements you must meet in order to receive health benefits when you become a pensioner. It also contains details about the benefits that you and your family will receive if you are eligible for pensioner health benefits. If you have any questions about pensioner health benefits, you may contact the SHBP at the number listed above. The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan would like to remind you that it believes that it is a “grandfathered health plan” under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (the Affordable Care Act). As permitted by the Affordable Care Act, a grandfathered health plan can preserve certain basic health coverage that was already in effect when that law was enacted. Being a grandfathered health plan means that this Plan may not include certain consumer protections of the Affordable Care Act that apply to other plans – for example, the requirement for the provision of preventive health services without any cost sharing. However, grandfathered health plans must comply with certain other consumer protections in the Affordable Care Act – for example, the elimination of lifetime limits on benefits. Questions regarding which protections apply and which protections do not apply to a grandfathered health plan and what might cause a plan to change from grandfathered health plan status can be directed to the Plan Administrator at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. You may also contact the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor at 1-866-444-3272 or www.dol.gov/ebsa/ healthreform. This website has a table summarizing which protections do and do not apply to grandfathered health plans. 10 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log.indd 10 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 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 cov- September 2012 8/23/2012 10:04:59 AM �E ditor’s note: The October and November 2011 and March, May and June 2012 editions of the Seafarers LOG featured the first five installments 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 when 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 war-time experiences at sea. For this reason, I call this narrative a non-fiction novel.” This month’s entry is the final installment. The names of the main character (Johnny Johnston) and his vessels are fictional. The most recent excerpt ended with Johnston and some of his shipmates from the S/S John Henry (which had been torpedoed) now sailing from an icy group of islands called Franz Josef Land aboard the British ship HMS Henry 8th en route for Liverpool, where they hoped to get berths aboard any vessel heading back to the United States. 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 SIU-crewed vessels. Altogether, it is believed that 57 Allied ships were lost in convoys to north Russia. That afternoon, a lookout shouted, “Submarine dead ahead!” The alarms went off and we ran to the boat deck, as we had not been assigned to a battle station. The British gunners started firing as soon as the sub was identified as a German U-Boat. The sub appeared to be dead in the water; no torpedo was in sight but the U-Boat’s deck gun was firing at us. I couldn’t believe what was happening; the HMS Henry 8th turned ninety degrees and headed straight for the U-Boat. We hit it in the middle and it spilt in two. The two parts sank almost immediately and then we heard over our loud speakers, “Stand by to pick up survivors.” We could see five or six men struggling in the water off our port side. Our deck crew dropped lifelines and then launched a small boat. They were able to pick up five German sailors who had been on the sub’s deck when we rammed it. The other German sailors were not able to escape and went down with the wreckage. The prisoners were brought to the mess hall for interrogation and we learned why their sub had been dead in the water. The day before, they had been in a duel with a British destroyer and had suffered heavy damage when the destroyer dropped depth charges. The sub’s engines were damaged and they lost both propulsion and their air supply. They stayed on the bottom overnight until they believed the destroyer had left the area. They then surfaced, as the men were beginning to suffocate from lack of oxygen. The Henry 8th damaged its bow when it rammed the sub. The captain decided we would head for the nearest landfall, as he could not determine the extent of the damage. It would be Reykjavík, Iceland; Iceland’s biggest city and capital. Mr. Smith was elated with the news. He told us the United States Coast Guard had port facilities and the United States Army had air bases on the island. “It looks like we will all be back home in the States very shortly.” Two days later, we arrived in Reykjavík and when Mr. Smith went to see the captain to thank him for bringing us here from Jan Mayen, he was surprised when asked who was going to reimburse the HMS Henry 8th for our passage and board. Mr. Smith nearly was at a loss for words. However, he replied in a polite tone, “Sir, we are at war. We are supposed to be allies. We are expected to help one another. I don’t know who will reimburse you and frankly, I don’t care. Thank you and goodbye.” Smith got directions to the U.S. Coast Guard headquarters. It was about a mile-anda-half from our pier and we, the eight known remaining survivors of the John Henry, walked to it, as there was no transportation available. We identified ourselves to the sentry at the entrance to the Coast Guard compound and asked to see the officer in charge. The sentry, a Coast Guard enlisted man, asked to see our identification papers. We explained that all our personal belongings and papers had been lost when our ship the S/S John Henry went down to the bottom of the Barents Sea courtesy of a German U-Boat. September 2012 11767_Log.indd 11 The sentry made a phone call and within a few minutes, a jeep arrived with a Coast Guard Commander who began to interrogate us. We explained who we were and how we came to be here in Iceland. He said, “I am sorry but under the circumstance, I can’t ask you inside our compound, but allow me a few minutes to make some calls and I will see what can be done. Please be patient.” He went inside the sentry’s shed and shut the door. A short time later, he returned and said, “I have arranged for you to be taken to the American Embassy. They are in a better position to help you.” “By the way, I want you to know why I was hesitant to assist you at first. We have been warned by our intelligence section to be by two armed Marines. Right off, something about the man rubbed me the wrong way. He held his chin too high in the air to suit me. “Well now, I am Percy Buller, the attaché of the day, what is this all about?” he asked with an arrogant air. Chief Mate Smith started to answer him when Buller suddenly said, “Stop right there. I really don’t want to hear your fabrications. The State Department’s Intelligence Section warned us to expect you to show up here and I am prepared to deal with it. In addition, believe me, I know how to deal with spies and saboteurs. If you prefer to talk in German, your native language, I can converse with you. I am fluent in German.” “What in hell are you talking about?” Recollections From the Murmansk Run Now in his 80s, Ed Woods (above) was 16 when he shipped out as a merchant mariner during World War II. alert for German spies and saboteurs coming here posing as lost seamen and so forth. It was said they were chosen for their fluency in English and their knowledge of the United States. You men fit that description. However, I have checked your backgrounds and have verified what you have told me.” We were driven to the offices of the American Consulate where we learned that Iceland had recently obtained its independence from Denmark. It was now a free and independent country. We were surprised to learn that the personnel at the consulate were mostly Icelanders. We had expected all of them to be Americans; however, we were told that only the top envoys were American citizens. A pleasant elderly Icelander, Hans Erickson, listened to our story and said, “I will do whatever is necessary and in my means to give you aid and comfort.” He explained that previously, while America had maintained a huge military presence in Iceland, it only had a very small consulate. However, now that Iceland was independent, the United States was building an embassy for the newly appointed ambassador and adding more American employees. Hans asked us to wait while he contacted the American Attaché on duty for the day. In a few minutes, a well-dressed man about 35 years old entered the room accompanied Smith shouted. “We’re American citizens, survivors of two ships sunk by the Germans. I want to see the ambassador right now.” “The ambassador is not in residence and if he were, you still could not talk with him. I am in charge.” With that, he told the Marines to escort us to the holding room.” I decided to speak up and said, “Sir, my name is Johnny Johnson. I am a native New Yorker. I was a wiper in the engine room of the American oil tanker the S/S Pine Hill. The Pine Hill was hit by a German bomb in Liverpool, England, and set on fire. The ship was taken to a nearby repair yard and its crew, including me, was asked to volunteer to sail on another ship. I did so and was assigned to the S/S John Henry and joined a convoy bound for Murmansk, Russia. Later, we were engaged in a fight with a German U-Boat and sank it but the darn sub blew our bridge off before it went down and we lost control of the ship for a short time. We sailed to the nearest friendly port, a godforsaken island named Franz Josef, and had to deal with a bunch of unfriendly Russians. From there we went to Spitsbergen and the Norwegians, real nice guys, helped us to make temporary repairs and gave us some fuel. “We started for England but were hit by a torpedo and the John Henry split in two and sank. We took to the lifeboats; the next morning it was foggy and we didn’t see any other boats. Eight of us made it to the Norwegian island named Jan Mayen. There had been 10 survivors but two died in the lifeboat. We don’t know if any of the other crew members of the John Henry survived, although I sure hope they did. There was an American weather team on Jan Mayen and they and the local Norwegians helped us. After a few weeks, a British ship, the Henry 8th, arrived with supplies for the folks on the island and agreed to take us to England. Unfortunately, the Henry 8th also was in a fight with a German U-Boat; it sank the sub but damaged its bow. It came here to Reykjavík for repairs and to drop us off so we can get transportation back to the States. I know the American authorities in London are aware of all this and if you will contact them, I am sure they will tell you that Chief Mate Smith and all of us are telling you the truth and nothing but the truth.” Smith looked at me in wonder and then smiled. I think he was surprised that I spoke up. In the past, I was considered a kid doing maintenance work in the engine room. I was never asked for an opinion and I never gave one. Now, Smith and the other six guys appeared amazed that I could speak out and explain the events of the months in a rational manner. That afternoon, one of the deckhands, Mike Kiely from Boston, told Chief Smith that he felt very sick. The chief felt his head and said it was very warm. He called for a guard and told him to get medical help for Mike immediately. The guard, a young Marine, said he would report it to the O.D. (officer of the day). An hour passed and nobody came to Mike’s assistance. Chief Smith began to scream, “We need help here and we need it now. All of you bastards are going to pay for this. I’ll see to it or I’ll die doing so.” A Marine came and told him to be quiet. By now, Mike was lying on the floor and groaning. “Help me, please help me,” he cried. He was wet with perspiration and soon quieted; it was obvious that he had passed out. There was nothing we could do to help him. There was no source of water in the cell-like room to cool his skin. The chief bent down to try to comfort him and took note that he was not breathing. “He’s dead! He’s dead!” the chief shouted. “The bastards have let him die.” A young Marine officer came to the door and asked, “What is the problem in there?” We shouted nearly in unison, “We have a dead man in here, thanks to you.” The Marine officer, Lieutenant Swift, entered the room, examined Mike’s body and told the guard to call for a stretcher. They took Mike’s body away. The lieutenant said he would have the medical doctor determine the cause of death. As he was leaving, he said, “I want you to understand, I am in charge of the Marine detachment guarding this embassy. However, I have nothing to do with the embassy staff’s policies or what decisions they make other than those that affect my men. In the meantime, I have asked our mess steward to bring you some food and drink.” A short time later, two Icelanders escorted by an armed guard brought us trays of food and hot coffee. We neither heard nor saw anyone until the following morning when an older American who identified himself as Dr. Liebling, the official embassy physician, came to tell us that, following an autopsy, it was learned that Mike had died due to a ruptured appendix. As he was leaving the room, Dr. Liebling said, “If we had known of the man’s condition sooner, we may have been able to save him.” It was obvious that not one of us knew what to say. We were all too upset. Poor Mike had suffered through so many months of despair, lost at sea in a lifeboat, stranded on strange foreign islands and then making it to a supposedly friendly country and be treated like the enemy. What hurt all of us the most was the fact that if Mike had been treated when he first complained, he could have been saved and lived to go home. Chief Smith suggested that we all say a prayer and he led us in saying an Our Father. I wanted to cry but I knew I was not supposed to. I thought the other men would not understand; I fought back the tears. Smith asked the Marine guard to ask Lieutenant Swift to please return and speak with him. When he arrived, Chief Mate Smith introduced himself and asked Swift to please listen to what he had to say. He then recited almost word for word what I had told Buller, the attaché. Continued on Page 14 Seafarers LOG 11 8/23/2012 10:05:00 AM �Seafarers Support Stand For America Rally in Philadelphia S eafarers were among tens of thousands of union leaders, members, and supporters Aug. 11 who gathered in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park to participate in the Workers Stand for America rally. More than 30 unlicensed apprentices from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., along with some 70 rank-and-file SIU members from the Philadelphia and New York areas, joined some 40,000 American workers during the event. Also representing the union were SIU Vice President Atlantic Region Joseph Soresi, Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift, Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Baselice and Port of New York Safety Director Mark von Seigel. Collectively, those attending the rally advocated “America’s Second Bill of rights” (a right to full employment, a living wage, participation in the electoral process, the right to organize and collectively bargain, the right to a quality education and the right to decent social services) and unrestricted access to the opportunity for each. They also urged all elected officials and all Americans in general to sign their names in support of those values and make them the foundations of America’s future national economic and social policies. In addition to President Obama, who appeared in a pre-taped video message, official rally speakers included AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka; U.S. Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) and Bob Brady (D-Pa.); Edwin Hill, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers President; Building and Construction Trades Department President Sean McGarvey and several labor movement activists. Their mutual message was one of activism and the need to rise up and fight back against deteriorating wages, outsourced jobs, corporate greed, inequality, and the uncomfortable feelings people experience when they are being pushed into economic devastation. “It was a tremendous event,” said Soresi. “Labor clearly spoke out about the state of the economy and the devastating impact it is having on all Americans, especially working people. “I heard a number of things that if implemented will make life much better for working people. Organizers should be congratulated for a job well done,” he concluded. “Let’s hope that this outing and others like it will achieve their desired results.” Vandegrift, who was in charge of the trainees from the Paul Hall Center, echoed Soresi’s views, adding, “This was truly a rally to remember and the turnout was very impressive. I thought all of the speakers were right on point with their message; they had the full support and backing of everyone who attended. “I’m glad that some of our trainees had the opportunity to attend this rally because it gave them their first real exposure to the labor movement and what solidarity really means,” he said. “Hopefully, they will remember this experience and incorporate the lessons they learned from it into their careers as Seafarers.” 12 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log_X.indd 12-13 September 2012 Apprentices from the Paul Hall Center (photo above) were among the approximately 40,000 people who gathered in Philadelphia Aug. 11 for a peaceful but powerful demonstration promoting America’s working families. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka (photo at top right) delivered remarks to the masses, many of whom are pictured in the remaining photos. September 2012 Seafarers LOG 13 8/24/2012 12:03:02 PM �Cub Scouts Learn About Maritime Class members participate in fire emergency training at the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, part of the Paul Hall Center. Grads Reflect on PHC Experience Continued from Page 8 said. “I want to thank the union leadership and instructors for everything they do.” Fogg told the apprentices they are embarking on an important path. “You are our future and we really hold that in our hearts,” he said. “Please respect and look out for each other.” Mensah, who’s sailed out of Wilmington since joining the SIU in 1997, said the union – and the accompanying training – helped him carve out a better life for his family. “Through them I was able to send my wife to school and get a couple of things for myself,” he said. “I would like to thank all of them here. I’ve learned a lot.” Mensah recommended the trainees take every opportunity to learn and help each other. He also reminded them of how valuable their work skills and job opportunities were during such a tough economic period. “If you don’t understand anything, ask questions,” he said. “That’s what we are there for – so we can help each other with good seamanship.” Addressing the audience following the bosuns’ speeches, SIU President Michael Sacco praised the graduates for their eloquence. Their success, he added, exemplified the SIU’s core purpose. “That’s what this union is all about,” he said. “Educating and upgrading people and making a better life for each and every one of us.” The Port Arthur International Seafarers Center recently teamed up with Kansas City Southern Railways and the Port of Port Arthur for an all-day event that included lessons about the maritime industry and its connections to other businesses. As part of the occasion, Cub Scouts and chaperones informally met in Port Arthur with SIU tugboat Capt. Chris Thibodeaux (leaning on rail of Seabulk’s Nike), who discussed the importance of safety and also described different types of tugboats and the work they perform. Mariner Recalls Days at Sea During World War II Continued from Page 11 He ended by asking Swift to call the maritime authorities in London as they are aware of our previous difficulties and had been expecting us before the Henry 8th was damaged. He could also contact the Henry 8th’s captain. “I’m sure the ship is still in port and he can verify the fact that he picked us up at Jan Mayen Island and carried us here,” Smith said. “I understand your status here at the embassy and I will not ask you to do anything for us that would jeopardize your position. All I ask is for you to make the necessary inquiries that will confirm our identities.” That very afternoon, Swift arrived together with Hans Erickson and told us that he had been able to verify all that we had told the embassy staff and that he had reported his findings to Buller, and that we were free to go. “Go where?” Smith asked. Erickson said to come up to his desk and he would help us. Hans made a few phone calls and we were taken to a small hotel and told we could stay there until arrangements were made for our return to the States. We thanked him and the lieutenant for their faith in us. The hotel had a restaurant that served breakfast and dinner. It was good food except, at the end of the week, we had tired of eating fish. There were other items on the menu: dairy products, chicken, etc., but very little beef or pork. The hotel had a spa in a room near the lobby that featured warm, almost hot water pumped in from the natural hot springs outside of the city. We used the hot tubs every day, sometimes twice. It felt so good, especially when I recalled the freezing days in the lifeboat and the unheated huts on the islands in the Barents Sea. A few days later, we were summoned to the new embassy by American Assistant Ambassador Anthony F. Martone. He told us that the ambassador and he had learned of our plight and wanted to make amends. “First, I want to tell you that Percy Buller has been relieved of his duties at the 14 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log.indd 14 embassy and is being returned to the States under guard.” He continued, “Buller not only mishandled your arrival in Reykjavík, and severely mistreated you, but it was discovered that he had misappropriated huge sums of money from the embassy’s treasury to pay for his illicit activities. Buller was a compulsive gambler, and apparently not a very good one. He also paid the rent for his girlfriend’s apartment with embassy’s funds.” He continued, “Now for some good news. I have arranged for the seven of you to go to a local men’s store and be fitted with all new clothes courtesy of the good people of Iceland. Tomorrow night, you are invited to the grand opening party of our new embassy building. Please come an hour before the party so that a staff member or I can fill you in on the rules of protocol when meeting members of the Icelandic government and the ambassador and his wife. It is also quite possible that dignitaries from other counties may attend, although they have not yet acknowledged their invitations.” I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. Here I was, Johnny Johnson from New York City, being invited to a party at the American embassy. Wow! At the men’s shop, we were fitted with dress clothes: new suits, shirts, ties, and underwear, the best I ever had, and then told to select whatever work clothes we would need to replace the ones we had lost at sea. The next evening, we were given a warm greeting by everyone we met at the embassy. However, I could sense that the various diplomats and their staff were merely being polite and were pleased to see us leave when we said our thank and goodbyes. The following week, we were called by the embassy and told to be prepared to fly home the next day. There was room for seven more passengers on an Army plane leaving for Washington, D.C., and seats had been reserved for us. When we arrived in Washington, the seven of us said our goodbyes and each went his separate way. I took a train to New York’s Pennsylvania Station and then a subway car to my home on the west side. I had telephoned my folks from Washington and told them of my arrival back in the States and they were waiting for me with open arms. Boy, it really felt good to be safely back home with my family. There was a letter from Larry waiting for me at the house. He was alive and well. He explained that he gotten my home address from the Maritime Service. It read: Dear Johnny, I was so happy to hear from the government that you were alive. The day the John Henry went down, I wasn’t able to make it to a lifeboat and had to swim for it. Three of us, two deckhands and me were able to climb on a free-floating raft. I never knew how cold one could be until I sat on the raft for a couple of hours. There was a heavy fog all about us and we couldn’t see a thing. Then, suddenly, a ship came alongside of us, a Russian destroyer! It took us aboard and a medic treated us for hypothermia. I was never too fond of Russians, especially after the way they treated us at Franz Joseph Land, but I have to say I was happy to see them that day. Anyway, I finally made it to Murmansk, although not the way I expected to. I tried to make inquiries about you and the other guys but the Russians said they didn’t know a thing. I don’t know whatever became of the two deckhands that were rescued with me. The Russians don’t like to give out any information. After a few weeks, I got a ride back to the States on an old freighter. I guess I have to tell you, I had to have one of my legs amputated because gangrene had set in when it was frozen. This means I won’t be going back to sea. I’m home here in Ames, Iowa, trying to get used to my new artificial leg. I’m enclosing my address and hoping that maybe one day you can get to come here and visit with me. We sure will have a lot to talk about. By the way, when I was in the hospital in Murmansk, I heard that there had been an attempt to exchange prisoners between the Russians and the Germans. A friendly Russian Red Cross representative allowed me to read the proposed list of names because he knew that some of the names were American. I was happy to see Captain Behlmer’s name listed. The Red Cross rep said that when he visited the prisoner of war camp he met Captain Behlmer, who told him that he and three others had been picked up by a German submarine. Behlmer told him that he did not know what became of the three crewmen because they were considered enlisted men and sent to a different camp. The rep didn’t copy the other names from Captain Behlmer and the prisoner exchange never came about. I sure hope Captain Behlmer made it. He was a good man and always gave us a fair deal. I hope this letter finds you in good health. You proved to be a good friend and I’m happy to know you made it back home. Your friend, Larry I was very happy to hear that good old Larry made it home but I was sorry to hear that he had lost a leg. Someday, I hope to go out there to Iowa and see him. He’s right; we’ll have a lot to talk about. While I was home in New York, I spent an entire month visiting my family, my friends and my old school buddies, filling them with stories of my first trip to sea. A few of my older friends seemed skeptical when I related my days in the lifeboat and life on islands in the northern seas. Then it was time to get back to sea and help win the war. I went downtown to the crewing office and obtained a wiper’s berth on a newly built oil tanker. The day we left port, I learned we were heading for the Panama Canal and would be crossing over to the Pacific. I wondered what next was in store for me. September 2012 8/23/2012 10:05:12 AM �October & November Membership Meetings Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea July 16, 2012 - August 15, 2012 Piney Point........*Tuesday: October 9, Monday: November 5 Algonac............................Friday: October 12, November 9 Port Baltimore.........................Thursday: October 11, November 8 Guam..........................Thursday: October 25, November 22 Honolulu...........................Friday: October 19, November 16 Houston.......Monday: October 15, * Tuesday: November 13 Jacksonville...................Thursday: October 11, November 8 Joliet.............................Thursday: October 18, November 15 Mobile......................Wednesday: October 17, November 14 New Orleans.....................Tuesday: October 16, November 13 New York........................Tuesday: October 9, November 6 Norfolk..........................Thursday: October 11, November 8 Oakland........................Thursday: October 18, November 15 Philadelphia...............Wednesday: October 10 , November 7 Port Everglades............Thursday: October 18, November 15 San Juan.........................Thursday: October 11, November 8 St. Louis............................Friday: October 19, November 16 Tacoma.............................Friday: October 26, November 23 Wilmington.......................Monday: October 22, November 19 * Piney Point change created by Columbus Day holiday. * Houston change created by Veterans Day holiday. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personal Brandon Maeda would like to get in touch with Wagner Pellerin. Please contact Brandon at brandonmaeda@gmail.com ATTENTION SEAFARERS : SPAD Fights For You! SIU Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activity Donation SPAD September 2012 11767_Log_X.indd 15 Total Registered All Groups A B C Total Shipped All Groups Trip A B C Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Deck Department 20 13 2 11 4 1 2 1 2 1 1 1 6 5 1 7 9 1 20 18 2 20 11 1 9 5 0 2 0 0 5 3 5 5 3 1 39 14 4 44 10 2 36 27 4 27 14 1 7 2 1 5 5 0 15 3 1 16 2 2 9 1 1 15 6 0 45 19 6 36 13 3 22 25 9 17 21 4 25 3 2 17 2 0 8 6 4 7 3 2 3 4 0 2 3 0 7 8 2 5 4 1 47 10 7 33 10 3 5 2 1 2 1 1 33 22 3 27 14 2 363 191 57 299 136 26 1 28 20 1 1 3 2 2 6 5 1 3 5 31 19 3 0 12 8 1 1 11 4 5 20 73 28 7 8 62 37 4 1 4 3 2 3 18 6 1 3 19 1 3 20 76 29 9 6 32 32 12 9 41 10 7 3 10 5 2 1 1 2 0 3 10 12 3 18 61 19 7 0 6 2 1 15 64 34 20 124 567 274 93 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 6 5 4 4 3 0 3 0 0 0 7 7 0 3 5 13 7 0 11 5 1 1 0 0 0 4 6 1 10 3 11 19 0 11 9 26 20 3 20 18 2 3 0 2 2 12 3 0 9 1 4 3 0 6 2 21 13 1 13 5 15 16 4 8 12 10 7 2 4 4 6 1 1 2 1 1 1 0 2 0 1 8 0 2 4 18 5 1 16 3 3 2 1 1 1 10 12 2 9 10 171 142 20 133 88 3 0 2 3 0 0 6 9 1 2 0 0 7 1 0 0 4 9 1 4 52 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 7 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 3 0 0 2 0 11 6 1 4 4 0 3 2 0 2 0 0 8 5 0 7 2 0 17 9 0 16 2 0 16 9 1 11 5 0 1 1 0 2 1 0 4 0 1 3 1 0 4 1 1 2 1 0 16 4 0 13 6 0 18 9 3 9 6 0 23 2 2 13 1 1 3 1 0 5 0 0 2 2 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 3 1 0 21 6 2 20 4 1 2 3 0 1 2 0 22 4 1 18 3 0 183 68 13 130 43 3 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 4 12 8 0 3 6 3 8 27 20 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 2 1 9 4 0 3 1 0 1 14 4 0 1 1 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 2 6 6 0 5 5 1 4 8 10 2 11 5 3 7 0 1 6 19 9 0 21 10 0 13 1 4 3 27 22 0 1 2 0 1 2 1 1 0 2 1 4 3 1 2 0 0 1 5 2 0 2 2 0 1 2 0 2 4 6 4 19 12 4 11 7 3 10 48 37 1 32 15 1 15 16 0 1 30 47 2 10 7 2 5 1 1 2 22 10 0 3 2 0 1 1 0 0 2 2 0 5 0 0 4 3 0 0 8 3 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 2 4 5 7 2 2 10 1 5 10 14 8 0 3 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 3 14 6 1 9 2 3 12 29 27 26 161 86 14 97 49 23 63 263 216 GRAND TOTALS: 743 562 176 576 364 93 252 1,189 833 364 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 1 1 1 1 0 0 2 1 1 0 0 0 1 2 2 15 7 4 6 0 3 1 5 7 0 18 9 2 5 1 0 13 11 0 32 21 4 34 25 8 4 3 0 9 4 0 6 3 1 32 24 4 23 22 4 20 14 3 6 1 1 0 1 0 2 18 0 25 13 1 4 2 1 22 26 2 267 212 38 0 8 2 5 0 0 1 0 0 5 5 0 3 16 6 1 1 6 3 1 3 16 6 0 5 30 9 0 6 27 12 1 0 1 1 0 0 9 1 2 1 6 1 1 8 36 6 0 3 23 11 3 6 27 5 2 1 4 1 0 0 3 0 0 3 4 0 0 8 29 5 0 0 3 3 0 5 39 6 1 53 292 84 17 Seafarers LOG 15 8/24/2012 12:01:54 PM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services 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 This month’s question was answered by SIU members at the Jacksonville hall. Question: What is your favorite part of your day/routine while out to sea? Gregory Howard Oiler After watch, I like to go to the stern and look at the sunset or watch the sunrise in the mornings. Usually, I head to the stern and relax for about an hour or so. I like to watch the dolphins play. It’s just to relax and clear my mind. 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 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 good. I enjoy feeding people and cooking. I feed them good. It’s like having your own business out at sea. We have some good times with each other. Marcel Soares Oiler My favorite part of the day is working in the engine room and learning about all the machinery. We go over the diagrams and semantics and we’re learning something new every day. I like working with the engineers and my fellow shipmates. We’re able to feed off each other and help each other out. Willie Massaline Steward Lunchtime is probably my favorite part of the day. I get an opportunity to see how people will react to what’s on the menu and see how they enjoy what we do. I like to be creative with the lunch menu BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 and I like to see people come down and see the different selections. Edward Porter Steward My favorite part of the day is the morning time. I get up, fix breakfast, see everybody and make everybody feel the office. It’s a unique type of work and I’m blessed to be able to do that type of work. Michael Deren Oiler I love everything. I like being in the engine room. I like working with equipment and working in a team as an oiler. It’s very important to have a good interaction between you and your co-workers. There’s always something you can learn. James Rush AB/Maintenance My favorite part of the day is just being out on deck doing different jobs. It may vary – sometimes in the mornings it’s better than the afternoons. But overall, it’s like another day at Pics-From-The-Past Pensioner Laureano Capelo Perez recently came across an old newspaper article and related photos that he subsequently mailed to the LOG. The snapshots are from a late October 1956 voyage aboard the Steel Chemist; Perez is pictured in the photo at left while some of his shipmates are in the other two photos below. The article, from a Baltimore newspaper, pointed out that the Steel Chemist was carrying seven Marylanders when the vessel traversed the Suez Canal “during the first days of the Israeli-Egyptian fighting, without anyone aboard being aware of the world-shaking events taking place around them.” Those events, known as the Suez Crisis of 1956, saw Egypt seize control of the canal from the British- and French-owned company that managed it, which the U.S. Department of State describes as having “had important consequences for U.S. relations with both Middle Eastern countries and European allies.” Perez was listed as a messman on that voyage aboard the Steel Chemist, but he spent most of his 34-year SIU career as a member of the engine department. He joined the union in 1954 and became a U.S. citizen in 1957. 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 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 11767_Log.indd 16 September 2012 8/23/2012 10:05:17 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 JAMES BERNACHI Brother James Bernachi, 65, joined the SIU in 1975 while in the port of St. Louis. He initially sailed with Inland Tugs. Brother Bernachi was born in St. Louis and shipped in the deck department. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Bernachi’s most recent trip was on the American Merlin. He lives in Cahokia, Ill. DONALD BYRD Brother Donald Bryd, 68, started his SIU career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the Seafarers. The deck department member primarily worked with Keystone Shipping Service. In 2008, Brother Bryd attended classes at the Piney Point school. He calls Mobile, Ala., home. JOSEPH CALLAGHAN Brother Joseph Callaghan, 66, began sailing with the union in 1968. His first trip was on the OMI Sacramento. Brother Callaghan worked in the engine department. His most recent voyage was aboard the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus. Brother Callaghan makes his home in the Philippines. GUADALUPE CAMPBELL Sister Guadalupe Campbell, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1991 in New Orleans. She originally sailed aboard the Liberty Star. Sister Campbell shipped in the engine department. In 1999, she upgraded her skills at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Sister Campbell’s last trip was on the Brenton Reef. She is a resident of Kenner, La. EDWARD COLLINS Brother Edward Collins, 64, donned the SIU colors in 1967. The steward department member’s first trip was with South Atlantic Caribbean. Brother Collins attended classes on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Prior to his retirement, he worked aboard the Eagle. Brother Collins resides in Spring, Texas. PERRY ELLIS Brother Perry Ellis, 65, became an SIU member in 1966. He originally sailed on the Fairport. Brother Ellis September 2012 11767_Log.indd 17 enhanced his skills on two occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Ellis’ final ship was the Maersk Maryland. He calls Gainesville, Fla., home. DON FILONI Brother Don Filoni, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1991. He was employed with Waterman Steamship Corporation for the duration of his career. Brother Filoni worked in the deck department. He attended classes in 1993 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Filoni lives in Welaka, Fla. RANDOLPH LLANES Brother Randolph Llanes, 65, was born in Manila. He began shipping with the SIU in 1979. Brother Llanes first worked on Tyco’s Long Lines. He was an engine member department member. Brother Llanes’ last voyage was aboard the Horizon Falcon. He now makes his home in Oakland, Calif. WILLIAM LOWERY Brother William Lowery, 65, started sailing with the union in 1997. He sailed in the deck department. In 2001, Brother Lowery took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He most recently shipped on the Observation Island. Brother Lowery is a resident of Pensacola, Fla. MICHAEL PECK Brother Michael Peck, 59, signed on with the SIU in 1974. He initially worked aboard a Rye Marine vessel. Brother Peck was born in Fort Worth, Texas, and sailed in the deck department. He attended classes frequently at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Before his retirement, Brother Peck shipped on the Oakland. He resides in American Canyon, Calif. JUAN ROSARIO Brother Juan Rosario, 69, became an SIU member in 1968 while in the port of New York. He originally shipped aboard the Jefferson City. Brother Rosario sailed in all three departments during his career. He enhanced his seafaring abilities in 1985 and 2001 at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Rosario’s final ship was the Horizon Navigator. He calls Bethle- INLAND Liberty Glory. He makes his home in Laplace, La. hem, Pa., home. CHARLES SADLER Brother Charles Sadler, 67, donned the SIU colors in 1998. His first vessel was the Maersk Tennessee; his most recent, the Liberty Glory. Brother Sadler was a member of the engine department. He upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Sadler lives in St. Augustine, Fla. CARLOS SIERRA Brother Carlos Sierra, 66, joined the Seafarers in 1991. He initially sailed on the Sealift Mediterranean. Brother Sierra is a native of Honduras. The steward department member upgraded his skills on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Sierra most recently shipped aboard the ROBERT SUTHERLAND Brother Robert Sutherland, 63, began shipping with the SIU in 1998. His first trip was on the Del Sud. Brother Sutherland worked in the steward department. His most recent voyage was aboard the Liberty Grace. Brother Sutherland is a resident of New Orleans. RONALD VANTRESS Brother Ronald Vantress, 65, started his SIU career in 1969 while in New Orleans. He originally worked on the Del Uruguay. Brother Vantress sailed in the deck department. His last trip was aboard the Robert E. Lee. Brother Vantress settled in Tallahassee, Fla. RUDOLPH WINFIELD Brother Rudolph Winfield, 66, signed on with the Seafarers in 1965. He initially sailed on the Cottonwood Creek. Brother Winfield sailed in the steward department. Prior to his retirement; Brother Winfield sailed aboard the Quality. He calls Norfolk, Va., home. DONALD AUTERY Brother Donald Autery, 59, donned the SIU colors in 1989. The deck department member sailed with Allied Transportation Company for the vast majority of his career. In 2002 and 2007, Brother Autery took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He resides in South Mills, N.C. WILLIAM DEKKER Brother William Dekker, 58, became a Seafarer in 1981 in Norfolk, Va. His first trip was aboard a vessel operated by Lynnhaven Service Inc. Brother Dekker attended classes on two occasions at the SIU-affiliated school. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Dekker last worked on a Great Lakes Dredge & Dock’s boat. He lives in Chesapeake, Va. Continued on Page 20 This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1948 The Atlantic and Gulf District of the Seafarers International Union is hale and hearty as it approaches the 10th anniversary of its founding. It is, in fact, in sounder shape than at any other time in its history. It enjoys the distinction of being perhaps the most formidable organization of maritime workers bound together by joint purpose of any waterfront group in the nation. The most pointed example is when the SIU netted a $12.50 across-the-board pay wage increase for all hands and $25 for bosuns. In every instance, bold moves were overwhelmingly supported by the membership, which saw each of the moves pay dividends. 1963 Upholding long-standing SIU and industry protests that the Cargo Preference Act and other U.S. shipping legislation was being bypassed at the expense of the American-flag fleet, top government officials in the persons of Vice President Lyndon Johnson and Attorney General Robert Kennedy have rallied behind the maritime industry in its fight to obtain a fair share of government-financed cargo ships. The vice president, on a goodwill tour this month through the Scandinavian countries, lashed back at European critics of U.S. shipping legislation – specifically the 50-50 law – and emphasized the right of the U.S. government to “assure our nation of a private maritime capacity.” At the same time … the attorney general took a big step on Sept. 9 in plugging a loophole developed by the agriculture department in interpreting the 50-50 law. He ruled that cargo preference for U.S. ships not only applies to foreign aid shipments on a government-to-government basis, but also on surpluses financed by the federal government and sold to foreign traders as “private” transactions. 1981 This country’s first big demonstration of the 1980s was one organized by the AFL-CIO. Its success was obvious when on Sept. 19 – Solidarity Day – a huge crowd of approximately 300,000 workers, civil rights activists and other concerned citizens marched on the nation’s capital. They were protesting the administration’s budget cuts that will end many of the social benefits for which workers have struggled, as well as weaken the rules that help protect their safety on the job. The SIU, which provided the security for the march, sent several hundred Seafarers from New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Norfolk and the Harry Lundberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. 1996 A last-minute effort to gut the Jones Act appears to be blocked in the House of Representatives because of widespread bipartisan support among the panel and sub-committee members who have jurisdiction over a newly introduced bill. Just hours before members of the House and Senate left Capitol Hill in early August for their summer recess, Rep. Nick Smith (R-Mich.) introduced the Coastal Shipping Competition Act. Chances for movement of H.R. 4006 may be minimal because of an April 15 statement of support for the Jones Act signed by 15 legislators, including the complete membership of the House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel. Seafarers LOG 17 8/23/2012 10:05:19 AM �Final Departures DEEP SEA CHARLES ARASA Brother Charles Arasa, 51, passed away March 22. He first donned the SIU colors in 2001 in San Francisco. Brother Arasa’s earliest trip was on the Global Mariner. The steward department member most recently worked aboard the USNS Bowditch. Brother Arasa was a resident of Stockton, Calif. JOHN AVERSA Pensioner John Aversa, 83, died March 5. Brother Aversa was born in New York. He started sailing with the SIU in 1952. Brother Aversa was first employed with Blidberg Rothchild Company. He worked in the deck department. Brother Aversa’s last voyage was aboard the Developer. He began collecting his retirement compensation in 1994. Brother Aversa settled in Summerfield, N.C. WILLIAM CRUICKSHANK Pensioner William Cruickshank, 72, passed away March 16. Brother Cruickshank joined the union in 1962. He initially shipped aboard the Mt. McKinley. Brother Cruickshank was a deck department member. His final ship was the Westward Venture. Brother Cruickshank retired in 2004. He was born in Ohio but resided in the Philippines. ment. His final trip was on the Ultra Max. Brother Edwards started receiving his retirement compensation in 2002. He lived in Wagram, N.C. MARCELO EIMAR Pensioner Marcelo Eimar, 95, passed away March 26. Brother Eimar was a native of the Philippines. He started sailing with the union in 1955. Brother Eimar’s first trip to sea was on the Ft. Hoskins. He shipped in the engine department. Brother Eimar last worked aboard the Santa Maria. He became a pensioner in 1981 and called the Philippines home. MARVIN EMANS Pensioner Marvin Emans, 83, died April 26. Brother Emans was born in Minnesota. He began sailing with the union in 1972 in the port of New York. Brother Emans’ earliest trip was on the Noma. The engine department member’s final trip was aboard the Galveston. Brother Emans retired in 1985 and resided in Edmonds, Wash. CRISTOBAL GARCIA Brother Cristobal Garcia, 70, passed away April 3. He joined the SIU in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. Brother Garcia, who worked in the steward department, last sailed on the Green Dale. He was a resident of Ocon Park, N.Y. CHARLES DANDRIDGE GEORGE HAMMOCK Pensioner Charles Dandridge, 92, died March 1. Brother Dandridge was born in Alabama. He began his seafaring career in 1951 while in Mobile, Ala. He originally shipped on the Chiwawa and primarily sailed in the deck department. Prior to his retirement in 1979, Brother Dandridge worked on the Columbia. He was a resident of Mobile. Pensioner George Hammock, 92, died April 2. Brother Hammock became a Seafarer in 1948 in Norfolk, Va. He initially shipped with Waterman Steamship Corporation. A member of the deck department, Brother Hammock last sailed aboard the Jefferson Davis. He went on pension in 1984 and called Tampa, Fla., home. ERNEST DUHON AHMED HUSSAIN Pensioner Ernest Duhon, 66, passed away April 7. Brother Duhon became a Seafarer in 1965. His first vessel was the Del Norte; his last, the Horizon Fairbanks. Brother Duhon, who sailed in the deck department, went on pension in 2007. The New Orleans native made his home in Longview, Wash. Pensioner Ahmed Hussain, 72, passed away March 11. Brother Hussain first donned the SIU colors in 1977 in Jacksonville, Fla. He originally sailed on the Inger. The steward department member last shipped aboard the Westward Venture. Brother Hussain retired in 2000 and lived in Tacoma, Wash. BOBBY EDWARDS JAMES MCLINDEN Pensioner Bobby Edwards, 74, died April 15. Brother Edwards joined the SIU in 1960. His earliest voyage was aboard the Cottonwood Creek. Brother Edwards was born in North Carolina and sailed in engine depart- Pensioner James McLinden, 88, died April 11. Brother McLinden, a Pennsylvania native, joined the union in 1943 while in Mobile, Ala. He initially shipped on a Calmar Steamship vessel. Brother McLin- 18 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log_X.indd 18 den sailed in the deck department. His last ship was the Beaver State. Brother McLinden went on pension in 1985 and resided in Philadelphia. ARMANDO MONCADA Pensioner Armando Moncada, 78, passed away March 23. Brother Moncada joined the SIU ranks in 1973 while in New Orleans. The steward department member’s first trip to sea was aboard the Belgium Victory. Brother Moncada last shipped on the Stonewall Jackson. He started collecting his pension in 1999 and made his home in Honduras. GEORGE OBERLE Pensioner George Oberle, 76, died March 1. Brother Oberle began his seafaring career in 1967 in the port of Baltimore. He originally sailed with Interocean American Shipping Company. Brother Oberle worked in the deck department. He last shipped on the Global Mariner. Brother Oberle became a pensioner in 2001 and lived in Baltimore. LEIF PEDERSEN Pensioner Leif Pedersen, 76, passed away March 11. He was born in Denmark. Brother Pedersen started sailing with the SIU in 1991. He initially shipped aboard the Sealift China Sea as a member of the deck department. Brother Pedersen’s final ship was the Nantucket Shores. He retired in 2002 and settled in Pearl River, La. ERNEST PURAS Pensioner Ernest Puras, 90, died March 7. Brother Puras became a union member in 1954. He sailed in the deck department of vessels operated by Waterman Steamship Corporation including the Fairport and Jefferson Davis. Brother Puras began receiving his retirement compensation in 1981. He called Laredo, Texas, home. DUANE STEVENS Brother Duane Stevens, 60, passed away March 21. He first donned the SIU colors in 1972. Brother Stevens initially sailed aboard the Trans Oneida. A member of the deck department, he was last employed on the Nuevo San Juan. Brother Stevens made his home in Loranger, La. FELIPE TORRES Pensioner Felipe Torres, 78, died March 7. Brother Torres joined the union in 1966. He shipped with Gulf Canal Line during his early years. Brother Torres was born in Richmond, Texas, and sailed in the engine department. Before retiring in 1996, he sailed on the Overseas Arctic. Brother Torres was still a resident of Richmond. JOHN WHITED Pensioner John Whited, 90, passed away March 29. Brother Whited, a native of Tennessee, began sailing with the SIU in 1951. His first voyage was aboard the Alcoa Ranger. Brother Whited was a deck department member. His final trip was on the Del Mar. Brother Whited retired in 1976 and continued to reside in Tennessee. INLAND GUS BREAUD Pensioner Gus Breaud, 86, died March 23. Brother Breaud was born in Reserve, La. He joined the SIU in 1962 while in New Orleans. Brother Breaud primarily shipped with National Marine Service. In 1983, he went on pension and settled in Norco, La. ELBERT DAVIS Pensioner Elbert Davis, 84, passed away April 16. Brother Davis started his SIU career in 1967. He originally worked with Steuart Transportation Company. Brother Davis sailed in the deck department. Prior to his retirement in 1994, he shipped on a Mariner Towing vessel. Brother Davis lived in Nashville, Tenn. MATTHEW HOBAN Brother Matthew Hoban, 49, died March 27. He became a union member in 2004. Brother Hoban sailed aboard the ITB Cleveland for the duration of his career. He worked in the engine department and called Cleveland, Ohio, home. AUBREY JORDAN Pensioner Aubrey Jordan 70, passed away March 31. Brother Jordan was born in Alabama. The deck department member joined the SIU in 1975 and sailed with Dravo Basic Materials. Brother Jordan became a pensioner in 2004. He was a resident of Range, Ala. sel. Brother Miholick made his home in Lemarque, Texas. THOMAS ODOM Pensioner Thomas Odom, 91, passed away April 9. Brother Odom first donned the SIU colors in 1962. He mainly worked with Dravo Basic Materials Company. Brother Odom started collecting his pension in 1983. He continued to reside in his native state of Alabama. LOLA PINKSTON Pensioner Lola Pinkston, 83, died April 21. Sister Pinkston began sailing with the union in 1981. She was born in Arkansas. Sister Pinkston was a steward department member. She originally shipped with Heartland Transportation. Sister Pinkston was last employed by Orgulf Transport Company. She retired in 1993 and lived in Bruceton, Tenn. JAMES ROLIN Brother James Rolin, 57, passed away April 24. He joined the SIU in 1977, initially sailing aboard a Dixie Carriers vessel. Brother Rolin shipped in the deck department. His final trip was with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington. Brother Rolin was a resident of Harrison, Mich. BLAINE TOMPSON Brother Blaine Tompson, 37, died April 5. The deck department member started shipping with the union in 1994. Brother Tompson was primarily employed with Crescent Towing & Salvage of New Orleans. He called Louisiana home. JOSEPH ZOOK Pensioner Joseph Zook, 67, passed away April 7. Brother Zook was a Maryland native. He became an SIU member in 1973. Brother Zook first sailed with McAllister Towing of Baltimore as a member of the steward department. His most recent trip was on an Express Marine Inc. vessel. Brother Zook went on pension in 2011 and made his home in Baltimore. LAYTON CONAWAY Pensioner Layton Conaway, 88, died March 4. Brother Conway started sailing with the NMU in 1942. During his seafaring career he shipped aboard the Ticonderoga and the Robin Gray. Brother Conaway went on pension in 1970. He made his home in Cocoa, Fla. JAMES MIHOLICK Brother James Miholick, 60, died April 10. He began sailing with the union in 1988. Brother Miholick’s earliest trip was with Bay Houston Towing. He last worked in the deck department of a G&H Towing ves- September 2012 8/24/2012 12:01:57 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings USNS BRUCE HEEZEN (3PSC), June 16 – Chairman Robert Natividad, Secretary Abraham Mills, Educational Director Dencio Cayan, Engine Delegate Derrick Hurt, Steward Delegate Marta Williams. Chairman thanked crew members for safe voyage. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep ship clean and good cooperation all around. 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. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun reminded Seafarers to use the member portal on the SIU website and also to check the main site for the latest issue of the LOG. Crew passed a motion thanking SIU President Michael Sacco “for a great job in securing a new standard contract.” Crew asked for clarification about operating deck machinery. They said better internet service is needed at sea and in port. Crew thanked steward department for good job. 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. Remembering Brother Saunders On July 5, Seafarers and officers on the Alliance St. Louis paused to remember the late Recertified Bosun James W. Saunders, who passed away earlier this year at age 62. A traditional shipboard memorial service took place aboard the Maersk Line, Limited vessel during a voyage that began in Jacksonville, Fla., and Brother Saunders’ remains were committed to the sea. A few photos from the service are shown here, courtesy of vessel master Capt. F.B. Goodwin. The Alliance St. Louis was the bosun’s last ship – he sailed aboard it in the spring. OCEAN TITAN (Crowley), June 17 – Chairman Pablo Borja, Secretary Peter Schuetz, Educational Director Robert Flesey. Chairman pursuing verification concerning watchstanding question. He announced payoff scheduled for Houston and reminded departing crew members to clean their respective rooms. Secretary listed several items requested by crew, including equipment for crew mess. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. All hands expressed appreciation to steward department. Next port: Houston. HORIZON KODIAK (Horizon Lines), June 17 – Chairman Garry Walker, Secretary Lovie Perez, Educational Director Charles Wharton, Deck Delegate Daniel Lovely, Engine Delegate Dennis Adjetey, Steward Delegate Fakhruddin Malahi. Somewhat ironically, chairman cautioned mariners to beware of Kodiak bears while ashore, as more sightings are being reported. Secretary encouraged members to visit SIU website, where Seafarers can check their sea time, medical eligibility, dues status and much more. Educational director said, “Upgrade at Piney Point. It’s there for you.” Treasurer reported $4,460 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew suggested increasing pension benefits. They tanked SA Talama Moega for keeping linen lockers neat and clean. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Anchorage, Alaska; and Kodiak, Alaska. HORIZON DISCOVERY (Horizon Lines), June 17 – Chairman Wilfredo Velez, Secretary Michael Amador, Educational Director Eric Bain, Deck Delegate William Brown, Engine Delegate Anthony Thomas, Steward Delegate Alex Cordero. Chairman discussed email notifications available from the Coast Guard concerning expiration dates of MMDs/MMCs. He said payoff at sea is scheduled for tomorrow, and announced the new standard contract takes effect July 1. Secretary thanked crew for keeping areas clean at all times, and praised chief cook and SA for jobs well done. Educational director urged fellow members to upgrade “as soon as you can. If you are ready, Piney Point is ready for you.” No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s September 2012 11767_Log.indd 19 report from most recent issue of Seafarers LOG was read. Crew asked that minimum retirement age be lowered. Vote of thanks given to galley gang. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. ALLIANCE BEAUMONT (Maersk Line, Limited), June 24 – Chairman Thomas Banks, Secretary Charles Brooks, Deck Delegate Charles Collins, Steward Delegate Larry Griffin. Chairman reminded crew to leave rooms and laundry clean for reliefs. Educational director urged mariners to keep documents current and take advantage of upgrading opportunities at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew urged union to protect customary overtime as it relates to new resthour requirements in the Manila Amendments to the STCW Convention. Crew thanked steward department for barbecues and overall outstanding job. They also thanked electrician for keeping AC running in good order on Middle East run. Next port: Beaumont, Texas. SEALAND CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), June 30 – Chairman Robert Pagan, Secretary Allen Hollinger, Educational Director Matt Ditullio, Deck Delegate Nagi Musaid. Chairman announced upcoming payoff. He reminded mariners to carry TWIC cards during shore leave in U.S. ports. He thanked steward department for job well done and said port agent is scheduled to come aboard with copies of new contract. Secretary reminded everyone to keep documents current and training record book up-to-date. He also reminded members to stay current on dues. He mentioned the TSA’s new extended expiration date TWIC, available beginning in August. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked for clarification about STCW-related regulations. They requested new mattresses. Next ports: Los Angeles and Oakland, Calif. SEABULK ARCTIC (Seabulk Tankers), June 30 – Chairman Ronald Paradise, Secretary Alan Bartley, Educational Director Reginald Hunter, Deck Delegate Francisco Rochez, Engine Delegate Lakisha Barnes, Steward Delegate Mario Fernandez. Chairman gave vote of thanks to deck department and said they’ve “been working very hard and everything looks great.” He reminded crew to check net on gangway before raising or lowering, to make sure net isn’t hung in rollers. Crew and officers signed letter asking for transportation from ship to gate in Port Arthur, Texas, without cost to mariners. Secretary asked crew to continue helping keep mess hall and crew lounge clean. He also said if anyone wants a particular menu item, just ask and steward will try his best to get it. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, renew documents before they expire, and contribute to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Next port: Tampa, Fla. EVERGREEN STATE (Crowley), July 1 – Chairman Gregory Jenkins, Secretary Tyrell Thabit, Educational Director Montree Nakwichet, Steward Delegate Demetrio Faulve. Chairman informed crew of scheduled wage increase and discussed changes to manning scale. Educational director encouraged eligible mariners to upgrade at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md.; course information is listed in Seafarers LOG. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew suggested reducing requirements for pension eligibility. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. USNS HENSON (3PSC), July 7 – Chairman Mark Grzegorczyk, Secretary Marlon Battad, Educational Director Kevin Lewis, Engine Delegate Michael Durago, Steward Delegate Salvador Deguzman. Chairman stated danger-pay issue has been resolved amicably. He said ship had a good trip, and acknowledged Chief Cook Deguzman and OS Mahlik Rogers for their hard work. He also encouraged members to donate to SPAD and MDL. Secretary thanked everyone for helping keep public areas neat and clean. Educational director urged fellow members to upgrade their skills at the Paul Hall Center; related forms are available on the ship. He reminded everyone to keep documents current, and explained the new extended expiration date TWIC. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman read SIU President Michael Sacco’s column from latest LOG and encouraged all members to read each edition to keep up with union matters. Chairman discussed importance of awareness and safety while in port. He thanked galley gang for job well done and great barbecues every Sunday. Engine department asked crew to report any drain issues early. Next port: Pusan, Korea. HORIZON PRODUCER (Horizon Lines), July 11 – Chairman Tommie Benton, Secretary Kristin Krause, Educational Director Angel Hernandez. Crew asked for clarification concerning wage increases for Horizon vessels. Secretary explained vessel’s trash policy. Educational director reiterated request to have patrolman or other official clarify wage increases. No disputed OT reported. Crew suggested reducing requirements to qualify for pension, and to add cost-of-living increases to pension benefits. They also suggested changes to how contracts are negotiated and how they’re presented to crews. Seafarers LOG 19 8/23/2012 10:05:25 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. Continued from Page 17 MICHAEL FLEMING Brother Michael Fleming, 62, joined the union in 1968 while in the port of New Orleans. Brother Fleming originally sailed in the deep sea division as a member of the deck department. His first ship was operated by Hudson Waterways Corporation. Brother Fleming upgraded in 1968 at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Prior to his retirement, he worked with Mariner Towing. Brother Fleming settled in Hot Springs Village, Ariz. JAMES FRANCESCHI Brother James Franceschi, 66, started sailing with the SIU in 1974. He initially shipped with Wade Towing Inc. Brother Franceschi was a member of the deck department. He most recently sailed aboard a Mariner Towing vessel. Brother Franceschi makes his home in Laguna Vista, Texas. HEINZ GLEIXNER Brother Heinz Gleixner, 57, began his SIU career in 1976. He first sailed with Crowley of Puerto Rico. Brother Gleixner worked in the engine department. His most recent trip was aboard a vessel operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation. Brother Gleixner is a resident of Bayamon, P.R. MARK HALLAHAN Brother Mark Hallahan, 58, signed on with the union in 1981. He initially sailed on the Manhattan Island. In 2001, Brother Hallahan took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school. He last shipped aboard the Terrapin Island. Brother Hallahan calls New Smyrna Beach, Fla., home. EDWARD HAYWOOD Brother Edward Haywood, 55, joined the SIU in 1996 while in the port of Philadelphia. He was mainly employed with Crowley Liner Services during his career. Brother Haywood resides in Blackwood, N.J. WILLIAM HUDGINS Brother William Hudgins, 63, was born in Virginia. He became an SIU member in 1993 in Norfolk, Va. Brother Hudgins primarily shipped with Allied Transportation Company. He frequently attended classes at the Piney Point school. Brother Hudgins worked in both the steward and deck departments. He settled in Cardinal, Va. ROY LINDLEY Brother Roy Lindley, 58, donned the SIU colors in 1969. He sailed with G&H Towing for the duration of his career. Brother Lindley was an engine department member. He enhanced his skills in 1977 at the union-affiliated school. Brother Lindley lives in Ingleside, Texas. STEVEN MITCHELL Brother Steven Mitchell, 55, joined the union in 1981 in Piney Point, Md. His earliest trip was with Higman Barge Lines. Brother Mitchell last sailed with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. The deck department member makes his home in Florida. JOHN MULLEN Brother John Mullen, 62, is a native of North Carolina. He signed on with the SIU in 1976. Brother Mullen enhanced his skills frequently at the Paul Hall Center. He was mainly employed as a member of the deck department with Allied Transportation Company. Brother Mullen calls Engelhard, N.C., home. DOUGLAS REYNOLDS Brother Douglas Reynolds, 62, began sailing with the union in 1978. His first trip was on a Tug Management Corporation vessel. Brother Reynolds worked in the deck department. He upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school several times. Brother Reynolds’ most recent trip was aboard an Allied Towing vessel. He resides in Webster, Fla. the deck department. Brother Rosser enhanced his seafaring abilities in 1991 and 1992 at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His final ship was operated by Turecamo Maritime. Brother Rosser lives in Waggaman, La. SALVATORE SAGGESE Brother Salvatore Saggese, 57, donned the SIU colors in 1996 while in Philadelphia. He mostly sailed with Crowley Liner Services. Brother Saggese was born in Pennsylvania. He settled in Cinnaminson, N.J. RICHARD SALTER Brother Richard Salter, 71, started sailing with the SIU in 2004. He was originally employed by Penn Maritime Inc. In 2004, Brother Salter took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Piney Point school. He is a resident of Saraland, Ala. WALLACE ROSSER Brother Wallace Rosser, 62, became an SIU member in 1970. He sailed in 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 11767_Log.indd 20 by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Sea­farers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. September 2012 8/23/2012 10:05:27 AM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Safety Courses Advanced Firefighting September 15 September 21 September 22 September 28 October 27 November 2 December 1 December 7 Basic Firefighting/STCW September 15 September 21 October 13 October 19 November 3 November 9 December 1 December 7 Deck Department Able Seaman October 13 November 9 ARPA October 27 November 2 ECDIS September 29 October 5 December 8 December 14 GMDSS November 24 December 7 Lifeboatman/Water Survival September 15 September 28 October 13 October 26 November 11 November 23 December 8 December 21 Radar Observer October 13 October 26 Radar Renewal (One day) November 6 November 6 STOS September 15 September 28 Engine Department Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) September 15 October 12 November 10 December 7 FOWT October 13 November 9 Start Date Date of Completion Serve Safe September 29 October 5 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class begins September 10. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. The next classes will begin September 3. Government Vessels September 29 October 5 November 24 November 30 Medical Care Provider September 22 September 28 September 29 October 5 November 3 November 9 December 8 December 14 Tank PIC Barge December 8 December 14 NMC Website Provides Useful Mariner Resources The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive website covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guard-approved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at:http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC website. Machinist August 18 September 7 Marine Electrician October 20 December 14 Pumpman September 8 September 21 Welding September 15 October 5 October 20 November 9 November 24 December 14 Steward Department Chief Steward October 13 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. 11767_Log.indd 21 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. November 23 UPGRADING APPLICATION September 2012 Important Notice 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. 9/12 Seafarers LOG 21 8/23/2012 10:05:28 AM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 761 – Fourteen Phase I and Phase III unlicensed apprentices completed their requirements in this course July 6. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ahmed Yahya Ali, Justin Biggerstaff, Lars Edvardsen, Aaron Ellis, George Erwin Jr., Adrain Fraccarolli, Bernard Hall, James Hargrove, William McCrory, Ammar Mohamed, Ali Musid, Chad Parks, Edward Seelig and Joseph Turcketta. Class Instructor Ben Cusic is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Welding – Nine upgraders graduated from this course July 27. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jose Bonita, Felix Garcia, Fernando Ortega, Orlando Pajarillo Jr., Melvin Ratcliff, Salah Saleh, Thomas Swayne, Gregory Thomas and Timothy Van Pelt II. Buzzy Andrews, their instructor, is at the far left. FOWT – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) finished this course July 20: John Bodden, Mashanda Carr, Keith Carswell, James Cronk III, William Gibson, Febian Jefferson, Ian Jordan, Andre Mitchell and Deralle Watson. Their instructor, Tim Achorn, is standing at the far right. STOS – Eight individuals completed this course July 27. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Kevin Blackman, Carlos Cayetano, Chantell Dawson, Derek Gomez, Howard Guilliams, Clint Omisong, Diomedes Vigo and DeMilton Wheat. Class Instructor Bernabe Pelingon is standing at the far left. Tankship Familiarization DL – Nine upgraders graduated from this course July 27. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Darryl Bence, John Cedeno Jr., Fontanos Alejandro Ellison, Alonzo Griswell, Rommel Lopez, Mohsen Omer Mohamed, Kenneth Powell, Cornelio Villano Jr., and Fernandez Wilcox. Brad Wheeler, their instructor, is second from the left. Tankship Familiarization DL – Two classes of Phase III unlicensed apprentices and upgraders graduated from this course July 13. Finishing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Randy Baggs, Carmelo Calderon, Gary Congden, Randall Craig, Rio Cuellar, Clifford Evans, Jacob Gawne, Jason Horn, Rayshaun Hughes, Hamza Jinah, David McGuire, Yousef Mohamed, Robert Neff, Ronald Nicol, Justin Robertson, Jorge Roman, Robert Sale, Victor Sanchez, Harry Schrefer, Wiliam Sculley, Edward Smigielski, Ryan Taylor, Evgeny Umanskiy, Joshua Weiner and Justin Wilson. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Junior Engineer – Two classes of upgraders completed this course July 6. Those graduating (photo at right, in alphabetical order) were: Rafael Alvarez-Chacon, Benjamin Anderson, Brandy Baker-Days, Andrew Beach, Randy Corey, Eric Cunanan, Aleksander Djatschenko, Mark Fitzgerald, Felix Garcia, Fred Green, Marlon Green, Creg Gumanas, Derek Ivory, Kevin Kelly, Noorudin Muthala, Fernando Ortega, Jessie Parente, Lamar Pinckney, Elijah Stewart-Eastman, Richard Striverson, Timothy Van Pelt II, Labarron West, Pavis Whitley and Igor Yakunkov. Class Instructor Jay Henderson, is standing at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log_X.indd 22 September 2012 8/24/2012 12:02:04 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes BST – Fifteen Seafarers completed this course July 13. Graduating (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: Abdulrub Atiah, Darryl Bence, Justin Biggerstaff, David Brewster, John Cedeno, Jose David, Ekow Doffoh, Albert Dulig, Kenneth Powell, Timothy Sexton, Richard Shelton, Jason Stutes, Cornelio Villano, Teena Werner and Fernandez Wilcox. Class Instructor Mark Cates is standing at the far right. 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 Fire Fighting – Nine upgraders graduated from this course July 27. Those completing the required training (above, in alphabetical order) were: David Brewster, Martin Hamilton, Tobi Johnson, Eric Kjellberg, Worlise Knowles III, Keith McIntosh, Kirk Pegan, Stephen Prendergast and A.T.M. Zahid Reza. Class Instructors Wayne Johnson Jr., and Wayne Johnson Sr. are at the far left and far right, respectively. Radar Observer – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course and received certificates July 27: Satchel Caffy, Donny Castillo, Stacy Murphy, Rudy Puerto and Keith Reeder. Water Survival – Three upgraders completed their requirements in this course July 6. Graduating (above, in no particular order) were: Jose Bonita, Daid Brewster and Diomedes Vigo. Class Instructor Ben Cusic is at the far left. Basic Rigging (Great Lakes Dredge & Dock) – Nine individuals from Great Lakes Dredge & Dock completed their requirements in this course July 20. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Michael Cuthbert, John Darby, Michael Dietz, Dudley Hyatt, James McKeithan, Richard Mills Jr., George Smith, Billy Spivey and David Sullivan. (Note: Not all are pictured.) September 2012 11767_Log.indd 23 Medical Care Provider – Six upgraders finished their requirements in this course Aug. 3. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Brandon Braam, David Brewster, Martin Hamilton, Worlise Knowles III, Keith McIntosh and Whitney Sheridan. Class Instructor Mark Cates is at the far right. ARPA – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Aug. 3: Satchel Caffy, Donny Castillo, Samantha Murphy, Stacy Murphy and Rudy Puerto. BST (Hawaii) –The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course July 28 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Matthew Altepeter, Vincente Delas Alas, Kimberly Freeman, Alexandra Glomb, Donald Highsmith, Rodel Inzo, David Klotz, Jessie Libatog, Vargese Martin Pallikkal, Jazmin Martinez, Aldean McFarlane, John Mitroff, Jeffory Morris, Brandon Poindexter, Jonathan Retzlaff, Matthew Schuyler, Josette Smith, Lauren Winship and Christopher Wolfe. Seafarers LOG 23 8/23/2012 10:05:41 AM �Volume 74, Number 9 September 2012 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 SIU Snapshots SPECIAL GUESTS ABOARD USNS CHARLTON – Steward/Baker Steve Parker reports that the USNS Charlton recently hosted performers from Diavolo Dance Theater, an internationally renowned modern acrobatic dance company based in Los Angeles. The performers climbed aboard the Ocean Shipholdings-operated vessel for an Independence Day cookout in Gwangyang, Korea, where they’d been dancing as part of a World Expo 2012 festival. “It was really good to host them, especially on the Fourth of July,” Parker noted. “After a month in Korea, they were really looking forward to a good barbeque, and we were proud to be able to provide it. I have never seen a group of people happier to be with fellow Americans and have good old-fashioned American food.” Some of the performers are pictured enjoying the meal and in the posed photo, while Parker (foreground) and Chief Cook Caezar Mercado are in the other photo. ABOARD MAERSK CALIFORNIA – Recertified Steward Juan Vallejo Hernandez (left in photo at left, with Chief Cook Benjamin Advincula, right, and SA Desmond Baptiste) emailed these pictures from the Maersk California. The large group photo above, taken after a union meeting, includes Bosun Basil Dsouza, AB Gary Cardillo, AB Morris Foster, AB Robert Taylor, GUDE Malek Mohamed, AB Larry Tharp, QMED Todd Favaza, GUDE Faisal Abdo, Vallejo Hernandez, Baptiste and Chief Cook Twanna Moody. The vessel was sailing from Jebel Ali to Kuwait. 11767_Log.indd 24 MEETING ON USNS HENSON – Following a recent union meeting aboard the 3PSC-operated USNS Henson, MDR Brandon Maeda (right in photo at right below with Chief Cook Salvador Deguzman) submitted these photos of Seafarers on the Navy-owned vessel. Seated from left to right in photo at left below are Bosun Mark Grzegorczyk and SA Joseph Martin; standing from left are Chief Steward Marlon Battad, OS Mahlik Rogers and OS Rico Ecalnir. Pictured from left in the photo above are OS Ecalnir, Storekeeper Eric Johnson, SA Edgar Castillo and Chief Cook Deguzman. 8/23/2012 10:05:48 AM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource September 2012 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SEAFARERS SAIL ABOARD NEW JONES ACT TANKER UNION BACKS WORKERS STAND FOR AMERICA RALLY CMPI 610 NEGOTIATIONS CONCLUDE AMERICAN PHOENIX LANDS IN SIU FLEET SIU CREWS UP USNS WHEELER BIPARTISAN BILL AIMS TO REVERSE HARMFUL CUTS TO CARGO PREFERENCE LABOR DEPT. CREDITS PHC APPRENTICE PROGRAM AS ONE OF THE BEST UNION REMEMBERS LATE RETIRED OFFICIAL RIPOLL COMMITTEE REVIEWS NOMINATION CREDENTIALS FOR UPCOMING ELECTION STUDY LABELS COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AS KEY TO ‘PROSPERITY ECONOMICS’ SIU CONTRACTS STAY IN PLACE AS MAERSK ACQUIRES 3PSC AFL-CIO ASSERTS FEDERAL WORKERS HAVE SHOULDERED ENOUGH SACRIFICE CREDENTIALS APPROVED FOR CANDIDATES TO 25 UNION OFFICES REPORT OF CONSTITUTIONAL COMMITTEE PROCEDURES FOR OBTAINING SIU ABSENTEE BALLOT THREE GENERATIONS HEED A CALL TO SEA SIU RECOLLECTIONS FROM THE MURMANSK RUN SEAFARERS SUPPORT STAND FOR AMERICA RALLY IN PHILADELPHIA 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 09/01/2012 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. 9 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/fdeff76e0bb082f231026ee5e7ad4903.pdf 0c0474c7f1e84af400a4305cea72a4c7 PDF Text Text Volume 75, Number 9 September 2013 Crowley Orders New Tankers Construction Agreement Calls for up to 8 Jones Act Vessels New jobs for SIU members are on the horizon as Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime Corp. in early August announced an agreement calling for construction of up to eight new Jones Act tankers. The vessels will be built at a union shipyard: Aker Philadelphia. This photo shows Crowley’s tanker Florida earlier this year at Aker Philadelphia just prior to christening. Page 3. Bosuns See Worlds Of Opportunities In SIU, Paul Hall Center The union’s newest group of recertified bosuns graduated Aug. 5 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. Their graduation speeches consistently emphasized the great opportunities available through the union and its affiliated school in southern Maryland. Pictured immediately following the August membership meeting at the school are (front, from left) Richard Szabo, Carlos Arauz, (standing) Cleofe Bernardez Castro, Virgilio Rosales, Saleh Ahmed, Mohamed Mohamed, Lonnie Porchea, Moises Ramos, Joseph French and Christopher Janics. Pages 12-13. Congressmen Meet in Piney Point The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center (PHC) recently hosted members of the Congressional Black Caucus for a weeklong series of meetings. Pictured with officials and apprentices at the school in Piney Point, Md., are two of the maritime industry’s most ardent backers: U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) (second from left in photo below), and U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) (fourth from right in the photo at left). Joining them for these photo opportunities are (with Rep. Cummings, from left) Kenneth Hardy, Frank Harris and James Wilder; and (with Rep. Thompson, from left) Ali Alhadad, PHC VP Don Nolan, PHC Hotel Manager Howard Thompson, Markese Haynes, SIU President Michael Sacco, Mahdi Ali, George Johnson and Ezequiel Macias-Troncoso. Rep. Hunter Stands up for Maritime Page 5 15049_SEPT2013_LOG_X.indd 1 Snapshots from Hawaii Page 7 Important VPDSD Reminders Page 11 8/23/2013 6:05:49 PM �President’s Report Shipbuilding, Jones Act Vital for U.S. Our lead story this month shines a great spotlight on two crucial parts of the American maritime industry that are vital to U.S. national and economic security. The agreement between Crowley Maritime Corporation and Aker Philadelphia Shipyard to build up to eight new tankers for the Jones Act trade is fantastic on many levels, first and foremost (for us) because it means job security for SIU members well into the future. But we’ve always taken a wide view of the industry, even while standing up for our own interests, because we know the various components have to work for everyone involved in order for the whole operation to remain viable on the deep seas, Great Lakes and inland waterways. With regard to the newly ordered tankers, shipboard jobs aren’t the only ones being created or maintained. The new vessels mean ongoing work at Michael Sacco Aker Philadelphia (a union shipyard) for years to come, and they will help sustain related shore-side jobs, too. Shipbuilding remains one of the most important industries in America, and it’s also an incredibly ripe source of potential new jobs. Our nation currently operates around 100 yards, many of them union facilities, and they do outstanding work. We’ve seen it for years at Aker, at union-contracted NASSCO in San Diego, at union-contracted Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Miss., and elsewhere. But we’ve also seen our nation lose more than 300 shipyards in the last 60 years – a dangerous direction, putting it mildly. The industry is still very productive and it can grow. The expected replacement of ships in the domestic trades offers hope for U.S. shipbuilding. Not just shipyards but the country as a whole would also benefit from developing a national maritime policy, led by the Department of Transportation, that includes adequately funding the Title XI shipbuilding loan guarantee program while streamlining the application process. Another key is maintaining the Jones Act, and electing politicians who will support this critical law. The Jones Act reserves domestic commerce for vessels crewed, built, flagged and owned American. Take it away and you can kiss most if not all of American commercial shipbuilding goodbye. That’s been said more than once not only by shipyard executives but also vessel operators. It was no coincidence that Crowley prominently mentioned the law when announcing its new tanker orders. The SIU has stood up for the Jones Act throughout all of our 75 years, and at times it feels as if there’s no letup in the attacks from those who want to send our jobs overseas. In fact, we’re currently protecting America’s freight cabotage law in Michigan, where that state’s transportation department has released a plan taking aim at the Jones Act. They describe the law as having “restrictive provisions” that “hinder the development of short-sea shipping or other domestic services.” As I pointed out in a formal response, the Jones Act generates more than 500,000 jobs and results in an annual economic output of well over $100 billion nationwide. It also helps ensure the United States has a fleet of American-flag ships and well-trained, dependable U.S. Merchant Mariners who can serve the country during times of war and crisis. In this particular instance, I pointed out that thousands of good-paying Michigan jobs on the Lakes, on the docks, in offices and elsewhere are involved in the Jones Act trade. Aside from the jobs and economic stimulus it provides, the Jones Act also promotes a less-costly mode of transportation. According to the Army Corps of Engineers, Great Lakes shipping saves customers $3.6 billion annually when compared to rail and truck. As was also pointed out by an ally in this fight, this is domestic commerce. It should create jobs for American workers and opportunities for American companies. Again, that’s just one of the current battles, but it reflects why we constantly remain on guard and why we mobilize in the halls of Congress and at the state and local levels – and internationally, for that matter – to defend the U.S. Merchant Marine. Our industry is too important to the nation to let it slip any further. Companies like Crowley, shipyards like Aker Philadelphia, and unions like the SIU prove that we can not only survive but flourish for many years to come. Volume 75, Number 9 September 2013 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Brian Ahern; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2013 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 2 The Ahbra Franco (above) and another recently constructed boat, the Robert Franco, are state-of-the-art additions for SIU-contracted Harley Marine. Harley Marine Christens New Tug Seafarers on the West Coast are sailing aboard Harley Marine’s newest z-drive tractor tugboat: the MV Ahbra Franco, christened Aug. 15 in Alameda, Calif. Six weeks earlier, the company added a sister tug, the MV Robert Franco. Each of the new boats is 100 feet long and 40 feet wide; they’re performing ship assistance and tanker escort duties in Los Angeles and Long Beach. SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone and Assistant Vice President Nick Celona represented the union at the Ahbra Franco ceremony. SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (left) and Asst. VP Nick Celona (right) join Chairman/CEO Harley Franco at the Aug. 15 ceremony. “This is truly a state-of-the-art tugboat, as is the Robert Franco,” Marrone stated. “New tonnage is always great news for SIU members and that’s certainly the case here.” Both tugs – named after Harley Marine CEO and Chairman Harley Franco’s children – were constructed at Nichols Brothers Boat Builders in Freeland, Wash. Harley Franco said the new builds “symbolize Harley Marine Services’ dedication to the safety of our employees, protection of the environment, and to providing the most advanced, dependable, and committed service to all of our customers.” The boats are almost identical; the lone mechanical difference is the Ahbra Franco has continuous horsepower Caterpillar Tier 3 engines while the Robert Franco has intermittent horsepower Caterpillar Tier 3 engines. According to the company, both vessels “were built with the most technically and environmentally advanced equipment available.” They feature cold ironing/shore power capabilities and are equipped with 6,800 horsepower while providing 91 tons of bollard pull. Harley Marine said the new boats are believed to be the most powerful ones to ever provide ship assist services in Los Angeles and Long Beach. “With the growing size of container ships (14,000 TEU) and tankers over 300,000 DWTs calling on these ports, Harley Marine Services is committed to building higher-horsepower tugs in order to accommodate them,” the company said in a news release. “Tugs like the Robert Franco and Ahbra Franco will provide these larger ships with safe navigation in the Lost Angeles/Long Beach harbors, as well as emergency towing services off-shore.” Both tugs also are equipped with state-of-the-art Mackay marine electronics, Markey tow winches, and fire fighting and safety equipment. Labor Board Finally Has Full Membership The labor movement is celebrating the recent Senate worker politicians and groups hoping to disrupt the confirmation of all five of President Barack Obama’s ap- nation’s labor movement. The result has been Conpointees to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). gressional gridlock surrounding the appointment of the After a decade of not having its full panel of members, NLRB’s members. the NLRB is now fully staffed and able to do its job of That gridlock “delayed the confirmation of a full protecting workers’ rights and inboard and caused unnecessary anxivestigating labor practices. ety and pain for working families,” “This is good news for all Trumka said. workers seeking to exercise the As is tradition, Obama appointed rights they are guaranteed by law,” three members of his own party and said AFL-CIO President Richard two members of the opposing party Trumka in a statement following – resulting in the board having three the confirmation. “Those essential Democrats and two Republicans. rights include the ability to bargain The Democrats are: Mark Pearce, the together for fair wages and living current chairman; Nancy Schiffer, standards, and a workplace safe an AFL-CIO labor lawyer; and from abuse, harassment and inKent Hirozawa, who served as chief timidation.” counsel to Pearce. The Republicans Created by President Franklin are management-side lawyers Harry D. Roosevelt in 1933 to protect Johnson III and Philip Miscimarra. the collective bargaining rights The board members serve five-year of American workers, the NLRB staggered terms. is the entity that mediates labor In his statement, Trumka apdisputes and investigates unfair plauded the new members, adding labor practices. The board also apAmerican workers would have striproves the certification of newly dent defenders on the NLRB looking formed unions. If the board is unout for their interests. able to meet quorum then it can“With [the] vote, our country has Richard Trumka not perform these duties, leaving qualified public servants on duty to AFL-CIO President aggrieved employees without any defend America’s workers, busicourse of action and workers withnesses and families,” he said. “We out the ability to formally unionize. congratulate all of the nominees and look forward to While the board is bipartisan and made up of mem- having a functioning NLRB that will fairly and imparbers from both labor and management backgrounds, tially oversee the workplace rights of millions of Amerithe NLRB has become a target in recent years of anti- cans.” September 2013 8/22/2013 5:13:09 PM �Union-Contracted Crowley Orders New Tankers Jones Act Vessels Mean New Jobs for Seafarers In a major maritime development, SIUcontracted Crowley Maritime Corporation on Aug. 9 announced an agreement with Aker Philadelphia Shipyard (APSI) to build up to eight product tankers for delivery between 2015 and the end of 2017. Construction contracts have been signed with APSI for the first four 330,000-barrel tankers, with deliveries in 2015 and 2016. Additional agreements between Crowley and the shipyard include options for building up to four more tankers “and for expanding the cooperation initiated with Aker’s sale and delivery of two product tankers, the Florida and Pennsylvania, to Crowley in 2012 and 2013,” Crowley said in a news release. “If all options are exercised, Crowley’s industry-leading Jones Act petroleum fleet will grow to ten 330,000-barrel tankers and 17 articulated tug barges (ATBs), ranging in capacity from 155,000 to 330,000 barrels.” APSI is a union shipyard that also has built ships for Seafarers-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group and for Matson Navigation. “This new agreement is a big win for the SIU, for Crowley, for the shipyard and for America’s national and economic security,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “It’s definitely exciting and I know that our members will wel- Aker Philadelphia Shipyard (shown earlier this year in both photos) already has built vessels for SIU-contracted Crowley, OSG and Matson. The new agreement with Crowley calls for up to eight tankers. come the new jobs while protecting the company’s investment.” “Through this expansion and cooperative agreement with Aker we will be providing our customers with more options for transporting their product with greater safety and efficiency than they can get from any other U.S. service provider,” said Tom Crowley, company chairman and CEO. “We expect these new ships to be well-received by longstanding customers as well as new customers, who should clearly be able to see the advantages of utilizing Crowley’s multi-dimensional fleet and operational expertise.” 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 vessels will be constructed with consideration for the use of LNG for propulsion in the future. HMD and APSI collaborated on the successful construction of 14 product tankers at APSI between 2007 and 2013. Design and procurement activities are already underway to support the start of construction of Crowley’s first newly contracted tanker in January 2014. APSI expects to invest in the partnership for the first four vessels, consistent with the requirements of the Jones Act. Crowley will maintain control over the ownership, technical operation and commercial management of the vessels. APSI and Crowley will share in the economics of the operation and chartering of the new vessels, both parties reported. “The shale revolution is creating industrial opportunities throughout the United States and specifically here in Philadelphia. We are pleased to expand our partnership with a first-class operator like Crowley to help meet the nation’s longstanding goal of energy security,” Kristian Rokke, president and CEO of Aker, said. “This strategic opportunity allows us to capitalize on the increased demand for Jones Act tankers in a way that will transform APSI in the years ahead. Diversifying our assets enhances Aker Philadelphia Shipyard’s resilience and creates long-term value for both our customers and shareholders.” “We are very pleased to be partnering again with Aker in the construction of these new tankers,” said Rob Grune, Crowley senior vice president and general manager, petroleum services. “They are a well-established and highly respected shipbuilder. We appreciate working with Aker to supply our customers and the nation with the necessary tonnage to bring U.S. petroleum to market.” New Crowley Tugs Going Strong The Ocean Wind is pictured Aug. 13 in Lake Charles, La. The newest tugboats in SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime’s fleet are staying plenty busy these days, smoothly carrying out diverse operations from the Gulf of Mexico all the way to Alaska. “Our jobs definitely are not the same thing as just towing a barge from pointA to point-B,” said Chief Mate Darrel Koonce aboard the Ocean Wind. “Crowley spent a good bit of money on these tugs and we’re doing lots of different jobs.” Capt. Ted Caffy on the Ocean Wave stated, “We realize the potential of these boats. There have never been dynamicpositioning tugboats in the Gulf of Mexico working in the oil fields until now. We’re making it happen, and in Alaska, too. I’ve taken this one from Lake Charles (La.) to Alaska and back.” Crowley’s next-generation tugboats include the Ocean Wave, Ocean Wind, Ocean Sun and Ocean Sky. Their dynamic-positioning technology allows the vessels to maintain positions and headings automatically, using a centralized manual control that continuously calculates environmental conditions and adjusts to the nuances. The tugs range in size from 146-156 feet long and can sail at 15 knots with 15,000 hp and 165 tons of bollard pull. “What’s happening with these tugs is exciting,” said SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey. “Crowley is really poised for growth in the offshore gas and oil field in the Gulf of Mexico, and our members are helping make it happen. And while they’re doing so, our members are enjoying competitive pay and superior benefits for the industry.” Asked about the contract covering the tugs and a recent wage increase, Caffy replied, “I think everybody is happy with it – I haven’t heard any complaints…. All the parties have done the right thing, and that’s very much appreciated. We’re very appreciative of the increase in wages and we look forward to continuing to make Crowley money.” Koonce added, “We’ve come a long way. There’s still a ways to go, but contract negotiations can be tough.” Russo commended the work of Seafarers aboard each of the tugs: “All of the guys are committed to safety and are doing a bang-up job,” he said, adding that any qualified Seafarers who want to apply for work on the new boats should contact the SIU hall in Houston. Houston Port Agent Mike Russo (third from left in photo at left) meets with Crowley boatmen (from left) AB Dave Heindel Jr., Chief Mate Darrell Koonce, Capt. Ted Caffy, AB Chris Harper and AB Justin Webb. September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 3 Seafarers LOG 3 8/22/2013 5:13:11 PM �Mariner ‘Bill of Rights’ Takes Effect Seafaring organizations around the world welcomed the implementation of the Maritime Labor Convention, 2006 (MLC) on Aug. 20. Along with maritime allies across the globe, including the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), the SIU is confident that this new but long-anticipated agreement has great potential to make a genuine difference in the lives of mariners. As pointed out by the ITF, some of the benefits of the MLC for foreign mariners include the potential to stop blacklisting and charging for jobs by some manning agents; the recognition of all crew – including hospitality crew on international cruise ships – as seafarers, who will now all get the same protections; enhanced checks by port state control, including examining pay disputes such as double bookkeeping; and the establishment of welfare facilities in ports and of shipboard safety committees.  ITF President Paddy Crumlin stated, “The MLC represents a significant leap forward in the global trade union campaign to improve the labor rights and labor standards of seafarers. It is a true watershed in international shipping, which adds the pillar of workers’ rights to existing standards of safety, security and crew standards.” ITF General Secretary Steve Cotton noted, “We’ve been waiting over a decade to say this, and now we can: As of Aug. 20, a seafarers’ bill of rights exists. The MLC has come into force. The MLC lays out your minimum rights as a seafarer and pro- motes good employment practices across the shipping industry. It incorporates and builds on 68 existing maritime labor conventions and recommendations to ensure decent working and living conditions. “The convention also stipulates that everyone working on board a cruise ship making international voyages is a seafarer and entitled to the protections it guarantees,” he continued. “These include the right to a safe and secure workplace; fair terms of employment; decent living and working conditions; access to medical care, health protection and welfare.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who chairs the ITF Seafarers’ Section, pointed out that the MLC is expected to be strictly enforced by flag states and port state control authorities. “It should provide a one-stop shop for labor standards,” he observed. “This will mean that all seafarers should be able to enjoy comprehensive protection of their fundamental rights, and it should also ensure good employment practices across the industry, creating a level playing field in which good ship operators are not put at an economic disadvantage by bad ones.” The MLC addresses a range of matters, including the obligations of shipping companies with respect to seafarers’ contractual arrangements; the responsibilities of manning agencies; working hours; health and safety; existing International Labor Organization maritime standards; and accepted good-employment practices.  Paddy Crumlin ITF President Steve Cotton ITF General Secretary Under it, every ship over 500 gross tonnage operating in international waters or between ports of different countries will have to have a maritime labor certificate issued by its flag administration following an inspection. There will also a requirement for ships to complete and maintain on board a declaration of maritime labor compliance. While U.S. laws and regulations, coupled with collective bargaining agreements, ensure U.S.-flag ships exceed the MLC’s provisions, American ships may still be subject to inspection and possible detainment if the U.S. fails to ratify the convention. Under the MLC’s “no more favorable treatment clause,” any vessel flagged to a country that has not ratified the convention will be subject to inspection and detainment when arriving in the port of an MLC member nation.  The ITF is supporting the MLC’s launch with a range of advice and materials designed to help seafarers understand and apply it. This includes a dedicated online area at www.itfseafarers.org/ILOMLC.cfm International Maritime Labor Teams Up for Great Cause ‘Poker Run’ Nets Thousands for Port Arthur Seafarers Center The SIU recently joined with maritime labor friends from around the world to raise money for a worthy cause.  In mid-July, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Port Agent Pat Vandegrift and members Rob Weinhardt and Fr. Sinclair Oubre were among a dozen motorcycle riders that participated in an inaugural charity “poker run” benefiting the Port Arthur (Texas) International Seafarers Center. Sponsoring the event – which raised more than $4,500 – were the SIU, SIU of Canada, International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), Maritime Union of Australia, Nautilus International (British officers union) and SINDMAR (Brazilian officers union). Poker runs normally involve participants collecting playing cards from various locations. In this case, the cards were placed in three states (Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan) on a scenic route covering approximately 1,400 miles. Vandegrift ended up with the best hand. Future fundraisers are planned for other mariner centers around the world. As with the inaugural one, they will be organized near locations of ITF meetings. “This is an opportunity to help the centers and a new way to make a difference for seafarers,” noted Heindel, who spurred the July 13-15 run. “The Port Arthur center does a great job for both foreign and U.S. crews, and Fr. Sinclair (who oversees the facility in addition to sailing with the SIU) has been such a tremendous ally over the years.” He added that seamen’s centers across the globe offer not only spiritual ministry but also other services like local transportation and basic personal supplies. “A lot of the centers are struggling to keep their doors open because of shorter 4 Seafarers LOG 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 4 port time for vessels,” Heindel noted. Oubre said the initial run “was a great opportunity outside of the usual business meetings for leaders from maritime labor to gather, share time in a relaxed atmosphere and at the same time experience a passion that we all have as motorcyclists. I enjoyed seeing the beauty of Michigan and it’s great that through the efforts of Dave and the ITF we were able to raise so much money.” Vandegrift said the ride “was a blast and it raised money for a good cause, which is to help sailors. It was nice to tour rural Michigan and just a great experience overall.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (left) says mariner centers like the one overseen by Fr. Sinclair Oubre (right) provide a wide range of important services. Some of the participants in the charity poker run gather for a group photo. Pictured from left are SINDMAR President Severino Almeida, Nautilus International General Secretary Mark Dickinson, photographer Melanie Starns, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, MUA Deputy National Secretary Mick Doleman, MUA ITF Coordinator Dean Summers and SIU Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift. September 2013 8/22/2013 5:13:14 PM �U.S. Representative Hunter Stands Up for Maritime Calif. Congressman a Key Ally to Industry, SIU U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) is once again showing why he is one of the maritime industry’s most strident defenders in Congress. Hunter, who serves as chairman of the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, has spent the summer standing up for policies that lie at the heart of maritime. In Congressional hearings and editorials appearing in popular Internet publications, Hunter has touted the benefits of laws and programs including the Jones Act and the Maritime Security Program (MSP), while warning of the dire consequences that would come if Washington tampered with them. Seeing opponents of maritime attack these key programs, Hunter is quick to set the record straight. “For reasons that are due to either a lack of understanding or appreciation for the U.S. maritime industry, the Jones Act is being misidentified once again as an impediment to job creation and even lower production costs,” Hunter wrote in a July 30 editorial appearing on CNBC.com. While critics of the Jones Act – which requires all shipping between U.S. ports to be on American-made vessels with U.S. flags and American crews – often say the Jones Act leads to higher gas prices, Hunter said the argument simply doesn’t hold water. “That presumption is nothing more than wishful thinking. There are many reasonable and relevant proposals to lower gas prices for American families and secure greater energy independence, but repealing the Jones Act is not one of them,” Hunter wrote. “At present, nearly 90 percent of the cost of gasoline is driven by three things: the price of crude oil, refining and taxes. The remaining 10 percent is attributed to marketing, distribution and retailing, leaving room, however big or small, for profit.” The effects of repealing the Jones Act, Hunter said, would be disastrous. Aside from generating more than 500,000 American jobs and more than $100 billion in annual economic output, the Jones Act also ensures the nation has a fleet of American merchant vessels staffed with well-trained, dependable mariners who are available to the military during times of war and national emergency. “From supplementing global defense sealift capability to revitalizing elements of a waning industrial base, the U.S. maritime industry is a security and economic asset kept strong and healthy by the Jones Act,” Hunter wrote. “America’s economic future depends on a strong maritime industry as much as it depends on domestic energy production and the success of other notable industries that are inextricably linked to its success.” Concerned with the effects of acrossthe-board budget cuts on the MSP, Hunter penned another editorial to warn of the consequences of a shrinking U.S.-flag fleet. Writing for the popular website gCaptain. com, Hunter said the MSP – which pro- vides an annual stipend to ensure 60 militarily useful U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed ships are available to the military – is vital to the country’s national security. A reduction in programs like the MSP, he added, would lead to an unacceptable shortage in the U.S.-flag fleet. “The U.S. is carrying just 2 percent of global cargo tonnage, down considerably from decades ago. The ramifications are not simply economic,” Hunter wrote. “There is also a direct impact on national security, resulting from the limitation of commercial trade vessels for military sealift under the Maritime Security Program (MSP).” Because of the MSP, the U.S. military has a sealift capability worth billions of dollars for a small fraction of the price. “Especially with an undersized naval fleet, the use of commercial vessels is needed to support operations by transporting military resources,” Hunter wrote. “With the emerging threats requiring straining naval assets worldwide, along with a shift in defense posture in the Pacific region, the support provided through the MSP, which is supported by 60 U.S.-flag vessels, is even more essential.” Hunter’s aggressive defense of the maritime industry and its key programs comes on the heels of a May hearing by the Coast Guard and Maritime Subcommittee which focused on the good those programs do for the country’s national and economic security. The SIU was among the organizations testifying at the hearing, which went U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) into great detail about the benefits of the Jones Act, MSP and the country’s PL480 food aid program. As usual, Hunter took a strong pro-maritime stance at the hearing, arguing those programs – and the U.S. Merchant Marine – are vital to the nation. “Beyond the important contributions to our economy, a healthy maritime industry is vital to our national security,” Hunter said during the hearing. “Throughout our history, the Navy has relied on U.S.-flag commercial vessels crewed by American Merchant Mariners to carry troops, weapons, and supplies to the battlefield.” SIU Takes Maritime Message to DOT, Congress SIU President Michael Sacco (second from left) and other maritime labor officials recently met with new DOT Secretary Anthony Foxx (center), U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings (third from right) and Maritime Administrator Paul “Chip“ Jaenichen (far right) to discuss the U.S. Maritime Security Program and other aspects of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Also pictured are AMO President Tom Bethel (second from right), MM&P President Don Marcus (far left) and MEBA President Mike Jewell (third from left).to discuss the U.S. Maritime Security Program and other aspects of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Also pictured are AMO President Tom Bethel (second from right), MM&P President Don Marcus (far left) and MEBA President Mike Jewell (third from leftto discuss the U.S. Maritime Security Program and other aspects of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Also pictured are AMO President Tom Bethel (second from right), MM&P President Don Marcus (far left) and MEBA President Mike Jewell (third from left). This was one of the first meetings involving Secretary Foxx and representatives of any industry. The Maritime Security Program is vital to America’s economic and national security. It helps ensure the availability of 60 militarily useful, civilian-crewed, U.S.-flag ships for the Defense Department, and at a fraction of what it would cost the government to replicate the program’s assets. Great Lakes Welcomes New Seaway Administrator Former U.S. Rep. Betty Sutton September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 5 Former Ohio Congresswoman Betty Sutton has been appointed the administrator of the St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation, a move that is being celebrated as a major milestone for the Great Lakes maritime community. Sutton, a celebrated defender of maritime and the Great Lakes region while representing Ohio in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2007 to 2013, is well-versed in shipping issues and committed to American labor and manufacturing. “We could not be more pleased with Sutton’s appointment as seaway administrator,” said Great Lakes Maritime Task Force (GLMTF) President Donald Cree, adding that Sutton was named GLMTF’s Great Lakes Legislator of the Year in 2010. James H.I. Weakley, who serves as GLMTF’s first vice president and president of the Lake Carriers’ Association, praised Sutton’s work with maritime. “She has been at the forefront of nearly every piece of legislation promoting shipping on the lakes and seaway,” Weakley said. “She has supported legislation to increase short sea shipping on the lakes and seaway, increasing dredging, a second Poe-sized lock at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, and adequate U.S. Coast Guard icebreaking resources.” Aside from her maritime-related achievements, Sutton was also a key player in 2009’s successful “Cash for Clunkers” program, which provided economic incentives to those who traded in old cars for newer, more fuelefficient vehicles. Now she will head the St. Lawrence Seaway Corporation, which is a governmentowned entity, operating the U.S. portion of the St. Lawrence Seaway between the Port of Montreal and Lake Erie. Tom Curelli, who serves as GLMTF’s third vice president and director of operations for Fraser Shipyards, Inc., said the further utilization of that seaway would be a win for both the environment and the economy. “Ships use less fuel and produce fewer emissions than trains and trucks,” he said. “The seaway could handle more of our imports and exports that currently are produced in or bound for this region, but landed or loaded at East Coast ports. We look forward to working with Sutton and the administration to bring more international cargoes to the system.” President Barack Obama praised Sutton and several other key appointees in a news release following the announcement of their nominations. “These fine public servants bring a depth of experience and tremendous dedication to their new roles,” Obama said. “Our nation will be well-served by these individuals, and I look forward to working with them in the months and years to come.” Seafarers LOG 5 8/22/2013 5:13:16 PM �Unions, Operators, School Team Up For Wellness Project The SIU is a major player as labor and management throughout the maritime industry come together to devise comprehensive, helpful health and wellness guidance for mariners. The goal, officials said, is to foster a health-centered culture that results in healthier mariners and more affordable medical policies – without placing any burdens on individual seafarers. The first step in that plan took place Aug. 13 with a wide-ranging meeting at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Md. During the gathering, officials from Crowley Maritime Corp., Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) and the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers (AMO) outlined the tenants of their individual wellness policies, while officials with the PHC and SIU discussed implementing some of those ideas into the PHC’s curriculum and generally the maritime culture. A representative from Maersk Line, Limited also contributed valuable ideas to the discussion. “This is the first coordinated effort to bring everything together,” said John Mason, CEO of American Service Technology Inc. “We’re taking everything the school has been doing and everyone else has been doing and gathering ideas together.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel said the idea for the meeting and new policy came about following discussions with Crowley regarding the success of its health and wellness program. While the SIU, PHC and many other companies already have wellness policies and training in place, Heindel said the goal of the new approach is to form a unified policy that stimulates a cultural shift toward health-conscious lifestyles across the industry. “We thought we’d broaden the scope and bring in other people from within industry and see what they are doing. We thought we could bring in the SIU and make it a cultural change,” Heindel said. “That’s why we’re all here. Obviously, the SIU is interested in making sure our people are healthy.” When it comes to promoting a sense of wellness and a culture that values healthy eating and proper exercise and activity, officials agreed that the key lies in education and personal drive. SIU Executive-Vice President Augie Tellez said the PHC could play a significant role in driving those values. “Like anything else, it comes down to individual motivation, which is what this place has to instill,” he said. “It comes down to the culture of the crews you have on that ship. It has always been that way.” Discussing how to change that culture for the better, the officials at the meeting said the galley would be a good place to start. “For our members, there are both short-term and long-term benefits with the wellness project,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “As members adopt healthier lifestyles, they’ll be able to enjoy not only a healthier environment during their working years but also hopefully in a long and gratifying retirement. The bottom line is this program is being developed for the members.” George Tricker SIU VP Contracts Maggie Bowen SIU Plans Administrator John Mason, CEO American Service Technology Inc. Reps Offer Health Program Insights Representatives from shipping companies and a maritime union are offering ideas from their health and wellness programs as the SIU and maritime industry in general work to establish industry-wide guidelines to help keep mariners healthy. In presentations to SIU officials and others at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., representatives from Crowley Maritime Corp., Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) and the American Maritime Officers (AMO) discussed the aspects of their respective wellness programs and answered questions about their benefits and implementation. The purpose of the meeting was to gather ideas for an industry-wide approach to mariner health and wellness that could lead to a new healthcentered maritime culture. The presentations offered a glimpse of what those future industry-wide health and wellness guide- Margaret Reasoner Managing Director Crowley’s Marine Personnel 6 Seafarers LOG 15049_SEPT2013_LOG_X.indd 6 lines may look like. The following are summaries of the presentations made by Crowley, ATC and AMO during the Aug. 13 meeting. Crowley Maritime Corporation Known as Live Well, Crowley’s program was designed to “promote the health and wellness of our people by creating a work environment that nurtures all dimensions of wellness while heightening engagement, reinforcing healthy behaviors, increasing performance and recognizing health care expenditures,” said Margaret Reasoner, Crowley’s managing director of marine personnel. Reasoner said Crowley has started building a health culture within the company by beginning every meeting with “wellness moments” that discuss health-related issues, providing consistent electronic and hard-copy health-related communications and creating an incentive program. That program includes things like health insurance Susanna Reiner Registered Nurse discounts and gift cards, among other incentives. Crowley has also been considering adding new aspects to the program. “We’re striving to really help individuals manage their health,” Reasoner said. “What we experience at Crowley is not unique to all mariners.” Alaska Tanker Company According to its program description, ATC’s wellness is “not necessarily about weight loss or running a marathon, it is about implementing healthier habits and embracing a lifestyle of wellness that we can pass down through generations.” Like Crowley, much of ATC’s program focuses on education and incentives. Speaking for ATC, Registered Nurse Susanna Reiner said the company tries to find out what its employees are interested in and then brings in experts from those fields to lead related discussions. They talk about subjects such as sleeping better, food, exercise and reducing stress. Bill Cole ATC Labor Relations Director Augie Tellez SIU Executive VP David Heindel SIU Secretary-Treasurer AMO Plans Executive Director Steve Nickerson said his organization has addressed that issue with reduced serving sizes, smaller serving plates, nutritional counseling and educational grocery shopping. “It’s a matter of education,” Nickerson said. “It’s a matter of people starting to understand.” PHC Executive Chef John Hetmanski said SIU stewards and chefs are currently taught with such standards in mind, but added additional steps could be taken to bolster a culture of health and wellness. “A healthier person is a safer, more productive, better-prepared employee for all of us,” Hetmanski said. “We certainly have the ability to change our course work again and implement more of this philosophy and way of thinking into all of the steward department courses. As we make progress in our efforts in this conference, I want to assure everyone here that our curriculum is going very strong in that direction.” Other ideas included creating programs designed to educate mari- ners about reducing stress, sleeping better and making healthy choices. There was also talk of implementing onboard exercise and workout programs. “We’ve had a great day and exchanged a lot of information,” said SIU Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen as the meeting came to an end. “Now we need to figure out how we get it all together and make it work.” The officials then agreed to assemble a mission statement and set of objectives to be discussed at future meetings. There was also talk of putting the PHC advisory board’s medical subcommittee back together to generate further ideas and methods of implementation. “Let’s complement what you guys have done and basically figure out what would work for us. Let’s take a step back and put together a white paper of everything we talked about today,” Heindel said. “Hopefully we can take this meeting as an inaugural meeting for something that will be put forward for everybody.” “These are very simple concepts,” Reiner said. “You get people to catch on and then they spread the story. They tell their stories and then other people want to follow, too.” ATC Labor Relations Director Bill Cole said they’ve also addressed food and portion sizes and had discussions with stewards. “We’re talking about giving them more guidance,” Cole said. “We found there was a lot you could do, particularly on the education side.” American Maritime Officers AMO’s wellness program is multi-faceted. It offers a nutrition center where individual menus can be created for specific dietary needs, nutritional counseling, educated grocery shopping training and a twoweek intensive program known as Fit for Duty. Under the Fit for Duty program, employees interact with a health and wellness coach who works with them on behavior modification, motivation and expectations; a nurse advocate who works with them on medical diagnosis, lab work and setting health goals; a chef who prepares meals and introduces healthy meals; and guest speakers who provide additional support and guidance. Those participating in the AMO’s wellness program also fall under a case management umbrella that helps create positive outcomes. Health personnel stay in touch with wellness program participants to ensure they are still able to receive the guidance and support they need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. “We’ll work with anybody who wants to work on it. We’ll work on a home program as well as a vessel program,” said AMO Plans Executive Director Steve Nickerson. “We try to establish a game plan not only for the vessel, but for at home as well.” Ed Hanley, vice president of labor relations at Maersk Line, Limited, added that investing resources into a wellness program should pay healthful dividends for mariners, their families and their employers in the long run. Steve Nickerson AMO Plans Executive Director Ed Hanley MLL Labor Relations VP September 2013 8/23/2013 6:17:59 PM �In and Around The Port of Honolulu Bosun Mark Hoffman Pacific Collector 2nd Cook Gregory Blaylock Pacific Collector The Crowley-managed Empire State docks in Pearl Harbor. Patrolman Warren Asp (left) presents a full B-book to AB Rico Ecalnir at the union hall. Steward/Baker Allan Bright, Chief Cook Albert Hermoso Pacific Collector SA Armando Amante Pacific Collector Seafarers vote in favor of the new contract with Matson during the July membership meeting. Operated by Interocean American Shipping, the Pacific Tracker ties up in Honolulu Harbor. September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 7 Pictured from left to right aboard the Horizon Reliance are Chief Cook Matthew Carroll, AB Muthana Koraish and OMU Wilshire Cortez. SA Thomas Curley, SA Arjay Hermoso Pacific Collector Seafarers LOG 7 8/22/2013 5:13:26 PM �At Sea And . . . WELCOME ASHORE IN MOBILE – Two Seafarers recently picked up their first pension checks at the hall in Mobile, Ala., where they were congratulated by Port Agent Jimmy White. Shown at right in the photo at left above is QMED/Electrician Charles Kirksey, whose last ship was the USNS Henson. Pictured at left in photo at right above is QMED/Electrician Robert Farmer, who most recently sailed on the Maersk Texas. A-BOOK IN OAKLAND – ACU Qais Ahmed (right, with Patrolman Nick Marrone II) recently received his A-seniority book at the union hall in Oakland, Calif. Ahmed’s most recent vessels were the APL Cyprine and Waterman’s Green Dale. MATSON PACT APPROVED – As previously reported, Seafarers have ratified a new three-year agreement with Matson Navigation featuring annual wage increases and other gains. Among those voting “aye” (photo at right, from left in front) were ACU Walter Harris, Chief Cook Teresito Reyes and Chief Steward James Harper, pictured with Guam Port Agent John Hoskins aboard the Pfeiffer; and, in the other photo, taken at the hall in Oakland, Calif., Chief Steward James Watson (left) and ACU Tracy Crum (right). They are pictured with SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone, who negotiated the contract for the union. ABOARD OVERSEAS MAREMAR – These snapshots of crew members from the Overseas Maremar were taken aboard ship and at an airport en route to the vessel. The ship is operated by Overseas Shipholding Group. FOOD AID SHIP DELIVERS EVEN MORE – The Seafarers-crewed MV Capt. Steven L. Bennett (operated by Sealift Inc.), in addition to delivering PL-480 “Food for Peace” cargo to Bangladesh and West Africa, also is scheduled to drop off clothing that recently was donated through the Apostleship of the Sea of the United States of America (AOSUSA). Pictured in Galveston, Texas, with vessel master Capt. Jeremy Allen (right in both photos) are Fr. Sinclair Oubre, who in addition to being an SIU member is president of AOS-USA, and Doreen Badeaux, secretary-general of AOS-USA. 8 Seafarers LOG 15049_SEPT2013_LOG_X.indd 8 September 2013 8/23/2013 9:25:06 PM �. . . Ashore With The SIU SUPPORTING OUR TROOPS – Recertified Bosun Christopher Janics submitted these photos from the USNS Pililaau, taken as the AMSEA-operated ship recently participated in a military exercise known as Combined Joint Logistics Over the Shore (CJLOTS). The event took place in early May off the shore of Pohang, Republic of South Korea. The Pililaau is shown in the photo at top right. In the photo at bottom right, members of the deck gang prepare to tie up. Electrician Bob Rush is pictured in the photo below. LENDING A HELPING HAND – SIU members working for the Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) have done their part to help the New York-New Jersey area recover from the effects of Hurricane Sandy. In the group photo at left are various crew members from the ACOE’s New York District in Caven Point, N.Y. SIU Delegate Johann Aguilera is shown in the photo below. SEAFARING BROTHERS – Terrance (left) and Reginald Colbert have significantly more in common than just being brothers. Both joined the Seafarers on the same date, were classmates in the same apprentice class at the Paul Hall Center (PHC) for Maritime Training and Education in 2002 and since have simultaneously upgraded their skills at the school. Currently, both are QMEDS who are enhancing their skills in the electronics course at the PHC. Both are natives of Los Angeles and sail from the Port of Houston. Incidentally, the Colberts also often sail aboard the same union-contracted vessel, the USNS Seay. September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 9 EXPRESS MARINE – Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny submitted these photos of Seafarers employed by Express Marine. Pictured above from left to right are Capt. Gil Pruitt, AB/Cook Worlise Knowles and OS/ Cook Samuel Heath. Seafarers LOG 9 8/22/2013 5:13:36 PM �Research Offers Reminder Of Seafarers’ Bravery Editor’s note: In answering a recent request from a Seafarer’s descendant, we dusted off the following article from the Jan. 8, 1943 edition of the Seafarers LOG. It is shared here in the spirit of the union’s 75th anniversary and as a reminder that SIU members have been part of America’s fourth arm of defense throughout that history. SIU Men Brave Jungle To Avoid Internment The SIU crew aboard the Alcoa Pathfinder was not only torpedoed and had to spend days in open boats and rafts, but when they hit shore they were faced with miles of jungle which had to be traversed if they wanted to avoid internment for the duration of the war. That they came through the ordeal alive is a testimony of their strength and courage. The story of their suffering received much space in the Natal Daily News in Durban, South Africa, where they received hospital treatment. A three-column picture of six brothers was run in the paper and showed them recuperating in the hospital; those pictured were brothers J. Szwed, E. Steeneken, E.R. Libecki, R. Tyler, Jesse Joy and John Flannery. The following is the write-up given them in the African paper: Fifty-two survivors of the American ship Pathfinder, recently sunk off the Portuguese East African coast, are now in a Durban hospital recovering from the effects of sunburn and exposure. Some of the men have terribly swollen feet and blistered backs. When the Pathfinder was torpedoed on November 22 the men feared that if they made direct for land they would be interned. So they decided to make the farther trip down the coast to Union territory. Relating the story of their adventures to a Daily News representative who visited the survivors in the local hospital today, Mr. B. Burton, the purser, said the ship went down in under three minutes at 2 o’clock on Sunday morning. “We managed to get away one of our two lifeboats and a raft,” said Mr. Burton. “The other lifeboat was blown up. Five of our crew had been killed by the explosion, the remainder got away safely, and 40 crowded into the lifeboat. Twelve of us got on to a raft, which was taken in tow by the boat. “We made for the Union, but made little progress. By 2 o’clock on Sunday afternoon we were about 200-300 yards off the beach. It was decided then that the men on the raft would make the shore and travel southwards by foot, and that the men in the boat should try to sail to the Union. “At 7 o’clock that night we were 10 miles north of Punta el Oro, the lighthouse on the border of the Union. We lit two beacons to attract the attention of the men in the boat. Shortly afterwards the boat landed and we The Seafarers-crewed Alcoa Pathfinder went down in less than three minutes. camped that night on the beach.” The following day, the entire party made for the lighthouse at el Oro. There they were directed by the Portuguese lighthouse keeper to a mission station at Kosi Lake, across the border. The men suffered many hardships in their trip down the coast. Most of them were scantily clad and those without shoes suffered especially, their feet being not only burnt, but cut by rocks and grasses in the swamps through which they had to walk. “It was wild, desolate country, and apart from a few natives we saw nobody,” said Mr. Mariners Experience Misadventure In the North African Desert – 1943 Editor’s note: Retiree Vincent Patterson sailed with the SIU from June 1942 to July 1951. He sent this story to the LOG in order to share recollections of some his earliest days at sea. Brother Patterson made his first trip as a messman and then switched to the engine department. He sailed throughout World War II, and afterward sailed on Alcoa and Delta passenger liners. He also sailed in the Korean War before coming ashore. Our vessel, the Liberty ship SS James E. Howard, is in convoy from New Orleans through the Caribbean Sea headed to the island of Trinidad. Our convoy suffers a couple of submarine attacks, but we have not lost any vessels. We reach Trinidad and most of the ships remain in convoy. They are headed toward the North Atlantic Ocean and England. Our ship is ordered to sail on its own through the South Atlantic Ocean in the direction of Cape Town, South Africa. Something new is added to our vessel: “torpedo nets,” which are two large booms on the forward mast and two large booms on the aft mast. When the booms are lowered, large steel netting is strung from one boom to the next. This may stop any torpedo from exploding against our hull. We are notified that two German raiders disguised as merchant ships are in our area and are well-armed with five-inch and eight-inch guns. We hope to avoid these ships. After a number of weeks at sea we are in Cape Town. Our ship has boiler trouble, some of our tubes are leaking and we have to cool down a boiler in order to work on the tubes. For a few days we have shore leave. Cape Town is a beautiful city. The people are very friendly. It is situated below a mountain called Table Top, with ocean on both sides. With our boiler repaired we take leave of Cape Town. Up through the Indian Ocean and Red Sea, our ship is now headed for Egypt. The Germans control all of the Mediterranean Sea and North Africa; this is why we go around the southern tip of Africa. Japanese submarines patrol this area; the Japanese are fierce and mean adversaries. Their intention is to kill everyone, even if captured. Arriving at a small port near the mouth of the Suez Canal, the ship drops anchor. This is where we will spend the next month unloading supplies for the invasion of Sicily and Italy. Our vessel is 10 Seafarers LOG 15049_SEPT2013_LOG_X.indd 10 anchored not too far from an Army camp. Camp Attica is located a few miles outside the town of Suez, which itself is off limits to all military personnel. Roaming bands of Arabs will cut your throat and leave you naked in the desert after they rob you. The Army guys pick us up at night in jeeps and trucks and take us into camp. We hold on tight as they race each other. One night, Jack Benny and a USO show are performing, and we all enjoy the show. My buddy Eddie and I decide to take a few days off to see the Pyramids and the Sphinx. The next morning we start thumbing our way across the North African desert. Rides we catch are mostly with the English and Canadian Army drivers. We arrive in Cairo, climb the pyramids, and see the Sphinx, where Napoleon’s men shot off the nose. We spend the night in Cairo, and the next morning we are on our way to Alexandria, Egypt. The Germans at this time have lost most of North Africa. When we arrive in Alexandria there is no place to stay. The German Embassy is now vacant, so we spend the night there. The Germans have stripped most of the furniture but the marble staircases and the rest of the place is beautiful. The bathrooms are working, but no tissue paper. Eddie, who had been in the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camps before the war, always carries tissue paper in his back pocket when working in the forest, as he did on this day. Hooray for Eddie! After breakfast we tour the city, go underground into the catacombs, see the sights and then head back to Cairo. Once again we hitch a ride with a British soldier. About halfway between Alexandria and Cairo is an Army camp. The three of us were thirsty and stopped for a drink. This camp is filled with girls, English WAFS (women’s auxiliary ferrying squadron). Wow, what a surprise: hundreds of them. They have lemonade and we have nothing to drink from, so we bought a cup. Us two Yanks are a hit for a while, but we need to head back into the desert. It is early evening when we arrive in Cairo, have dinner, buy a bottle of wine and discuss staying the night. Since it is still light we decide to head back toward Suez and the army camp. It is a poor, almost fatal decision. Continued on Page 15 Burton. “On this last stage of our journey we split into three parties, one of which pushed on to the trading store. We were met by a party of policemen who took us by truck to the Maputa police outpost. “The following day the captain’s party, which had remained on the beach, was picked up, and we all went into camp at the Maputo outpost.” Mr. Burton paid a tribute to the wireless operator, one of the men who had been killed, who stuck to his keys sending out signals while the ship sank. He went down with the ship. Supporting MSC Missions Vessel master Capt. Bud Conroy emailed this recent photo of the SIUcrewed, AMSEA-operated BBC Seattle off Gibraltar. “She was returning from the Persian Gulf, having recently completed her first year on charter to the Military Sealift Command,” the captain wrote. Crew members on this voyage included Bosun Arthur Cross, ABs Rolando Salamat and Marcus Hugee, QMEDs Antoine Best and Jessie Parente, Chief Steward Julio Marcone and SA Sheilla Daguio. Furloughs End Early for Defense Workers A series of unpaid furlough days ended in August for 4,200 SIU CIVMARS and nearly 700,000 additional civilian employees working for the Department of Defense (DOD). The good news came following DOD’s move Aug. 6 to reduce the number of mandatory furlough days from 11 down to six. While the workers – including Seafarers working for the U.S. Military Sealift Command – were initially required to take one furlough day per week starting July 8 and continuing through the end of the fiscal year, the reduction meant employees had their final furlough day in mid-August. The furloughs were the result of across-the-board spending cuts enacted when Congress and the administration failed to reach an agreement on the federal budget in 2012. While 22 furlough days were originally scheduled, the number was cut 14 in March, then 11 in May following the lobbying efforts of the SIU and its allies. According to the Associated Press, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel approved the final furlough day number of six after meeting with Pentagon officials. The Pen- tagon was able to identify an additional $1.5 billion in savings, thus reducing the need for the furloughs. “I want to thank our civilian workforce for their patience and continued dedication to our mission during these extraordinarily tough times,” Hagel said in a memo to military officials. “I regret the difficulties they and their families had to face during this furlough period.” The Federal Workers Alliance (FWA) – a coalition of unions to which the SIU is a member – announced as the furloughs were starting in July that it would fight against them. It established a grassroots campaign that included in-office visits, electronic constituent letters, phone calls and social media activism. In a statement just before the furloughs began, FWA Chairman William Dougan said it was vitally important to the country that these federal workers stay on the job. “Behind every good soldier is a team of dedicated Defense civilian employees,” Dougan said. “These are dedicated men and women who support the mission of our troops abroad and defend our families against threats at home.” September 2013 8/23/2013 6:32:13 PM �A member of the Paul Hall Center’s vocational staff briefs a group of apprentices and upgraders on the steps they need to take to secure the Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties endorsement. Don’t Miss The Boat! Your Job May Be At Stake! Reminder and Instructions for Obtaining STCW Security Endorsements 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 unionaffiliated 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. 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. 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 For More Information n Questions may be directed to the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888427-5662), 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) 994-0010. 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”) Manpower Provides Recap Concerning Proper Maintenance Of Mariners Credentials Officials in the union’s manpower office are offering members some reminders regarding the maintenance of merchant mariner credentials (MMC). It is especially important that new endorsement stickers are placed on the next empty MMC page and added in order as numbered by the National September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 11 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. Sincerely, NAME OF MASTER OR COMPANY OFFICIAL Maritime Center (NMC). Do NOT place new endorsement stickers on pages that already have endorsements or writing on them. Please read the instructions provided by the NMC prior to adding your stickers. Also, mariners should NEVER cover up anything in their MMC with new stickers. If a mariner puts stickers over a page that already contains a sticker, their MMC is automatically void and he/she cannot ship on it until a duplicate is issued by the NMC. Manpower officials therefore urge members to take great care when adding new endorsement stickers to their credentials, making sure that they are affixed properly. Anyone requiring assistance should contact their local port agent or the admissions office at the Paul Hall Center. In addition, mariners should be sure that they are aware of what endorsements they currently hold in their MMCs, both international and domestic. This is extremely important when renewing MMCs with the Coast Guard. Be sure to check any newly issued MMC for errors which may occur in issuance. Mariners who notice an error should contact the NMC as soon as possible at 888-427-5662 Seafarers LOG 11 8/22/2013 5:13:38 PM �Bosuns brush up on their computer skills during the three-week course. Classroom instruction augments practical exercises at the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, which is part of the Paul Hall Center. The course’s hands-on training includes fire fighting. Bosuns Point to Union, School as Golden Opportunities O ne by one, the union’s newest class of recertified bosuns stepped to the podium to address their classmates, other fellow Seafarers, trainees and SIU officials. As they spoke at the Aug. 5 membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., an unofficial but common theme emerged: Both the union and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education offer excellent opportunities to sustain meaningful, rewarding careers. Several of the bosuns mentioned that sailing with the SIU enabled them to comfortably support their respective families, including putting kids through college. In fact, a few of the graduates were joined at the meeting by family members who travelled to the school. In all, 10 Seafarers completed the three-week curriculum, which is the top one available to SIU deck-department mariners. The graduates are Lonnie Porchea, Mohamed Mohamed, Virgilio Rosales, Cleofe Bernardez Castro, Carlos Arauz, Joseph French, Saleh Ahmed, Christopher Janics, Moises Ramos and Richard Szabo. The Seafarers covered many subjects throughout the recertification class. They worked with Paul Hall Center instructors and met with representatives from various departments of the SIU as well as the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan and the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO. Topics and training included new security requirements stemming from amendments to the STCW convention; basic safety training; communication skills; computer proficiency; other international maritime conventions; working with apprentices at the school; SIU contracts, and grassroots political action. Following are highlights of the graduation speeches, in chronological order. Lonnie Porchea A Seafarer since 1997 who ships from Philadelphia, Porchea said the three weeks spent in recertification were among the best times of his life. “I’ve learned so much, and now have so much to share with shipmates,” he noted. “This class enhanced my knowledge and will help me set efficient goals aboard ship while sustaining high morale among the crew.” He added, “If you come to the Paul Hall Center to upgrade, you will learn 12 Seafarers LOG Untitled-2 2-3 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 12 a lot, because the instructors will work with you and teach you. Thank God for the SIU and our strong leaders.” Mohamed Mohamed A frequent upgrader who sails from Tacoma, Wash., Mohamed said that in addition to learning or refining skills that will help him aboard ship, the course reminded him that “the SIU has shown me the right way, and the school has given me opportunities to acquire training that leads to security and a way to earn a living and support my family. The SIU has given me so many opportunities.” Mohamed, who joined the SIU in 2003, said he has sailed around the world several times, and he urged fellow mariners to support the union’s voluntary political action fund (SPAD) as well as the Maritime Defense League (MDL) “to keep our jobs going and getting more ships.” He described the Paul Hall Center as “a great facility,” and encouraged the apprentices to “take full advantage of everything the union and the school offer. Think ‘safety first’ and listen and ask questions. “God bless America and God bless the SIU!” Virgilio Rosales Next to the podium was Rosales, who joined the SIU in 1999 in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., which is still his home port. He said the class will make him “a better leader aboard ship. My experience at Piney Point has been excellent. The teachers are fantastic.” Rosales said the SIU has been “essential to me and my family, and I thank the union leadership for that.” Carrying on a tradition of recertification graduates addressing apprentices, he concluded, “You can stand where I stand today. Put in the effort and hard work.” Cleofe Bernardez Castro Castro joined the union in 1992 in Hawaii and now sails from New York. “I learned a lot in this class and I’m so proud to be a union member,” he said. “It was a pleasure to be here and I thank all the members of every department we met with. I had time to ask many questions and I will take the answers with me to the vessels.” Castro said his career is a testament to the opportunities available through the SIU. He began sailing as an assistant butcher on the white ships. But along with making progress, he also said it’s important to support the organization. “It’s not what your union can do for you; it’s what you can do for your union,” he stated. “And what you can do is get out there and work to the best of your abilities. Protect the name of this organization…. I couldn’t be more proud of this union. Thank you so much for being there for me and my family.” Carlos Arauz A Seafarer since 1991, Arauz joined in Houston and still ships from there. Like his classmates, he said that in addition to honing safety skills and brushing up on maritime conventions, he was very interested to learn more about how politics affects the livelihoods of all SIU members. He also enjoyed reuniting with several class members whom he’d sailed with at various times. “We learn a lot at this school,” said Arauz, who has upgraded four times. “It’s important that students learn all they can when upgrading, and pass on important information when you go on the ships.” Reflecting on his career, he added, “I’ve made a good living thanks to the SIU. Headquarters is working hard for us. Thanks!” Ahmed mentioned that he joined the SIU in 1977 in Algonac, Mich., and still ships from there. He said the recertification class proved very worthwhile, and encouraged all SIU members to upgrade whenever possible. He also urged fellow Seafarers to donate to SPAD. “This union has given me the opportunity to learn, to make money and to travel the world,” he added. “I thank the SIU for protecting our jobs and I thank the instructors here at the school. I’ve learned a lot of new information. “To the trainees, take advantage of what the union and school offer you. This union is your best friend.” Christopher Janics Pointing out he was a member of Trainee Class 322 in 1980, Janics, who sails from Jacksonville, Fla., said the August membership meeting “feels like a family reunion. I’ve sailed all the way around the world. The union gave me an opportunity to have a good life, and for my family to have a good, stable life. That’s a fact.” He thanked the dais officials by name and said he appreciated the behind-thescenes look at how the union and school operate. Janics also encouraged fellow Seafarers to donate to SPAD: “Without it, our jobs could very well fall by the wayside.” Wrapping up by addressing the apprentices, he said, “Work hard at school, learn from the instructors, and help each other here and on the ships. A question not asked is knowledge not learned.” Moises Ramos Ramos joined the NMU in 1977 in New York and became a Seafarer when the unions merged in 2001. His home port is Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. “Thank you to my union for many days of smooth sailing,” he said. “I’m grateful for your hard work and dedication. Thanks also to the instructors – this has been an informative course. It is fun but serious at the same time.” Ramos described the school’s fire fighting training as “a real confidence builder,” and expressed similar sentiments about the CPR and First Aid course. He told the apprentices, “You have a great opportunity here. Trust your union. In part, our legacies will be carried by you. Be professional, be proficient, work hard, and together we will all feel proud.” Richard Szabo Good-naturedly called “captain” because, at 68, he’s the oldest class member, Szabo joined the union in 2001 in Wilmington, Calif., and now sails from Tacoma. “I’m really impressed with our whole organization and how terrific this school is,” he stated. “I know I’ll be a much better leader as a result of this class. The people who teach here are so dedicated and they care.” After asking everyone else in the auditorium to join him in applauding the school’s staff and union officials, Szabo said the trainees had asked good questions when meeting with the bosuns during class. “Keep asking them,” he continued. “Do your very best and keep up the good work.” Joseph French French became a Seafarer when the NMU merged into the SIU in 2001. Overall, though, he has sailed for more than 30 years. He got the audience’s attention when mentioning that he already put his son through medical school and that his daughter currently is enrolled. “I’m grateful and I thank our president, Mike Sacco, and all the other officials,” French said. “Thanks to the Paul Hall Center instructors, too. The school is awesome and they’re doing wonderful work here.” Speaking to the trainees, he concluded, “Ask questions and work hard on the ships. You are the future of the SIU and you are the future of the U.S. Merchant Marine.” Saleh Ahmed Taking his turn at the microphone, SIU officials join the newly recertified bosuns for a traditional photo in front of the stage following the August membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. September 2013 8/22/2013 5:13:40 PM September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 13 Seafarers LOG 13 8/23/13 7:07 PM 8/22/2013 5:13:42 PM �9/13 14 Seafarers LOG 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 14 September 2013 8/22/2013 5:13:44 PM �Seafarer Counts His Blessings Continued from Page 10 Our next ride is in the back of a stake body truck carrying large coils of rope, driven by two Egyptians. We climb in and settle down in the coils of rope passing the wine bottle back and forth. The night has turned dark, with just a blacktop road and our truck rolling along in the lonely desert. Half asleep, I feel the truck slowing down, and when I look this Arab is climbing up the back of the truck and some others are running along waiting to get aboard. I yell to wake Eddie up, and then I swing the wine bottle at the Arab, knocking him down off the truck. He falls on the others, spreading them across the road. The truck keeps going, and a quarter of a mile farther down there is a crossroad. The truck stops and the driver says, “Army camp that way.” We climb out of the truck and I tell Eddie, we are in deep [stuff]. Those guys who tried to get onto the truck are mad as hornets and we have nothing but open desert around us. Maybe the dark night will help. We start walking toward the camp, not knowing how far we have to go or if those people would catch up to us. It could be that two guys found the next morning with their throats sliced and naked in the sands of the desert would be us. Out of the dark comes two little slits of light, blackout lights on an English Army Austin truck. It has a canvas back like a covered wagon. I jump in the middle of the road and flag it down. When it stops, I stick my head in the window and stare at the prettiest girl I’ve seen in over seven months. I say, “There are a number of Arabs looking for us somewhere out in the dark and we need a ride to camp.” She asks, “What are you two Yanks doing out here in the desert at night? They will kill you!” I reply, “We just arrived on a rope truck from Cairo and did have a little altercation with a few of them down the road and I think they are very angry.” She tells us to climb in the back. The truck makes it to Camp Attica and we jump out, telling her there’s no way we can thank her enough – however, I can manage to be in camp tomorrow night and would like to thank her again. She was laughing as the little truck pulled away. A small boat took us out into the bay and on to the ship. At the time we were young (17) and did not think too much of the encounter. However, now that I am older it makes me shudder. Personal I’m hoping to contact Thomas Curtis of Mississippi, who worked out of the Mobile, Alabama, merchant seamen’s union hall approximately 30 years ago. Please contact Christopher Bryant, 16 Coolidge Point, Manchester by the Sea, Massachusetts 01944. Call me at (978) 223-0563, or email: christopher@ caplines.com. October & November 2013 Membership Meetings Piney Point...................................Monday: October 7, November 4 Algonac.........................Friday: October 11, November 8 Baltimore........................Thursday: October 10, November 7 Guam.........................Thursday: October 24, November 21 Honolulu..........................Friday: October 18, November 15 Houston....................................* Tuesday: October 15, November 12 Jacksonville.....................Thursday: October 10, November 7 Joliet............................Thursday: October 17, November 14 Mobile..........................Wednesday: October 16, November 13 New Orleans........................Tuesday: October 15, November 12 New York.......................Tuesday: October 8, November 5 Norfolk...........................Thursday: October 10, November 7 Oakland.............................Thursday: October 17, November 14 Philadelphia........................Wednesday: October 9, November 6 Port Everglades..................Thursday: October 17, November 14 San Juan..................................Thursday: October 10, November 7 St. Louis.....................................Friday: October 18, November 15 Tacoma..................................Friday: October 25, November 22 Wilmington............................Monday: October 21, November 18 * Houston changes created by Columbus Day and Veterans’ Day holidays. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea July16, 2013 - August 15, 2013 Total Registered Port A All Groups B C Total Shipped A All Groups B C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach A All Groups B C Deck Department Algonac 13 16 4 16 4 2 5 17 20 3 Anchorage 1 0 0 1 1 0 2 4 3 1 Baltimore 4 9 1 7 4 2 4 11 10 0 Fort Lauderdale 18 11 4 19 9 2 10 24 14 8 Guam 1 1 1 1 3 0 0 4 3 1 Honolulu 12 6 0 6 4 0 1 22 6 1 Houston 37 12 1 39 6 2 17 90 20 5 Jacksonville 42 23 5 31 13 2 21 63 36 6 Joliet 7 2 1 6 5 1 0 6 4 0 Mobile 11 5 0 5 1 2 1 17 6 1 New Orleans 8 0 2 14 1 0 9 15 3 4 New York 51 18 4 28 13 0 13 105 23 6 Norfolk 17 23 5 16 21 6 12 28 34 7 Oakland 31 7 0 11 3 2 5 52 10 0 Philadelphia 5 2 2 5 2 1 0 10 4 1 Piney Point 2 2 1 1 2 1 0 4 2 0 Puerto Rico 7 6 1 9 3 0 1 14 8 3 Tacoma 31 16 6 33 12 3 12 73 30 12 St. Louis 1 2 1 1 1 0 0 3 3 3 Wilmington 32 26 3 22 11 1 14 58 60 11 TOTALS 331 187 42 271 119 27 127 620 299 73 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 4 2 2 6 0 1 0 5 8 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 2 4 1 4 1 1 1 5 7 2 13 3 1 8 2 2 4 15 5 4 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 3 0 0 8 2 2 8 2 0 1 17 4 2 21 9 1 8 4 1 2 41 13 3 20 18 1 19 7 1 7 43 24 15 2 6 0 4 3 0 1 2 6 0 5 1 1 2 1 1 0 13 2 4 1 4 0 2 3 0 1 4 5 0 14 13 4 12 9 0 3 26 22 5 6 11 2 6 9 1 4 20 25 2 9 7 3 5 5 1 2 18 8 2 4 3 1 2 2 1 2 4 5 1 1 4 0 3 0 0 0 3 3 0 3 4 0 3 3 0 1 5 6 0 13 9 1 12 3 0 7 33 12 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 3 0 14 11 0 12 4 0 7 25 22 1 142 115 20 118 59 10 44 283 182 43 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 4 1 4 4 1 2 0 6 2 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 6 1 2 3 0 0 6 3 1 7 6 1 8 0 1 1 17 8 3 3 5 0 1 2 0 0 5 2 0 20 4 1 11 2 0 2 29 7 1 19 8 2 10 4 0 5 32 14 3 13 7 2 10 3 2 6 30 10 1 2 1 1 2 0 1 0 0 1 0 3 1 2 4 2 1 0 8 3 1 6 1 0 4 0 2 2 11 2 2 13 3 1 10 3 0 3 31 6 2 7 15 5 8 6 2 6 20 24 5 18 6 2 18 7 1 9 21 4 3 3 0 0 5 1 1 2 3 0 2 3 4 1 3 2 0 0 4 3 1 2 4 0 3 2 0 4 4 3 0 18 4 0 13 2 1 6 30 7 0 1 2 0 1 1 0 0 2 3 0 28 1 0 17 3 0 5 42 1 1 173 80 23 134 44 14 51 301 104 28 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 6 12 7 2 7 4 1 7 30 16 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 2 2 1 2 4 1 0 0 2 4 1 8 0 0 6 3 1 1 8 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 3 7 3 3 7 0 2 5 16 9 17 5 3 7 3 3 7 26 20 2 16 13 0 15 5 2 3 20 17 0 0 2 0 0 2 1 1 0 1 0 4 2 0 0 0 0 0 4 2 1 2 1 2 2 1 1 1 2 4 5 14 11 2 7 3 0 10 42 27 1 18 23 2 7 8 3 6 29 37 2 11 6 2 7 2 1 4 19 15 0 0 3 1 0 0 0 0 1 3 0 1 3 0 1 3 1 0 0 7 0 2 2 1 1 0 1 2 1 2 2 9 4 7 7 2 2 8 24 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 14 3 2 8 0 1 15 53 39 33 134 95 29 82 44 18 67 269 221 GRAND TOTAL: 679 516 180 552 304 95 240 1,271 854 365 Seafarers LOG 15 8/22/2013 5:13:44 PM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by SIU members who are enrolled in upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Question: What surprised you most about seafaring when you first began sailing? HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 Reinaldo Roman QMED 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 Gladiz David SA I first thought how I liked the crew and meeting people. It wasn’t anything like home. It was very different. I didn’t get up early when I was at home. On the ship I had to get up very early. I had to schedule my time for the work. Everything is on a schedule. At home, I could do everything on my own time. Tony Harrell Chief Cook The first time I was just excited to see all these different things. It was a new experience. Everything was new to me. I went from not making much money to making a nice chunk of change. I went from being on the street to visiting different countries. I’ve been all over – places like Singapore and Spain. It was everything I thought it would be. I started with an LNG (ship) and thought, wow, this is a big ship. You don’t get to see them up close until you’re a seafarer. It was pretty big, about 900 feet. It was a lot more than I expected. I originally thought we would just go from port to port. But you actually get to have leave time and can meet people. And the money is really good. They’ve been getting some really good contracts for us. I’ve been doing 20-something years on steamships and because of the SIU I can upgrade and go on to diesel (ships). Justin Bing Wiper Ron Lukacs QMED You end up learning a lot by going out on the ship. And at the school you get a lot of hands-on training. That’s what you really need. I’m glad to see they realize they’ve got to get these guys at the school. The one thing about this school is it’s a stepping stone for you. I’ve learned you can’t be stagnant; you’ve got to be moving. The opportunities are here. The money is good. You have a lot of advantages. We have to take advantage of what the old-timers have been showing us. Having this school is a real opportunity. The merchant mariner lifestyle is different from the nine-to-five people. The money is excellent. You can’t go wrong with the money. I like to use the word “ambition.” You have to look forward to the future. I’m really happy to be around all these positive people. People give me inspiration. And if it wasn’t for the old-timers a lot of us young-timers wouldn’t be here. Mario Batiz Wiper At first I thought it might be harder to do better. But so far everything is working out great for me. Everything I need to do is happening. I’m very proud to be a part of the SIU. I’m doing the school and moving up a lot. It’s a lot more open than I thought it might be. You just have to work hard and put in the time. That’s why I want to let the members know – don’t be afraid to go ahead and come to the school. Pic-From-The-Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 These Seafarers were among the first AB upgraders at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Pictured from left to right in this photo from August 1969 are (kneeling) Andrew Stortroen, Johnnie McClenton, Joseph DeJessa, (standing) Fred Legg, Paul Giordano, Dennis Rowland, James Hotsko and Robert Meredith. 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 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 16 September 2013 8/22/2013 5:13:49 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 HARVEY BARLOW Brother Harvey Barlow, 65, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1968. He was originally employed aboard a U.S. Steel Corporation ship. Brother Barlow was a deck department member. He upgraded in 1968 at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Barlow’s most recent ship was the OMI Wabash. He is a resident of Sussex, N.J. JOHN CARTOS Brother John Cartos, 66, signed on with the SIU in 1964 while in Norfolk, Va. He initially shipped on the Chatham. Brother Cartos, who sailed in the deck department, enhanced his skills on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He concluded his career aboard a Penn Maritime Inc. vessel. Brother Cartos lives in Norfolk. LEONCIO GONZALEZ Brother Leoncio Gonzalez, 68, joined the SIU ranks in 1991 in New York. His first ship was the Independence; his most recent, the Maersk Carolina. Brother Gonzalez worked in the steward department. He frequently took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Maryland. Brother Gonzalez was born in Honduras but calls Jacksonville, Fla., home. ARTHUR KENDALL Brother Arthur Kendall, 71, became an SIU member in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He was last employed on the Sgt. William R. Button. Brother Kendall shipped in the steward department. He resides in Brooklyn, N.Y. Long Lines. Brother McCabe was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. and sailed in the engine department. He often attended classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother McCabe’s final ship was the Pfc. Eugene Al Obregon. He makes his home in Newport News, Va. JOHN SANCHEZ Brother John Sanchez, 65, was born in Wilmington, Calif. He became an SIU member in 1988, initially sailing on the Beaver State. Brother Sanchez worked in the deck department, most recently aboard the Green Point. In 1988 and 2011 he upgraded at the Piney Point school. Brother Sanchez lives in Tacoma, Wash. WILLIAM SCHUPPMAN Brother William Schuppman, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1995. He worked in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Brother Schuppman first sailed with Port Imperial Ferry. He shipped in the deck department. Brother Schuppman was a frequent upgrader at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. His most recent trip was on the Maersk Missouri. Brother Schuppman was born in New York City and settled in Port Saint Lucie, Fla. JUAN TORRES Brother Juan Torres, 65, started shipping with the union in 1994 while in Puerto Rico. His first voyage was aboard the Expedition; his most recent was on the American Tern. Brother Torres was born in Fajardo, P.R. On two occasions he attended classes at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Torres, a member of the deck department, resides in Hudson, Fla. INLAND JOHN MCCABE BILLY EPPS Brother John McCabe, 61, began sailing with the union in 1972. He initially shipped aboard the Brother Billy Epps, 61, joined the SIU in 1976 in the port of Baltimore. The engine depart- September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 17 ment member was born in Maryland. Brother Epps primarily sailed with Moran Towing of Maryland. In 1981 and 2001, he upgraded at the Piney Point school. Brother Epps calls Parkton, Md., home. JOHN FRANCESCHI Brother John Franceschi, 64, signed on with the union in 1973. He initially shipped on an Interstate Oil Transportation Company vessel. Brother Franceschi’s most recent trip was with Mariner Towing. He makes his home in College Station, Texas. MICHAEL FURMAN Brother Michael Furman, 63, began his seafaring career in 1967 while in Baltimore. He mostly worked aboard OSG Ship Management vessels. Brother Furman is a Maryland native. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Furman lives in Baltimore. CHARLES HADLEY Brother Charles Hadley, 59, first donned the SIU colors in 1987. For the duration of his career he sailed with G&H Towing. Brother Hadley was born in Texas and sailed in the deck department. He attended classes on two occasions at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Hadley is a resident of Paige, Texas. RUSSELL HUDSON Brother Russell Hudson, 55, joined the SIU in 1981. He sailed with Express Marine, Inc. for 25 years as mate aboard various tugboats. Brother Hudson finished his career with Maritrans/OSG, sailing as AB Tankerman for eight years in the Gulf of Mexico and the Delaware River. His most recent vessel was the OSG Horizon/351. Brother Hudson resides in Vandemere, N.C. BRUCE WERTS Brother Bruce Werts, 66, became a union member in 1998. He was originally employed with Riverboat Services. Brother Werts was a deck department member. In 2012, he enhanced his skills at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Werts last worked with Ameristar Casino East Chicago. He resides in Lake Ann, Mich. GREAT LAKES RONALD HALBERG Brother Ronald Halberg, 62, signed on with the SIU in 1971 while in Detroit. He mostly worked with Arnold Transit Company as a member of the deck department. Brother Halberg continues to live in his native state, Michigan. DANIEL HART Brother Daniel Hart, 59, was born in Michigan. He began sailing with the SIU in 1971. Brother Hart was primarily employed with Inland Lakes Management. He worked in both the engine and deck departments. Brother Hart settled in Alpena, Mich. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1944 One of the most modern union halls in the country was officially opened last week by the SIU. The sixstory building at 51 Beaver Street will house both the New York branch and the Atlantic & Gulf District offices. The union occupies the top five floors with the shipping hall taking the entire second floor. The lounge, complete with card and writing tables, takes the third floor. The stewards’ offices and the baggage room, which offers free baggage checking for members in good standing, are on the fourth floor [while] branch offices, including the office of the Seafarers LOG, take up the fifth floor. Atlantic & Gulf District Headquarters comprise the top floor. The reaction of the membership to their new home has been very favorable. Commenting on the new building one Seafarer said, “From now on, we don’t have to take off our hat to nobody.” 1954 After keeping the entire maritime industry in suspense for over a week, President Eisenhower signed the permanent “50-50” bill into law. His action came just two days before the deadline for signing, which would have meant a pocket-veto for the measure. The president’s approval means a complete victory for the SIU, which has fought for seven years, along with other maritime groups, to put “50-50” into foreign aid appropriation bills year after year. With the passage of a permanent bill, the “50-50” principle in foreign aid is now firmly established, which assures American shipping 50 percent of all government cargo falling into that category. 1962 The SIU Medical Department reached a milestone recently when it was noted that the six clinics operating throughout the county have given more than 50,000 physical examinations to Seafarers and their dependents. Seafarers formed the bulk of those examined with more than 88 percent of the physicals, while dependents accounted for about 12 percent. SIU members normally take at least one complete physical examination each year as part of the program of preventative medicine for which the entire clinic operation was set up. Clinics are operating in New York, New Orleans, Mobile, Baltimore, Houston and Puerto Rico. 1968 The SIU Welfare and Vacation plans have now paid out more than $100 million in benefits. The plan was first launched in 1950 and, since that time, more than $41.5 million has been paid out for hospital, death, disability, maternity, dependent, optical and out-patient benefits. In February 1952, the SIU Vacation Plan was inaugurated and it has since paid more than $59.4 million in vacation benefits for SIU members. The total value of welfare benefits is actually considerably higher, since the cost of scholarship payments, mealbooks, training facilities and medical examinations – for SIU members and their dependents – are not included in the above figures. Seafarers LOG 17 8/22/2013 5:13:52 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA ACYLEE BROOKS Pensioner Acylee Brooks, 78, passed away Jan. 10. Brother Brooks began sailing with the union in 1952. He was born in Mobile, Ala. and originally worked on the Strath Bay. Brother Brooks was a member of the steward department. Before retiring in 1998, he sailed on the Liberator. Brother Brooks made his home in Moreno Valley, Calif. PERRY GREENWOOD Pensioner Perry Greenwood, 79, passed away Feb. 1. Born in Seattle, he began sailing with the union in 1951. Brother Greenwood first sailed on the Choctaw. He was a deck department member. Brother Greenwood’s final ship was the Reliance. He retired in 1998 and was a resident of Yuma, Ariz. TEDDY LANE Pensioner Teddy Lane, 89, died Jan. 26. He became a union member in 1951 in Wilmington, Calif. Brother Lane’s first vessel was operated by Tiger Steamship Ltd.; his last ship was the Freedom. He was a native of Indiana and sailed in the deck department. Brother Lane went on pension in 1985 and resided in Shoreline, Wash. GEORGE LUGO Pensioner George Lugo, 78, died Feb. 7. He signed on with the SIU in 1959. Brother Lugo’s earliest trip was with Marine Carrier Corporation. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Lugo most recently shipped aboard the Overseas Philadelphia. He began collecting his pension in 1995. Brother Lugo called Pearland, Texas, home. JOSEPH MORRISON Pensioner Joseph Morrison, 83, passed away Feb. 13. He donned the SIU colors in 1960 while in the port of New York. Brother Morrison initially sailed with Interocean American Shipping Corporation. He was born in Iowa and shipped in the deck department. Brother Morrison last 18 Seafarers LOG 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 18 worked aboard the LNG Taurus. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1992. Brother Morrison lived in Sea Level, N.C. JOHN PRATT Pensioner John Pratt, 83, died Feb. 17. Brother Pratt joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards in 1972 while in the port of San Francisco. His first ship was the Santa Maria; his last, the Moku Pahu. Brother Pratt was born in New Hampshire. He started collecting his pension in 1995 and called Maupin, Ore., home. FRANZ SCHWARZ Pensioner Franz Schwarz, 79, passed away Feb. 18. Brother Schwarz started shipping with the union in 1956. He first worked with Isco Inc. Brother Schwarz was a member of the deck department. Prior to his retirement in 1991, he sailed on the OMI Charger. Brother Schwarz was born in Germany; he made his home in Highland, Texas. JOSEPH SMITH Pensioner Joseph Smith, 74, died Feb. 20. Brother Smith was born in North Carolina. He started his SIU career in 1962. Brother Smith was a steward department member. He originally shipped on a Waterman Steamship Corporation vessel. Brother Smith’s final vessel was the Ascension. He went on pension in 2005 and was a resident of Dunnigan, Calif. WILLIAM SMITH Pensioner William Smith, 75, passed away Feb. 10. He began sailing with the SIU in 1961. Brother Smith was originally employed aboard the Edith. He was born in Rockville, Md., and primarily worked in the engine department. Brother Smith’s last trip was on the Stephen W. Pless. He called Gettysburg, Pa., home. SEE WONG Brother See Wong, 82, died Feb. 28. He became a union member in 1969 while in the Port of San Francisco. Brother Wong’s earliest trip was aboard the President Eisenhower. The steward department member last worked on the Lurline. Brother Wong resided in San Francisco. INLAND CHARLES BROWN Brother Charles Brown, 52, passed away Feb. 20. He first donned the SIU colors in 2006. Brother Brown’s first voyage was aboard a Penn Maritime Inc. vessel. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Brown’s final trip was with OSG Ship Management. He made his home in Beaufort, N.C. JOSE CARBALLO Pensioner Jose Carballo, 81, died Feb. 8. Brother Carballo was born in Spain. He joined the union in 1983, primarily working with New York Cross Harbor. The deck department member started collecting his pension in 1993. He was a resident of Woodside, N.Y. DOMENICO CHIODI Pensioner Domenico Chiodi, 74, passed away Jan. 23. Brother Chiodi signed on with the SIU in 1983. He was employed with New York Cross Harbor for the duration of his career. Brother Chiodi, a member of the deck department, became a pensioner in 1992. He was born in Italy and made his home in Bronx, N.Y. PRESTON MILLER Pensioner Preston Miller, 77, died Feb. 21. Brother Miller started sailing with the Seafarers in 1963. He shipped with Dravo Basic Materials Company. The Mississippiborn mariner began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1997. Brother Miller settled in Saraland, Ala. LINDA RICHERSON Pensioner Linda Richerson, 73, passed away Nov. 24. Born in Bell City, Ky., Sister Richerson became an SIU member in 1996. She mostly shipped with Orgulf Transport Company. Sister Richerson, a member of the steward department, went on pension in 2011 and resided in Dexter, Ky. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. ANTONIO ADORNO Pensioner Antonio Adorno, 92, died Jan. 29. Brother Adorno was born in Corazal, P.R. He went on pension in 1983. Brother Adorno made his home in New York. LEROY CHAPMAN Pensioner Leroy Chapman, 93, passed away Jan. 6. Brother Chapman, a native of Charleston, S.C., started collecting his retirement compensation in 1975. He lived in Port Arthur, Texas. JORGE CRUZ Pensioner Jorge Cruz, 93, died Dec. 31. Born in Honduras, Brother Cruz became a pensioner in 1982. He called Corpus Christi, Texas, home. TAKEO EKIMURA Pensioner Takeo Ekimura, 92, passed away Jan. 31. Brother Ekimura was born in Hawaii. He retired in 1971 and resided in Florida. MADISON FONTENOT Pensioner Madison Fontenot, 89, died Jan. 2. Brother Fontenot was a native of Duralde, La. He began receiving his pension in 1967. Brother Fontenot lived in Mamou, La. TIMOTHY GLYNN Pensioner Timothy Glynn, 84, passed away Dec. 5. Brother Glynn, a native of Portland, Maine, went on pension in 1973. He made his home in Taft, Texas. MARCUS HOPKINS Pensioner Marcus Hopkins, 77, died Jan. 9. Born in the Cayman Islands, Brother Hopkins started receiving his retirement compensation in 1986. He lived in Homestead, Fla. JULIUS MCCRAY Pensioner Julius McCray, 87, passed away Feb. 1. Brother McCray was born in South Carolina. He retired in 1981 and settled in Virginia Beach, Va. NORMAN MCFIELD Pensioner Norman McField, 87, died Feb. 15. Brother McField, a native of the Caymans Islands, started collecting his retirement compensation in 1967. He lived in Brooklyn, N.Y. Paul was a native of Clinton, Maine. He became a pensioner in 1966 and called Benton, Maine, home. MANUEL PINTOR Pensioner Manuel Pintor, 83, passed away Jan. 21. Brother Pintor, a native of Texas, began collecting his pension in 1991. He resided in San Antonio. JOHN PIVOVARNIK Pensioner John Pivovarnik, 86, died Feb. 25. Born in Bayonne, N.J., Brother Pivovarnik went on pension in 1988. He continued to live in New Jersey. VICTOR SERRANO Pensioner Victor Serrano, 90, passed away March 10. Brother Serrano was born in Puerto Rico. He retired in 1967 and was a resident of Orlando, Fla. JACOB SIMMONDS Pensioner Jacob Simmonds, 90, died Jan. 30. Brother Simmonds was born in St. Croix, V.I. He became a pensioner in 1985. Brother Simmonds called Willingboro, N.J., home. HARVEY SLAUGHTER Pensioner Harvey Slaughter, 83, passed away March 8. Brother Slaughter, a native of Berwyn, Ill., went on pension in 1994. He settled in Reserve, La. PETER STESNEY Pensioner Peter Stesney, 87, passed away Dec. 27. Brother Stesney was born in Pennsylvania. He began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1990. Brother Stesney made his home in Allentown, Pa. HANS STOCKFISCH Pensioner Hans Stockfisch, 92, died Jan. 29. Born in Germany, Brother Stockfisch started receiving his pension in 1977. He lived in Boca Raton, Fla. DONATO TANDOC Pensioner Donato Tandoc, 86, died Oct. 19. Brother Tandoc began receiving his retirement pay in 1992. He was a resident of Vallejo, Calif. MERLON PAUL Pensioner Merlon Paul, 89, passed away Jan. 13. Brother September 2013 8/22/2013 5:13:54 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAERSK WYOMING (Maersk Line, Limited), May 25 – Chairman James Blitch, Secretary Lauren J. Oram, Educational Director David Vega, Deck Delegate Emilio Abreu, Engine Delegate James Sieger, Steward Delegate Richard Oliva. Chairman discussed re-flagging procedures with crew members. Secretary reminded everyone to defrost refrigerators in rooms and return excess cleaning gear to gear locker. Educational director suggested mariners upgrade at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He also talked about the importance of obtaining a rating to be competitive when jobs are tight. Treasurer reported money in ship’s fund, from safety awards, will be transferred to Maersk Memphis by captain. Deck delegate expressed concerns regarding protocols with security team. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members were urged to go online to www.seafarers.org for current events while at sea. Steward was thanked for great meals and homemade bread. Next port: Jebel Ali. ALASKAN LEGEND (Alaska Tanker Company), June 23 – Chairman Alvin Martin, Secretary Just B. Self, Educational Director Jeremias M. Cepeda, Deck Delegate Woodrow Brown, Steward Delegate Johnson Ashun. Bosun discussed new health clinic system. Secretary spoke about the significance of attending SIU union meetings aboard ship. Educational director recommended members further training at the Piney Point school. Deck delegate posted a copy of new standard tanker agreement. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Alaskan Legend donated a brick to the new waterfront park in Piney With Seafarers Aboard the Horizon Spirit Recertified Bosun Gerry Gianan emailed these photos from a recent voyage on the Horizon Spirit. Pictured from left to right in the photo at right are Chief Cook Susano Cortez, Chief Steward Susan Bowman and SA Reno Duque. Cortez is also pictured at left. The remaining photos show AB Leo Bognoson (above), holding the scaling machine and AB Harold Harper (above, right), who “built this awesome table for the SIU laundry room,” the bosun reports. Point. Crew requested a Vitamix machine. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. EAGLE (Maersk Line, Limited), June 2 – Chairman Samuel M. Uyatede, Secretary Johnnie B. McGill, Engine Delegate James Corprew, Steward Delegate Marcus Logan. Chairman reported smooth sailing. Secretary noted fresh provisions have been received. Educational director encouraged fellow mariners to separate garbage, plastic and paper. He also suggested crew take advantage of courses available at maritime training center in Piney Point. Treasurer reported $1,400 in Seafarer Earns Safety Award OMU Arthur “Buddy” Marshall (right) recently earned a cash award as part of the ongoing safety program conducted by SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited. Chief Engineer Dicky Collins (left) presented the award aboard the Alliance Richmond. Marshall was credited for setting “an exceptional example of crew safety awareness. He is dedicated to his own safety and the safety of his fellow shipmates at all times.” In a specific recent instance, Marshall helped report and repair a faulty grinder guard. September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_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. ship’s fund. Beef reported in engine department; no disputed OT. Crew thanked steward department for a job well done. Seafarers were reminded to keep doors closed to keep AC working properly. MAERSK KENTUCKY (Maersk Line, Limited), June 23 – Chairman Eugene Perez Jr., Secretary Wayne R. Wilson, Educational Director Brian J. Sengelaub, Deck Delegate Peter Wojcikowski. Chairman noted vessel sailed short June 8-16 due to a death in AB’s family. He reported an overall good trip. Educational director reiterated the need to wear personal protective equipment. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for new fans and refrigerator. Crew expressed gratitude to steward department for outstanding meals, especially with extra people aboard. Next port: Newark, N.J. MAERSK MEMPHIS (Maersk Line, Limited), June 21 – Chairman Frank L. Thompson, Secretary Elena Lee, Steward Delegate Saeed Alahmadi. Chairman talked about ship’s recent re-flag and upcoming repairs. Ship fund money to be used to purchase satellite system. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communication received and discussed about functional capacity evaluation. It was noted that Maersk Memphis is new to the Maersk fleet and the union. Crew discussed need for re-supply of tools and stores. Next port: Charleston, S.C. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line, Limited), June 16 – Chairman Cecil M. Yearwood, Secretary Glenn C. Bamman, Educational Director Jerome D. Culbreth, Deck Delegate Juan Gomez Jr., Engine Delegate Roger A. Nesbeth, Steward Delegate Abdul Saleh. Bosun reported good voyage and morale among members. He thanked crew for their hard work. Secretary asked crew to leave cabins clean for reliefs. Educational director urged all mariners to keep necessary documents current and enhance skills at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Votes of thanks given to steward department, electrician and all ABs. Next ports: Elizabeth, N.J., Charleston, S.C., Savannah, Ga., Houston and Mobile, Ala. OVERSEAS BOSTON (OSG Ship Management), June 21 – Chairman Richard A. Szabo, Secretary Gary W. Loftin, Educational Director Thomas P. Bain. Chairman led discussion on different watchstanding schedules. Educational director reminded fellow members about importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew would like TV in all member rooms and also access to internet. RACER (Maersk Line, Limited), June 7 – Chairman Hanapiah Ismail, Secretary Michael A. Carello, Educational Director Michael D. Murphy, Deck Delegate Timothy Brock, Steward Delegate Manuel Daquio. Bosun thanked steward department for great meals and reported a smooth trip. Secretary reported great crew to sail with. Educational director reminded fellow members to keep an eye on document expiration dates, allow plenty of time for renewals and pay dues ahead of time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on physical requirements. It was noted this was last meeting for the Racer; Maersk Atlanta will be new vessel. OVERSEAS ANACORTES (OSG Ship Management), July 9 – Chairman Felsher A. Beasley, Secretary John J. Fallon, Educational Director Earl Olson, Engine Delegate Marco Oliva. Chairman advised mariners to maintain good health, exercise when possible, eat healthy and stay hydrated. Everyone was encouraged to take advantage of Paul Hall Center and support SIU. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members talked about Crowley’s new ships. Seafarers LOG 19 8/22/2013 5:13:58 PM �Letters to the Editor Grateful Scholarship Winner To all those involved in the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Scholarship, I am writing this letter, first and foremost, to sincerely thank you for making an investment in my academic journey at Seton Hall University. Secondly, I wanted to discuss the return on your investment – or in other words, the success I have enjoyed because of your support. In doing so, I wanted to make it clear that your investment was put to good use. I am proud to say that I graduated Summa Cum Laude in my class, which means I graduated in the top one percent. Additionally, I received a Departmental Honors Citation in finance and a Certificate of Achievement in legal studies, again, for having the highest GPA in both disciplines. Moreover, I am currently working at Nowell Amoroso Klein Bierman, a law firm in Hackensack, N.J. Suffice to say, I did quite well in my academic career and it carried over into my actual career. However, none of it would have been possible if the people from the Seafarers did not take a chance to help me. Accordingly, it is with great enthusiasm that I can say I followed the example set forth by the union during my academic journey. For example, I utilized my strength in writing to help students improve their writing skills by tutoring at the writing center at the university. In addition, I used my interest in legal studies to become a teacher’s assistant and continue to help aid the education of my peers. My service stretched past academics as well. During one summer of college, I went to India to volunteer at an orphanage in Mumbai. While I was there, I worked on developing the writing skills of those orphans. Just as the Seafarers invested in me, I did the same with these orphans. My college career was predicated on opportunities given to me by others, so to deny the less fortunate of similar opportunities would be a waste of their potential. Ultimately, the contribution of the Seafarers International Union and the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan did more than just allow me to graduate with success and recognition; it taught me that in order to fully realize the opportunities given to me, I, too, must distribute opportunities for others. Just as the Seafarers can have a level of satisfaction in knowing their investment paid off, I can do the same by knowing that I, in some way, have helped my peers, whether through their legal classes or their writing ability. Moreover, I hope to go back to India to witness the return on the 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. investment with the orphans I worked with. I truly appreciate your investment in my academic career and I hope to take these lessons you have taught me and carry them over into my actual career. Jeffrey X. Monteiro (Son of Frank J. Monteiro) Millington, New Jersey He Likes the LOG Just a quick note of thanks for the Seafarers LOG. Although I am retired (didn’t retire in the SIU), I like to keep up with American shipping issues. I will never forget my eight years sailing as AB in the deck department. Living in an area where most people think the U.S. Merchant Marine is some sort of branch of the Marine Corps (how many have been through that one?), I usually try to leave my copy of the LOG (after reading) in some public space such as a doctor’s office or the barber shop for others to look at it. I have always thought that it would be worthwhile to add information, photos and explanations of what life is like aboard various ships – perhaps show and describe a typical day in the life of a member of each department. I did purchase the history publication a year or so ago (the book “America’s Seafarers”) and enjoyed reading that. Once again, thanks for the publication and keep up the good work. Jerry Lopez Georgiana, Alabama Staten Island, N.Y., or anywhere else. Today, we assist mariners in their home communities, where they are familiar and more likely to be near family and friends. Please help us reach out to those retired mariners who may be in need of assistance. We offer support to career mariners who can demonstrate that they have a need for financial assistance and meet the following requirements: 3,650 days of deep-sea time proven through discharge papers (at least 50 percent on U.S.-flag ships) 65 years of age or older (exceptions may be made in rare cases) Proven need for financial assistance Assets may not exceed $50,000 (primary residence excluded) All public benefits available to an eligible mariner must be accessed before any subsidy from SSH is approved (e.g., VA benefits, Medicaid). Each mariner must complete an application that requires detailed information about present living arrangements and financial history. If you have questions or are in need of assistance, please call our mariner counselor at 1-888-257-5456. Our website – www.thesailorssnugharbor.org – includes our application. If you do not have access to a computer, please call and we will send you an application. Rae Linefsky SSH Executive Director New York, New York Former Seafarer Perry Ellis painted this picture of an old tanker. Former Mariner Solicits Help for Merchant Seamen from Above Sailors’ Snug Harbor Offers Assistance Sailors’ Snug Harbor (SSH) is the oldest secular charity in the country, assisting mariners across the nation. We have learned that there are many eligible mariners who are unaware of our possible assistance and we are clearly aware that there are many who meet all of the eligibility requirements, including financial need. SSH no longer owns or operates a retirement facility for mariners in Sea Level, N.C., Not too long ago, I wrote a letter to Pope Francis. I also sent him a print of the picture of a T-2 tanker I was on in 1967. We sailed out of Houston loaded with grain bound for India. The cargo went to the poor and hungry people of India. It took us 48 days at 11 knots to get there. We were the last American ship to clear the Suez Canal before the Six-Day War started. I painted a picture of the ship on a piece of cardboard, using the paints from the ship’s paint locker. The school in Maryland has a real one in the museum. I asked the Pope to say a prayer for all the merchant seamen from long ago and today, never mind what country they were or are from. As I understand from the letter sent to me by Monsignor Wells, the print was accepted and His Holiness will remember merchant seamen in his prayers. Perry Ellis Galveston, Texas 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 15049_SEPT2013_LOG_X.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. September 2013 8/23/2013 6:35:33 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—national security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Deck Department Lifeboatman/Water Survival September 14 September 27 October 12 October 25 November 9 November 22 December 7 December 20 STOS (RFPNW) September 14 October 11 November 9 December 6 Able Seaman October 12 November 8 November 16 December 13 Radar Renewal (One day) December 16 December 16 Radar Observer September 7 September 20 ARPA September 21 September 27 Engine Department Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Basic Firefighting/STCW October 19 October 25 November 16 November 22 BST Renewal/VPDSD September 21 September 27 October 26 November 1 November 2 November 8 November 30 December 6 December 7 December 13 Government Vessels September 14 September 20 October 12 October 18 November 9 November 15 Medical Care Provider September 21 September 27 December 7 December 13 Tank PIC Barge (DL) October 14 October 18 Small Arms Training October 19 October 25 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Chief Steward October 5 November 15 Serve Safe November 23 November 29 Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class will begin September 16. Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) September 14 October 11 FOWT October 12 November 8 Junior Engineer October 26 December 20 The National Maritime Center NMC Website Provides Useful Mariner Resources (NMC), the licensing authority for Marine Refer Tech September 28 November 8 the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive website covering mariner Pumpman November 30 December 13 credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide Welding September 14 October 4 range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam October 26 November 15 information, lists of Coast Guard-ap November 30 December 20 proved courses and more. Seafarers Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting September 14 September 20 Basic Firefighting/STCW September 7 September 13 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name_________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth___________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o 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. 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 _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ 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____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ 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. 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. 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. 9/13 September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 21 LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ Seafarers LOG 21 8/22/2013 5:13:59 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #774 – The following Phase I trainees (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 5: Joseph Bowen, Danielle Brown, Rodney Carr, Michael Cox, Jonamie Encarnacion, Ryan Gallano, Nicholas Garcia IV, Sarah Gray, Terrance Jackson, J. Michael Nardella, Jaquel Nesmith, Roy Patterson, Annie Scott, George Steube and Brian Thurmer. Class Instructor Ben Cusic is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Apprentice Water Survival Class #775 – Fifteen trainees completed their requirements in this course Aug. 2. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order)were: Zachary Blake, Daniel Boye, Kierra Burton, Dean Crisostomo, Buzz Engelke, Julian Head, Cynora Hunter, David Lane III, Sterling McCosh, Karl Mosley, Joshua Puto, John Reyes, Nicholas Selle, Eric Waters and Rynesha Westbrook. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Welding – Three upgraders graduated from this course July 19. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Maurice Brodie, Kassim Mohamed and David Quade. Class Instructor Buzzy Andrews is at the far right. FOWT – Twelve individuals completed their requirements in this course July 12. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Justin Biggerstaff, Rodolfo Caldo, Leonardo Cortez, Elliot Duncan, Eric Garcia, Jason Horn, Joshua Moton, Corey Sanders, Joshua Schwarz, Grant Simonson, Ryan Taylor and Jose Vega. Class Instructor Tim Achorn is second from the right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Advanced Refrigeration Container Maintenance – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) finished this course July 26: Jonathyn Bland, Abner Diaz Torres, Archie Eldridge, Stravon Jordon, Jan Morawski and Steve Wilson. Class Instructor Jay Henderson is at the far left in the back row. Medical Care Provider – Ten upgraders graduated from this course July 26. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Christopher Allen, Carlton Banks, John Cedeno Jr., Felix Garcia, Timothy Heil, Derek Ivory, Jeffery Roddy, William Soileau, Ryan Taylor and Jesse Tornabene. Mike Roberts, their instructor, is at the far left. Government Vessels – Twenty-two Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this course July 26. Those graduating (right, in alphabetical order) were: David Arcilla, Dimitri Baker, Gregorio Cudal, Jules Delgado, Ely Desingano, Bernardino Eda, Walden Galagac, Sherry Griffin, Daniel Heintz Jr., Johnathan Howard, Letwan Jackson, Samuel Javier, Isaka Koanda, Sabrina Long, John McBentum, Eileen Mendiola, Edgar Parong, Jumar Rapuet, Jacqueline Sivels, Jacob Teiko, Andrezej Tlaka and Andrew VanBourg. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 22 September 2013 8/22/2013 5:14:03 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Tankship Familiarization DL – Twenty-four Phase III trainees graduated from this course July 14. Completing their requirements (left, in alphabetical order) were: Kasim Ahmed, Alvin Cabahit, James Demarco, Charles Elam, Curtis Everett, Sean Foote, Joshua Freeland, Jacob Gaskill, John Greggs, Karleen Grenier, Cody Kingsford, Jon Mahannah, Whalen Martin, Raymond Martinez, LeDaron McIntosh, Nicholas Panagakos, Joshua Rawls, James Rodweller, Durham Russell, Chase Smith, Mario Standberry, Nicole Stephenson, Brandon Thorton, and Christopher Vanhoose. 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. Able Seaman – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course August 2: Pedro Abuda, Jeffrey Angeles, Gary Congden, Ryan Lindsoe, Matthew Schmitz, George Steube, Freddie Taylor, Jessie Ticer and Slawomir Tlalka. Class Instructor Bernabe Pelingon is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Water Survival Class #774 – Seafarer Walden Galacgac (above) completed this 60-hour course July 5. His instructor was Ben Cusic. Combined Basic and Advanced Firefighting – Nine upgraders finished their requirements in this course July 19. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Joseph Allotey, Timothy Heil, Derek Ivory, Scott Palen, Jeffery Roddy, Nicole Snick, William Soileau, Ryan Taylor and Jesse Tornabene. Class Instructors Wayne Johnson Sr., and Wayne Johnson Jr., are at the far left and far right respectively. Bridge Team Training – Nine individuals completed this course July 19. Those graduating above, in no particular order) were: Igor Loch Jr., James Russell, Lavern McDowell Sr., Bruce Bonnecarrere Jr., John Bilich Sr., Alfred Sanderson, Antonio Carrerro Jr., Kevin McCown and Hussein Hussein. Class Instructor Mitch Oakley is at the far right in the back row. Steward Department Classes – Four upgraders recently completed steward department courses. Those graduating and the courses they completed (above, in alphabetical order) were: Chris King, chief cook; Sabrina Long, galley operations, Stephen Nowell, chief cook; and Edward Smigielski, chief cook. September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 23 Steward Department Classes – Two Seafarers recently finished courses in the steward department. Emie Aguinaldo (above, left) graduated from the chief cook class, while Troy Smith completed his requirements in the advanced galley operations class. Seafarers LOG 23 8/22/2013 5:14:06 PM �Volume 75, Number 9 September 2013 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 Aboard the SIU-Crewed Maersk Ohio Photo by Will Van Dorp Maersk Ohio Returns to Norfolk Following Mediterranean Voyage Clockwise from the top, the Maersk Ohio makes its approach to a port. Aboard the vessel are Recertified Bosun Jim Joyce and UA Guy Delyea. QMED William Harrison is on the job in the engine room while Recertified Bosun Brian Corbett, Joyce and AB Damon Lobel pose for an off-duty photo while on deck. Joyce shows off his catch of the day while AB Bernie Bernardez mans his post on the helm in the vessel’s wheelhouse. 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 24 The SIU-crewed Maersk Ohio recently returned to its home port in Norfolk, Va., following its completion of a Mediterranean voyage. Operated by union-contracted Maersk, Line Limited, the Ohio is one of 21 container vessels in the company’s seagoing fleet. These platforms, which range in capacity from approximately 1,090 to 4,800 TEUs, provide weekly service between the United States, the Middle East, Northern Europe and Asia. The crew photos appearing on this page were provided by Recertified Bosun Jim “Crown Jewel” Joyce, one of the LOG’s many faithful stringers who also are top-notch mariners. All brothers and sisters are encouraged to follow Joyce’s example and send photos of their vessels and shipmates on their respective jobs for publication in the Seafarers LOG. 8/22/2013 5:14:11 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 September 2013 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES CROWLEY ORDERS NEW TANKERS CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT CALLS FOR UP TO 8 JONES ACT VESSELS BOSUNS SEE WORLDS OF OPPORTUNITIES IN SIU, PAUL HALL CENTER HARLEY MARINE CHRISTENS NEW TUG LABOR BOARD FINALLY HAS FULL MEMBERSHIP UNION-CONTRACTED CROWLEY ORDERS NEW TANKERS NEW CROWLEY TUGS GOING STRONG MARINER ‘BILL OF RIGHTS’ TAKES EFFECT INTERNATIONAL MARITIME LABOR TEAMS UP FOR GREAT CAUSE ‘POKER RUN’ NETS THOUSANDS FOR PORT ARTHUR SEAFARERS CENTER U.S. REPRESENTATIVE HUNTER STANDS UP FOR MARITIME SIU TAKES MARITIME MESSAGE TO DOT, CONGRESS GREAT LAKES WELCOMES NEW SEAWAY ADMINISTRATOR UNIONS, OPERATORS, SCHOOL TEAM UP FOR WELLNESS PROJECT RESEARCH OFFERS REMINDER OF SEAFARERS’ BRAVERY SIU MEN BRAVE JUNGLE TO AVOID INTERNMENT MARINERS EXPERIENCE MISADVENTURE IN THE NORTH AFRICAN DESERT- 1943 BOSUNS POINT TO UNION, SCHOOL AS GOLDEN OPPORTUNITIES ABOARD THE SIU-CREWED MAERSK OHIO 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 09/01/2013 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. 9 2013 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/60353d2b5b4ea5abe0834222bb2c0ba2.pdf ef135bf1fdc60c58d66ecb05da0273cf PDF Text Text SEPTEMBER F E B R U A2014 RY 2014 V O L U M EVOLUME 7 6 o 76 NNO. O .9 2 Cape Ray Completes Chemical Neutralization The SIU-crewed Cape Ray in mid-August finished its unprecedented work of neutralizing the most dangerous chemicals in Syria’s declared stockpile. In photo at right below, the Keystone-operated ship receives cargo from a helicopter Aug. 4 in the Mediterranean Sea. At left, GVA Alex Rodriguez secures a chain attached to a refrigeration container. The remaining photo shows QMED Brandon Granger preparing a steel plate. Page 9. (U.S. Navy photos by Seaman Desmond Parks) Crowley Christens Tugboat SIU members and officials including those pictured in the photo at left helped formally welcome the Crowley Maritime tug Ocean Sky during a recent ceremony in Houston. Page 3. SIU-Crewed Ships Come To the Rescue Two SIU-crewed ships recently rescued 12 individuals from disabled vessels thousands of miles apart. In the first saga, the USNS Richard E. Byrd (crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division) saved nine mariners whose Yemeni-flagged cargo ship (the Al Saed-1, in background of photo at right, with life raft in foreground) lost power and went adrift in the Gulf of Oman. The other episode saw the Matson ship Manukai save three people from a sailboat caught in Hurricane Julio near Hawaii. Page 9. (Photo courtesy U.S. Navy) ITF Congress News Page 2 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X2.indd 1 Houston Operations Moving Page 3 Support Evident for U.S. Sealift Page 7 8/29/2014 12:43:39 PM �ITF Congress Promotes Workers’ Rights President’s Report SIU’s Heindel Reelected Chair of Key Maritime Section House Hearing Helps Our Cause When more than a dozen members of the U.S. Congress show up for a subcommittee hearing that’s not tied to a particular bill, it means the subject matter is very important. That was the case in late July, when military and administration officials testified before the House Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces (part of the Armed Services Committee). The hearing drew a great turnout, and strong statements were made supporting the U.S. Merchant Marine by not only those testifying, but also subcommittee members from both sides of the aisle. Make no mistake: This wasn’t a pep rally. It was a hard, critical look at what our nation must do to maintain adequate sealift capability for times of war or other emergencies. In many ways, it was an overdue examination of what we’ve got and what Michael Sacco we need, both in terms of manpower and Americanflag tonnage. I’m encouraged by the comments and testimony from the hearing, including detailed statements backing the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) and cargo preference laws. Even more, it was heartening to hear our mariners – including the many thousands of SIU members – described as a crucial national asset. And perhaps best of all, I appreciated the on-the-record acknowledgement that our people don’t grow on trees and can’t just be plucked off the street when there’s a surge sealift requirement. Today’s maritime industry is far different than it was a century ago or when our union was founded, and we all know how different it has become since the Exxon Valdez and the September 11 terrorist attacks. Those events aren’t the only reasons why the U.S. Merchant Marine is so heavily regulated, but they are major factors. As a result, it takes time and training to “make a mariner.” That’s one reason why it makes sense for our country to maintain programs and laws like the MSP, Food for Peace, the ExportImport Bank and the Jones Act that help sustain the vital seagoing manpower pool. Historically, the SIU and all of the U.S. Merchant Marine have delivered the goods, wherever and whenever needed. We’ve also demonstrated our flexibility and dependability when an out-of-the-ordinary assignment comes up, such as the high-profile deployment of the SIUcrewed Cape Ray. As we’ve been reporting for months, the Cape Ray took on the complex, critical task of neutralizing and disposing of materials from Syria’s chemical weapons stockpile. And, as you likely know by now, the Keystone-operated vessel finished safely, efficiently and ahead of schedule. (As the kids might say nowadays, when the White House and the Pentagon both issue statements of thanks, it’s kind of a big deal.) I’ve always been optimistic about our union and our industry, but also realistic. No one is going to give us anything – not at a bargaining table, not in a legislative fight at home, not in any of the international maritime and labor forums abroad. We have to fight for ourselves, carry our own message and work with our partners from all segments of the industry to help ensure a bright future. You, the rank-and-file members, play an indispensable role in this effort by being professional and reliable on the job, by upgrading your skills, by helping with grassroots political action, and by supporting your officials. That last point is important and not taken for granted, while also truly not meant to sound self-serving. I know for sure that one of the reasons our union has been successful despite the many obstacles in the industry is because of continuity. It’s a similar concept as not being able to shove someone up a gangway and expect them to know how to be a mariner. The political and business sides of our industry take time to learn, and the relationships we’ve built across the board aren’t made overnight. As we continue working together, I remain upbeat, determined and confident that we in the SIU will do our part to not only keep the Stars and Stripes flying on the high seas, but also to truly revitalize this invaluable industry. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 76 Number 9 o NO. 2 September 2014 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org Delegates to the 43rd International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) Congress, conducted in Sofia, Bulgaria, August 10-16 took to heart the gathering’s slogan of “From Global Crisis to Global Justice: Transport Workers Fighting Back!” Tackling issues ranging from maritime piracy to the longstanding flag-of-convenience (FOC) campaign to demanding fairness in the international campaign for DHL drivers, the more than 1,700 delegates representing 372 unions from 114 nations called for stronger laws around the world to protect workers. The SIU, an ITF affiliate, was well-represented at the convention, which takes place every four years. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel was reelected as chair of the federation’s Seafarers’ Section, while SIU of Canada President James Given was elected chair of the North American Seafarers’ Section caucus. SIU Port Agent Tracey Mayhew was reelected as a representative for the ITF Fisheries Section. Other participants in the congress included SIU of Canada Secretary-Treasurer Catina Sicoli, SIU of Canada Executive Vice President Patrice Caron, SIU ITF Inspectors Ricky Esopa and Shwe Aung, and Maritime Trades Department Executive SecretaryTreasurer Daniel Duncan. In opening the congress, ITF President Paddy Crumlin (who was reelected to a second fouryear term) from the Maritime Union of Australia pointed out that 90 families hold as much wealth as half of the world’s population. He said it was time for all workers to stand together and fight back. Crumlin reiterated that call at the convention’s end: “The ITF understands just how interconnected we all are and how powerful that can make us if we work hard together and build on the solidarity between working men and women across supply chains, across industries and across borders. The ITF lets brave men and women of the union movement know that their fight is not in vain, that they are part of something much bigger.” Delegates unanimously elected Stephen Cotton to serve as ITF General Secretary. Cotton, who addressed the 2012 Seafarers International Union of North America Convention, had been serving as acting secretary following the retirement of David Cockroft in 2012. Cotton told delegates that The Seafarers delegation included (from left) Port Agent Tracey Mayhew, SIU of Canada Executive VP Patrice Caron, SIU of Canada Secretary-Treasurer Catina Sicoli, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, ITF Inspector Shwe Aung and SIU of Canada President James Given, plus Inspector Ricky Esopa and Maritime Trades Department Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan (behind the lens). transportation and the workers who move goods connect the world. “World trade dominates our national and international economies,” Cotton stated. “It is a mighty engine linking labor throughout the world. The mighty global economic engine has far too long been funneling the majority of its wealth into the hands of the few and not the many. It is an engine that should benefit all of us.” Heindel reported on great progress within the Seafarers’ Section these past four years. He covered a wide range of topics but emphasized the global effort to reduce and eventually eliminate maritime piracy. “Piracy is an ongoing battle, and it’s an effort that involves not just the ITF but many other organizations and governments around the world,” he stated. “Still, there’s no doubt the ITF has been – and remains – a leader in this life-and-death struggle. And there’s no doubt we’ve made tremendous strides.” He recapped the “End Piracy Now” petition spurred by the ITF and the subsequent Save Our Seafarers campaign, both of which increased global attention to piracy. Heindel also offered a statistic “that reflects the progress we’ve made. Three years ago, in 2011, there were more than 1,100 seafarers being held hostage as a result of pirate actions. Today, according to the most current data available, there are 39.” He acknowledged that statistics don’t tell the whole story and much work remains, “but by any reasonable measure, both the ITF in particular and the industry as a whole have stepped up and made great improvements when it comes to protecting our seafarers.” Some of the keys to that success have included securing military support, making greater use of private armed security guards, and helping form a humanitarian response group that assists victims of piracy, he noted. Meanwhile, the ITF staff compiled news clips and film footage of numerous worker demonstrations from around the world since the London-based federation last met in convention four years ago. The video – which included scenes from America’s “Occupy Wall Street” campaign, Arab Spring, and protests in Africa, Asia, Australia and South America – graphically demonstrated how workers around the world are fighting for the same thing at the same time: a fair day’s wage for a fair day’s work. In other news from the convention, during the Joint Seafarers and Dockers Conference, delegates offered support for continued efforts to improve conditions for mariners sailing aboard runaway-flag vessels by working with shipowners as well as via the ITF’s global network of portside inspectors. Additionally, delegates strongly endorsed the federation’s “white ribbon” campaign calling for an end to violence against women. They urged ITF affiliates to participate in a global day of action for this issue November 25. Paddy Crumlin (left) was reelected as ITF president, while Steve Cotton (right) was elected general secretary. Seafarers’ Section Chair David Heindel recaps the progress made since the last ITF Congress. 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 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X2.indd 2 September 2014 8/29/2014 12:43:47 PM �Crowley Christens Tugboat Ocean Sky The SIU recently helped celebrate the christening of Crowley Maritime’s Seafarers-crewed tugboat Ocean Sky in Houston. Although the ocean-class boat had already been operating, its commemorative addition didn’t take place until July 24. The Ocean Sky joins the Ocean Wave and Ocean Wind as the formally launched vessels of the class, with the fourth, the Ocean Sun, scheduled for christening in October. SIU attendees included Father Sinclair Oubre, who gave the invocation; crew members Captain Charles A. Williams, AB Terry Laviolette, Second Mate Evan Wanamaker, Second Mate Stefan Salvador, Chief Mate Darrel Koonce Jr., AB David Heindel Jr., Chief Cook Terrance Sawyer, First Assistant Engineer Michael Bibby, AB Farrel Bodden, AB Ben Johnson and Chief Engineer  David Greenamyer; and officials Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Assistant Vice President Jim McGee and Port Agent Mike Russo. Todd Busch, senior vice president and general manager of Crowley’s solutions group, was the first to address the crowd of more than 140 guests at the ceremony. Busch spoke about the design of this new class of tugs. “She’s state-of-the-art,” Busch said. “If you look around, you’ll see that there are a lot of features for the comfort of the crew, who were involved with the design of this vessel. This vessel was designed by us, built by us, and we operate it, as well.” Other speakers included Crowley Vice Chairman and Executive Vice President Bill Pennella, Crowley Vice Presidents John Ara and Craig Tornga, NC Power Crowley Assistant Treasurer and vessel sponsor Jennifer Legg breaks the champagne bottle, while Father Sinclair Oubre (left) and Crowley Vice President John Ara (middle) dodge the spray. Bill Pennella, Vice Chairman and Executive Vice President of Crowley Maritime Corporation, addresses the more than 140 guests at the christening. needs of our offshore energy partners since its hull touched the water ready for service last year,” said Ara. “All four of these dynamic positioning vessels along with their safe, well-trained crews have been in high demand and have performed reliably across the board for our diverse energy customers doing business in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico.” In fact, about two weeks after the christening, the crew of the Ocean Sky was already busy with their next task: assisting Austal USA and the newly built littoral combat ship USS Montgomery. The Ocean Sky was made available to the U.S. Navy in order to move the Montgomery onto its barge, and then shift the vessel onto the BAE System’s drydock Alabama, from which it could be launched. The ocean-class tugs are dynamic positioning boats, and all four of them have been involved in most of the recent major offshore oil production platform installations in the Gulf of Mexico. They are “ideally suited to work with Crowley’s new 455 series high-deck strength barges, which measure 400 feet long by 105 feet wide,” the company pointed out. “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. They are outfitted with twin-screw, controllable-pitch propellers in nozzles and high lift rudders for a combination of performance and fuel economy.” Systems Vice President Joe Huley and the North American Vice President of Heerema Marine Contractors U.S. Inc. Bruce Gresham. Shell, Anadarko and Chevron, all of whom have contracted the oceanclass tugs for service also had representatives in attendance, as did Congressman Gene Green’s (D-Texas) office and the area’s port commission. Crowley’s Assistant Treasurer and Vessel Sponsor Jennifer Legg broke the ceremonial bottle of champagne across the hull of the 156-foot-long boat. Although the vessel has been in service, the ceremony is still an important maritime tradition, attendees noted. “While today served as a formal ceremony to welcome this vessel to service, truth is, it has been busy tending to the The Ocean Sky, third in the new ocean-class line, was christened July 24 in Houston. SIU members and officials gather near the tug. Houston Operations Moving to Temporary Location with CWA After 37 years at the union hall on Pierce Street, the SIU soon will move its Houston operations to a temporary location a few blocks away. The facility on Pierce Street has been sold; the SIU is scheduled to move to the Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 6222 building September 15 (a Monday). The CWA building is located at 1730 Jefferson Street. It isn’t known exactly how long the SIU will share space in the CWA facility, but the best guess for now is a year or so. The SIU is in the process of acquiring new property where a permanent hall will be constructed. The SIU’s phone and fax numbers for Houston will remain unchanged despite the temporary relocation. Those numbers are (phone) (713) 659-5152 and (fax) (713) 650-8629. Additional details will be reported as they become available. September 2014 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X2.indd 3 Starting Sept. 15, the SIU will share space at the CWA hall in Houston pictured above. Seafarers LOG 3 8/29/2014 12:43:51 PM �Captains David and Dana Lyon sit with their dog, Colt. (Photo courtesy U.S. Air Force) The TOTE Services-operated ship features three cranes. Seafarers Crew Mans Newly Reflagged Prepositioning Ship AB Donivan McCants (right) and Third Mate Luis Correa raise the Stars and Stripes. From left, AB Ali Alhamyari, Bosun Terry Evins and AB Saleh Mothana take a quick break for this photo. 4 Seafarers LOG 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X.indd 4 SIU members are sailing aboard a newly reflagged prepositioning ship named in memory of a U.S. Air Force officer who died late last year in Afghanistan. The MV Capt. David I. Lyon, operated by TOTE Services, Inc., hoisted the Stars and Stripes in July in Bayonne, New Jersey. After taking on bunkers, the 608-foot-long vessel sailed to Sunny Point, North Carolina for a U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) inspection. From there, the ship is expected to sail to Korea. Built in 1997, the Lyon features three cranes and can sail at around 20 knots. It is a containership with an 82-foot beam. Seafarers sailing aboard the Lyon at press time included Bosun Terry Evins, ABs Caroline Lawrence, Donivan McCants, Warren Gorman, Saleh Mothana and Ali Alhamyari, QEE Dmitri Petchenyov, OMUs Nabil Ali, James Williamson, Donald Bishop, Marcus Gramby and Jerry Morlett, Steward/Baker Norma West, Chief Cook Rashaad Mangram, and SA Santos Jaime. The Air Force in late May announced the ship would be named for Capt. David I. Lyon, who died Dec. 27, 2013 in Kabul, Afghanistan, when a car bomb was detonated near his convoy. He was 28 years old. According to the Air Force, Lyon was performing a combat advisory mission with Afghan national army commandos and working with the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan as part of a year-long deployment. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Purple Heart, and the Air Force Combat Action Medal. Pictured in the crew mess are OMUs Nabil Ali (left) and Marcus Gramby. “It’s a fitting tribute to have the … prepositioning vessel named after an Air Force logistician and true American patriot who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the service of his country,” said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark A. Welsh III. “Captain Lyon answered the call by saying ‘send me,’ and exemplified the core value of service before self. I’m extremely proud that this great airman’s story will become part of the legacy of this proud ship and its crew.” Lyon’s wife, Dana, also is an Air Force captain serving in Afghanistan. When she heard about the vessel naming, she said she “was in awe and deeply honored,” according to the Air Force. “It is quite an honor that the logistics community and the Air Force recognized the man I knew him to be: humble and selfless,” she said. “Dave’s favorite thing about being in the Air Force was feeling like he was in the fight and making a difference in the world. He would be very much honored and happy about having this vessel named after him because it allows him to still deliver to the warfighter…. His legacy will live on and the mission will continue despite him being gone.” MSC describes its prepositioning program as “an essential element in the U.S. military’s readiness strategy. Afloat prepositioning strategically places military equipment and supplies aboard ships located in key ocean areas to ensure rapid availability during a major theater war, a humanitarian operation or other contingency. MSC’s 26 prepositioning ships support the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Defense Logistics Agency.” Keeping their shipmates well-fed are (from left) SA Santos Jaime, Steward/Baker Norma West and Chief Cook Rashaad Mangram. September 2014 8/28/2014 4:24:04 PM �Support for Extending Ex-Im Charter Grows Longstanding Program Backs American Maritime Jobs, U.S. Competitiveness A new bipartisan bill, introduced July 30 by Sen. Joe Manchin (D-West Virginia) and Sen. Mark Kirk (R-Illinois), aims to extend the charter of the Export-Import Bank until 2019, as well as increase the program’s lending capacity from $140 billion to $160 billion. Often referred to as simply Ex-Im, the Export-Import Bank helps support American maritime jobs and many other employment opportunities in different sectors of the economy. The charter, which has been in place for 80 years, is set to expire Sept. 30 unless Congress approves this extension. Other initial co-sponsors of the bill included Sen. Roy Blunt (R-Missouri), Sen. Joe Donnelly (D-Indiana), Sen. Mark Warner (D-Virginia), Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Washington), Sen. Tim Johnson, (D-South Dakota) and Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Virginia). Two days before the bill was introduced, SIU members and officials joined Warner at a press conference in Norfolk, Virginia where the senator spelled out many reasons the charter should be extended. Seafarers in attendance included QMED Van Dixon, AB Mike Haloski, OS Mario Borgonia, QMED Marcus Gramby, SA Emy Smith (and her niece, Tillah), QMED Kevin Daughtry, ABG Julius Morala, ABG Jonathan Davis, QEE Nakesha Miller, GVA Donte Sawyer and Port Agent Georg Kenny. AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive SecretaryTreasurer Daniel Duncan introduced the senator to the crowd. Warner explained how important the Ex-Im Bank is to the commerce of Virginia, helping to provide for thousands upon thousands of good jobs across the state as well as the nation. “Since 2007, the Export-Import Bank has helped finance $1 billion of exports from nearly 100 Virginia companies, more than half of them small businesses, as well as supported more than 11,000 Virginia jobs,” he said, adding that the agency does not cost taxpayers anything, and in fact has paid more than $1 billion into the U.S. Treasury. Warner said he could not understand how others were attacking the bank when it has supported 1.2 million jobs over the last five years; when nearly 90 percent of its transactions were with small businesses; when the bank returned money from its fees to help reduce the nation’s deficits; and when it does not cost U.S. taxpayers “a dime.” In remarks on the Senate floor, Kaine had ready examples of reasons why the MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan (at podium) introduces Senator Warner (right). Ex-Im Bank is vital to American economic efforts. “In Virginia, generally since ’07, the Ex-Im Bank has supported 98 companies Pictured at a late July news conference in Norfolk, Virginia are QMED Van Dixon, AB Mike Haloski, OS Mario Borgonia, QMED Marcus Gramby, SA Emy Smith (and her niece, Tillah), Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny, Sen. Mark Warner (D-Virginia), QMED Kevin Daughtry, AB Julius Morala, AB Jonathan Davis, QEE Nakesha Miller and GVA Donte Sawyer. in every Congressional district,” he said. “Fifty-nine are small businesses; 10 are minority-owned; three are women-owned. More than $1 billion in exports have been supported in Virginia since 2007. I have heard from everybody in Virginia, from Governor (Terry) McAuliffe to the Virginia Chamber of Commerce to both the National and Virginia Association of Manufacturers, saying, ‘Whatever you do, find an agreement to authorize the continuation of this very important bank.’” Kaine added, “The Senate and Congress need to act to continue the bank so we can create hundreds of thousands of jobs, so we can help American businesses find customers abroad, and do it at no cost to the American taxpayer.” The Manchin bill is in line with what President Barack Obama has said he wants: a five-year reauthorization, with a gradual increase of its lending limit to $160 billion. Support for the bill is growing. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has also voiced his backing of the Ex-Im reauthorization. On the Senate floor, Reid said, “We need Continued on Page 6 Reps. Garamendi, Hunter Advocate ‘Growing American Shipping Act’ U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) September 2014 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X2.indd 5 U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-California) Two champions of the U.S. Merchant Marine once again have stepped up to promote the industry. In late July, one week before Congress’ August recess, U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California), ranking member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, introduced H.R. 5270, the Growing American Shipping Act, to strengthen the U.S. maritime industry. Subcommittee Chairman Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-California) joined the legislation as an original cosponsor. Existing law, written before the natural gas boom when it was thought America would be a liquefied natural gas (LNG) importer, authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to develop and implement a program to promote transportation of imported LNG on U.S.-flag vessels. Under the Deepwater Ports Act, the Secretary is also required to give top priority to the processing of licenses for LNG import facilities that will utilize U.S.-flag vessels. The bill introduced July 30 would mod- ernize these laws, ensuring that America’s commitment to its maritime industry is maintained as export opportunities are considered. It would authorize the administration to facilitate a program promoting the export of LNG on U.S.-flag vessels. It also would ensure priority processing of export applications for port terminals that would utilize U.S.-flag vessels. Garamendi said, “In order for businesses to grow, they must identify new opportunities and seize them. The export market for LNG, a strategic national asset, is ready to take off. At the same time, our nation’s maritime industry has been declining for years. Our nation must take the bull by the horns. When it is deemed appropriate to export LNG, it should be on American-flagged vessels.” Hunter stated, “A strong U.S. maritime industry is essential to the national economy and global security. This legislation will help strengthen this industry by promoting LNG export opportunities on U.S. flag vessels — which is most certainly in the national interest.” Seafarers LOG 5 8/29/2014 12:43:53 PM �Federation Calls Out ‘Turncoat Corporations’ The AFL-CIO is strongly condemning the actions of corporations which are taking advantage of a legislative loophole that allows them to avoid paying their fair share of taxes by changing their corporate addresses to foreign countries. In 2004, Congress enacted the bipartisan American Jobs Creation Act, a law which contained a series of provisions aimed at reducing the tax benefits of reincorporating overseas. The problem is that this law so far has not worked out according to plan; companies have found ways around the measure that create new rewards for executives while at the same time skirting tax liabilities. According to the AFL-CIO (to which the SIU is affiliated) and several news organizations, a host of large corporations – some 47 so far – already have taken advantage of this ambiguity and avoided U.S. taxes by shifting their corporate headquarters offshore. In recent months, several more corporations have announced plans to follow suit and exploit this loophole, which if left intact could hollow out the U.S. corporate income tax base. Putting the message out that the foregoing type of behavior is anything but patriotic, the AFL-CIO Executive Council – on which SIU President Michael Sacco serves – in July made clear its position via an adopted statement. In part, that assertion stated: “This is how it works. A U.S. corpora- tion that wants to avoid paying taxes hooks up with a company in a low-tax country and makes sure the foreign company ends up with at least 20 percent of the stock of the newly merged firm, so the U.S. corporation can legally change its address. This kind of transaction is called a corporate inversion because the larger corporation assumes the address of the smaller company it is purchasing, rather than the other way around. “Medical device manufacturer Medtronic deserted America for Ireland last month. Medtronic has about $14 billion squirreled away offshore and would have had to pay between $3.5 billion and $4.2 billion in federal taxes to bring that money home for use at its headquarters in Minnesota. To avoid paying those taxes, Medtronic will spend $43 billion to buy an Irish firm instead. “Similarly, the drug firm Mylan recently stomped on the Stars and Stripes to ditch America for the Netherlands. Then the drug company AbbVie renounced America, and for 30 pieces of silver, it will become Irish. “These turncoat corporations will still park their assets and staff in America. For all intents and purposes, they will still be based in the United States, but they will no longer pay U.S. taxes on their overseas profits. Their ultimate goal is to minimize taxes on their profits earned in the United Ex-Im Charter Extension Gets Bipartisan Backing Continued from Page 5 to find a way forward on this. It would be a shame if we weren’t able to renew this.” Sen. Lindsay Graham (RSouth Carolina) is in favor of the reauthorization as well, saying, “I’m 100 percent for reauthorization for five years. I’m for straight-up reauthorization, and I don’t mind reforms as long as they don’t gut the program.” Graham also talked about how the Ex-Im Bank is a necessary component to keeping America competitive in the world marketplace. Other nations all have their respective equivalents of this program, he said. Sen. Claire McCaskill (DMissouri) has rallied support from companies in Missouri, urging them in a letter to send in stories of how funding from the Ex-Im Bank has helped businesses in the state compete on the global stage. In the letter, McCaskill said, “I strongly support the reauthorization of the ExportImport Bank to help the thousands of Missourians who benefit from the ExportImport Bank. This month, the Senate is expected to take up legislation to extend the authorization of the ExportImport Bank. Without similar action from the House of Representatives, the authorization for the Export-Import Bank will expire, and U.S. businesses will lose this valuable resource. We cannot let this happen.” Sen. Mary Landrieu (DLouisiana) in early August also called on Congress to reauthorize the program. “Now is the time to provide certainty to American businesses looking to ship their 6 Seafarers LOG 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X2.indd 6 goods and services abroad by reauthorizing the Export-Import Bank,” she said. “I call on all members of Congress from both parties to pass it as soon as possible.” In addition to the bill’s supporters in Congress, 31 governors have also signed a letter urging senate leaders to pass the charter extension, with five more having written letters of their own. Several key business groups have also rallied behind the reauthorization bill, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Business Roundtable and the National Association of Manufacturers. Former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg has voiced his support, saying, “This is not a political thing – this is something that every other country does. If we’re going to be competitive, we have to do it.” Former president Bill Clinton has weighed in on the importance of the Ex-Im Bank, saying, “Economics is not theology. If you’re running a country, you’ve got to try to create an opportunity for all of your businesses to be competitive. That’s all the Ex-Im bank does, and I’ve heard more ridiculous things said about the Ex-Im bank in the last six months than I have in my adult life.” Earlier this year, SIU President Michael Sacco said in a letter to Congress, “The ExportImport Bank is a valued source for decent American jobs within the U.S.-flag merchant fleet. Cargo generated by Ex-Im Bank funding must be transported aboard U.S.-flag vessels. This means tens of thousands of jobs for American citizens throughout the country.” States, as well, by making it appear their U.S. profits are earned in countries with a zero or low tax rate. They will become freeloaders, and their U.S. competitors, as well as hardworking Americans, will have to pay more in taxes to cover the shirkers’ share. “Apologists for corporate inversions claim the U.S. statutory corporate tax rate of 35 percent is too high, but these corporations aren’t paying anywhere near that. AbbVie, for instance, paid a 22.6 percent tax rate last year and, through inversion, hopes to get its rate down to 13 percent by 2016. “It’s time for Congress to stop this outrageous and unpatriotic behavior….” Walgreens, the largest drugstore chain in the United States, was on the verge of becoming another of the federation’s list of turncoat corporations. In 2012, it flirted with the idea of merging with Alliance Boots, a British pharmacy, and moving its headquarters from Illinois to the United Kingdom to avoid paying corporate taxes in the U.S. The company came under intense political heat and significant customer backlash when it went public with its plans. As of August 6, company officials reevaluated their earlier position. Published reports say the company now plans to complete the merger with Alliance Boots, form a holding company and continue to be headquartered in the United States as opposed to relocating overseas. The Walgreens decision comes at a time when U.S. policy makers –the Obama Administration and the U.S. Congress – are exhibiting heightened concern about the amount of tax revenue that the U.S. government could lose as a result of corporate inversions. According to the Washington Post, President Obama in July loudly questioned the patriotism of inverted companies, calling them “corporate deserters” who are abandoning their country “just to get out of paying their fair share of taxes. . . . My attitude is, I don’t care if it’s legal. It’s wrong.” Siding with the president were Democratic Sens. Elizabeth Warren (Massachusetts), Richard J. Durbin (Illinois) and Jack Reed (Rhode Island) who in early August urged Obama to utilize his executive power to “rein in or eradicate tax breaks associated with inversions. The Post also reported that U.S. Treasury officials confirmed they are exploring their options for “administrative actions” that could block inversions or “meaningfully reduce” the associated tax benefits. They pointed out that any move by the Treasury Department would amount to a “partial fix,” and added that “legislation is the only way to fully address inversions.” Executive Order Aims to Protect Workers Companies with a history of labor law violations such as wage-and-hour and workplace safety infractions will now have a more difficult time winning federal contracts as a result of The Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces Executive Order signed by President Barack Obama July 31. The order potentially could impact U.S. mariners who work aboard government-contracted vessels operated by private maritime companies as well as those employed on vessels owned and operated by the U.S. Navy and other government agencies. However, according to the administration, the overwhelming majority of companies with federal contracts (in all industries) have no federal workplace violations in the past three years. The labor movement applauded the order. According to the AFL-CIO (to which the SIU is affiliated), it requires bidding companies to disclose a three-year history of labor law violations. Politico, an Arlington, Virginia-based political journalism organization that distributes content via television, the Internet, newspaper and radio, noted that a 2010 U.S. Government Accountability Office report found that many of the companies incurring the largest fines for wage-and-hour or workplace safety violations went on to win new federal contracts. The order also forbids firms with more than $1 million in contracts to force employees to arbitration instead of the courts for violation of federal laws banning discrimination based on race, sex, national origin or religion. “We expect our tax dollars to be spent wisely on these contracts,” said the president upon signing the executive action. “Our tax dollars shouldn’t go to companies that violate workplace laws, they shouldn’t go to companies that violate workers’ rights.” The president pointed out that most companies “do the right thing,” and added, “But some don’t, and I don’t want those who don’t to be getting a competitive advantage over the folks who are doing the right thing.” AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said that from raising wages to workplace protections, “President Obama is showing strong leadership where it’s needed most. Today’s executive order is a common-sense measure that will make our contracting system fairer,” the federation president stated. “Preventing tax dollars from being funneled to chronic violators of workers’ rights is good for workers, our economy and companies who play by the rules. When Congress shows the same leadership, all workers will be better off.” The Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces Executive Order will govern new federal procurement contracts valued at more than $500,000, and will provide information on companies’ compliance with federal labor laws for agencies. Administration officials expect the order to be implemented on new contracts in stages, on a prioritized basis, during 2016.  The Department of Labor estimates that there are roughly 24,000 businesses with federal contracts, employing about 28 million workers. According to a White House fact sheet, the order means federal agencies will require prospective contractors to disclose labor law violations from the past three years before they can get a contract. The 14 covered federal statutes and equivalent state laws include those addressing wage-and-hour, safety and health, collective bargaining, family and medical leave, and civil rights protections. Agencies will also require contractors to collect similar information from many of their subcontractors. Additionally, contracting officers will take into account only the most egregious violations, and each agency will designate a senior official as a Labor Compliance Advisor to provide consistent guidance on whether contractors’ actions rise to the level of a lack of integrity or business ethics. This advisor will support individual contracting officers in reviewing disclosures and consult with the Department of Labor. Recent history shows the new executive order is needed. In 2010, the Government Accountability Office issued a report finding that almost two-thirds of the 50 largest wage-and-hour violations and almost 40 percent of the 50 largest workplace healthand-safety penalties issued between 2005 and 2009 were at companies that went on to receive new government contracts. Last year, Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee Chairman Tom Harkin issued a report revealing that dozens of contractors with significant health, safety, and wage-and-hour violations were continuing to be awarded federal contacts. Another study detailed that 28 of the companies with the worst workplace violations from 2005 to 2009 subsequently received federal contracts, and a quarter of those companies eventually had significant performance problems as well – suggesting a strong relationship between contractors with a history of labor law violations and those that cannot deliver adequate performance for the taxpayer dollars they receive.  Nevertheless, the Department of Labor estimates that the vast majority of businesses with federal contracts have no federal workplace infractions in the past three years. As the administration said in a fact sheet issued when the order was signed, “Contractors who invest in their workers’ safety and maintain a fair and equitable workplace shouldn’t have to compete with contractors who offer low-ball bids – based on savings from skirting the law – and then ultimately deliver poorer performance to taxpayers. The executive order builds on the existing procurement system, so it will be familiar to contractors and will fit into established contracting practices.” September 2014 8/29/2014 12:43:54 PM �House Hearing Reaffirms Crucial Need For Strong U.S.-Flag Sealift Capability The deputy commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) and the newly confirmed head of the U.S. Maritime Administration both voiced strong support for the U.S. Merchant Marine and the Maritime Security Program during a recent hearing on Capitol Hill. On July 30, Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen, USTRANSCOM Deputy Commander Vice Adm. William Brown, and F. Scott Dilisio, director of the Navy’s Strategic Mobility/Combat Logistics Division, testified before the House Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces about the current state of U.S. sealift requirements and the challenges involved in maintaining an adequate-size support fleet. The subcommittee is part of the House Armed Services Committee. The hearing was chaired by Rep. J. Randy Forbes (R-Virginia), and was very well-attended by other members of Congress. According to the official transcript, they included Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-California), Rep. Mike Coffman (R-Colorado), Rep. Scott Rigell (R-Virginia), Rep. Steven M. Palazzo (R-Mississippi), Rep. Rob Wittman (R-Virginia), Rep. Mike Conaway (R-Texas), Rep. Paul Cook (R-California), Rep. Kristi Noem (R-South Dakota), Rep. Jon Runyan (R-New Jersey), Rep. Bradley Byrne (R-Alabama), Rep. Howard “Buck” McKeon (RCalifornia, Ex Officio), Rep. Mike McIntyre (D-North Carolina), Ranking Member Rep. Jim Langevin (DRhode Island), Rep. Rick Larsen (D-Washington), Rep. Joe Courtney (D-Connecticut), Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Georgia), Rep. Colleen Hanabusa (D-Hawaii), Rep. Derek Kilmer (DWashington), Rep. Scott Peters (DCalifornia), Rep. John Garamendi (D-California), and Rep. Adam Smith (D-Washington, Ex Officio). Having this many members attend a subcommittee hearing that was not related to a specific piece of legislation is very rare, and speaks well of the subcommittee’s understanding of the importance of maritime issues. The hearing focused on the current and future states of the vessels and crews available for sealift operations. Subcommittee members were focused on the ages and sizes of the ships themselves and the available number of mariners to be called upon in case of an emergency through the Maritime Security Program (MSP). Brown opened his testimony by explaining the relationship between USTRANSCOM and the MSP ships. “TRANSCOM relies on both government-owned vessels and access to the commercial industry,” he said. “Our government-owned fleet of 60 total assets from the Military Sealift Command and the surge fleet in the Maritime Administration’s Ready Reserve Force are strategically positioned around the country and important to our capability. All of these government-owned and commercial vessels are critical to the Department of Defense’s ability to surge to meet future global requirements. As the Department of Defense postures its forces in the future, sealift will continue to be a key component in ensuring strategic agility and dynamic presence for our nation’s military forces.” Pointing out the importance of the MSP, Brown continued, “The Maritime Security Program provides access to a fleet of 60 military-useful commercial vessels operating in international commerce and exercising intermodal networks throughout the world. And these provide jobs for United States citizens who are mariners. A significant percentage of our required sealift capacity needed in response to a national emergency will come from the 60 vessels operating within the MSP program.” The admiral concluded his opening statements by speaking to a misconception about sealift’s importance in peacetime. “Some think that as we transition from Afghanistan, our requirement is reduced,” he explained. “This is indeed not the case. Maintaining a responsive sealift capacity and experienced mariners to crew our ships in time of need is essential to meeting the nation’s defense requirements. We are working with the Maritime Administration in its development of a national maritime strategy, which could grow the U.S.-flag fleet and ensure the availability and the ability of the U.S. Merchant Marine to meet our national security needs.” Jaenichen’s opening statement made it clear what’s most important to the operational capacity of U.S. sealift: U.S. Merchant Mariners. He also reiterated MARAD’s support for a 60-ship Maritime Security Program that maximizes employment for American mariners. “First of all, I’d like to just point out that the U.S. Merchant Marine – both the vessels and the mariners – are a national asset,” he said. “As we take a look at the ability to project forces globally, it requires a capable U.S. Merchant Marine, both from a standpoint of having vessels that can do it and the mariners that are able to be there. And so, we need to have that capacity.” He continued, “Governmentowned sealift force requirements have a direct and significant nexus to the commercial U.S.-flag maritime industry and provides the ready pool of proficient and qualified mariners. Given that the two are linked, DOD and the Maritime Administration must now assess the impact of a loss of these vessels on our sealift capacity and the availability to support national security.” Jaenichen pointed out that although American mariners are known for their reliability, the amount of training required of the modern-day seafarer shouldn’t be overlooked. “The ships themselves are important but the mariners themselves are probably just as important because I can’t necessarily make a mariner,” he said. “It takes 10 years to get a mariner trained and experienced and licensed to be a master on one of these vessels or a chief engineer. I can’t turn the faucet and just say, ‘OK, I ramp up’ and suddenly, they’re there. “We need cargo to have ships. I need ships to have mariners. The mariners are probably one of the most important complements of that and it’s not easy to ramp those up,” he concluded. Chairman Forbes echoed Jaenichen’s words, saying, “The main thing is that this myth that this is a faucet that we can turn on and turn off is just not accurate, because as the ships get reduced, our industrial base to repair the ships also gets reduced. And, Mr. Jaenichen, as you pointed out, then our workforce suffers.” Rep. Duncan Hunter used his time to thank Forbes for calling the hearing. “I want to thank the chairman for doing this,” Hunter said. “I think is one of the most important things that we do here. And we’re facing a time in Congress right now, where people don’t understand why you have cargo preference. Ex-Im Bank goes away, that’s cargo preference. These numbers are going to drop, and this is how America goes to war. When America has to go to war, it uses these ships – every single time.” U.S.-Flag Vessels Rise to the Challenge Iron Ore Cargoes Increase on Great Lakes U.S.-flag Great Lakes freighters (lakers), most of them carrying SIU crews, moved more than 11.3 million tons of cargo in July, their highest monthly total in two years, according to the Lake Carriers’ Association (LCA). The industry’s July total also represented increases of 8.6 percent compared to June and 10.2 percent compared to a year ago, the association reported. In a brief report issued in mid-August, the LCA (which represents 17 companies that operate 57 U.S.-flag vessels) noted iron ore transported for steel production totaled 5.3 million tons the previous month, an increase of nearly 15 percent compared to a September 2014 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X.indd 7 year ago. “Higher water levels did allow for some cargos to approach 70,000 tons, but even so, the vessels were still less than full,” the association said. “With 18 million cubic yards of sediment clogging ports and waterways, only dredging will fully restore the Great Lakes Navigation System. Coal cargos totaled 2.1 million tons, a slight increase compared to a year ago. Loadings on Lake Superior were virtually unchanged from a year ago. Shipments from Lake Erie ports soared 65 percent, but loadings on Lake Michigan fell 50 percent. Shipments of limestone reached their highest level in two years, 3.4 million tons, an increase of more than 10 percent compared to a year ago. Year-to-date through July, U.S.flag cargo movement on the Great Lakes stood at 38.4 million tons, a decrease of 10.8 percent compared to a year ago. “Even though 55 U.S.-flag lakers were in service in July, an increase of five hulls compared to a year ago, the fleet has yet to overcome the thousands of hours lost to heavy ice formations in March and April,” the LCA pointed out. “Iron ore cargos are down by 14 percent. Coal trails last year by 5.8 percent. Loadings of limestone are 8.7 percent off last year’s pace.” Arthur Petitpas ITF Inspector Petitpas Passes Away at Age 67 The maritime community is mourning the loss of Arthur Petitpas, a longtime inspector with the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) who died July 20 at age 67. A resident of Rosedale, Maryland, Petitpas had been battling cancer, though his cause of death officially was listed as a heart attack. Despite having been in and out of the hospital, he worked nearly until his final days and was based at the SIU hall in Baltimore. “He was always looking to help seafarers in need,” recalled SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who chairs the ITF Seafarers’ Section. “He was a genuine guy who never had a bad word to say about anybody. He was a seafarer’s seafarer. He did whatever needed to be done, did it well and never was interested in grabbing the limelight.” ITF General Secretary Steve Cotton remembered Petitpas as “a tireless worker who defended seafarers’ rights and constantly protected them from unfair treatment and harassment. Many seafarers owe Arthur a debt of gratitude for protecting them.” A U.S. Marine Corp veteran and native of Cambridge, Massachuttes., Petitpas, like many other ITF inspectors, had a specific union affiliation in addition to working for the federation. He worked for the old National Maritime Union in Savannah, Georgia., beginning in 1998 – three years before the NMU merged into the SIU. Following the merger, SIU Port Agent Elizabeth Brown worked with Petitpas when he moved to the Baltimore area. “He was such an awesome man,” Brown stated. “He would give you the shirt off his back. He was part of our family and will be missed.” ITF Coordinator Ricky Esopa knew Petitpas for 30 years. “What I would like to say most is that Arthur had a tremendous heart when it came to defending seafarers’ rights and would do whatever it took to get that done,” Esopa said. “He was a great colleague to all of us. I also consider him a true friend that I could always count on.” In a remembrance that Esopa wrote for the ITF, he noted that although illness had sapped Petitpas’ energy for the past year and a half, he didn’t let it stop him from standing up for mariners. “He loved his job as an ITF inspector and always told family and friends that he had the best job in the world,” Esopa wrote. “There are thousands of seafarers that owe him a great debt for his service.” Rita Guigli, Petitpas’ sister, described Arthur as “a great guy with a big heart. We were very close. He’d do anything for anybody. He loved his job and he was good to his family…. I especially also want to say a big thank you to everyone for the cards and flowers and kind words. They were very much appreciated.” Petitpas was preceded in death by his wife, Penny; his cremains were scheduled to be buried with hers in a family grave in Massachusetts. He also was preceded in death by a brother, while survivors include two sisters. Seafarers LOG 7 8/28/2014 4:24:08 PM �Retiree ‘Speedy’ Landry Recalls WWII Voyages Former NMU Member Felt a Patriotic Duty to Participate in U.S. War Effort Nearly 70 years have passed since Simon Landry completed his last voyage as a merchant mariner, but his memories of serving in World War II remain largely clear and unquestionably enlightening. Landry, who goes by the nickname Speedy, was a senior in high school when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor. Though quite eager to join the war effort – “I was raring to go,” he recalls – he also was too young to join the military. His thoughts turned to the U.S. Merchant Marine, but Landry had another consideration that briefly delayed his entry. “I had to wait until I was 18 because I didn’t want my parents signing me in,” he says. “If something happened to me, I didn’t want them to feel guilty.” After a short stint working in a Louisiana shipyard, Landry – who turned 89 last month – headed to St. Petersburg, Florida, in the summer of 1942 for his mariner training. It marked the start of four years of sailing, during which time he belonged to the National Maritime Union (NMU), which would merge into the SIU decades later. Age hasn’t hampered Landry’s ability to rattle off details of his more interesting voyages, and he also hasn’t lost sight of the big picture involving the U.S. Merchant Marine (USMM) of World War II. The mariners’ heroic sealift effort proved crucial to winning the war, and it earned them veterans’ status. Despite what many have termed an unforgivable delay in officially recognizing World War II mariners as veterans, no one could question their sacrifice. Approximately 7,000 U.S. mariners died in the war (including more than 1,200 SIU members), and the USMM sustained a casualty rate second to only the U.S. Marine Corps. Asked what stands out to him the most about that era, Landry points to what maritime historians readily acknowledge as a turning point – one that may leave young mariners of today incredulous. Specifically, U.S. shipyards essentially started producing vessels faster than the enemy could sink them. “When we started building the merchant marine up with the Liberty ships, that’s when the Germans were sinking one, two, three, four a day,” Landry says. “Those ships did a terrific job carrying cargo to where it was needed. “Overall, the experience satisfied me. I think for the mariners at that time, there was a lot of patriotism.” Challenges at Sea A lifelong Louisiana resident (he was born in Houma and now resides in Belle Chase), Landry primarily sailed in the engine department, though he took a few turns in the steward department, too. He’s an upbeat person and a man of faith, but he says with a chuckle that he mainly remembers the ships he “had trouble with.” One such vessel was carrying 500pound bombs and various U.S. Army trucks along the East Coast when it ran into a hurricane near Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. “I boarded the ship in Braithwaite, Louisana,” he remembers. “We went down the Mississippi and swung around and were going to New York. We were doing okay but the rudder got jammed. When we were in the trough of the waves, it was rocking the ship so bad…. “We thought the cargo was going to break through the hull,” he continues. “Some volunteers went across the deck to the rudder room. They found out the Navy crew – we had a three-inch gun on the stern and a Navy crew to operate it – had stuffed their life vests around the rail in the room. The room got flooded, the life jackets started floating around, and they got into the gears. Anyway, the guys dug the life jackets out and the rudder operated normally then.” On a voyage that was supposed to go from Baltimore to the Persian Gulf, Landry’s vessel got hit by another ship shortly after departure, a few miles from shore. They took on water but made it back to the port. A few days after the D-Day invasion, in 1944, Landry was on another memorable mission – although this one, thankfully, didn’t involve collisions or hurricanes. “When D-Day happened, we got the radio call that they were invading Normandy,” he says. “We were in the middle of the ocean, two days out from England, carrying stuff for the troops. We got there and tied up to wait for orders. When we left the port, we were crossing the English Channel in the middle of the night – no lights, no noise.” They docked in Le Havre, France, and were warned not to go ashore alone. “There was a fort up on the mountain right behind us,” Landry says. “Our troops had gone around it rather than trying to take it out…. I went ashore but I didn’t go far from the ship. I didn’t want any German blowing my brains out.” He and his shipmates had no contact with any Germans during that stop, though Landry recalls local families “sending their children out at noontime to barrooms to get red wine. You’d see them carrying a pitcher of red wine back to the house.” Landry’s vessels included the William Ford Nichols, James W. Cannon, Crown Landry usually sailed in the engine department but also made some voyages in the steward department, as reflected by this discharge from 1944. 8 Seafarers LOG 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X.indd 8 Reefer, William Mulholland, and Nathaniel Currier. He sailed for companies including Lykes Brothers, Mystic Steamship, and American-West African Line. After the War Landry came ashore after the war and enjoyed a long career at a Chevron plant, where he also was a union member for a while. He was a shift supervisor when he retired in 1979. Although his wife passed away in 2003, Landry has no shortage of family members. He has four children, 13 grandkids and 14 great grandchildren. Active in his church and in the Knights of Columbus, Landry still lives in the cinderblock house he built by hand in 1964. He exercises at a local YMCA and goodnaturedly describes his health as “pretty fair” before mentioning some ailments that often prove inevitable with age. Recertified Bosun John Cain attends the same church as Landry and describes him as “a terrific person and a credit to the heritage of the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II. Speedy is what you’d call a salt-of-the-earth guy and a pleasure to be around,” Cain says. Cain adds, “When I learned about Speedy’s background, I thought it was very important that he be recognized in the Seafarers LOG, and that’s why I put him in touch with the LOG office. His story, and the story of our U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II, remains very important, and I also know the LOG staff is always very interested in mariners from that era.” Although he only keeps loose tabs on the maritime industry these days, Landry knows enough about it to offer these words of advice to anyone thinking about joining: “I would tell them it’s a fine place to work and to me it was very good. Each person has to make their own decisions, but I’d tell them there’s nothing wrong with joining up with the union. They’ll keep you in a job, find the ships that need the men crews send you to them.” Speedy Landry (left in photo above) is pictured Aug. 20 at the SIU hall in New Orleans, with Port Agent Chris Westbrook (center) and Recertified Bosun John Cain. He’s holding a certificate the union gave him in recognition of service as a mariner in World War II. A message from President Harry Truman (graphic at right) underscores the vital contribution of the U.S. Merchant Marine in World War II. In addition to keeping some paperwork from his sailing days, Landry also hung onto this letter from 1988 – the year WWII mariners finally received veterans’ status. September 2014 8/28/2014 4:24:13 PM �Cape Ray Successfully Completes Mission Wrapping up safely and ahead of schedule, the SIU-crewed Cape Ray on Aug. 18 completed the task of eliminating Syria’s declared weapons stockpile, a process which began in early July. Along with more than 60 chemical weapons specialists from the U.S. Army, security personnel and representatives from the U.S. European Command, the crew of 36 helped dispose of 600-plus tons of methylphosphonyl difluoride (DF), a sarin precursor, as well as sulfur mustard (HD). It is believed to have been the first time chemical weapons were neutralized at sea. The effort of the mariners and others aboard the Keystone-operated ship generated praise from President Barack Obama. “Today we mark an important achievement in our ongoing effort to counter the spread of weapons of mass destruction by eliminating Syria’s declared chemical weapons stockpile,” the president said in a written statement issued Aug. 18. “The most lethal declared chemical weapons possessed by the Syrian regime were destroyed by dedicated U.S. civilian and military professionals using a unique American capability aboard the M/V Cape Ray – and they did so aboard that U.S. vessel several weeks ahead of schedule.” Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel also conveyed his congratulations to the crew. According to a Pentagon news release also posted on Aug. 18, Hagel “called Navy Captain Rich Dromerhauser aboard the M/V Cape Ray to congratulate the ship’s crew on finishing their unprecedented work of neutralizing, at sea, the most dangerous chemicals in Syria’s declared stockpile. The secretary said that by ridding the world of these materials, they – as part of an ongoing international effort to eliminate the Syrian chemical weapons arsenal – have helped make an important and enduring contribution to global security.” The statement continued, “Secretary SIU members AB Walter Ott (left) and AB William Lima check a fire hose aboard the Cape Ray to prepare for helicopter operations in the Mediterranean Sea on July 17. (U.S. Navy photo by Seaman Desmond Parks) Hagel expressed his gratitude for the crew’s service, dedication, and expertise, noting that with the world watching, they performed flawlessly every step of the way – despite a very long deployment, and a complex operation that required careful coordination with our international partners. The secretary commended the crew for conducting every aspect of the mission in a highly professional manner, with strict adherence to safety and with no impact to the surrounding environment, and said that they should all be very proud of what they’ve accomplished to help reduce the threat posed by chemical weapons.” Additionally, Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen offered his praise of the crew. “The Maritime Administration SIU Crews Come to the Rescue, Twice Two Seafarers-crewed ships 8,400 miles apart recently rescued 12 individuals from disabled vessels, and a third SIU-crewed ship assisted in the aftermath of one of the operations. Members of the SIU Government Services Division aboard the USNS Richard E. Byrd on July 28 rescued nine mariners whose Yemeni-flagged cargo ship (the Al Saed-1) had lost power and was adrift in the Gulf of Oman. With the Al Saed-1 taking on water, the foreign mariners abandoned ship and embarked in a life raft – but not before sending a call for help. The Byrd was the first ship to respond to the distress signal, and rescued the Yemeni sailors around 9 a.m. local time. They were subsequently evaluated by the Byrd’s medical staff, and no injuries were reported. One of the Byrd’s sister ships, the Seafarers-crewed USNS Amelia Earhart, then picked up the Al Saed-1 crew and transported them back to Yemen. Vice Adm. John W. Miller, commander of the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, commended the crew for their actions in the rescue. “Well done to the crew of USNS September 2014 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X.indd 9 (MARAD) is proud to support the international effort to destroy Syrian chemical weapons and agents by providing the M/V Cape Ray and its all-volunteer U.S. Merchant Marine crew to support this critical mission,” Jaenichen said. “One of MARAD’s 46 Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ships that stand ready to provide rapid movement of equipment and supplies during times of national and humanitarian emergencies, this vessel and its crew illustrate the important contribution our RRF ships and mariners make in supporting U.S. national and economic security.” At press time, the vessel was travelling to Finland and Germany to unload the resulting effluent, which will undergo treatment as industrial waste to render it safer, a Pentagon spokeswoman said. Richard E Byrd for expertly rendering assistance to MV Al Saed-1,” said Miller. “Your efforts exemplify the U.S. Navy’s commitment to the safety of all mariners. You can be justifiably proud of your efforts and teamwork.” Less than two weeks later, the Seafarers-crewed Matson ship MV Manukai saved three people from a sailboat that had been caught in Hurricane Julio, off the coast of Hawaii. On Aug. 10, the sailboat Walkabout sent a distress call that was detected by the International Emergency Response Coordination Center in Texas, who notified the Joint Rescue Coordination Center in Honolulu. When the distress call came in, winds were averaging more than 100 mph, and the boat’s bilge pump was unable to keep up with the flooding through a missing hatch. After an aircraft from the National Hurricane Center established radio communications and confirmed the distress call, a Coast Guard helicopter was dispatched to deliver a lifeboat and equipment for combatting the flooding. Due to the weather conditions, the crew of the Walkabout couldn’t reach the supplies. As a second helicopter was dispatched, the Manukai was diverted to assist the drifting boat. The Seafarerscrewed vessel pulled the three sailors to safety following their ordeal. Rescued were 61-year-old Ben Nealy, 22-year-old Lee Nealy, and 22-year-old Mike Vanway, who had sailed from California. (The Walkabout, dismasted in the hurricane, remained drifting.) The SIU represents steward depart- TWIC Tweak Offers Direct Mailing Option Spurred by a bipartisan Congressional effort that the SIU strongly supported, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) early last month began nationwide implementation of an eagerly anticipated program that reforms the process for acquiring a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). The “OneVisit” program eliminates the need for mariners and other transportation workers to make two trips to a TWIC enrollment center to apply for and then activate their credential. Through the new program, an applicant may apply for a TWIC at an enrollment center and choose to receive the credential by mail. According to the TSA, “This applies to new or renewed enrollment cards, Extended Expiration Date (EED) TWICs, or replacements for lost, stolen, or damaged cards. If you choose to receive your card by mail you will only be required to make one visit to an enrollment center to complete the enrollment process. When you receive your card it will be activated and ready to use. A mailer with the card’s preset Personal Identification Number (PIN) will be sent to you separately. You may also choose to pick up your card at an enrollment center.” Original cosponsors of the legislation that led to establishment of the OneVisit program and key committee leaders who played vital roles in advancing it through Congress included Reps. Steve Scalise (R-Louisiana), Elijah Cummings (D-Maryland), Peter King (R-New York), Candice Miller (R-Michigan), Cedric Richmond (D-Louisiana), Bennie Thompson (D-Mississippi) and Don Young (R-Alaska) in the House of Representatives; and, in the Senate, Sens. Kelly Ayotte (R-New Hampshire), Mark Begich (D-Alaska), Marco Rubio (R-Florida), and David Vitter (R-Louisiana). For more information on the new program, visit the TSA’s TWIC home page at www.tsa. gov/twic ment mariners on Matson vessels. Seafarers aboard the Manukai during the rescue included Recertified Steward Karen Fensel, Chief Cook Freddie Castro, and ACU Ricky Williams. Fensel said the Manukai was approximately 250 miles away when it was notified about the sailboat. When the vessel arrived on the scene the next day, “the seas were too rough and we couldn’t get to the people on the sailboat,” she recalled. “The next morning, they kind of blew into us. We got them to the pilot’s ladder and they were each able to jump from the boat to the ladder. We brought them in and took them to Long Beach (California).” Fensel said the crew did a great job performing the rescue, and the boaters were predictably grateful. “Fortunately, we’ve all been trained,” stated Fensel, a frequent upgrader at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center who joined the SIU in 1987. “The people were definitely happy to be on board. It had been pretty harrowing for them. But we fed them and put some clean clothes on them.” The doomed sailboat Walkabout is pictured from an aircraft assisting with the rescue. (Photo courtesy U.S. Coast Guard) Seafarers LOG 9 8/28/2014 4:24:15 PM �SEAFARERS MEET CONGRESSMAN – SIU members Felicia Lampasas (left) and Deborah Artis (right) greet U.S. Rep. Stephen Lynch (DMassachuttes) aboard the AMSEA-operated USNS Fisher at a Boston shipyard in late July. Congressman Lynch is a former member and official of the Iron Workers Union. He was first sworn in as a member of Congress in 2001. LABOR SECRETARY VISITS ALASKA – U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas Perez (center) spoke at a pro-worker gathering July 21 in Anchorage, Alaska. He is pictured at the event with SIU Port Agent Tracey Mayhew (left) and QMED Montree Nakwichet. At Sea & Ashore With the SIU # 1 AT THE HOUSTON HALL – Pictured above are SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (right) and Chief Cook Melany Gonzalez, who picked up her full book at the August membership meeting. The photo immediately below features AB John Cedeno Jr. (foreground) and Port Agent Mike Russo. CELEBRATING SAFETY – Seafarers at Crowley’s Petty’s Island facility earlier this year celebrated another safety milestone: 1,000 straight days without a lost-time accident. Members and company personnel are pictured at the terminal, located along the Delaware River between Pennsylvania and New Jersey. SIU members at Petty’s Island work with roll-on/roll-off ships and perform mechanical work on barges. WITH SEAFARERS IN SAN JUAN – From left, Bosun Frank Sanchez (left) picks up his first pension check from Port Agent Amancio Crespo. The remaining photos all show Seafarers receiving their respective A-seniority books from the port agent: Bosun John Telles, Bosun Victor Cortes and AB Pedro Rivera. B-BOOK IN TACOMA – AB Timothy Hess (right) received his full B-seniority book during the July membership meeting in Tacoma, Washington. Congratulating him on the milestone is SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone. 10 Seafarers LOG 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X.indd 10 KUDOS TO CHIEF COOK – Chief Cook Carmelo Calderon, pictured aboard the Ocean Ships-operated USNS Gianella, recently received a salute from vessel master Capt. Steven S. Barclay. The captain described Calderon as “a valuable part of the steward department and an integral part of the morale of the crew…. Mr. Calderon not only serves outstanding meals, but his galley is also spotless….” ABOARD USNS HENSON – Determined-looking Seafarers are pictured following an early August union meeting aboard the Maersk-operated USNS Henson. From left: AB David Arcilla, GVA June Milo, AB Algernon Reed, Chief Cook Larry Bachelor, GVA Francisco Ocado, OS Christopher Torres. Thanks to MDR Brandon Maeda for the pic. September 2014 8/28/2014 4:24:22 PM �At Sea & Ashore With the SIU # 2 AROUND THE PORT OF HONOLULU – In photo at left, members of the union’s Government Services Division gather aboard the research support ship Hi’ialakai. Pictured from left are AB Ryan Harris, GVA Frank Poloniak, EU Mike Wallace and SST Tonya Watson. The large group photo at right shows Seafarers and local students following a maritime career discussion. Pictured from left to right in the photo in the center are ACU David Hilario and Chief Cook Jamar Henderson aboard Matson’s Mahimahi. FULL BOOKS IN LAUDERDALE – Two Seafarers recently picked up their full membership books, respectively, at the union hall in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. They are Boatman Eddy Vitale (right in photo at left, with Port Agent Kris Hopkins) and AB James Dillon (left in the photo at right, also with Hopkins). ABOARD HORIZON TRADER – Pictured aboard the Horizon Trader during a recent stop in Puerto Rico are (above, from left) EUs Gus Brown and Lazaro Rivera Rodriguez, and (photo below) OMU Nicole Stephenson, Port Agent Amancio Crespo and Bosun Isaac Vega Mercado. The Horizon Lines ship recently assisted people on a disabled fishing boat near Ocean City, Maryland. MEETING IN MARYLAND – SIU Government Services Division Representatives Sam Spain (left) and Kate Hunt (third from right) participated in a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Labor-Management forum July 23 in Linthicum, Maryland. Also pictured are (starting second from left) Jerry Gompers, Michael Ott and Diane Bentz of the USACE, MEBA Representative Tracy Burke and MM&P Representative Randi Ciszewski. LEANING OVERSEAS – AB David Bernstein shows off his lunch and his sense of humor during a recent stop in Italy. Along with forwarding the photo, he sent his compliments to the contracts department for a job well done on the agreements with Crowley Maritime (Bernstein was part of the MV Resolve crew when the photo was taken). September 2014 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X.indd 11 CIVMARS IN JERSEY – Members of the SIU Government Services Division are pictured in late July aboard the USNS McLean at Navy Weapons Station Earle (New Jersey). The McLean is a government-owned dry cargo/ammunition ship. Seafarers LOG 11 8/28/2014 4:24:29 PM �Seven Bosuns Complete Recertification in Piney Point Seafarers Echo Common Theme Regarding Career Opportunities T he most recent class of bosuns who returned to the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education for recertification shared plenty in common with previous classes. As they approached the podium to say a few words about their experiences with the recertification process Aug. 4, some of the bosuns no doubt felt a similar public-speaking trepidation that previous classes felt on that very spot. Nevertheless, the upgraders delivered inspiring speeches to the SIU officials, members and apprentices in attendance at the membership meeting in Piney Point, Maryland. This class of seven Seafarers said they bonded as brothers while at Piney Point. While they learned important information from their instructors to take back to their fellow mariners at sea, they also learned from each other. They are Allan Oyao, Greg Jackson, Jose F. Castillo, Laurentis Colbert, Robert Arneel, Sanjay Gupta and Victor Cooper. Throughout their three-week course schedule, the upgraders covered many topics, including safety training, international maritime conventions, conflict resolution, sexual harassment, Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties (VPDSD), union education, speechwriting and communication skills, and more. Some of these topics were refresher courses, but some of the information was new to the upgraders. The course itself is considered the top deck-department curriculum available to students in Piney Point. While each graduation speech was personal and heartfelt, there were a few common themes throughout the meeting. Thoughts of financial stability, providing for one’s family, and self-improvement were all present in the minds of the upgraders. The bosuns were all grateful to the SIU, and the Paul Hall Center staff and instructors, for providing them with these opportunities. Meet the New Recertified Bosuns Victor Cooper First to speak was Brother Cooper, who joined the SIU in 1995. He first sailed out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and still calls Fort Lauderdale his home port. Cooper said, “The bosun recertification class provided me with a lot of information about how the union operates, as well as training to help me become a better leader. With this knowledge, I am better prepared to answer any questions that my fellow brothers or sisters might have.” He continued, “The knowledge I gained during my recertification will help me become a better communicator. Being bilingual, it’s important to learn how to effectively communicate with a crew [including] different nationalities.” Next, he spoke about what being a member of the SIU had done for him. After many years of service, and investing his money wisely, Cooper said, “Today, I own my house. It’s paid for, thanks to the SIU.” Cooper urged all SIU members to back the Seafarers Political Activity Donation (SPAD), a vol- As part of their curriculum, the bosuns underwent fire fighter refresher training at the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School. 12 Seafarers LOG 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X.indd 12-13 untary fund. He said the course reinforced the absolute necessity of the SIU remaining politically active to protect members’ jobs and keep the industry viable. Finally, addressing the apprentices at the meeting, he said, “You’re in the best program in the country. You have a bright future. Ask questions, and be helpful.” Robert Arneel Next up to the microphone was Brother Arneel, who was celebrating his birthday. Originally sailing out of Jacksonville, Florida, Arneel still calls that area home. He spoke about all he had learned while working towards his recertification. “I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of one-on-one instruction here at Piney Point. I’ve learned a lot, and I’m very grateful to the staff and the SIU for giving me this opportunity,” he noted. He continued, “I’ve learned a great deal about the importance of SPAD, as well as the vacation, health and pension plans. Without SPAD, we wouldn’t be here. I will take this knowledge back to the ship with me, and be better prepared to answer questions from my brothers and sisters.” A familiar face at the Paul Hall Center, Arneel has upgraded two other times since joining in 1991. He spoke about his experiences at the school, saying, “I’ve upgraded here at Piney Point a few times. Every time I come back, I’m amazed by all of the upgrades around the school grounds. And those new additions are wellutilized by upgraders like me and apprentices alike.” He added, “The years I’ve spent as an SIU member have really changed my life. My home is paid for, my car is paid for, there’s food on my table and I’ve been able to save as well. All thanks to the SIU, and I’m humbled and grateful to be a member,” he said. Turning toward the apprentices, he concluded, “Don’t miss the ship, stay calm, and be safe. Ask questions, and keep your eyes and ears open.” Recertified Bosun Victor Cooper Allan Oyao Brother Oyao, hailing from the port of Anchorage, Alaska, approached the podium next. An SIU mariner since 1998, Oyao spoke of his experience at Piney Point. “I learned a lot of very important information on a variety of topics, including the pension and vacation plans. I will take this information back to my shipmates. Overall, I’m very happy with my experience at Piney Point. I had a lot of fun, learned a lot, and enjoyed some very good food,” he said. Oyao continued, “My life as a Seafarer started in 1998 when I was sailing as a deckhand on board SIU-contracted vessels plying the Alaska and mainland West Coast ports. I embraced seafaring in search of a better life and future for my family, as well as the adventure of travelling around the world. I have realized that the SIU has played many important roles in my life. It’s a great organization that works for the members’ job security. Having the financial stability of steady work means I can provide for my family and get my children a quality education. Had it not been for the SIU, I would not be standing here today. The SIU afforded me the opportunity to better myself through the various training and upgrading courses here at the Paul Hall Center, and I am now proud to have achieved this bosun recertification.” He then addressed the apprentices who were in attendance. “To the trainees: I consider you a core component to the future of the SIU. Study hard, listen to your instructors, and remember, safety is always first. There is no limit to how successful you can be in this industry if you work hard.” Jose F. Castillo Brother Castillo, who joined the union in 1994 in Hawaii, expressed his gratitude for the knowledge he gained while at the Paul Hall Center. “The instructors were all very informative, and I will take the knowledge I gained back to sea with me to educate my brothers and sisters. I believe that the in- Recertified Bosun Robert Arneel formation I gained will help me become a better leader,” Castillo said. Castillo, who now ships from Houston, also thanked the SIU’s officials for working to protect members’ job security while boosting the U.S.-flag maritime industry as a whole. He continued with some words of advice to the apprentices in the auditorium. “To my young brothers and sisters: Don’t give up. Learn from your instructors, and learn how to work with your classmates. When you get to sea, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Work hard, and carry your load. And don’t forget to support SPAD; it’s very important to support our union’s efforts.” Sanjay Gupta Brother Gupta, who has no relation to the famous medical doctor and TV personality, took the stage next. Gupta joined the SIU in 1991 in New York, though he now sails out of Tacoma, Washington. He first talked about what he had learned during his three-week stay. “The recertification class has helped me become more knowledgeable about the SIU and its programs, including information about the pension plan and SPAD. With this new information, I can better answer questions about the union that my brothers and sisters might ask,” he said. He then addressed the apprentices, imparting some wisdom he has gathered over his maritime career. “To the trainees: You are the future of the SIU. Study hard, learn from your instructors, be sure to ask questions, and be sure to donate to SPAD.” Lastly, he spoke on all that he had accomplished, thanks to the SIU. “Because of the union, I make good money and am able to support my family. I am proud to be a part of the most powerful union in America.” Laurentis Colbert Following up that speech was Brother Colbert. Sailing out of Recertified Bosun Allan Oyao September 2014 At the conclusion of the membership meeting, union officials joined the recertified bosuns and their familly members who were present for this photo. Pictured from left to right are VP Contracts George Tricker, Bernadette Colbert (wife of Recertified Bosun Laurentis Colbert), VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Recertified Bosun Robert Arneel, Executive VP Augie Tellez, Recertified Bosun Greg Jackson, Recertified Bosun Allan Oyao, Recertified Bosun Jose Castillo, Recertified Bosun Victor Cooper, Asst. VP Ambrose Cucinotta, Recertified Bosun Laurentis Colbert, Recertified Bosun Sunjay Gupta, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel and Port of Baltimore Patrolman Chelsea Heindel. Greg Jackson Brother Jackson, a friend of the Seafarers LOG, was the last to address the audience. Jackson, who joined the SIU in 1980, spoke about what he learned during his trip to the Paul Hall Center. “I have gained a lot for knowledge on how our union works and all the different people it takes to make this union great. This was my fourth time here at the Paul Hall Center, but this time I had the good fortune to be in a great recertifying class of bosuns. That made this one of my most memorable trips to the school,” he said. Originally shipping from Mobile, Alabama, but now sailing from the Port of Baltimore, he spoke about his long history with the union, as well as being an SIU legacy. “I was a trainee at Piney Point in 1980, and from there I started my deep sea career. I am proud to say I am an SIU member, like my father and grandfather before me. The SIU has been there for me in good times and in bad, and I am very grateful to be a part of this union.” He added, “This has been a great journey for me, being a merchant seaman. I have seen places most people will not get the chance to visit, I’ve circled the globe several times in my life, and I’ve been to many ports of call, all thanks to the SIU. Our union has so much to offer, and I am proud to say that I am a member of the Seafarers International Union.” He told the apprentices, “The sky is the limit for you. Stay informed, upgrade, and listen to your brothers and sisters aboard ship.” Recertified Bosun Sanjay Gupta Recertified Bosun Laurentis Colbert Recertified Bosun Greg Jackson Norfolk, Virginia, Colbert was grateful for all that he learned while upgrading at the Paul Hall Center. “I couldn’t have been in a better class,” he began. “We care about our union…. I learned that the SIU is one big machine that requires each and every one of us to do our part. United we stand, divided we fall. We are all together as one, and I’m thankful to be a part of this great union. “That’s why it’s important to contribute to SPAD, to ensure our job security. Be a union man, in mind and in soul.” He continued, “My experience at Piney Point was outstanding. The school has grown so much! It is to your benefit to come to the Paul Hall Center for the advancement of your career, as well as your financial stability.” Recertified Bosun Jose Castillo September 2014 Seafarers LOG 13 8/28/2014 4:26:43 PM �9/14 14 Seafarers LOG 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X.indd 14 8/14 September 2014 8/28/2014 4:24:42 PM �September & October 2014 Membership Meetings Piney Point................................Monday: September 8, October 6 Algonac......................................Friday: September 12, October 10 Baltimore.................................Thursday: September 11, October 9 Guam.....................................Thursday: September 25, October 23 Honolulu....................................Friday: September 19, October 17 Houston...................Monday: September 15, *Tuesday: October 14 Jacksonville.............................Thursday: September 11, October 9 Joliet......................................Thursday: September 18, October 16 Mobile................................Wednesday: September 17, October 15 New Orleans.................................Tuesday: September 16, October 14 Jersey City...................................Tuesday: September 9, October 7 Norfolk....................................Thursday: September 11, October 9 Oakland.................................Thursday: September 18, October 16 Philadelphia.........................Wednesday: September 10, October 8 Port Everglades......................Thursday: September 18, October 16 San Juan...................................Thursday: September 11, October 9 St. Louis......................................Friday: September 19, October 17 Tacoma......................................Friday: September 26, October 24 Wilmington.............................Monday: September 22, October 20 * Houston change created by Columbus Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. ATTENTION Seafarers Contribute to SPAD September 2014 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X.indd 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea July 16, 2014 - August 15, 2014 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Total Shipped All Groups Trip A B C Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 15 14 1 18 9 0 3 24 21 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 5 0 8 4 2 7 0 0 2 9 6 2 15 12 4 14 6 3 2 27 19 4 2 2 0 1 2 0 0 5 3 0 15 3 0 17 0 0 4 21 4 0 8 5 2 6 2 1 3 20 8 2 57 10 1 43 8 1 13 88 21 5 40 28 3 35 21 3 20 68 34 7 48 18 1 39 11 1 19 86 32 1 7 2 1 5 4 0 3 10 3 2 9 4 0 7 4 0 4 15 4 1 23 15 5 21 16 3 13 31 31 3 18 7 0 19 6 0 4 41 11 1 9 1 0 3 1 0 3 18 4 1 3 1 1 2 0 1 0 1 1 1 10 1 1 9 5 0 3 12 5 4 34 14 7 27 8 3 8 71 37 4 3 2 0 2 2 0 0 2 3 0 36 13 3 27 11 0 11 58 37 5 361 157 32 302 116 16 115 610 289 45 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 6 2 1 3 4 1 2 8 5 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 4 6 1 0 3 1 0 6 8 0 7 6 1 9 6 0 8 12 6 2 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 2 3 0 5 2 0 0 5 3 0 3 5 1 7 4 0 2 19 10 1 20 9 1 20 7 0 6 30 12 1 29 13 1 25 15 2 10 48 33 5 19 15 1 18 4 0 4 28 19 2 3 2 1 2 0 0 0 4 3 1 7 2 2 1 3 2 1 13 3 2 6 17 2 15 21 0 2 17 19 2 8 4 1 7 4 2 2 30 9 8 3 1 2 3 0 1 0 6 3 3 1 2 0 1 0 0 0 2 2 0 2 5 2 2 6 1 2 3 9 2 17 5 0 11 7 0 4 29 8 3 1 1 0 1 0 0 1 5 1 0 8 9 2 12 6 1 5 18 38 3 146 109 19 142 93 11 49 283 194 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 Steward Department 4 1 0 4 2 0 1 5 2 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 4 3 0 3 1 0 2 6 2 0 12 2 2 13 1 2 6 16 4 2 1 1 0 1 1 1 2 2 3 0 4 0 0 3 2 0 0 7 1 0 19 2 0 9 3 0 3 25 2 0 24 3 1 13 5 3 9 34 5 0 22 7 5 13 5 2 9 34 12 5 12 4 1 15 4 0 5 23 7 1 2 2 0 0 1 0 0 4 2 0 7 1 0 3 2 1 2 9 0 1 12 11 7 15 10 4 8 24 13 4 24 4 1 14 3 2 5 39 11 1 2 0 1 2 0 0 0 5 0 1 3 3 1 0 0 0 0 5 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 7 0 20 3 1 15 3 0 0 29 3 1 2 3 0 2 2 0 1 2 1 0 17 2 4 13 2 1 4 47 7 6 193 53 24 139 47 16 58 319 84 24 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 1 12 6 0 5 7 4 4 27 11 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 2 3 0 2 4 3 0 2 8 0 3 0 0 2 1 1 3 8 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 0 1 0 1 2 1 0 1 3 0 0 7 6 2 4 4 1 1 12 12 2 5 2 3 6 2 1 7 16 13 2 15 7 1 8 8 1 5 23 19 5 16 3 1 11 3 2 9 29 12 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 2 2 1 1 1 0 0 4 0 1 18 16 1 18 17 1 0 30 27 1 7 5 3 6 5 1 1 24 19 0 5 3 0 0 0 0 0 5 2 0 2 1 0 1 1 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 11 4 3 10 4 1 10 18 18 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 7 5 0 5 3 2 17 27 70 18 115 64 17 83 62 20 59 235 213 GRAND TOTAL 718 434 139 600 339 105 242 1,271 802 319 Seafarers LOG 15 8/28/2014 4:24:43 PM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services This month’s question was asked to members at the Norfolk hall July 28. Question: What would you tell an elected official is the most important thing about being a merchant mariner? 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 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 Jonathan Walker OS We got to get stuff overseas. Trade is important. Our jobs are important. It’s a good way of living. I can stay home with the kids and still go to work. Donald Bishop QMED It’s important to this area for a viable economy. It’s an opportunity for a better life and better living. Donna Taylor Steward/Baker It’s the safety aspect offered by unionized mariners. I have sailed overseas and I saw foreign mariners are not as interested in the safety aspect. Nakesha Miller Electrician It helps me provide for my family. I can make proper investments for my family for their future and future generations that I couldn’t get working a land job. I get time with my family. Rickey Yancey QMED Keep the Jones Act intact. Keep it as is; don’t touch it. Keep the union strong. Respect runs both ways. Pics From The Past Last month’s LOG included the obituary of SIU pensioner Johnny Lombardo, who passed away March 16 at age 85. He sailed with the SIU for more than 30 years, following service in both the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army. In SIU circles, Brother Lombardo probably was best known for his 1955 boxing match against Sugar Ray Robinson in Cincinnati. The 10-round split decision went to Robinson, former middleweight champion. These photos show Lombardo on the scale during the pre-fight weigh-in, with Robinson on the right; and the two combatants in the ring. 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 * As of September 15, 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. See Page 3 of this edition of the Seafarers LOG for more details. 16 Seafarers LOG 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X.indd 16 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 September 2014 8/28/2014 4:24:47 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 of Brooklyn, New York. DAVID BECKER FELIPE JIMENEZ Brother David Becker, 65, joined the union in 1992 in Jacksonville, Florida His first trip was aboard the USNS Vindicator. Brother Becker upgraded in 1994 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Becker last worked on the USNS Pathfinder. He calls Northport, Alabama, home. Brother Felipe Jimenez, 69, became an SIU member in 1998. His earliest trip was aboard the Independence. Brother Jimenez most recently shipped on the USNS Watson. He worked in the deck department and upgraded frequently at the SIU-affiliated school. Brother Jimenez lives in Mililani, Hawaii. KENNETH BIDDLE Brother Kenneth Biddle, 69, became an SIU member in 1968. He initially worked aboard the Del Norte. Brother Biddle attended classes on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Biddle’s most recent voyage was on the El Morro. He makes his home in Byrdstown, Tennessee. JEANETTE BOSWORTH Sister Jeanette Bosworth, 69, signed on with the SIU in 1991. She initially shipped aboard the USNS Denebola. Sister Bosworth sailed in the steward department. In 2001, she took advantage of educational opportunities available at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Sister Bosworth most recently sailed on the Cape Horn. She settled in Seaside, Oregon. CYNTHIA CASTER Sister Cynthia Caster, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1981. She originally sailed aboard the Independence. Sister Caster shipped in the steward department. Born in Washington state, she upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Sister Caster’s most recent trip was on the Horizon Kodiak. She resides in Cathlamet, Washington. TIBBY CLOTTER Brother Tibby Clotter, 65, started sailing with the union in 1987 while in New Orleans. His earliest trip was aboard the Maj. Stephen W. Pless. Brother Clotter attended classes in 1996 at the union-affiliated school in Maryland. The deck department member’s most recent vessel was the Overseas Long Beach. Brother Clotter makes his home in Louisiana. LOWELL LEMM Brother Lowell Lemm, 67, signed on with the union in 1989 while in the port of Houston. His first ship was the Overseas Alaska; his most recent was the USNS Algol. Brother Lemm was born in New Orleans and sailed in the engine department. He now calls Houston home. DONALD MELONSON Brother Donald Melonson, 67, joined the SIU ranks in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He was born in Houston. Brother Melonson’s most recent ship was the Chemical Pioneer, where he sailed in the deck department. He enhanced his skills in 2003 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Melonson continues to reside in Houston. SANGIE MOHAMED Brother Sangie Mohamed, 62, started shipping with the SIU in 1978. He initially sailed on the Allegiance. Brother Mohamed sailed in all three departments. In 1998, he took advantage of educational opportunities at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Mohamed most recently sailed on the USNS Dahl. He settled in Huron, California. MOTHANA MOTHANA Brother Mothana Mothana, 70, became a union member in 1993 in San Francisco. His first trip was aboard the Independence. Brother Mothana upgraded in 2002 at the Piney Point school. He last shipped on the Horizon Pacific. Brother Mothana worked in the engine department. He is a resident of California. WILFRED JEFFERS KENNETH PINCHIN Brother Wilfred Jeffers, 72, began shipping with the Seafarers in 2001 during the SIU/ NMU merger. Brother Jeffers sailed in the deck department. His most recent voyage was aboard the Maersk Iowa. Brother Jeffers enhanced his skills in 2001 at the Piney Point school. He is a resident Brother Kenneth Pinchin, 65, joined the SIU in 1998 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The engine department member’s first trip was aboard the USNS Altair. Brother Pinchin last worked with GFC Crane Consultants. He was born in New York City but now calls Pompano Beach, Florida, home. September 2014 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X.indd 17 MAHENDRA SINGH Brother Mahendra Singh, 65, began sailing with Seafarers in 1989. He originally shipped on the Charles L. Brown. Brother Singh was born in India and worked in the deck department. He enhanced his skills in 1995 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Singh’s most recent ship was the Navigator. He settled in Berkeley, California. INLAND CARLTON AMOS Brother Carlton Amos, 66, signed on with the union in 1968 in Mobile, Alabama. An Alabama native, he was employed with Dravo Basic Materials Company for the duration of his career. Brother Amos lives in Perdido, Alabama. JOHN BROWN Brother John Brown, 62, joined the union in 1997 in the port of Norfolk, Virginia. As an SIU member, he first sailed with Virginia Pilot Cor- poration. Brother Brown was most recently employed with the Association of Maryland Pilots. He is a resident of Orlando, Florida. graded often at the SIU-affiliated school. He makes his home in Palm Harbor, Florida. ARTHUR HORNER JOHN COMEAU Brother John Comeau, 60, started sailing with the SIU in 1989. He primarily worked with Crowley Towing and Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Comeau was a member of the deck department. On numerous occasions, he upgraded at the Piney Point school. Brother Comeau resides in Belmont, Massachusetts. JOHN FAITH Brother John Faith, 72, became a union member in 1998. He was mainly employed with OSG Ship Management. Brother Faith up- Brother Arthur Horner, 62, began his seafaring career in 1971. He initially worked aboard the Bob-Lo Island. Brother Horner hails from Dallas, Texas. He upgraded frequently at the Paul Hall Center and last shipped on a Great Lakes Towing Company vessel. He was a member of the deck department and now calls Gainesville, Georgia, home. JOHN ROBINSON Brother John Robinson, 68, began shipping with the union in 1997. He sailed with OSG Ship Management in the inland division. In 2002, Brother Robinson enhanced his skills in Piney Point. He is a resident of Honesdale, Pennsylvania. This Month in SIU History Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG 1952 The first annual convention of the newly reorganized AFL Maritime Trades Department will be held in New York City on September 9 and 10 at the Commodore Hotel. Notifications have gone out from Lloyd Gardner, MTD executive secretary, to all unions affiliated with the MTD, including the SIU, asking them to send at least three representatives to the convention. One of the important items on the agenda is a proposed resolution calling for the AFL to provide representation on its executive council for the 200,000 workers in unions affiliated with the MTD. The resolution points out that the maritime industry is of extreme importance to the nation, and its workers have problems which are different from those of shore-side workers. Lack of representation on the executive council, it emphasizes, is a drawback to proper understanding of maritime problems within the AFL and through the AFL, in the government. This resolution is expected to get the full support of all assembled delegations. The convention call was issued to affiliated unions in accordance with the MTD constitution adopted at the first meeting of the body, held in Chicago on March 24 and 25 of this year. The constitution provides for annual conventions to be held either immediately before or just after the AFL convention. 1966 A meeting between SIU Safety Director Joe Algina and Captain Jack O’ Brien, Sea-Land safety representative, has formulated strict safety regulations aimed at preventing injuries to Seafarers caused by toxic fumes from leaky containers, which has been a problem of growing concern in recent years. In July of this year, for instance, crew members of the SeaLand vessel Fairland were hospitalized, victims of a leakage of one of the tank containers aboard. The containers were filled with tolylene diisocyanate. The leak was discovered after one day at sea. Contact with this liquid, or its fumes, can cause severe lung damage, serious skin bums and harmful eye irritations. Tolylene diisocyanate and toxic materials like it pose a modern safety hazard to seamen. The meeting resulted in the development of a stringent set of regulations for checking tank containers prior to their being loaded, and provides for checking them aboard ship prior to sailing. An elaborate and specific control tag will keep tabs on each individual container so that inspection responsibilities may be accurately policed. It is anticipated that in this way leakage may be discovered before it becomes a safety hazard at sea. 1975 In recognition of the interest and support SIU President Paul Hall has given the Tulane University Institute on Foreign Transportation and Port Operations over the past 15 years, he was presented a plaque by the institute at the SIUNA convention earlier this month in Washington, D.C. Doris Campbell, executive secretary of the Graduate School of Business Administration at Tulane presented the award. The institute is sponsored by the business school at the university, which is located in New Orleans, La. The inscription on the plaque was in the form of a letter sent to President Hall from Herbert Longenecker, who up until recently was the president of Tulane University. 1983 If SIU efforts are successful, Seafarers may be calling on Soviet ports with huge grain cargoes. The U.S. and U.S.S.R. recently agreed to a five-year grain deal which would allow the Soviets to buy as much as 18 million tons of American grain a year. But while U.S. negotiators hammered out the deal, they made no mention of a joint maritime agreement which had been part of the package of previous grain agreements between the two countries. In the past, both countries reserved one-third of the cargo for themselves with the remaining going to other carriers. SIU President Frank Drozak has urged key administration figures to begin talks which would lead to a maritime sharing agreement. “The [grain] accord will be beneficial to the U.S. agricultural community as it will help restore America’s share of the grain market lost during the grain embargo of 1981.... It is now imperative that the U.S. commence negotiations with the Soviet Union on a new maritime agreement,” Drozak wrote to Secretary of State George P. Shultz. Seafarers LOG 17 8/28/2014 4:24:49 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA TERRAL ANDERSON Pensioner Terral Anderson, 86, died Feb. 4. He joined the Seafarers in 1966. Brother Anderson initially sailed on the Steel Worker. He was born in Marysvale, Utah, and shipped in the deck department. Brother Anderson was last employed aboard the Innovator. He retired in 1992 and called Thompsonville, Utah, home. MANUEL BURGOS Pensioner Manuel Burgos, 85, passed away Feb. 14. He began sailing with the union in 1959. Brother Burgos first sailed on an Alcoa Steamship Company vessel. He was an engine department member. Brother Burgos’ final trip was aboard the Humacao. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1993. Brother Burgos was a resident of Puerto Rico. ROBERT BUTLER Pensioner Robert Butler, 66, died Jan. 11. Brother Butler originally shipped on the Falcon Countess. He worked in the deck department. Brother Butler most recently sailed aboard the USNS Stockham. He went on pension in 2012 and made his home in Oakland, California. CRUZ CANEDO Pensioner Cruz Canedo, 92, passed away Jan. 23. Brother Canedo joined the SIU in 1972 in the port of Wilmington, California. He first shipped with Delta Steamship Lines. Brother Canedo was a steward department member. Prior to his retirement in 1983, he worked on the Santa Mariana. The Texas native was a resident of Norwalk, California. ANTONIO CHINEA Brother Antonio Chinea, 57, died Sept. 10, 2013. He was born in El Paso, Texas. Brother Chinea started shipping with the Seafarers in 1974. His first vessel was the Long Lines; his last was operated by Connecticut Transport Inc. Brother Chinea sailed in the engine department. He settled in Orange City, Florida. ANGEL CORREA Pensioner Angel Correa, 69, passed away Jan. 27. He began sailing with the union in 1966. Brother Correa was first employed aboard the Spitfire. The steward department member last shipped on the Challenger. Brother Correa was a native of Puerto Rico. He began collecting his retirement compensation 18 Seafarers LOG 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X.indd 18 in 2001. Brother Correa lived in Palm Coast, Florida. CHARLES MEDEIROS Brother Charles Medeiros, 69, died Jan. 3. He joined the union in 1980. Brother Medeiros initially sailed aboard the Oceanic Independence. He worked in the steward department. Brother Medeiros’ final trip was aboard the Cape Gibson. He lived in Honolulu, Hawaii. GERARDO MORENO Pensioner Gerardo Moreno, 85, passed away Feb. 3. Brother Moreno started sailing with the SIU in 1980. His first ship was operated by Interocean American Shipping. Brother Moreno was a member of the deck department. He last sailed on the Pride. Brother Moreno went on pension in 2000 and resided in Spring Hill, Florida. JOHN NUCKOLS Pensioner John Nuckols, 90, died Oct. 2. Brother Nuckols began sailing with the Seafarers in 1951. He initially shipped with Waterman Steamship Corporation. Brother Nuckols sailed in the deck department. His final voyage was aboard the Long Lines. Brother Nuckols became a pensioner in 1988 and called Baltimore home. JULIO RUIZ Pensioner Julio Ruiz, 71, passed away Jan. 24. Brother Ruiz joined the union in 1968 in New York. His earliest trip was with Amicus Carrier Limited. Brother Ruiz was born in Ecuador. The engine department member most recently worked on the Defender. Brother Ruiz was a resident of San Francisco. TERRENCE RYAN Pensioner Terrence Ryan, 74, died Feb. 19. Brother Ryan first donned the SIU colors in 1990. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Ryan’s first trip was on the Presque Isle. He last sailed aboard the Horizon Trader. He went on pension in 2005 and lived in St. Paul, Minnesota. MICHAEL SEYLER Brother Michael Seyler, 50, passed away Dec. 19. He signed on with the union in 1998 in St. Louis. Brother Seyler sailed in the engine department. He was originally employed with Dyn Marine Service of Virginia. Brother Seyler’s final voyage was on the Sgt. William R. Button. He made his home in Missouri. department member was born in Mississippi. Brother Yates’ final trip was with ISCO Inc. He became a pensioner in 1998 and called Houston home. INLAND GREAT LAKES RALPH SMITH Pensioner Ralph Smith, 87, died Feb. 16. Brother Smith joined the SIU in 1969. One of his first ships was the Inger. Brother Smith was born in Roanoke, Virginia. The engine department member’s final ship was the Overseas Washington. Brother Smith started collecting his retirement pay in 1989. He was a resident of Callahan, Florida. ROBERT CRANE Brother Robert Crane, 67, passed away March 9. Born in Granite City, Illinois, he first donned the SIU colors in 2000. Brother Crane originally worked aboard the Patriot. He was a deck department member. Brother Crane last shipped on a Crowley Towing & Transportation Company vessel. He resided in Silsbee, Texas. ABDO ALQIRSH Pensioner Abdo Alqirsh, 74, died Dec. 2. Brother Alqirsh was born in Yemen. He started sailing with American Steamship Company in 1964. Brother Alqirsh was a steward department member. In 2005, he became a pensioner. Brother Alqirsh settled in Dearborn, Michigan. ERNEST LARSEN Pensioner Ernest Larsen, 78, died March 20. Brother Larsen signed on with the SIU in 1967. He first shipped with Steuart Transportation Company. Brother Larsen was born in Nederland, Texas. His final ship was operated by Penn Maritime Inc. Brother Larsen began collecting his retirement competition in 2005. He called Jasper, Texas, home. Brother Blake Nye, 51, passed away Dec. 29. He joined the SIU in 1986. Brother Nye mainly worked with Luedtke Engineering Company. He was born in Plainwell, Michigan, but called Crystal Lake Township home. ROBERT THOMAS Pensioner Robert Thomas, 88, passed away March 15. Brother Thomas was born in New Orleans. He started sailing with the union in 1951 in New York. Brother Thomas’ first vessel was the Cedar Rapid; his last was the Missouri. He worked in the steward department. Brother Thomas retired in 1991 and resided in Brooksville, Mississippi. ROBERT VANCE Pensioner Robert Vance, 86, died Jan. 31. Brother Vance became an SIU member in 1958 in New York. His earliest trip was on the Del Alba. Brother Vance’s final ship was the Cape Hudson. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Vance went on pension in 1992 and called Robertsdale, Alabama, home. ESTEBAN VILLAPOL Pensioner Esteban Villapol, 90, passed away Feb. 2. He began sailing with the union in 1948 in New York. Brother Villapol was born in Venezuela. He was first employed with Interocean American Shipping. Brother Villapol worked in the engine department, and his last ship was the Puerto Rico. He retired in 1990 and was a resident of Baltimore. EDWARD YATES Pensioners Edward Yates, 85, died March 15. He started shipping with the Seafarers in 1951. Brother Yates initially sailed on the Alanson B. Haughton. The deck KIRBY NELSON Pensioner Kirby Nelson, 76, passed away Jan. 21. Born in Georgia, he started sailing with the union in 1980. Brother Nelson worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. He became a pensioner in 1999 and resided in Savannah, Georgia. VLADIMIR SALAMON Pensioner Vladimir Salamon, 73, died Dec. 4. Brother Salamon became a union member in 1997. His first trip was with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Salamon was born in Banja Luka, Bosnia-Herzegovina and worked in the deck department. He was most recently employed with Crowley of Wilmington. Brother Salamon started receiving his pension in 2009 and was a resident of San Pedro, California. JERRY SMITH Pensioner Jerry Smith, 62, passed away Feb. 11. Brother Smith joined the SIU in 1996. He worked for Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jack- sonville. Brother Smith was born in Jacksonville, Florida, and sailed in the deck department. He retired in 2009 and continued to make his home in Florida. BLAKE NYE Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. JULIUS MARESH Pensioner Julius Maresh, 85, died Dec. 16. Brother Maresh became a pensioner in 1966 and called Galena Park, Texas, home. ELLERY MOORE Pensioner Ellery Moore, 87, passed away Dec. 8. Brother Moore, a native of Honduras, began collecting his pension in 1967. He resided in Port Arthur, Texas. ISAAC REYES Pensioner Isaac Reyes, 85, died Feb. 26. Brother Reyes was born Alabama. He went on pension in 1990. Brother Reyes lived in Mobile. HARRIS WHITAKER Pensioner Harris Whitaker, 79, passed away Dec. 16. Born in North Carolina, Brother Whitaker retired in 1972. He resided in Portsmouth, Virginia. Name Alvarez, Carlos Bellido, Ruben Boston, Robert Chang, Ting Drew, Edwin Flowers, Eddie Francis, Alvin Funk, James Jackson, Algie Jarvis, Thomas Kit, Teo Lee, George Lewis, George Luciano, Victor Marquez, Domingo Age DOD 93 Feb. 28 86 Jan. 4 85 Dec. 19 86 April 17 78 Feb. 10 94 Feb. 21 93 March 26 87 April 2 68 Feb. 25 87 April 1 93 March 13 89 Feb. 5 66 Feb. 23 85 April 4 88 Feb. 13 September 2014 8/28/2014 4:24:50 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings GREEN COVE (Central Gulf Lines), June 29 – Chairman David B. Zurek, Secretary John S. Greubel, Deck Delegate Jorge Lanas. Chairman announced payoff on July 8 in Jacksonville, Florida. Secretary stated new ice machine and dishwasher to be installed soon. Recommendation was made to upgrade skills at the Paul Hall Center and stay informed of issues facing the maritime industry. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members would like refrigerators in crew rooms. Suggestion was made to have different budgets for each department’s OT. Copy of repair list was given to captain. Steward department was thanked for doing a great job. Next port: Jacksonville. HOUSTON (USS Transport), June 3 – Chairman Carlos A. Arauz, Secretary Obencio M. Espinoza, Educational Director Charles L. Jensen, Engine Delegate Demarco Holt, Steward Delegate Vidal Vallesteros. Chairman advised members to watch expiration dates and renew credentials in a timely manner. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep house clean. He advised crew who are getting off to leave rooms like they would like to see them when they are joining the ship. Educational director encouraged crew to get time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew would like new furniture in lounge. JEAN ANNE (TOTE Services), June 9 – Chairman Thomas L. Johnson, Secretary Ingra L. Maddox, Educational Director Michael A. Papaioannou, Steward Delegate Mary Maddox. Chairman reported smooth voyage and informed crew of inspection upon arrival in Honolulu. Secretary expressed gratitude to deck and The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Aboard Cape Vincent The Keystone-operated Cape Vincent recently sailed from Beaumont, Texas, to Charleston, S.C. for a scheduled shipyard period. Pictured on the vessel is AB Godfrey Egodotaye. Thanks to Second Mate Darin Huggins for the photos. engine departments for help keeping equipment working. Educational director suggested mariners upgrade at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Thanks were given to the steward department for great meals. LIBERTY PROMISE (Liberty Maritime), June 22 – Chairman Daniel S. Marcus, Secretary Robert S. Davis, Educational Director Michael Montanez, Deck Delegate William Steele, Engine Delegate Jarret Ford, Steward Delegate Gerardo Frederick. Bosun reported a safe voyage and reviewed ship’s itinerary. Secretary stated all communications were posted on bulletin board and suggested contacting port agent if there was still confusion. Educational director urged crew to enhance skills at the unionaffiliated 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. Crew requested new exercise equipment, refrigerators in all staterooms and onboard internet access. Vote of thanks was given to galley crew for a job well done. Next port: Beaumont, Texas. MAERSK CHICAGO (Maersk Line, Limited), June 22 – Chairman Domingo Leon Jr. Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director Donald M. Christian, Toppings Galore on Overseas Tampa Pizza lovers had tasty options aboard the Overseas Tampa during a recent voyage as Chief Steward Ingrid Ortiz Rosario served up handcrafted veggie and “meat lovers” pies. The Overseas Shipholding Group vessel is running between the U.S. and northern Europe. Steward Delegate Nathaniel Simmons. Chairman announced payoff on June 26 in Newark, New Jersey, along with vaccinations. He thanked crew for an enjoyable trip. Secretary reported a great voyage and excellent cooperation with security team. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $8,700 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for information on polio vaccination. Suggestions were made pertaining to vacation benefits. Crew thanked steward department for their hard work. MAERSK HARTFORD (Maersk Line, Limited), June 8 – Chairman Magdy H. Balat, Secretary Johnnie B. McGill, Educational Director Richard A. Huffman, Deck Delegate Joseph Gibbens, Engine Delegate James Corprew. Chairman informed members of relocation of union hall to Jersey City, New Jersey, on June 13. He discussed ship’s itinerary. Secretary informed mariners fresh provisions would be received in next port. Educational director recommended training at the Piney Point school and keeping up with new STCW requirements and medical endorsements. Treasurer reported $950 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Seafarers would like a quiet location for satellite phone, new movies and two comfortable chairs for ship’s library. MAERSK IOWA (Mae Line, Limited), June 2 – Chairman Egidio Ferreira, Secretary Paul H. Isherwood, Educational Director Joshua M. Zelinsky. Chairman and crew would like vacation checks direct deposited. Educational director suggested mariners attend classes at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland, for Maersk safety course and upgrading endorsements. He advised them to have all necessary seafaring documents in order. Treasurer reported $4,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members were encouraged to read the president’s report in the Seafarers LOG. September 2014 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X2.indd 19 Recommendations were made in increase medical and dental benefits. PACIFIC COLLECTOR (TOTE Services), June 27 – Chairman Michael J. Earhart, Secretary Allan D. Bright, Educational Director Rodrigo D. Castillo, Deck Delegate John O’Connell, Engine Delegate Davon Brown. Bosun informed crew of payoff on June 28 in Portland, Oregon, and said mission went well. Educational director encouraged crew to get time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. He also reminded mariners to keep documents up-to-date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for satellite phone and internet aboard vessel. It was noted that new washer and dryer have been ordered. Next port: Portland. SEABULK ARCTIC (Seabulk), July 11 – Chairman Dave Coleman, Secretary Elrick W. Archer, Educational Director Ronald H. Westerfield. Chairman talked about ship’s upcoming schedule. Secretary thanked fellow crew members for their help keeping mess hall clean. Educational director urged members to pay attention to expiration dates and visit Piney Point school as often as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was noted that dryer needs to be fixed or replaced. Thanks given to steward department for a job well done. Next port: Port Everglades, Florida. USNS WATSON (Patriot Contract Service), July 13 – Chairman Samuel R. Calder, Secretary Vanessa B. Fickel, Educational Director Fredy Segura, Steward Delegate Sheryl Farmer. Chairman reiterated the need to go through chain of command before going to captain or union. He discussed payroll issues. Members were advised to stay up-to-date with requirements and keep documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was reported that all departments are doing a good job and are in good spirits. Next port: Diego Garcia. Seafarers LOG 19 8/29/2014 12:43:57 PM �Letter 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. Retired World War II Mariner Shares Emotional Experience of Excursion to D.C. War Memorial On May 29, 2014, I visited the Washington, D.C., War Memorial, courtesy of the Honor Flight Network. The flight was sponsored by the American Legion Rockdale County Post 77, based in Conyers, Georgia. It was a cool and rainy day, unusual weather for that time of year in the nation’s capital. However, the weather was tempered by the warm greetings offered to 25 old men – veterans of World War II – from other visitors to World War II Memorial. Having schoolchildren with their chaperones stop by to shake your hand and say, “Thank you for your service,” can be emotional. On the plane, at the airports and bus terminals we also were greeted with shouts of, “Thank you for your service.” I had been looking forward to viewing the U.S. Merchant Marine plaque and had a bit of difficulty locating it at the World War Memorial Complex. It was much smaller than I expected. The inscription on the plaque is the only mention of the U.S. Merchant Marine at the memorial. However, I am thankful for the recognition. I extend a great big thank you to American Legion Rockdale County Post 77. It proved to be a rewarding experience and I enjoyed the visit immensely. Ed Woods Atlanta, Georgia Ed Woods, a frequent contributor to the LOG, sailed as a merchant mariner in WWII. The Honor Flight veterans are seated at the War Memorial in Washington as their escorts stand behind them. Woods is seated fifth from right. 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 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X.indd 20 by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Sea­farers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 September 2014 8/28/2014 4:24:55 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, 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. 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 Advanced Firefighting November 8 November14 Basic Firefighting/STCW September 6 September 12 October 25 October 31 December 6 December 12 BST Refresher/VPDSD October 11 October 17 Government Vessels October 18 October 24 November 29 December 5 Medical Care Provider September 20 September 26 November 15 November 21 Deck Department Able Seafarer (Deck) September 13 October 10 November 8 December 5 ARPA September 22 September 26 Tank Barge (DL) September 13 September 19 Tanker Ship Familiarization (DL) September 14 September 26 Steward Department Upgrading Courses ECDIS October 6 October 10 November 15 November 21 Galley Operations September 13 October 10 November 29 December 5 October 11 November 7 November 8 December 5 GMDSS September 27 October 10 December 6 January 2 November 29 December 12 Certified Chief Cook Lifeboatman/Water Survival September 13 September 26 These modules begin every other week. The most recent class started August 30. The October 11 October 24 next class will commence September 13. November 8 November 21 December 6 December 19 Chief Steward November 1 December 12 RFPNW October 11 November 7 Radar Renewal (One day) September 29 September 29 October 27 October 27 December 15 December 15 Radar Observer September 6 September 19 Engine Department Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) September 13 October 10 FOWT (Able Seafarer Engine) Marine Electrician October 11 November 7 September 27 November 21 Welding September 20 October 10 November 1 November 21 Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting September 13 September 19 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. September 2014 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X.indd 21 Advanced Galley Operations September 27 October 24 October 25 November 21 November 22 December 19 December 20 January 16 ServeSafe September 13 September 19 October 25 October 31 December 6 December 12 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. 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 enginedepartment exam information, lists of Coast Guard-approved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at: www. uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC website. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 9/14 Seafarers LOG 21 8/28/2014 4:24:56 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Water Survival Class #787 – The following apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) completed this class July 3: Miguel Allen, James Bleckley III, John Congiglio, Rodrigues Carson, Bakari Dickerson, Alexander Fisher, Delores Franklin, David Garrett, Waddah Kaid, Carlos Mohler Vega, Charles Packer, Stevie Palmer II, Jophrey Pelingon, Chester Piaskowski IV, Mohamed Saleh and Dylan Sapp. Class instructor Ben Cusic is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Water Survival – Two upgraders completed their requirements in this course Aug. 1. Graduating (above, from left) were Tyree Watkins Jr., and Fsaha Solomon. Water Survival Class #788 – Thirteen apprentices finished this class Aug. 1. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Monserrate Blas Jr., Jeremiah Cobb, Wesley Head, Thomas Johnson, Alfred Jones, Carlton Knight, Efren Ramos-Sosa, Rommel Reston, Mayron Santana-Vega, Philip Sharp, Hermano Sillon, Ajee Smith and Brandon Urich. Welding – Three Seafarers graduated from this course Aug. 1. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Anthony Kpodovia, Glenn Snow and Thomas White. Their instructor, Chris Raley, is at right. Motor Plant Operations – Twelve upgraders graduated from this course July 18. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Kasim Ahmed, Kenneth Biddle Jr., Derek Chestnut, Sean Foote, Jason Fuller, Jon Mahannah, Raymond Martinez, Nicholas Panagakos, Michal Sinkiewicz, Brandon Thornton, Gil Ruben Jr. and Florencio Tindugan. Tim Achorn, their instructor, is at the far right. GMDSS – Two individuals finished this course Aug. 1. Completing their requirements were Timothy Van Weezel (above, left) and Johnny Dozier III. BST (SIU) – Fifteen Seafarers completed this course July 11. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Armando Amante, Jeffrey Beasley, Rodrigues Carson, Michael Dupee, Gerald Foster II, Garrett Fox, David Garrett, Eddie Hall, Martin Krins, David Martinez, John McBentum, Carlos Mohler Vega, Chester Piaskowski IV, James St. Amand and Edna Torres. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Junior Engineer – Ten upgraders graduated from this course July 11. Completing their requirements (photo at right, in alphabetical order) were: Edwin Alcos, Dennis Blake II, Lawrence Brooks Jr., Mark Canada, Anthony Kpodovia, Rafael Leon Ortiz, Xavier Normil, Justin Smith, Jamal Taleb and Thomas White. John Wiegman III, their instructor, is at the far right. 22 Seafarers LOG 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X.indd 22 September 2014 8/28/2014 4:25:02 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels – Nine upgraders graduated from this course July 25. Finishing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Garry Brandon, Michael Dupee, Eugene Evans, Edgar Manlangit, Patricia Ricks, Martin Simmons Jr., James St. Amand, Julius Sykes and Florencio Tindugan. Class instructor Mark Cates is at the far right. ARPA – Five upgraders graduated from this course July 3. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jeffer Baguio, Mark Grzegorczyk, Jesse James, Jarred Moylan and Timothy Van Weezel. ECDIS – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 18: Lindsey Austin, Frederick Cleare, Richard Crutchfield, John Gates, Michael Morgan, Frank Pivik, Ernesto Rios Pratt and Jason Stahl. Tankship Familiarization – The following Phase III apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) finished this course July 11: Derrick Alexander, Frank Jennings Jr., Tristian Johnson, Joshua Maughon, Dina Mott, Andrey Prytkov, Jon Sunga, Edward Williams and Brandon Winfield. Upon their completion of the apprentice program, each of these individuals plans a career at sea working in the deck department. Tankship Familiarization – Ten Phase III apprentices, all of whom plan to sail in the engine department of SIU-crewed vessels upon the completion of their training, graduated from this course July 11. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Loren Arriola, Aaron Baker, Terrall Cuffee, Adrian Darden, John Jaremchuk, Joshua Leonor, Demarkus McNabb, Richard Miller, Martin O’Brien and Zachary Vanhoose. Advanced Galley Operations - Three steward department upgraders recently completed this course. Graduating (above, from left) were: Henry Commanger, Elizabeth Byrd and Leslie Davis. September 2014 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X.indd 23 Chief Cook - Four steward department upgraders recently graduated from this course. Completing their requirements (above, from left) were: Dante Cruz, Kanesha Spence, David Stephens and Benjamin Feria. Tankship Familiarization – Two Phase III apprentices graduated from this course July 11. They are Mamie Porter (above, left) and Evan Sawyer. Both will work in the steward department of SIU-crewed vessels once they complete the remainder of their training. Steward Department Courses - Five upgraders recently completed courses in the steward department. Those graduating and the courses they completed (above, from left) were: Robert Wagner, advanced galley ops; Najeeb Ginah, galley ops; Khalid Mohamed, advanced galley ops; Steve Concepcion, advanced galley ops; and Sukiman Suraredjo, galley ops. Seafarers LOG 23 8/28/2014 4:25:08 PM �F E B R U A R Y 2014 2014 SEPTEMBER Recertified Bosun Ed McLean American Phoenix o VOLU M E 7 6 76 NNO. O. 9 2 VOLUME Inquiring Seafarer Page 16 AB Joe Tucker checks out a recent issue of the Seafarers LOG aboard the tug OSG Courageous, which joined the SIU fleet (along with a corresponding barge) in 2011. Around the Port Of Fort Lauderdale Port Agent Kris Hopkins submitted these recent photos of SIU members aboard ships, tugs and barges in and near Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Asst. Engineer Rino Skoblar ATB Innovation Chief Engineer Juan Lima ATB Innovation AB Tim Potter hauls a few new friends aboard the Sulphur Carriers integrated tug-barge Betty Wood. 19994_SEPTEMBER2K14LOG_X2.indd 24 Seafarers Jeff Johns (left) and Ricky Karl stop for the camera on the Penn Maritime tug Tarpon. OS/Cook Michael Colonna OSG Courageous 8/29/2014 12:44:03 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 September 2014 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES ITF CONGRESS PROMOTES WORKERS’ RIGHTS SIU’S HEINDEL REELECTED CHAIR OF KEY MAIRITIME SECTION CROWLEY CHRISTENS TUGBOAT OCEAN SKY HOUSTON OPERATIONS MOVING TO TEMPORARY LOCATION WITH CWA SEAFARERS CREW MANS NEWLY REFLAGGED PREPOSITIONING SHIP SUPPORT FOR EXTENDING EX-IM CHARTER GROWS LONGSTANDING PROGRAM BACKS AMERICAN MARITIME JOBS, U.S. COMPETITIVENESS REPS. GARAMENDI, HUNTER ADVOCATE ‘GROWING AMERICAN SHIPPING ACT’ FEDERATION CALLS OUT ‘TURNCOAT CORPORATIONS’ EXECUTIVE ORDER AIMS TO PROTECT WORKERS EX-IM CHARTER EXTENSION GETS BIPARTISAN BACKING HOUSE HEARING REAFFIRMS CRUCIAL NEED FOR STRONG U.S. -FLAG SEALIFT CAPABILITY ITF INSPECTOR PETITPAS PASSES AWAY AT AGE 67 IRON ORE CARGOES INCREASE ON GREAT LAKES RETIREE ‘SPEEDY’ LANDRY RECALLS WWII VOYAGES FORMER NMU MEMBER FELT A PATRIOTIC DUTY TO PARTICIPATES IN U.S. WAR EFFORT CAPE RAY SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETES MISSION SIU CREWS COME TO THE RESCUE, TWICE TWIC TWEAK OFFERS DIRECT MAILING OPTION SEVEN BOSUNS COMPLETE RECERTIFICATION IN 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 09/01/2014 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. 9 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/8e98a294cdf2caa821b9e64c9f91250b.pdf 776fd406bac9b605f28f98901cb5a3e0 PDF Text Text SEPTEMBER F E B R U A2015 RY 2014 V O L U MVOLUME E 7 6 o77NNO. O .9 2 New Tankers Ordered! 4 Additional Ships Mean More SIU Jobs The list of planned new builds for the SIU-crewed Jones Act fleet continued to grow last month as Aker Philadelphia Shipyard reported the sale of four new tankers (one of which already is under construction) to Kinder Morgan, Inc. This order is for four additional tankers, and while it is separate from an initial fourvessel order that includes the Ohio (photo at lower right, taken during recent sea trials) it means a total of eight new ships are being built in Philadelphia that ultimately will be crewed by SIU members. The other ship photos show the SIU-crewed, Crowley-operated Florida, which also was built at Aker Philadelphia and which is nearly identical to the tankers in the recently announced order. Page 2. New USTRANSCOM Commander Page 2 Boatmen Ratify New Contract Page 3 Bosuns Graduate Page 7 �More New Tankers Ordered President’s Report Good News for Labor, Maritime An announcement in mid-August about the upcoming addition of four more new tankers into the SIU-crewed fleet is the kind of news that reinforces my belief in a bright future not only for our union but also for America’s shipbuilding industry. Kinder Morgan’s purchase of four Jones Act ships to be built at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard is just the latest example of the fact there is plenty of work out there for the U.S. Merchant Marine, and it also demonstrates the outstanding capabilities of our nation’s shipyard workers. As a lifelong union man, it’s a point of pride for me to note that two of our country’s busiest yards – Aker Philadelphia and, on the West Coast, General Dynamics NASSCO – employ union workers. Put another way, union members at those facilities (and elseMichael Sacco where) are constructing state-of-the-art tankers and containerships and RO/ROs that stack up against any others around the world. Just a few days after the announcement about the four tankers, a new Gallup poll found that six in 10 Americans say they approve of labor unions. That’s the highest approval rate since 2008, according to news reports. I didn’t realize it until reading an article last month, but Gallup has been surveying American views about organized labor since 1936 (two years before the SIU was chartered). That same article said approval of unions has grown by five percentage points in the last year alone, and by 10 percentage points since 2008 (the start of the recession). I also found it interesting that 37 percent of Americans say they want unions to have greater influence, while 28 percent want to see us remain the same. Compared to other recent surveys, those figures also reflect a growing belief and trust in organized labor. You may know that I’m usually at least initially a little leery of studies and statistics, but once I’ve had time to digest the facts, it’s not hard to separate hot air from reality. The Gallup poll shows that union workers are getting the job done, or people wouldn’t believe in us. It also shows we’re doing a better job of explaining to the general public why unions absolutely, positively still matter. What that survey also showed is that most people believe unions will become weaker in the future, and that’s where I disagree. But we’ll have to work to revitalize our movement, and, for better or worse, that means remaining politically active. Our political activities are year-round, but the next presidential election will be especially important for America’s working families. As one of the candidates said to me and to others recently during the AFL-CIO executive council meetings, this next election is about doing away with unions. (But I can tell you, based on the reports I heard and read during that meeting, our movement is gaining strength through organizing.) We will continue to advance our movement and the prospects for America’s working families. We’ve got too much to offer, and once again our own industry is a great example on so many levels. We’ve demonstrated how labor and management can work together effectively and with mutual respect. In the shipyards and on the vessels, we’ve proven that union workers can go toe-to-toe with anyone, anywhere, if the playing field is even. And we’ve proven that grassroots political action works. Does anyone believe for a moment that the commercial ship orders at NASSCO or Philadelphia would’ve happened if the Jones Act had been weakened or eliminated? Brothers and sisters, we do indeed have a bright future – as long as we’re willing to work for it. That means continuing to do a great job aboard SIU-crewed vessels. It means keeping our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, on the cutting edge of technology so that we continue providing top-notch manpower for all types of ships and tugs and ferries. It means promoting the labor movement and the U.S. Merchant Marine at every level of government. There’s a difference between hope and confidence. When it comes to the SIU, I’m very proud of our record but I’m also confident that many of our best days are ahead of us. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 77 Number 9 o NO. 2 September 2015 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2015 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG The SIU already was gearing up to sail aboard four new tankers being built in Philadelphia – and now the union is poised to double that welcome assignment. On Aug. 10, Aker Philadelphia Shipyard announced Kinder Morgan had purchased contracts for the construction of four, 50,000dwt product tankers (one of which is in the earliest stages of construction). Although at press time the vessel operator’s identity had not been publicly disclosed, the union confirmed that SIU members will sail aboard the new ships. It adds up to eight new SIUcrewed tankers from Aker that will sail in the Jones Act trade. The first ship in the first four-vessel order (for Crowley Maritime) – the Ohio – was expected to crew up in late August. The expected delivery dates for the recently announced order range from November 2016 to November 2017. All eight vessels (known as MT50 product tankers) will be essentially identical. “This is fantastic news for the SIU, for the shipyard and for supporters of the Jones Act,” stated SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “It means job security for the membership, and we absolutely are ready to provide all the manpower that will be needed.” The MT50 ships will be LNGconversion-ready, and each will have a capacity of 337,000 barrels. They will be slightly more than 600 feet long and will be able to sail at 15 knots. According to the shipyard, the most recent four-ship order is valued at a total of $568 million. Kristian Rokke, chairman of Aker Philadelphia Shipyard, stated, “We are pleased to announce today’s transaction with Kinder Morgan as a successful outcome for Philly Tankers’ shareholders. Philly Tankers (an Aker Philadelphia entity) has made noteworthy achievements since its inception, including securing longterm employment for two of its vessels, the opportunistic exercise of its options and now the assignment of all four of its new building contracts to Kinder Morgan, which provides an attractive return to Philly Tankers’ shareholders.” “There continues to be strong demand for domestic waterborne transportation to move petroleum products and crude oil, and our fleet of highly efficient tankers will provide stable, fee-based cash flow to KMI shareholders for many years to come through multi-year contracts,” said Kinder Morgan Terminals President John Schlosser. “This latest transaction clearly underscores Kinder Morgan’s commitment to marine transportation of crude oil, condensate and refined products in the U.S. domestic trade.” The Jones Act is vital to American’s homeland and economic security. It requires that cargo moving between domestic ports be carried on vessels that are built, crewed, owned and flagged American. The law helps support nearly a half-million jobs in the U.S., and a study by PricewaterhouseCoopers found the Jones Act contributes billions of dollars to the economy every year. It also helps maintain a pool of reliable, well-trained U.S. Merchant Mariners who would be available to sail on U.S. military support ships in times of need. McDew Takes USTRANSCOM Helm Air Force Gen. Darren W. McDew is the new commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM), following his Senate confirmation in late July. A career mobility pilot, McDew will replace Air Force Gen. Paul Selva, who has been tapped (and confirmed by the Senate) to become vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Selva, who now is the nation’s second-highest-ranking military officer, led TRANSCOM for just over a year. He was a glowing supporter of U.S.-flag shipping and a close friend of the SIU during his time at the agency. McDew comes to USTRANSCOM from Air Mobility Command where he has been commander since May 2014. Prior to his post at Air Mobility Command, the general was commander of 18th Air Force and commander of the Air Force District of Washington. He is a command pilot with more than 3,300 hours in aircraft such as the C-17, C-141, C-130 and KC-135. Gen. McDew has been in the Air Force since graduating from the Virginia Military Institute in 1982. In 1996, he served as the Air Force aide to President Clinton. USTRANSCOM oversees air, land and sea transportation for all Gen. Darren W. McDew Commander U.S. TRANSCOM Gen. Paul Selva Vice Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff of the Defense Department. It is responsible for the global, joint movement of combat units, sustainment cargo, and service member household goods and privately owned vehicles. Only U.S. Air Force generals have served as USTRANSCOM commanders since its inception in 1987. Gen. Selva was touring the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland, on May 4 when he was called back to the nation’s capital for what turned out to be his nomination to the Joint Chiefs of Staff the next day. AMP Calls Proposals to Disrupt Puerto Rican Maritime Trade ‘Misinformed’ The U.S. domestic maritime industry’s most powerful coalition, the American Maritime Partnership (AMP), is helping set the record straight about false claims that a key law is hurting Puerto Rico’s economy. Specifically, the coalition (to which the SIU is affiliated) has disproven assertions of a causal link between the costs associated with U.S. domestic maritime in the Puerto Rican trade and the pending debt crisis facing the Commonwealth. According to AMP, “Recent news reports have included statements by both government surrogates and opponents of American maritime that have sought to capitalize on the debt crisis and undermine an industry that for decades has provided consistent and reliable transport of goods to and from the Puerto Rican people. Critics hinge their arguments on a governmentcommissioned ‘study’ released [in July] – known as the Krueger Report – which professes to set forth policy recommendations to address the debt crisis but falls short in substantiating its claims about the Puerto Rican maritime trade. AMP seeks to correct misinformed statements by providing facts developed by trusted, independent third-party sources, including a 2013 study of the Jones Act in Puerto Rico by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) – the most comprehensive review to date on this subject.” “America’s maritime workers and companies proudly serve as the bridge between the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the U.S. mainland, facilitating consistent, reliable, and cost-effective just-intime delivery of goods in both directions,” said Mark Ruge, AMP counsel. “It is not uncommon in any crisis situation for facts and reality to quickly become overwhelmed Continued on Page 4 September 2015 �Seafarers are sailing aboard four newly acquired Great Lakes Towing tugs, including the Michigan (above) and the Ontario (photo at left). Tug Crews Approve New Five-Year Contract Great Lakes Towing Brings Newer Tonnage into Fleet It’s been a newsworthy summer at Great Lakes Towing. SIU boatmen employed by the company have approved a new, fiveyear agreement, and they’re also sailing aboard several recently acquired tugs. The unanimously approved contract, which took effect July 15, calls for annual wage increases while maintaining Seafarers Pension Plan and Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan coverage, respectively, at their highest levels. It also boosts company contributions to the separate Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan. Seafarers Scott Rosseel (left) and Jeff Davis SIU, AMO Members Volunteer for Typhoon Relief Effort in Saipan Members of both the SIU and the Seafarersaffiliated American Maritime Officers (AMO) recently volunteered for cleanup efforts at an elementary school in Saipan following a devastating typhoon that struck Aug. 2-3. The mariners came from the USNS Pfc. Dewayne T. Williams, a prepositioning ship operated by Maersk Line, Limited for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. At least two other Seafarers-crewed ships – the USNS Soderman and USNS Charlton, both operated by Patriot – also mobilized as part of the formal relief effort. For at least one mariner from the Williams, the typhoon literally hit close to home. Chief Engineer Don Baetge lives in Saipan, and he organized the volunteer effort at the grade school. “The typhoon caused pretty widespread damage,” said Bosun Brian Guiry of the Williams. “With no electricity and limited local resources, one of the local Montessori September 2015 The union’s negotiating committee consisted of Vice President Great Lakes and Inland Waters Tom Orzechowski, Assistant Vice President Bryan Powell, Port Agent Todd Brdak, Port Agent Chad Partridge and Safety Director Don Thornton. “It’s a fair contract for the members and for the company,” said Brdak. “Both sides definitely negotiated in good faith, and the result is something we can all be proud of.” Around the same time Seafarers were ratifying the contract, which currently covers 14 members, Great Lakes Towing announced the addition of four tugboats to its fleet. According to the company, the newly purchased tugs are the Michigan, Huron, Ontario and Erie. “These four tugs will be immediately added to the fleet, and provide some new life and operational stability to our day-today business,” said Gregg Thauvette, the company’s vice president of operations. He added, “The equipment and machinery on board, including the towing gear and firefighting equipment, are ideal for our operations across the Great Lakes, and will help us to continue to provide harbor towing services to our customers in more than 35 U.S. ports in all eight U.S. Great Lakes states.” Additionally, Great Lakes Towing (headquartered in Cleveland) is reactivating the tugs Louisiana and Pennsylvania, both of which had been out of service for several years, and has plans to do the same with its boats Idaho and California in the near future. elementary schools was faced with a quite a challenge clearing the grounds of fallen trees and repairing damage to the classroom buildings. “A particular point of pride for me aboard the Williams is how well the three different departments work together on a daily basis, and this was no exception,” he continued. “The excellent SIU steward department packed a meal and snacks for us, and both AMO and SIU personnel from the deck and engine departments worked together to cut, haul away and then burn fallen tree limbs, as well as help repair water and electric lines.” Guiry added that more worked remained, and the mariners planned to return “in the near future to continue giving back to the shoreside community that our crews call home for four months at a time.” Seafarers pitching in ashore included Guiry, ABs Christopher Dionio and Vlad Bendus, STOSs Caliph Johnson and Ahmed Al-Arashi, QMEDs Freddie Malbas, Morris Jeff and Rolando Romanillos, Storekeeper Joss Zolina and GUDE Walid Nasser. The AMO contingent included Baetge, 1st AE Clark Deloach, 3rd AE William Dickey and Electronics Tech Richard Felkey. SIU members (from left) Brandon Fadenholz, Julius Stafford and Tim McKenna Pictured from left to right are (on top of the uprooted tree) ETO Rich Felkey, STOS Caliph Johnson, 3rd AE William Dickey, (standing) GUDE Walid Nasser, AB Vlad Benus, OS Ahmed Al-Arashi, Chief Engineer Don Baetge, 1st AE Clark Deloach, QEE Morris Jeff, QMED Freddie Malbas, (front) Bosun Brian Guiry, Storekeeper Joss Zolina and AB Chris Dionio. Seafarers LOG 3 �Crowley Lauds Piney Point Upgrades Shipping Executive Cites Major Improvements at School During MarEx Interview Tom Crowley’s appreciation for many of the improvements that have been made under a multi-million dollar renovation project at the at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland, has not diminished since he initially witnessed them earlier this year. The president and CEO of unioncontracted Crowley Maritime Corporation, Crowley visited the school May 5 and served as keynote speaker during the grand opening and dedication ceremony for the new Thomas Crowley Sr. Center for Maritime Services building, an oncampus edifice named in honor of his late father. Prior to the ceremony, Crowley toured the school and received an up close and personal look at a host of the facility and equipment upgrades that came into fruition from late last year to this spring. He shared his impressions of what he witnessed during a recent interview with Maritime Executive Online, an electronic medium that provides industry leaders with analysis of maritime issues and news affecting the global maritime community. “Piney Point is kind of the center of their [SIU’s] educational program,” he told his interviewer. “It was built many years ago with the support of employers but clearly put together by the SIU leadership, and they use it as a cornerstone of their efforts to help the industry. “And I don’t know if you have been to Piney Point lately, or ever, but that is worthy of a story in itself,” he continued. “In addition to the new administration building, they’ve done a tremendous amount of work on the facility including putting in probably the most sophisticated simulator system in the country and, through consultation with us and other employers Tom Crowley, president and CEO of Crowley Maritime Corporation, receives an in-depth briefing on one of the Paul Hall Center’s (PHC) new state-of-the-art simulators from PHC instructor Susan Fagan. Looking on in the background (from left) are SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez and PHC Director of Training Priscila Labanowski. (The distortion on Crowley’s face is caused by the color recessed lighting in the simulator’s module.) and after going out and studying what the latest and greatest technology is, they’ve really made a huge investment.” Focusing specifically on the state-ofthe art equipment he saw, Crowley said: “They’ve got three full-bridge simulators and six additional tug simulators to go along with them and they are all interconnected. They’ve got an engine room simulator and a crane simulator. “It’s a very, very impressive facility,” he continued. “They’ve really upgraded the school, the classrooms and all the technology within those classrooms to give students the latest and greatest.” Commenting on the building that was named for his father, the Crowley president and CEO said, “…obviously I was very honored to be a part of the dedication of the new building. It replaces an old structure that once housed trainees in the early days of the school and will serve as the administrative center of the campus and be used primarily to train U.S. Merchant Mariners. “It is part of the SIU’s Paul Hall Center in Piney Point that is committed to providing the nation’s maritime industry with skilled, physically fit, and responsible deep-sea seafarers and inland waterways boatmen.” When asked about the nature of the historical liaison that exists between the union and his company, Crowley said “… the relationship with the SIU certainly started with my Dad. We’ve managed to continue and expand it, and they’ve really been a key part of our success and also of the success of the entire industry in terms of helping support the Jones Act and making sure that we’re doing the right kind of training and bringing young people into the industry and building careers that otherwise wouldn’t exist. “So I would say that’s kind of the Flawed Study Causes Rumors About Maritime Trade In Puerto Rico, AMP Sets Record Straight Continued from Page 2 by rumors and hyperbole. The debt crisis in Puerto Rico has proven no different, as opponents of the Puerto Rican maritime trade have seized on the crisis as an opportunity to promote their agenda. Unfortunately, their arguments are misinformed and unfounded in truth.” Citing the independent review of the Jones Act in Puerto Rico by the GAO, AMP noted the agency concluded the Jones Act ensures service between the United States and Puerto Rico that is consistent and reliable as well as important to the Puerto Rico economy. (The Jones Act requires cargo moving between domestic ports to be carried on ships that are crewed, built, owned and flagged American.) AMP pointed out many goods imported by Puerto Rico are perishables requiring on-time delivery. Jones Act shippers meet the real-time demands of island import inventory managers who rely on prompt shipping to stock shelves and limit costly warehousing. According to the GAO study, “If the Jones Act were exempted, foreign carriers that currently serve Puerto Rico as part of multiple-stop trade route would likely continue this model to accommodate other shipping routes to and from other Caribbean destinations or world markets rather than provide dedicated service between the United States and Puerto Rico, as the current Jones Act carriers provide.” As explained by the coalition, longer multi-port trade routes make it difficult to ensure the reliability and consistency of scheduled service. International carriers are more likely to experience lengthy weather delays or delays at ports, and could even intentionally bypass ports on occasion to make up lost travel time. Only goods transported between Puerto Rico and the mainland U.S. are subject to the Jones Act 4 Seafarers LOG – with the majority of goods today coming to the island on foreign vessels. However, according to AMP, contrasting U.S.-flag Jones Act vessels and foreign-flag ships is an “apples to oranges” comparison. “Most sophisticated trading nations have cabotage laws applied to aviation, maritime, rail, and trucking for their domestic commerce, and the U.S. is no different,” AMP declared. “The GAO study pointed out that foreign-flag ships are not subject to U.S. taxation, U.S. immigration, U.S. safety and other U.S. laws. Should the Jones Act be changed, foreign-flag vessels operating in the domestic trades would be subject to many of the same laws as U.S.-flag vessels, drastically affecting any perceived cost savings. The GAO found that, ‘Foreign carriers operating in the U.S. coastwise trade could be required to comply with other U.S. laws and regulations which could increase foreign carriers’ costs and may affect the rates they could charge.’” Other noteworthy findings in the GAO report include that the rates in the Puerto Rican shipping trades actually dropped between the years 2006– 2010; it is not possible to estimate whether the cost of transportation under the Jones Act is higher than foreign-flag vessels in Puerto Rico; and it is even more difficult to estimate the impact, if any, of the Jones Act on the ultimate price of goods in the Commonwealth. “Aside from the clear economic benefits of the Puerto Rican maritime trade, the national security benefits of the Jones Act to the United States and its territories are undisputed,” AMP concluded. “The Jones Act ensures that the United States maintains a robust shipyard industrial base and trained merchant mariners, both of which support the U.S. military and protect our shores during times of peace and war. The most recent examples of the overwhelming support for the Jones Act can be found in the expressions of Congress, as well as our most prominent military leaders.” Tom Crowley delivers the keynote address during the dedication ceremony for the new Thomas Crowley Sr. Center for Maritime Services building, an on-campus edifice named in honor of his late father at the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center. cornerstone of the relationship. And of course the quality of the people – under the leadership of (SIU President) Mike Sacco and his team – is top notch, and the relationship just continues to grow and build across all of our businesses,” he said. “So it was a great honor for them to dedicate a building there at Piney Point in honor of my father.” In addition to the upgrades that Crowley saw during his tour, the ambitious renovation project also includes improvements in all roads and walkways, and massive upgrades in the Training and Recreation Center Hotel and auditorium. EPI: U.S. Losing Manufacturing Jobs to China, Not to Robots A new report from the Economic Policy Institute (EPI) finds that currency manipulation by foreign countries has been the key factor in wiping out U.S. manufacturing jobs. The EPI is a nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank created in 1986 to include the needs of low- and middle-income workers in economic policy discussions. After holding relatively steady for 30 years, manufacturing employment began declining rapidly in 2000, falling to a low of 11.5 million in February 2010, the EPI said in a mid-August news release. This job loss can be traced to growing trade deficits throughout the decade, and the collapse of manufacturing output following the Great Recession – not rapid gains in productivity brought on by technological advancements – according to Manufacturing Job Loss, a new issue brief from EPI Director of Trade and Manufacturing Research Robert E. Scott. (The full report is available online at www.epi.org) “Manufacturing job losses are not the inevitable result of technological progress. They were caused by trade policy, and they can be reversed by trade policy. We are not losing manufacturing jobs to robots, we’re losing them to China,” said Scott. “Our job losses are the result of failed currency and macroeconomic policies. They can be reversed by aggressive enforcement of fair trade laws, taking action to end currency manipulation, and through major commitments to rebuilding America’s crumbling infrastructure. ” According to the new report, “The leading cause of growing U.S. trade deficits is currency manipulation, which distorts trade flows by artificially lowering the cost of U.S. imports and raising the cost of U.S. exports. More than 20 countries, led by China, have been spending about $1 trillion per year buying foreign assets to artificially suppress the value of their currencies. Ending currency manipulation can create between 2.3 million and 5.8 million jobs for working Americans, and about 40 percent of those jobs (between 891,500 and 2.3 million) would be in manufacturing. We also need to reform and aggressively enforce U.S. fair trade laws in order to reduce or eliminate the flood of illegally dumped and subsidized imports of steel and many other manufactured products.” Echoing a point emphasized in recent years by the AFL-CIO, the EPI also pointed to what it described as “a major infrastructure shortfall” in the U.S. For example, the American Society of Civil Engineers has estimated that the United States needs to invest $3.6 trillion in rebuilding U.S. infrastructure by 2020. Such an investment would lead to millions of new jobs, according to the labor federation, the EPI and others. “Taken together, steps to eliminate trade deficits (by ending currency manipulation and unfair trade) and rebuild U.S. infrastructure could easily generate sufficient demand for manufactured products to return most or all of the 5 million manufacturing jobs lost between 2000 and 2014,” the EPI concluded. September 2015 �Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka Former Governor Mike Huckabee (R-Arkansas, left) and AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Elizabeth Shuler and Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont) Council Interviews Presidential Candidates Members of the AFL-CIO Executive Council – on which SIU President Michael Sacco is the longest-tenured member – tackled a packed agenda of working-family issues July 29-30 during its meetings in Silver Spring, Maryland. In addition to issuing several significant policy statements and deliberating on the body’s issue priorities, council members met with and posed questions to five of the declared candidates who will vie for the office of President of the United States during the 2016 general elections. Senators Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont), Jim Webb (D-Virginia) and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton each appeared before the council as did former Governors Martin O’Malley (D-Maryland) and Mike Huckabee (R-Arkansas). Each of the candidates on the campaign trail – Democrats and Republicans – prior to the meeting was provided a list of survey questions by the council. The five who responded were selected to appear before the body to respond to questions, outline some of their positions relating to labor and make their respective cases for the federation’s endorsement. In individual sessions, candidates were questioned about trade policy, how they will make the economy fairer for working families, supporting and strengthening collective bargaining and other issues. “We spoke with each of them for an hour, and had a genuine exchange of views on a wide variety of critical subjects,” said AFLCIO President Richard Trumka. “We spoke at length with each candidate about the Raising Wages agenda and were encouraged by our discussions. We look forward to ongoing discussions with the candidates and the further unfolding of the presidential campaign.” Besides meeting with presidential candidates, executive council members, as part of the federation’s broad raising wages agenda, discussed and adopted nine policy statements. One addressed restoring overtime protection for the millions of American workers who have been working overtime and not getting paid for it. In part, that statement said: “President Obama and the Department of Labor have taken an important first step to ensure that millions more workers receive the overtime pay they deserve. The administration’s proposal would extend overtime protection to at least 7 million additional workers, and possibly many millions more. This is the most significant action the Obama administration can take to raise wages on its own authority and a significant first step toward broad-based wage growth. “The gist of the Obama administration’s proposal is to restore most of the overtime protection that has been lost to inflation since 1975. Specifically, the administration proposes to raise the overtime salary threshold – which is used to determine overtime eligibility – to $50,400 per year, slightly below the level necessary to account for inflation since 1975. The administration also proposes to index the threshold in the future to keep overtime protections from being eroded again. ITF Recovers $59.5 Million For Mariners in Europe, Asia Vast Majority of Mariners’ Back Pay Collected in Europe Helping the world’s mariners recover unpaid wages has long been an important function of the In- Stephen Cotton ITF General Secretary September 2015 ternational Transport Workers’ Federation, and the ITF definitely delivered in 2014. According to a recent report from ITF General Secretary Stephen Cotton, the federation last year recovered more than $59.5 million in wages owed to mariners. Around $48 million of that sum was collected in Europe, while another $8 million-plus was secured in Asia. Cotton presented the data during a maritime conference in Singapore in July. He said more than 75 percent of the money secured by the ITF came from vessels that aren’t covered by ITF agreements through the International Bargaining Forum (IBF). “There are still elements of the industry that need to be tidied up,” Cotton told the online Seatrade Maritime News. More than 11,500 ships are covered by IBF agreements. The ITF consists of approximately 700 unions, including the SIU, representing more than 4.5 million transport workers from 150 countries. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel chairs the federation’s Seafarers’ Section. “By the Labor Department’s calculations, the proposal would extend overtime protection to almost five million working people who are not entitled to overtime pay now, plus another two million working people who are entitled to overtime protection now but are being wrongly denied protection by their employers. However, the department’s estimates are extremely conservative, and the number of workers who will be newly entitled to overtime is almost certainly many millions higher. In addition, millions more workers who are already protected currently will also benefit because their overtime rights will be more secure. In one way or another, the proposal will benefit all of the nearly 15 million salaried workers whose earnings are between the current threshold and the proposed threshold. “The administration’s proposal will especially benefit women, blacks, Hispanics, workers under age 35 and workers with lower levels of education. In terms of occupations, it will benefit first-line supervisors of food preparation and serving workers, insurance claims and policy processing clerks, customer service representatives, miscellaneous legal support workers, first-line supervisors of office and administrative support workers, social workers, first-line supervisors of retail sales workers, insurance sales agents, and counselors, among others…. “Nevertheless, opponents of higher wages are already mobilizing to weaken or defeat the overtime update. They want to lower the salary threshold below $50,400 and they are demanding more delay so they can run out the clock and prevent the administration’s overtime proposal from ever being implemented. “However, the opponents of higher wages have been able to manipulate the rules and get their way for far too long. This is why working people are having such a hard time providing for their families and our economy is so out of balance. Low wages are holding back our economy and hurting businesses, and we have to raise wages if we want to fix our economy. “In the coming weeks, we will urge the administration to stand strong on its proposal, strengthen it where possible, and not bend to the demands of corporate interests and lose this opportunity to raise wages.” The foregoing policy statement, as well as the eight others adopted by the council, can be read in its entirety at www.aflcio.org/ About/Exec-Council/EC-Statements. Also on the executive council’s agenda was a new report titled “Rewriting The Rules Of The American Economy, An Agenda For Growth And Shared Prosperity.” Copies of the work, written by Joseph E. Stiglitz, chief economist at the Roosevelt Institute, were given to each council member. Essentially, Stiglitz in the report outlined how we as a nation arrived at our current economic situation and later mapped out a strategy for fixing it—all the while emphasizing that despite the challenges associated with reform, it still can be done. Shipping Co. Founder Niels Johnsen Dies at 93 Niels W. Johnsen, retired chairman of International Shipholding Corporation (ISH), passed away at his home in Rumson, New Jersey, on Aug. 7. He was 93. ISH is the parent company of Seafarerscontracted Central Gulf Lines, Inc. and Waterman Steamship Corporation. Johnsen retired from there in 2003. A native of New Orleans, Johnsen attended Tulane University before shipping out as a U.S. Merchant Mariner during World War II, starting in 1942. He continued sailing for nearly four years – and survived two separate torpedo attacks that sank the ships he was on. Following the second such attack, in 1944, he spent two weeks in a lifeboat off the coast of Africa, according to published remembrances. Not long after coming ashore, Johnsen was co-founder, with his father and brother, Erik F. Johnsen, of Central Gulf Steamship in New Orleans in 1947. He went on to devote more than a half-century of service as an executive in the U.S. maritime industry, including work with States Marine Lines and (separately) Trans Union Corporation, the latter of which merged with Central Gulf in 1971. According to his official obituary, Johnsen at various times served on the board of managers of the American Bureau of Shipping and the board of trustees of the Seamen’s Church Institute (SCI). For many years, he was a trustee of the Atlantic Mutual Insurance Corporation and a director of the Centennial Insurance Company, and served as a director and chairman of the National Cargo Bureau. He received numerous maritime industry awards, including the SCI Silver Bell Award in 1988 and the United Seamen’s Service Admiral of the Ocean Seas (AOTOS) Award in 1993. He was predeceased by his wife, Millicent Mercer Johnsen, on Sept. 7, 2013, and their daughter, Gretchen Johnsen Bryant, on June 18, 2014. Survivors include his brother Eric and his wife Barbara V. Johnsen; son Niels M. Johnsen and wife Marlene; daughter Ingrid J. and husband William B. Barrett; seven grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. Seafarers LOG 5 �Cella is pictured aboard the Cape Intrepid (photo above) in Kuwait in 2003. During the maiden voyage of the Tacoma (photo at right), Cella (second from right) explains the helm. Bosun Reflects on Long, Rewarding Career Recently retired Recertified Bosun Dana Cella has many stories to share from his 38-year career with the SIU. From rescue operations and close calls to military support operations, Cella remained a faithful union man whose enthusiasm for the trade encouraged his younger brothers to also become mariners. “The union has always been my family,” he said. “Every ship I’ve ever been on, I’ve been the union representative.” He sailed out of the Tacoma, Washington, union hall up until his retirement this summer. One of Cella’s earliest memories from sailing could have been his last. In 1980, he signed off the SS Poet just a few months before the vessel’s tragic sinking in October. The Poet, loaded with corn and headed for Port Said, Egypt, was lost during a storm and disappeared with all hands on board. Not three weeks before that disappearance, Cella took part in a rescue at sea while aboard the SL Portland. This wasn’t just any rescue, but what is believed to have been the most successful large-scale peacetime sea rescue in history: the saving of 524 people aboard the Prinsendam. A luxury cruise ship, the Prinsendam had caught fire in the engine room while embarked in the Gulf of Alaska, 120 miles north of the nearest village. Cella’s ship was redirected to help the rescue effort, which was a complete success. All 324 passengers and 200 crew members were safely rescued from the burning vessel, without a single casualty or even a serious injury. In 2003, Cella served aboard the USNS Cape Intrepid, a Ready Reserve Force cargo vessel tasked with delivering supplies as part of the Persian Gulf War. According to Cella, “I’m a union man. The union told SIU Members Assist Stranded Boaters in Pacific Members of the SIU Government Services Division recently assisted eight people aboard a distressed sailboat during a routine mission in the western Pacific Ocean. The Seafarers-crewed USNS Rappahannock, a fleet replenishment oiler, rendered assistance to a 38-foot craft named The Remedy, which is registered in the Federated States of Micronesia, State of Yap, the U.S. Navy reported. The sailboat was headed to Guam but only had gotten roughly halfway through the 1,000-mile voyage when it ran out of fuel. “After receiving the distress call on radio, the [Rappahannock] immediately maneuvered its way to the sailboat,” said Dean Bradford, the Rappahannock’s master. “Once on scene, the ship deployed its [rigid-hulled inflatable boat] to evaluate the situation and render assistance.” The response took about an hour, and the Rappahannock provided fuel to the vessel and potable water to its crew. 6 Seafarers LOG me to go to war, so I went to war.” He was awarded the Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal for his work in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, along with the rest of the crew of the Cape Intrepid. “Dana Cella is an upstanding union member and a decent human being,” said Tacoma Port Agent Joe Vincenzo. “I have known Dana for more than a decade, and in all those years he has demonstrated his mettle time and again. Dana is a standup guy who always had the backs of his friends, my own back included. I wish him great success in his future endeavors. He will be missed.” After such an exciting career, Cella looks forward to seeing what lies ahead for both the industry and the union. “The union has always been a solid structure,” he said. “Now it’s a key player in maintaining the state of the [overall labor movement], thanks to the leadership of (SIU President) Michael Sacco.” As a recertified bosun, Cella fondly remembers his time at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. He also spoke about the role that the Piney Point, Maryland, school plays in preparing future generations for life at sea. “The school is one of the cornerstones of the union, and it’s all because of the evolving technologies,” he stated. “It’s a high-tech industry, and the union is helping to keep the industry crewed with knowledgeable students.” Finally, he expressed his thanks for everything the union has done for him throughout his career, saying, “The union gave a young kid the opportunity to become financially stable, and I am grateful for that.” “The crew of Remedy expressed their gratitude and indicated that they did not need further assistance,” said Bradford. He added, “Boats and ships are spread all over, but I can imagine they were happy to see us. It’s a big world out there Recertified Bosun Dana Cella (left) picks up his first pension check from Tacoma Port Agent Joe Vincenzo. and a big ocean, and some are just not fully prepared or equipped to sail out.” Just one week earlier, on July 19, the SIU-crewed ocean surveillance ship USNS Impeccable rescued 11 fishermen while en route to Subic Bay, Philippines. As reported in last month’s Seafarers LOG, Impeccable mariners spotted personnel on a partially submerged ship and noted debris in the water. A rescue crew made three trips to the distressed vessel to recover all 11 individuals. The USNS Rappahannock is pictured in late March in the East China Sea. (U.S. Navy photo) September 2015 �Six Bosuns Complete Recertification Course Seafarers Express Thanks for Career Opportunities, Training Six SIU bosuns recently came together as a class to better themselves professionally when they returned to the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Education and Training for recertification in July. Like those in the classes before them, each mariner faced this challenge head on, with the only source of consternation coming in the form of speeches given at the conclusion of the course. The six Seafarers who recertified are Tar Ahmed, Don Ackerman, William Yurick, Wayne Green, Lech Jankowski, and Adrian Jones. These men formed a close bond while sharpening their skills and becoming better acquainted with the SIU’s history and inner workings. Their classes covered many topics, some new to them and some refresher material, including vessel security and safety training, conflict resolution, communication skills and more. The three-week course is the highest deckdepartment training available at the Piney Point, Maryland, school. During their graduation speeches, given during the August membership meeting, the bosuns saluted both the union and the school. Their heartfelt remarks reflected the wisdom and experience of seasoned bosuns as they also offered advice to the apprentices along with reminders of how much the union counts on support from the membership. Don Ackerman Ackerman was the first to deliver his graduation speech. His words reflected his 25 years as a union man and his gratitude for the opportunities afforded to him. Though he kept his speech short, it was clear that he truly meant every word. “During my career, I’ve made good money, visited 30 different foreign ports and was able to support my family, all thanks to the union,” he stated. He continued, offering his thanks to the staff and faculty at the Paul Hall Center, before addressing SIU Pictured from left to right after the membership meeting are SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram, Wayne Green, Exec. VP Augie Tellez, William Yurick, Tar Ahmed, Adrian Jones, President Michael Sacco, Lech Jankowski, Don Ackerman, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift and VP Contracts George Tricker. President Michael Sacco. “President Sacco, you’ve kept the wolves from our heels, the enemy from our walls, and we thank you,” he said. “We’re all better off with you as our leader…. I’m proud to be a union member and to stand with you all.” Lech Jankowski Next to the microphone was Jankowski. “I joined the SIU in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1999,” he said. “Since then, I’ve sailed around the world a couple of times, and the union has remained important in my life.” He reiterated how thankful he was to the union before addressing the stu- Recertified Bosun Don Ackerman Recertified Bosun Lech Jankowski Recertified Bosun Adrian Jones Recertified Bosun Tar Ahmed Recertified Bosun Wayne Green Recertified Bosun William Yurick September 2015 dents in the auditorium. “To the trainees: Study hard, work hard, and learn to work as a team. Remember to pay your dues, and contribute to SPAD.” Jankowski would not be the last bosun to remind students about the Seafarers Political Activity Donation, or SPAD. The day was filled with a uniform message to all members: Donating to the SIU’s voluntary political action fund is a critical way to help ensure the future of the organization, because the maritime industry is so heavily regulated. He added, “My experience at Piney Point has been very rewarding, and I’m proud to be a Seafarer.” Adrian Jones Jones offered his insight as a 15year union member. As a U.S. Navy veteran prior to joining the SIU, Jones had a unique perspective to share with the crowd. “I didn’t come into the union like you trainees. I came in through the veterans’ program, and I’d like to thank that program for giving me this opportunity,” he said. (SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez added to this point after Jones’ speech, pointing out that in addition to having a veterans’ component in the apprentice program, the union and school are very active in the ongoing series of nationwide “Military to Maritime” events sponsored by the American Maritime Partnership.) Jones continued, discussing his career as a mariner. “In the Navy, I saw one half of the world for 20 years. In the SIU, I’m now seeing the other half,” he said. “Since I’ve been with the union I’ve made good money and done nothing but prosper.” Additionally, he talked about the recently completed upgrades to the facilities at the Paul Hall Center. “The simulator has come a long way since I first trained here,” he said, retelling a story about how he crashed the simulated vessel during his first training in 1999. “I commend you on the stateof-the-art facilities you now have.” He concluded with advice to the apprentices: “Out there at sea, you only have each other, and that’s what the SIU is all about: unity.” Tar Ahmed Ahmed, who joined in 1987 at the Port of Tacoma, was the next speaker. He began by offering a disclaimer: “I am not a public speaker, or a comedian, but I am an SIU mariner, and proud of it.” He continued on the theme of pride, discussing in brief one of his most memorable trips in his career: “One thing I am very proud of is a rescue that I was a part of while aboard the Horizon Reliance.” This incident, which was reported in the March 2012 issue of the Seafarers LOG, involved a disabled sailboat and the successful rescue of three individuals – including a 9-year old boy. The crew of the Horizon Reliance saved the sailors’ lives that night, as the doomed sailboat eventually sank into the rough seas. After reminiscing, Ahmed offered some advice to the trainees: “If you’re on a ship with me, I will be watching you. But I’ll also be helping you along the way. Pay attention to what your instructors are trying to teach you, and learn from them. And remember, contribute to SPAD.” Wayne Green The penultimate speaker, Green talked about his experiences sailing with the SIU, and how he has had an accomplished and lucrative career. “My experience with employment while in the SIU has been great. In my career, the longest I’ve ever had to wait for work through the hall since acquiring my ‘B’ book was five days,” he stated. This kind of continuous employment is possible thanks in part to political action, including SPAD, he added. He also spoke to the trainees directly. “Set goals for yourself, not just long-term ones but short-term goals as well,” Green said. “And when you’re out there, looking for a ship to work Continued on Page 9 Seafarers LOG 7 �Northern Exposure: The SIU-crewed, Waterman-operated Ocean Giant has departed Norfolk (Virginia) Naval Station to carry out Operation Pacer Goose, an annual resupply mission to Thule Air Force Base (AFB) in Greenland, the northernmost U.S. Air Force base. The waters surrounding the base are usually frozen solid, except during the summer. When the ice begins to break, that means supplies are on the way – along with a crew of SIU mariners – to aid the service men and women stationed at Thule. The waters are still treacherous, but dangerously cold weather is the norm for the Ocean Giant. Having recently returned from the annual resupply mission to McMurdo Station in Antarctica, the Ocean Giant is specially outfitted to deal with icy conditions. (For full coverage of the Ocean Giant’s voyage to Antarctica, see the April edition of the Seafarers LOG.) For Operation Pacer Goose, the Ocean Giant was loaded with 1,200 metric tons of cargo, most of which would be too heavy to transport by aircraft. The supplies include snow plows and other vehicles, and took almost a week to load onto the vessel. Once loaded, the ship began its 3,600-mile journey to Greenland, escorted for the last 500 miles by a Canadian Coast Guard icebreaker, just in case conditions worsen unexpectedly. Thule AFB is located less than 700 miles from the North Pole, deep within the Arctic Circle. According to Captain Doug McGoff, commander of Military Sealift Command Atlantic, “Fundamentally, Military Sealift Command is about moving the equipment and the fuel that DLA (Defense Logistics Agency) provides to these remote, austere areas like Greenland where if they didn’t have this capability, they wouldn’t be able to operate.” Operation Pacer Goose was first started by the U.S. military in 1952, and the DLA took over in 1997 to continue the annual commitment. The name of the operation has remained consistent since its inception, though the origin and meaning have been lost over time. “The idea is, we get the cargo in there on time, safely, and also safely in the environment,” Ocean Giant vessel master Capt. Matthew Craven said. “It’s an ecologically sensitive area up there, so we respect that.” Fresh from trip to Southernmost Base, Ocean Giant Heads to Northernmost The SIU-crewed Ocean Giant is no stranger to cold-weather assignments. In this U.S. Navy photo, the Waterman-operated ship delivers cargo to McMurdo Station in Antarctica earlier this year. SIU members sailing aboard the Ocean Giant during Operation Pacer Goose include Bosun Paul Wade, ABs Joshua Rawls, William Rackley and Michael Dooley, QEE Julian Avila, QE4 Christopher Sykes, Steward/Baker Robert Wright, ACU Charles Kent and Apprentice Mark Espinosa. Enjoying BBQ on Maersk Memphis Paul Hall Center Delivers Training to G&H Crews On June 10 and 12, Paul Hall Center instructor Pat Schoenberger (left in the group photos) conducted some off-site training for SIU members working for G&H Towing in Galveston, Texas. All of the Seafarers who completed the course – titled Safe Bunkering Practices – sail as engineers aboard G&H ship assist tugboats, and all are pictured in the group photos. They are: Sellers Teriel Brooks, Addison Jase, Ivan Martinez, William Randall McCrory, Nicholas Saltmarsh, Jeffrey Selcer, Steven White and Mony Williams Jr. 8 Seafarers LOG Vessel master Capt. William J. Dutour submitted these photos from a mid-August barbeque aboard the Maersk Memphis in the Red Sea. “Everything tasted better than it looked!” Dutour noted. The individual photo (bottom) features Recertified Steward Andy Hagan, while the group photo above includes many of the SIU crew members. The remaining images feature a few of the menu choices. September 2015 �AMMV Organization Belongs to All Mariners American Merchant Marine Veterans Launches Membership Drive A former SIU member is the new president of the American Merchant Marine Veterans, and he is spreading the word that AMMV membership is open to all U.S. mariners and their allies, not just those who sailed during World War II. “The point we really want to get across to the younger generation of mariners is that the AMMV is your organization,” said Capt. Chris Edyvean, an SIU hawsepiper who sailed with the union from 1992-2006. “We are still slugging it out trying to gain benefits and recognition for the World War II guys who founded the AMMV in 1984, but now we have expanded our goals… We are recognizing all U.S. mariners, in peace and war, from the Revolutionary War right up to today’s ongoing war on terror.” A new website (ammv.us) contains information on how to join the organization. There’s a way to sign up online and there is also a printable membership application that can be sent via regular mail. A number of SIU retirees belong to the AMMV chapters across the country. Edyvean, a graduate of the apprentice program at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center, stressed that the older members of the AMMV “are looking to hand down the torch to a younger generation who will continue to promote public awareness of the role which the U.S. Merchant Marine has played in our nation’s history. Thus, Project/Operation Survival is what the AMMV is calling its efforts to remain a viable maritime organization moving forward into the future.” He added that the organization supports the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, cargo preference “and anything else that serves to promote the U.S. Merchant Marine.” Bosuns Reflect on Recertification Continued from Page 7 on, just take anything that comes your way. Don’t be picky, just do the work. And remember to contribute to SPAD.” William Yurick Bolstered by the cheers of his friends in the audience, Yurick was the last to take the stage. The bosun from Philadelphia began by showing his school spirit, shouting out his apprentice graduating class number, “Class Number 601, from the year 2000.” He then spoke from the heart about what the SIU means to him. “I’ve upgraded a few times at our beautiful school, and it’s a great honor to be standing here as a recertified bosun in the SIU,” Yurick said. He continued, “I’ve had the opportunity to work with and meet some of the best people I’ve ever met in my life.” Yurick then spoke to fellow members about the relationship between union officials and rank-and-file Seafarers: “Whatever we do for our officials – phone calls, letters to Congress, and so on – it’s always beneficial for our members.” Those tasks help pave the way for more jobs, political reform, and even higher wages, he said. Later, Yurick addressed the trainees. “What is important is to ask questions while you’re here, and listen to what they’re telling you,” he advised. “And once you get out there, you need to stay positive, and stay focused.” He closed the recertification speeches with the following sentiment, which really summarized the camaraderie shown by this group of bosuns: “Last but not least, I’d like to thank these five brothers that I’ve met here at the school. Now, let’s get to work, boys.” Brick Donation Helps Seafarers Scholarship Makes Cement Bosuns’ Legacy Difference to Union Family SIU inland Captain Randy Isenhart (left) proudly poses with his daughter Randi at the main entrance of Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Worchester, Massachusetts. Randi recently graduated from the school with a degree in biology and biotechnology. Member, Daughter Offer Thanks Following College Graduation A recipient of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) scholarship has parlayed her $20,000 grant into an advanced degree. She is Randi Isenhart, daughter of inland Captain Randy Isenhart who works for union-contracted Crowley Maritime Corporation. The Del Haven, New Jersey, native recently received her Bachelor of Science degree in biology and biotechnology from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) in Worcester, Massachusetts. Both Randi and her father justifiably are proud of her accomplishment and had only words of extreme gratitude to the union for the SHBP scholarship and the game-changing role it played in her success. “With the high costs associated with attending college these days, the scholarship Randi received from the union was definitely a huge help for us,” the senior Isenhart said. “I would just like to extend our sincere thanks to the union for helping to make this wonderful achievement for her possible. “Randi comes from a long line of Seafarers and we all are proud of her,” he continued. “I’ve been sailing with the SIU for more than 20 years now and her late grandfather was also a retired Seafarer. Randi is a great kid and our entire September 2015 family is proud of her.” Randi expressed her gratefulness for the SHBP’s monetary support in a series of letters to several union officials, including SIU President Michael Sacco. “I wanted to sincerely thank you for the SIU scholarship,” she said in her correspondence to President Sacco. “The scholarship money enabled me to attend Worchester Polytechnic Institute in Worcester, Massachusetts, from which I just graduated with high distinction with a BS in biology and biotechnology.” Randi said she that during her time at WPI, she had the opportunity to supplement her academics by competing in collegiate-level ballroom dancing, being active in her fraternity and completing a course related project in Zurich, Switzerland. “Each of these endeavors provided me with invaluable experience in leadership,” she continued. “This perfect balance between academics and extracurriculars helped me find employment conducting cancer research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Massachusetts. I hope to work there for a few years and eventually pursue my Ph.D. “All of this has been possible thanks to your generous scholarship,” she concluded. “I really can’t thank you enough.” They may have departed from the Paul Hall Center shortly after graduating on Aug. 3, but the union’s newest class of recertified bosuns left a permanent reminder of their recent stay at the Piney Point, Maryland, school. The six Seafarers donated a commemorative brick for the Paul Hall Center’s waterfront park, thereby becoming the first group of recertified members to do so. The engraved bricks are part of the waterfront restoration project; they’re placed on a walkway. Asked why they decided to donate a brick, the bosuns enthusiastically offered several reasons including a show of unity, leaving their legacy, inspiring others, and being the first recertification class to make such a move. As previously reported, proceeds from brick donations have been used to help offset some of the costs of the overall restoration (a multimillion dollar endeavor). However, the larger aim is to beautify the area while giving people an opportunity to share memories and honor others in a lasting way. More information on how to donate a brick is available on the SIU home page (www.seafarers.org) and at every SIU hall. Questions may be sent via email to siubricks@seafarers.org The recertified bosuns examine a brick similar to the one they donated to be placed in the Paul Hall Center’s waterfront park. Seafarers LOG 9 �TALKIN’ UNION IN THE COMMONWEALTH – SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (left) and Port Agent Georg Kenny represented the union in early August at the Virginia AFL-CIO convention in Williamsburg. Gov. Terry McAuliffe gave the keynote address. TAKING THE OATH IN OAKLAND – Deckhand Frank Dignon (right in photo in center, above, with SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona) is sworn in as a full book member while QMED Si Hughes (left in other photo, with Patrolman Nick Marrone II) receives his A-book. At Sea and Ashore With the SIU WELCOME ASHORE IN JACKSONVILLE – Picking up their first pension checks, respectively, are newly retired Seafarers Recertified Steward Larry Ewing (left in photo directly above with Patrolman Joseph Koncul) and DEU Nestor Palompo (right in other photo, also with Koncul). Ewing joined the union in 1969, while Palompo began sailing with the SIU in 1998. ABOARD BLACK EAGLE – SIU members aboard the Sealift, Inc.-operated ship are pictured after discharging cargo in Concord, California, in early July. Pictured from left are (standing) SA Henry Commager, OS Stevie Palmer, Steward/Baker Milton Sivells, DEU John Jaremchuk, AB Richard Grubbs, Bosun Luis Valerio, (front) DUE Kelly Percy, OS Taylor Jefferies and Chief Cook David Dingman. (Thanks to Sealift’s Danielle Centeno for the photo.) ABOARD APL KOREA – Pictured after a union meeting aboard the ship in Oakland, California, are Chief Cook Clarence Page (left) and Recertified Steward Donald Irvine. 10 Seafarers LOG A-BOOK IN WILMINGTON – Steward/ Baker Maili Wang (left) picks up her A-book from Port Agent Jeff Turkus at the SIU hall in Wilmington, California. SEAFARERS TO THE RESCUE – As reported in last month’s LOG, the SIU-crewed USNS Impeccable rescued 11 fishermen from a sinking boat while en route to Subic Bay, Philippines, July 19. The rescue took place near Yokosuka, Japan, and it also featured help from U.S. military personnel and a security detachment. Some of the crew members are pictured with the fishermen aboard the Crowley-operated Impeccable. WITH G&H BOATMEN – Pictured from left to right aboard the G&H Towing tug William M (photo at right) are Oiler Felix Johnfinn, Chief Engineer Walter Bickel and Mate Jack Pegram. The other photo, taken on G&H’s Condor, shows Engineer Darryl Jones (left) and Mate Lionel Hall. September 2015 �At Sea and Ashore With the SIU A-BOOK IN JERSEY CITY – AB Sherwin Jones (left) receives his A-book at the hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. Congratulating him is Patrolman Mark von Siegel. ABOARD HORIZON ENTERPRISE – Putting out a hearty Independence Day spread are Chief Steward Marcus Rowe (left) and Chief Cook Efren Ancheta as the vessel sails to Los Angeles. WELCOME ASHORE IN HOUSTON – Jimmy Cady (right), a chief engineer with G&H Towing, picks up his first pension check from Patrolman Joe Zavala at the Houston hall. ABOARD HORIZON SPIRIT – These photos were taken during a late-July servicing of the Horizon Spirit (now operated by Sunrise Operations) on the West Coast. Standing watch at the gangway (above, left) is AB Emmanuel Buyser while the other photo includes (from left) SA Walter Harris, Chief Steward Alberto Insong and Chief Cook Joel Ababa. ABOARD APL BELGIUM – Pictured from left are Chief Cook Christopher Coston, Recertified Steward Ali Matari, SA Saeed Alahmadi and SIU Wilmington Safety Director R.J. Osborne. KUDOS TO FLICKERTAIL STATE GALLEY GANG – Recertified Steward Michael Pooler (third from left) commended the work of his department during a recent sea trial that followed a July 27 activation. “After the voyage, several people told me I had gotten a good group of people; they got along well together and put out some great food,” Pooler said. “I told them thanks, I agree and that I’d be glad to have them back any time.” Pictured from left are Chief Cook Marcus Logan, SA Curtis Spencer, Pooler, SA Sheilla Daguio, SA Murray Perkins and SA Virnabeth Cano. The ship is operated by TOTE Services. September 2015 ABOARD MAHI MAHI – Pictured from left aboard the Matson-operated ship are ACU Hilario David, Chief Steward Mark Scardino and Chief Cook Mercurion Abuan. Fellow mariners described the steward department’s performance as top-notch. Seafarers LOG 11 �Seafarers Prep Cable Ship for Next Operation Tyco Decisive Heads Northeast from Home Port of Baltimore A mid-August visit to the Tyco Decisive in Baltimore found the SIU-crewed cable ship bustling with activity in all three departments. Seafarers were helping prepare the vessel for assignments near New Hampshire that are expected to last until late September or early October. The work isn’t isolated – Bosun Victor Nunez said he expects the Decisive to be busy for years to come. Only a dozen years old, the 460-foot-long Decisive is described by its parent company (Tyco Telecommunications) as among the most versatile and capable ships in the indus- try. It is used for cable construction, installation and repairs around the world and can sail at up to 14 knots. One of the ship’s most noteworthy features is called an ROV, short for remotely operated vehicle. It’s an underwater robot, controlled from the Decisive, which can handle installations and repairs more than 1.5 miles below the surface. The photos on these two pages were taken Aug. 11 as the SIU crew and AMO officers readied the ship for a weekend departure from Baltimore. This remotely operated vehicle is used for cable installation and repair tasks at depths to 1.5 miles. Bosun Victor Nunez, Port Agent Elizabeth Brown SIU Hawsepiper Brian Isenstadt OMU Lamont Stewart OMU Celilio Banga Members ensure proper storage of lines. A view down into one of the holds Bosun’s Mate Nestor Agcaoili AB Arsenio Brecio AB Dina Mott Chief Cook Quentin Hood Chief Steward Florencia Farquhar, Bosun Victor Nunez Chief Electrician Jome Zerna Seafarers maneuver a transporter that will move lines. New flooring and modern equipment (photo above) highlight the shipboard gym. Wellness activities for the Decisive crew aren’t confined to the gym as evidenced by the photo at left. SIU VP Contracts George Tricker (standing at left) meets with the crew. 12 Seafarers LOG GVA Gregory Attawora September 2015 September 2015 SA Jose Calix SA Sabbah Shaibi, GVA Jamal Kassim Seafarers LOG 13 �9/15 14 Seafarers LOG September 2015 �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea September & October 2015 Membership Meetings July 16, 2015 - August 15, 2015 Piney Point...............*Tuesday: September 8, Monday: October 5 Total Registered All Groups A B C Total Shipped All Groups Trip A B C Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Algonac........................................Friday: September 11, October 9 Port Baltimore.................................Thursday: September 10, October 8 Guam....................................Thursday: September 24, October 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 Deck Department 26 8 1 15 10 0 4 31 16 3 1 2 0 0 2 0 0 2 1 0 6 6 3 5 1 1 1 4 9 2 16 13 4 21 6 1 5 28 20 7 2 2 0 1 1 0 0 7 4 0 16 2 0 10 2 1 3 23 3 2 10 8 0 7 4 0 4 27 6 2 54 6 2 51 9 1 25 98 22 3 52 17 2 28 18 2 14 83 30 4 38 15 0 20 13 2 12 86 23 2 2 4 1 3 0 0 1 6 5 1 7 4 2 4 4 1 1 11 2 3 24 15 1 16 10 0 7 38 25 4 22 6 0 17 2 1 6 29 11 0 8 3 1 7 3 0 1 14 6 4 3 3 0 2 2 0 2 2 3 0 6 6 2 4 1 1 3 10 6 3 39 7 2 30 6 0 8 65 13 4 1 4 1 0 2 0 0 2 3 1 28 11 2 21 12 1 9 54 17 7 361 142 24 262 108 12 106 620 225 52 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 11 8 1 4 2 1 1 9 8 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 2 1 5 1 1 0 3 3 1 9 4 2 6 3 0 3 16 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 1 6 1 0 4 5 1 7 3 1 3 17 9 5 17 6 0 12 2 0 8 33 11 3 13 13 4 15 8 0 4 35 27 4 17 7 1 11 7 0 5 27 11 5 2 3 0 2 1 0 0 4 4 0 8 6 0 3 0 0 0 10 8 3 13 18 3 9 10 0 6 26 26 4 9 10 0 7 4 2 1 20 13 4 4 2 0 2 0 0 0 6 5 0 1 7 1 0 4 0 2 2 2 1 2 2 2 1 1 1 2 5 10 3 15 5 0 12 4 2 6 30 5 8 1 1 0 1 1 0 1 3 1 0 15 10 1 10 6 2 4 23 21 1 145 110 17 108 58 10 47 277 169 44 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 2 0 3 2 0 3 5 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 2 1 1 2 1 2 1 0 0 10 3 2 15 1 0 6 10 4 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 4 1 1 4 1 0 3 5 1 1 15 1 1 11 0 0 5 29 2 0 20 8 0 16 5 0 8 41 8 1 10 8 1 15 6 1 6 31 11 3 13 5 1 10 1 0 6 24 8 2 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 0 3 2 2 2 2 1 1 5 0 2 12 7 2 14 2 1 4 21 21 3 22 3 1 15 5 0 2 33 8 7 2 1 0 2 1 0 0 5 0 0 3 0 2 1 0 1 0 4 0 1 1 3 0 1 4 0 3 3 4 0 12 3 0 15 0 0 3 19 5 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 3 1 0 27 7 2 26 5 1 8 41 8 4 163 59 17 152 38 7 60 284 88 26 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 3 11 9 1 9 3 2 5 11 9 0 1 1 0 2 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 3 0 1 1 0 0 2 1 0 5 1 0 4 0 0 2 7 4 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 1 2 1 1 2 0 0 1 1 4 1 3 6 0 4 4 2 4 9 7 7 10 2 0 12 0 4 9 20 6 2 8 7 4 7 3 3 5 20 15 5 18 3 4 12 3 2 9 26 7 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 1 0 2 0 1 0 2 4 0 20 13 0 8 2 0 0 29 22 3 12 6 2 7 4 3 3 11 9 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 3 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 4 5 2 4 4 1 5 19 13 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 12 10 5 7 2 3 7 24 21 28 113 73 19 82 28 21 50 187 128 GRAND TOTAL: 697 424 131 541 286 57 234 1,231 669 250 Honolulu................................Friday: September 18, October 16 Houston................Monday: September 14, **Tuesday: October 13 Jacksonville............................Thursday: September 10, October 8 Joliet.................................Thursday: September 17, October 15 Mobile.........................Wednesday: September 16, October 14 New Orleans............................Tuesday: September 15, October 13 Jersey City...................................Tuesday: September 8, October 6 Norfolk....................................Thursday: September 10, October 8 Oakland.............................Thursday: September 17, October 15 Philadelphia........................Wednesday: September 9, October 7 Port Everglades.................Thursday: September 17, October 15 San Juan...................................Thursday: September 10, October 8 St. Louis...................................Friday: September 18, October 16 Tacoma...................................Friday: September 25, October 23 Wilmington.............................Monday: September 21, October 19 *Piney Point change due to Labor Day holiday **Houston change due to Columbus Day Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. September 2015 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 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 posed to members attending upgrading courses at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Question: Is your job as a merchant mariner important to the country? Why? Eddie Solichin OMU I sail out of the Port of Wilmington, California, and have been sailing for about three years. My job is very important to the country because in addition to bringing goods to the United States we take goods to other countries. So a lot of people depend on us for a lot of commodities. We also do a lot of different things to support our military. Helen Haslam AB My job as a merchant mariner is important because we bring a lot of things in and out of the country that people use in their everyday lives. We also support the military a lot. I sailed on an MSC vessel and we had to be ready to go at all times in case any type of emergency happened anywhere around the globe. I have been sailing for just over one year and am home ported in Algonac, Michigan. Steve Tate OMU My home port is Port Everglades, Florida, and I’m here upgrading to (eventually) third engineer. I have been sailing with the SIU for 15 years; before that I sailed under foreign flags for 20 years. I think my job as a merchant mariner is very important because the people depend on us to move all kinds of cargo in and out of the country. We do this during peace time as well as during periods of war. Aaron Beasley OS My job definitely is important to the country because we do a lot of import and export of all types of merchandise, both domestically and internationally. Without merchant mariners, a lot of merchandise that Americans use and depend on every day could not get here to the U.S. in a convenient way. We also do a lot of work for the military, especially the Military Sealift Command. We have a lot of duties and responsibilities involving the MSC fleet. I’ve been going to sea for about one and one-half years and sail out of the Port of Philadelphia. Robert Gross OS I’ve been sailing for about six years and my job as a Seafarer is very important. The country gets most of the goods that people use through the maritime industry and it’s important that we keep this flow of goods going because people depend on us. But none of this would be possible without the Jones Act. Under it, we are able to maintain our jobs and have good careers. I sail out of the Port of Jacksonville. Johnny Dozier III AB I’m home ported in Norfolk, Virginia, and have been sailing for about eight years. My job is important because I work on the waterways – the number one method through which exports and imports get to and from their destinations. Most countries that require U.S. products depend on us to deliver them and the reverse is true for products that the U.S. needs from other countries. Doing and keeping these jobs on the ships is what keeps our economy going. Pic From The Past JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 This photo was published in an October 1955 edition of the LOG as part of a feature about navigation aids. The original caption: “Man-made space satellites may look like this someday, but these happen to be channel buoys under repair at the Coast Guard base in Boston.” 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 September 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 JOEY ACEDILLO Brother Joey Acedillo, 68, joined the SIU in 1989. His first trip was aboard the Independence. Brother Acedillo sailed in the engine department. He upgraded often at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Acedillo last worked on the Sumner. He calls Las Vegas, Nevada, home. RODOLFO ANTONIO Brother Rodolfo Antonio, 68, became a union member in 1999. He initially worked on the Independence. Brother Antonio attended classes frequently at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Antonio’s most recent voyage was aboard the Horizon Pacific. He makes his home in Waipahu, Hawaii. AHMED BAABBAD Brother Ahmed Baabbad, 64, donned the SIU colors in 1978. He originally sailed on the Del Sol. Brother Baabbad enhanced his skills at the union-affiliated school on two occasions. The deck department member’s last trip was on the Comet. He lives in Costa Mesa, California. GAUDIOSO BACALA Brother Gaudioso Bacala, 66, started sailing with the union in 2003. His first trip was aboard the Chemical Pioneer. In 2003, Brother Bacala attended classes at the SIU-affiliated school in Maryland. The deck department member’s most recent vessel was the Horizon Discovery. Brother Bacala is a resident of Houston. LARRY BAKER Brother Larry Baker, 65, became an SIU member in 1997. He initially worked aboard the Chief Gadao. Brother Baker sailed in the steward department and most recently shipped on the USNS Pathfinder. He upgraded twice at the Piney Point school. Brother Baker resides in Mobile, Alabama. VICTOR BERMUDEZ Brother Victor Bermudez, 65, joined the SIU ranks in 1989. He initially September 2015 sailed on the Enterprise. Brother Bermudez attended classes often at the Paul Hall Center. His most recent ship was the Ocean Freedom. Brother Bermudez sailed in the engine department. He calls Houston home. GEORGE CARAGUNOPOLOS Brother George Caragunopolos, 65, started shipping with the SIU in 1993. He originally worked in the inland division with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington. Brother Caragunopolos upgraded in 1996 and 2002 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He last sailed on the Long Beach. He resides in El Cajon, California. ABDALLA GAAFAR Brother Abdalla Gaafar, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He also enhanced his skills in 2001 at the maritime training canter in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Gaafar sailed in the deck department and most recently worked aboard the Maersk Utah. He settled in West Orange, New Jersey. MICHAEL HARRIS Brother Michael Harris, 57, joined the Seafarers in 1980. He upgraded numerous times at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Harris’ first ship was the Producer; his most recent, the Alliance Richmond. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Harris is a resident of Jacksonville, Florida. MICHAEL HESTER Brother Michael Hester, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1991. His earliest trip was on the Overseas Washington as a member of the deck department. Brother Hester often took advantage of educational opportunities available at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He most recently sailed aboard the Pacific Tracker. Brother Hester settled in Seattle. JOHN NEAL Brother John Neal, 64, joined the union in 1986. He first shipped with Steuart Transportation Company. Brother Neal upgraded in 2003 at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He worked in the steward department. Brother Neal last sailed on the USNS Impeccable. He was born in North Carolina and now calls Tamuning, Guam, home. JESUS OLBES Brother Jesus Olbes, 65, became a Seafarer in 1991. He was originally employed on the USNS Assurance. In 2003, Brother Olbes attended classes at the Piney Point school. The deck department member’s most recent vessel was the APL Pearl. Brother Olbes is a resident of Rakati City in the Philippines. MICHAEL PHILLIPS Brother Michael Phillips, 59, signed on with the union in 1974. His first ship was the Tam Guilden; his most recent was the North Star. Brother Phillips often took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Phillips lives in Tacoma, Washington. KIRT PUGH Brother Kirt Pugh, 65, began shipping with the Seafarers in 1991. His first trip was on the Sealift Mediterranean. Brother Pugh, who sailed in the deck department, enhanced his skills in 1999 at the Piney Point school. His most recent voyage was aboard the USNS Brittin. He resides in Canton, Illinois. native of Honolulu, Brother Ranne shipped as a member of the engine department and last sailed on the USNS Petersburg. He resides in Ketchikan, Arkansas. Freedom. He settled in Houston. THOMAS RESPICIO Brother Paul Brown, 62, started shipping with the union in 1972. He originally sailed with Mariner Towing. Brother Brown, a deck department member, enhanced his skills frequently at the Piney Point school. He last worked with OSG Ship Management. Brother Brown calls Roaring River, North Carolina, home. Brother Thomas Respicio, 65, began shipping with the SIU in 2001. Brother Respicio originally sailed on the Patriot. His most recent vessel was the Maj Stephen W. Pless. The engine department member enhanced his skills on three occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Respicio makes his home in Stockton, California. MURRAY ROBERSON Brother Murray Roberson, 62, started his seafaring career in 1972. He initially worked aboard the Walter Rice. Brother Roberson sailed in both the engine and steward departments. His most recent trip was on the APL Pearl. Brother Roberson has retired to Washington, North Carolina. MUHAMAD SANI Brother Muhamad Sani, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1968. He was first employed aboard the Endurance as a member of the steward department. Brother Sani attended classes in 1988 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. He last shipped on the Overseas Martinez. Brother Sani is a resident of Tukwila, Washington. INLAND PAUL BROWN MICHAEL KRALJEVIC Brother Michael Kraljevic, 56, joined the SIU ranks in 1975. He initially worked on the Los Angeles. Brother Kraljevic sailed in the engine department. He upgraded on three occasions at the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Kraljevic’s most recent trip was aboard the Liberty Island. He resides in Mobile, Alabama. KEVIN MCNEELY Brother Kevin McNeely, 62, became a union member in 1977. He was primarily employed with Crescent Towing of New Orleans, and sailed in the deck department. Brother McNeely is a resident of his native state, Louisiana. RANDY RHOADS FRANCIS QUEBEDEAUX MARY SIMS Brother Francis Quebedeaux, 74, became a union member in 1966. He initially sailed with Interocean American Shipping Company. Brother Quebedeaux shipped in the engine department. He upgraded frequently at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Quebedeaux last sailed on the Flickertail State. He makes his home in Century, Florida. Sister Mary Sims, 71, joined the SIU during the SIU/NMU merger in 2001. She sailed in the steward department. Sister Sims upgraded in 2001 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Prior to her retirement, she shipped aboard the Cape Decision. Sister Sims calls Middleburg, Florida, home. Brother Randy Rhoads, 65, first donned the SIU colors in 1973. He shipped with G&H Towing for the duration of his career. Brother Rhoads was a member of the deck department. He makes his home in Texas City, Texas. CARLOS SOLINAP JACK RUPERT DANIEL RAMIREZ Brother Carlos Solinap, 65, became an SIU member in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He enhanced his seafaring abilities in 2001 and 2010 at the Piney Point school. Brother Solinap last sailed aboard the Shughart. He makes his home in Las Vegas, Nevada. Brother Jack Rupert, 66, began sailing in the deep sea division in 2005, on the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus. He worked in the steward department and concluded his career with Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning. Brother Rupert lives in Spring, Texas. Brother Daniel Ramirez, 65, started sailing with the SIU in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. A member of the engine department, Brother Ramirez upgraded his skills often at the Piney Point school. His most recent voyage was aboard the St. Louis Express. Brother Ramirez continues to live in his native state, Texas. GARY RANNE Brother Gary Ranne, 65, became a union member in 2001. His first ship was the Independence. Brother Ranne attended classes frequently at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. A CRESCENCIO SUAZO Brother Crescencio Suazo, 65, began shipping with the union in 1978. He initially worked on the Overseas Alaska. Brother Suazo was born in Honduras and sailed in the engine department. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Suazo’s final trip was aboard the Ocean PATRICK WELSH Brother Patrick Welsh, 59, signed on with the union in 1980. His first trip was aboard the Sabine. Brother Welsh shipped in the deck department, most recently aboard a Crowley Towing of Jacksonville vessel. He upgraded twice at the Piney Point school. Brother Welsh calls Danbury, New Hampshire, home. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA ELEFTHERIOS ANAGNOSTOU Pensioner Eleftherios Anagnostou, 92, died December 16. He first shipped on the Cape Catawba in 1953. Brother Anagnostou was born in Greece. A member of the engine department, he last sailed aboard a vessel operated by Michigan Tankers Inc. Brother Anagnostou retired in 1987 and made his home in Athens, Greece. GEORGE ARMSTEAD Pensioner George Armstead, 87, passed away December 24. He started sailing with the union in 1965. Brother Armstead’s first few voyages were aboard ships operated by Isthmian Lines Inc. He was born in Alabama and shipped in the steward department. He last sailed on the Sam Houston. Brother Armstead went on pension in 1992 and called Norfolk, Virginia, home. JOSEPH BIRKE Pensioner Joseph Birke, 73, passed away January 5. He was born in Mobile, Alabama. Brother Birke initially worked on the USNS Wyman; his final ship was the Overseas Houston. He was a member of the steward department. Brother Birke became a pensioner in 2010 and settled in Harvey, Louisiana. EDILBERTO CAMIT Pensioner Edilberto Camit, 66, passed away January 16. He started shipping with the Seafarers in 1992 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Camit first sailed aboard the USNS Silas Bent. The Philippines native was a steward department member. Brother Camit’s final ship was the USNS Petersburg. He went on pension in 2013 and continued to live in the Philippines. CHIH CHANG Pensioner Chih Chang, 83, died December 28. Brother Chang joined the SIU in 1988. He originally worked with Bay Tankers Inc. Brother Chang last sailed aboard the Atlantic. A member of the steward department, Brother Chang started collecting his retirement compensation in 2000. He was a resident of Taiwan. DANIEL COMPEAU Pensioner Daniel Compeau, 89, passed away February 4. Brother Compeau began sailing with the union in 1991. He first shipped with Marinucci Brothers. Brother Compeau was born in Michigan and worked in the 18 Seafarers LOG engine department. His final voyage was on the Independence. Brother Compeau retired in 1991 and made his home in Arizona. JORGE COTO Pensioner Jorge Coto, 86, died January 26. Born in Costa Rica, he donned the SIU colors in 1993. Brother Coto initially shipped aboard a Penn Navigation Company vessel. He was a deck department member. Prior to his retirement in 1993, Brother Coto worked for Waterman. He called Louisiana home. ANDERSON CUARES Pensioner Anderson Cuares, 94, passed away February 12. He signed on with the union in 1970 in the port of Norfolk, Virginia. Brother Cuare’s first ship was the Del Mundo; his last was USNS Stalwart. A member of the steward department, Brother Cuares began collecting his pension in 1986. He lived in New York. RODOLFO GATICA Pensioner Rodolfo Gatica, 96, died February 17. He joined the SIU in 1951. Brother Gatica was initially employed aboard the Strathmore. He was born in Mexico and worked in the engine department. He last shipped on the Inger and settled in Texas City, Texas. HUBERT HALFHILL Pensioner Hubert Halfhill, 90, passed away February 11. Brother Halfhill started sailing with the Seafarers in 1951. He was originally employed aboard the Seawind. Brother Halfhill was born in Bardstown, Kentucky. The deck department member last shipped aboard the Dodge Island. He retired in 1984 and resided in Frankfort, Kentucky. THOMAS MALEY Pensioner Thomas Maley, 79, died December 2. Brother Maley became a union member in 1959. His first trip was with Boston Towing. Brother Maley sailed in the steward department. He most recently worked on the Franklin J. Phillips. Brother Maley started receiving his pension in 2000. He settled in New York. ALLEN MYREX Pensioner Allen Myrex, 89, passed away February 5. Brother Myrex began his seafaring career in 1946, initially sailing with Liberty Navigation Trading Company. He worked in the deck department and last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Venture. Brother Myrex went on pension in 2012 and lived in Silverhill, Alabama. CRAIG NEBBIA Brother Craig Nebbia, 37, died December 13. Brother Nebbia donned the SIU colors in 2013. He originally sailed in the deck department of the Overseas Los Angeles. Brother Nebbia was born in Omaha, Nebraska. He last sailed on the 2nd Lt. John Paul Bobo. Brother Nebbia was a resident of Bellevue, Nebraska. his career. He was born in Keechi, Texas. Brother Murphy went on pension in 2003 and settled in Buffalo, Texas. GLEN MURRY Pensioner Glen Murry, 80, passed away February 13. He donned the SIU colors in 1989. Brother Murry mainly worked in the deck department of Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville vessels. He retired in 1999 and resided in his native state, Louisiana. JIMMY SALOOM Brother Anastacio Sereno, 84, passed away February 7. He began shipping with the union in 1972. Brother Sereno initially worked aboard the Achilles. He was a steward department member. Brother Sereno was last employed on the Manukai. He was a native of the Philippines but called Santa Clara, California, home. Pensioner Jimmy Saloom, 61, died January 26. Born in Alabama, Brother Saloom began sailing with the SIU in 1990 in the port of Mobile. He was initially employed with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Saloom last sailed on the Gulf Reliance. He became a pensioner in 2008 and continued to live in Alabama. HERNAN SUAZO JULIAN WATLER Brother Hernan Suazo, 48, died November 24. He became an SIU member in 2001. Brother Suazo initially sailed in the inland division aboard a Delta Queen Steamship vessel. The deck department member most recently worked on the Chemical Pioneer. Brother Suazo made his home in Humble, Texas. Pensioner Julian Watler, 75, passed away January 5. He signed on with the union in 1984. Brother Watler primarily shipped with Delta Queen Steamboat as a member of the engine department. He began receiving his retirement compensation in 2004. Brother Watler was a resident of Honduras. ANASTACIO SERENO JAMES TUCKER Pensioner James Tucker, 73, died February 26. He started his seafaring career in 1964 aboard the Robin Locksley. Brother Tucker was a native of Alabama. He sailed in the steward department, most recently on the Liberty Glory. Brother Tucker retired in 2012 and lived in Buford, Georgia. INLAND JAMES MCLAUGHLIN Brother James McLaughlin, 66, passed away December 3. He signed on with the union in 1974 in the port of Jacksonville, Florida. Brother McLaughlin primarily shipped with Crowley Towing and Transportation of Jacksonville. He was born in Baltimore and worked in the deck department. Brother McLaughlin was a resident of Lake Mary, Florida. CLAUDE MURPHY Pensioner Claude Murphy, 69, died February 22. He began his union career in 1969. Brother Murphy worked with G&H Towing Company for the duration of GREAT LAKES EDWARD GOETZ Pensioner Edward Goetz, 88, died February 7. He joined the SIU in 1961. Brother Goetz worked with Massman Construction Company and with Great Lakes Towing Company. He began receiving his pension in 1989 and called Michigan home. MUSSLIH KASSIM Pensioner Musslih Kassim, 81, died January 21. He started shipping with the union in 1966. Brother Kissim’s first vessel was the Anniston Victory; his last was the Richard J. Reiss. He worked as a member of all three departments. Brother Kassim began collecting his pension in 1999 and lived in Detroit. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION DOMINGO AYALA Pensioner Domingo Ayala, 88, passed away December 29. The Puerto Rico native retired in 1988. Brother Ayala called Bronx, New York, home. CARLIE BUMGARNER Pensioner Carlie Bumgarner, 88, died January 30. Born in North Carolina, Brother Bumgarner started receiving his pension in 1982. He lived in Kannapolis, North Carolina. WILFRED FORDE Pensioner Wilfred Forde, 91, passed away January 23. He was born in Newport News, Virginia, and became a pensioner in 1967. Brother Forde settled in Ocala, Florida. JAMES JONES Pensioner James Jones, 90, died January 23. Brother Jones, a native of Dillwyn, Virginia, began collecting his retirement pay in 1971. He resided in Queens, New York. ERNESTO MAULEON Pensioner Ernesto Mauleon, 94, passed away December 27. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Mauleon went on pension in 1968. He continued to live in Puerto Rico. HAROLD PARSONS Pensioner Harold Parsons, 86, died January 17. Brother Parsons was born in Canada. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1986 and made his home in Middletown, Pennsylvania. JUAN PENA Pensioner Juan Pena, 79, passed away January 3. The Puerto Rico native became a pensioner in 1987. Brother Pena called Orlando, Florida, home. ALTHMAN RICHARDS Pensioner Althman Richards, 93, died January 20. Brother Richards was born in Cuba. He went on pension in 1987 and was a resident of New Jersey. JULIO ROLON Pensioner Julio Rolon, 71, passed away January 21. He was a native of Puerto Rico. Brother Rolon retired in 2005 and continued to make his home in Puerto Rico. RICHARD SMITH Pensioner Richard Smith, 92, passed away January 25. He was a native of Seekonk, Massachusetts, and became a pensioner in 1968. Brother Smith settled in Coventry, Rhode Island. Name Dyer, John Johnson, Robert Palacios, Roberto Age 87 96 69 DOD Jan. 25 Nov. 7 Nov. 9 September 2015 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings AMERICAN SPIRIT (American Steamship), May 21 – Chairman Paul S. Gohs, Secretary Steven Eberspacher, Educational Director Michael L. Kruse. Chairman reviewed information in ship’s packet and distributed Seafarers LOG. Educational director advised mariners to attend classes at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland, and posted schedule of upgrading courses on bulletin board. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew talked about upcoming installation of exhaust scrubber system. Protective equipment will be provided. Members discussed need for hoist-operated ladder on bow due to vessel being longer than dock at quarry. SAM LAUD (American Steamship), May 20 – Chairman Abdullah Algalham, Secretary Walter Wise, Educational Director Jeffery G. Frankovich, Deck Delegate Ali Musid, Engine Delegate Michael R. Lau. Chairman encouraged members to create portal account on SIU website. Secretary reminded mariners to put dishes in sink when they’re done with them. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Deck delegate reminded everyone to put safety first. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New harness was requested for DEU. Crew would like physical exams to be done as quickly as they used to be. CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), June 6 – Chairman Robert Pagan, Secretary Alan E. Hollinger, Educational Director Wade T. Rudolph, Deck Delegate Joven G. Deocampo, Engine Delegate Carlos Bonilla, Steward Delegate Clifton Medley. Chairman announced payoff June 19 in Tanjung Pelepas, Malaysia. Those departing vessel were asked to return keys to chief mate. Crew was reminded to keep public spaces and rooms locked while in port. Secretary thanked mariners for helping steward department keep common areas clean. Members were reminded to use designated measuring cup when doing laundry and to clean lint screen. Educational director suggested Seafarers attend classes at the union-affiliated school and stay ahead of document expiration dates. Crew members were advised to pay attention to new STCW requirements that start in 2017. Treasurer reported $1,399 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions were made regarding vacation benefits. Next port: Chennai, India. LIBERTY PRIDE (Liberty Maritime), June 21 – Chairman Thomas W. Grosskurth, Secretary Rafael A. Cardenas, Deck Delegate Nicholas Smithling, Engine Delegate Abdul Muhammad, Steward Delegate Anthony Harrell. Chairman reviewed ship’s itinerary. He informed mariners that as of 2017 all members will have to renew safety training via classes like the ones offered at Piney Point September 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. With Seafarers on RRF Ships in Baltimore Recertified Bosun Billy Dowzicky Mariners from the Crowley-operated Cape Washington and Cape Wrath are pictured Aug. 11 in Baltimore, aboard the Washington. The roll-on/roll-off vessels are part of the U.S. Ready Reserve Force. Port Agent Elizabeth Brown, Recertified Bosun Rick James QMED Jerry Semper, AB Brooke English, GUDE Erick Johnson JEAN ANNE (TOTE), June 28 – Chairman Noel R. Camacho, Secretary Virginia P. Panoncillo, Educational Director Martin M. Hamilton, Deck Delegate Mohammed Saleh, Engine Delegate William Gibson, Steward Delegate Mary Maddox. Bosun welcomed new crew and discussed ship’s schedule. Crew was urged to read Seafarers LOG to stay current on issues related to maritime. Educational director urged everyone to enhance skills at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members were reminded that BST/ STCW requirements change in 2017, and were urged to have their training renewed as soon as possible. Money earned for recycling used to purchase new movies for crew entertainment. Next port: Honolulu. Steward Delegate Stephen Avallone. Under old business, it was reported that all items previously requested have been addressed. Refrigerators will be installed in crew cabins in the near future, along with transformers for small electrical needs. A third dryer is planned for laundry room. Hobby room will be outfitted with gym equipment. Chairman thanked original crew and new hires for excellent job outfitting vessel on startup voyages. Educational director encouraged fellow members to make use of Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed recent column by SIU President Michael Sacco pointing out improvements at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. School is nearing its 50-year mark (2017) and keeping up with the times. Crew touched on Manila Amendments to STCW Convention and related requirements. They would like a large-capacity ice machine installed for crew use in mess deck. Crew also gave thanks for continued excellence of steward department. MARJORIE C (TOTE), June 21 – Chairman Daniel J. Davenport, Secretary Samuel P. Sinclair, Educational Director Michael A. Papaioannou, Deck Delegate Billy J. Cooley, Engine Delegate Dale Graham, PACIFIC COLLECTOR (TOTE), June 28 – Chairman Mickey Earhart, Secretary Allan D. Bright, Educational Director Rodrigo D. Castillo, Deck Delegate John O’Connell, Engine Delegate Davon Brown, as there will be no more renewal through sea time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made pertaining to sea-time requirements to qualify for retirement. Recertified Steward Robert Brown Steward Delegate Gregory Blaylock. Under old business, it was mentioned that crew wants satellite phone and internet access. New washers and dryers are up and running. Chairman read president’s report from latest LOG. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade at Piney Point and keep all documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. All departments were recognized for jobs well done. Next ports: Honolulu, Hawaii; Portland, Oregon. MAERSK ATLANTA (Maersk Line, Limited), July 18 – Chairman Robert S. Vazquez, Secretary Memo Elfeky, Educational Director Hector L. Solis. Chairman announced upcoming payoff and thanked steward department for great meals and cleanliness. Educational director recommended upgrading at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested second computer for lounge. ST LOUIS EXPRESS (Crowley), July 19 – Chairman Mario R. Romero, Secretary Gerald L. Archie, Educational Director Christopher M. Eason, Deck Delegate Eric J. Moreira, Engine Delegate Lonnie I. Carter, Steward Delegate John A. Ste- phen. Chairman said big crew change is expected in Houston. He thanked departing mariners and encouraged everyone to upgrade at SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Secretary reported smooth sailing. Educational director also talked about upgrading. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew recommended reading LOG for information about union and about school. USNS MONTFORD POINT (Ocean Shipholdings), July 9 – Chairman Kenneth L. Steiner, Secretary Kimberly A. Strate, Educational Director Jason A. Powell, Deck Delegate Timothy McHale, Engine Delegate Mark J. Loughman, Steward Delegate James Martin. Chairman reminded everyone to work safely, and he encouraged fellow Seafarers to contribute to SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. Educational director encouraged crew members to upgrade at Piney Point; storekeeper can assist in scanning applications/forms for school. Treasurer reported $2,500 in ship fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Fans have been ordered and approved. Delivery may happen as soon as August. Concerns about email will be mentioned in letter to union. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Seafarers LOG 19 �NMC Issues Notices on Mariner Forms, Sea Service 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. 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 September 2015 �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and - in times of conflict - national security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Students who have registered for classes, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer-Deck October 10 November 6 ECDIS November 14 November 20 GMDSS October 24 November 6 Lifeboat September 12 September 25 October 10 October 23 November 7 November 20 December 5 December 18 RFPNW September 12 October 9 Tanker Familiarization DL/LG September 12 Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Basic Firefighting/STCW October 31 November 6 December 5 December 11 Basic Training w/16hr FF October 19 October 23 November 16 November 20 Government Vessels #1 September 12 September 18 October 24 October 30 November 28 December 4 Medical Care Provider November 14 November 20 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops September 26 October 23 October 24 November 20 November 21 December 18 Chief Steward September 12 October 23 December 5 January 15 Galley Ops September 12 October 9 October 10 November 6 November 7 December 4 December 5 January 1 Serve Safe September 26 October 2 September 25 Tanker Familiarization LG October 3 October 9 December 12 December 18 Tank Barge DL October 3 October 9 Engine Department Upgrading Courses BAPO September 12 October 9 FOWT October 10 November 6 Junior Engineer October 17 December 11 Machinist September 26 October 16 Pumpman October 17 October 30 Welding September 19 October 9 October 24 November 13 Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting November 7 November 13 Basic Firefighting/STCW September 5 September 11 September 26 October 2 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. September 2015 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. 9/15 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #801 - The following Phase I apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 31: James Blackburn III, Eric Castle, Patrick Dean, Chastenay Dickerson, Austin Duckworth, Simona Evans, Tiffani Hernandez, Gajatri Normatova, Douglas Pentecost Jr., Kyle Seibel and Peter Suh. Tank Ship Familiarization DL/LG – The following Phase III apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course July 10: Husein Alrayyashi, Benjamin Carroll, Edward Chang, Tamara Cherry, Tyler Cook, Nicholas Fugate, Joseph Gil, Jordan Harris, Benjamin Howarth, Chelsey Jackson, Alfred Jones, Ian McDonough, James McGonigal, Shereka Morris and Tasha Pauley. At the conclusion of their training, each of the foregoing individuals plans to sail in the deck department. ECDIS – Four upgraders finished this course July 24. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ian Charity, Charles Franks, David Hawkins and Stephanie Sandoval. Their instructor, Patrick Schoenberger, is at the far right. Tank Ship Familiarization DL/LG – Ten Phase III apprentices, each of whom plans to work in the engine department upon the completion of their training, finished this course July 10. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Monica Coffelt, Nicholas Craddock, Erin Evangelista, Brandon Hickman, Joshua Hicks, Asadullah Khan, Michael Rivera, Jep Sumpter, Alvin Surrency and Paul Watts. Electronic Navigation – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 24: Oleg Derun, Arthur Doherty, Johnny Dozier III, Benigno Gonzales Jr., James Knute, Brendan O’Brien, Jon Silveira, Emmanuel Wilson and Slavi Zahariev. BST– Fourteen upgraders completed their requirements in this course July 24. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were Donald Ackerman, Tar Ahmed, Ali Ghaleb Mussa Al Dhahi, Jessica Crockett, Merly Ford, Wayne Green Jr., Jan Jalloh, Lech Jankowski, Adrian Jones, Michael Knight, Karl Mayhew III, Michael Pooler, Mark Simpson and William Yurick. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG Fast Rescue Boat – Four upgraders completed their requirements in this course July 31. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ali Ghaleb Mussa Al Dhahi, Alexander Franklin, Michael Papaioannou and John Reyes. Class instructor Tom Truitt is at the far right. Tank Ship Familiarization DL/LG – Eight Phase III apprentices finished this course July 10. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Monserrate Blas Jr., Jorcell Davis, Wesley Head, Marcel Jubert, Jacob Parrilla, Mayron Santana-Vega, Ajee Smith, and Rae Williams. Upon the completion of their training, each of the foregoing individuals plans to work in the steward department. Emergency Procedures (Op Level) – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 15: Oleg Derun, Arthur Doherty, Johnny Dozier III, Benigno Gonzales Jr., James Knute, Brendan O’Brien, Jon Silveira, Emmanuel Wilson, and Slavi Zahariev. September 2015 �Paul Hall Center Classes Junior Engineer – Twenty-one upgraders finished this course July 24. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jarvis Atkins, Jared Cabasug, Rustin Calame, Michael Cruz, Jason Fuller, Walden Galacgac, Manolito Garcia, Julio Gomez, John Greggs, John Gryko, Olympia Harley, Antonio McAdams, Andre Mitchell, Ali Mohamed, Tevrin Narcisse, Arturo Reyes, Raymond Roldan, Melvin Smith Sr., Eddie Solichin, Rahjahn Sorey and Steve Tate. Class instructor Jay Henderson is at the far right. Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Graduating from this course July 24 (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jose Argueta, Aaron Beasley, Julian Beasley, Rodriques Carson, Adrian Darden, Helen Haslam, Simon Kamau, Imran Khan, Ingrid Ortiz-Rosario, Dwuan Reed, Lance Spain and Tyler Willette. Engineroom Resource Management – Graduating from this course July 17 (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jimmy Broussard, Daniel Cronan, Seth Green, John McCranie III, John Nordberg Jr., and Vance Sanderson. Freddie Toedtemeier, their instructor, is at the far right. Engineroom Resource Management – Five upgraders finished this course July 10. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: John Christian, Michael Las Dulce, Jeffrey Rydza, Robert Thorne and Jacob Zeiters. Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Fourteen Seafarers graduated from this course July 31. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Joseph Bowen, Tekeisha Brown, Walden Galacgac, Julio Gomez, Olympia Harley, Jan Jalloh, Donald Lumpkins, Karl Mayhew III, Andre Mitchell, Loreto Orosco, James Parker, Carlos Parrilla, Eddie Solichin and Rahjahn Sorey. Brad Wheeler, their instructor, is at the far right. UA to AS-D – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed their requirements in this course July 17: Jose Argueta, Aaron Beasley, Julian Beasley, Gideon Decker, Thomas Drummond III, Ryan Drummond, Joshua Freeland, Robert Gross, Helen Haslam, Simon Kamau, Dwuan Reed, Joseph Toth, Emory Wheeler, Tyler Willette and Stephen Zbornik. Class instructor Tom Truitt is at the far left. Galley Ops – Two steward department upgraders completed this course July 17. They are Keith Hall II (above, center) and Tania Ramirez-Diego. At left is their instructor, Paul Watts. Advanced Galley Ops – Four upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course in July. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Carmelo Calderon Santini, Melvin Cooper, Olivia Fisher-Macafe and Patricia Sullivan Certified Chief Cook - Two upgraders recently graduatd from this course. They are (above, from the left) Noel Segovia and Kevin Parrilla Alicea. Certified Chief Cook (Module 5) – Two upgraders graduated from this steward department course July 17. Completing their requirements were Grazyna Tomaszewska (above, left) and Demario Barganier. NOTICE Certified Chief Cook (Module 6) – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) completed their requirements in this steward department course July 31: Ricardo Arauz Rochez, Tiffany Davis, Abrahem Eisawy, Mamie Porter and Emanuel Spain. September 2015 Chief Steward – Five upgraders finished their requirements in this course July 31. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were Edwin Bonefont, Marlon Brown, Cesar Dela Cruz, Bruce Johnson and Nina McFall. 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 �SEPTEMBER F E B R U A R Y 2015 2014 o VOLUME VOLU M E 7 6 77 NNO. O . 92 Union Plus Benefits Page 14 Hospital Ships Support Humanitarian Efforts Two SIU-crewed hospital ships are playing vital roles in humanitarian missions that have taken them all over the globe. The USNS Comfort is sailing in Operation Continuing Promise, while the USNS Mercy has mobilized for Pacific Partnership 2015. Both Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessels are crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division. While the majority of both voyages have gone smoothly, the SIU has been working hard to ensure that recent leave issues on board the Comfort and the Mercy are dealt with promptly and to the satisfaction of the members. Continuing Promise The USNS Comfort’s mission, which began April 1, has taken the crew of mariners, Navy sailors and civilian medical professionals to countries in South and The Seafarers-crewed USNS Mercy (left) conducts a replenishment at sea with the Japanese fleet oiler JS Mashu Aug. 13 in the Pacific Central America and the Caribbean Sea in Ocean as part of Pacific Partnership 2015. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Mark El-Rayes) order to provide medical care for the citizens of those countries. Additionally, the accidents here that involve upwards of 60 preparedness mission conducted in the treat 11 dialysis patients. mission includes veterinary and engineerpeople,” said Army Captain John KarlsIndo-Asia-Pacific region. The environmental health team went ing support to the locals, as well as hosting to the same hospital to present formal son, a civil affairs team leader. “So, what In early August, soldiers stationed many subject matter expert exchanges we we’re able to do over a process of five aboard the Mercy trained alongside Fililectures on mosquitos, including their (SMEE). months is procure extrication equipment. insecticide resistance and how best to con- pino first responders with the Olongapo Since deploying from Norfolk, VirWe’re now cross-training on how to use City Urban Search and Rescue Team in trol their spread of disease. The team also ginia, the Comfort by mid-August had this equipment.” a disaster relief preparedness seminar as distributed mosquito surveillance traps to completed mission stops in Belize, GuaMeanwhile, as this edition went to part of Pacific Partnership. The seminar the Dominican officials. temala, Jamaica, Nicaragua, Panama, El consisted of classroom lectures and hands- press, both the Mercy and another SIU Meanwhile, the veterinary team met Salvador and Colombia. The vessel arrived with local Dominican veterinarians to Government Services Division vessel – the on training about safely extracting victims in Dominica for the first time in mission USNS Millinocket – were arriving in Da from damaged vehicles using emergency determine what services needed to be prohistory on July 28, and an opening cerNang, Vietnam, for the last mission stops extrication tools. vided locally. emony conducted at the Princess Margaret of Pacific Partnership 2015. The Milli“One of the major problems here are The engineering portion of the mission Hospital marked the start of the eighth stop in Dominica consisted of Navy Seabees nocket is a joint high-speed vessel. vehicular accidents. Sometimes they have of Continuing Promise 2015. constructing a guard house and installing a “Building partnerships with each counperimeter fence. try is critical to the overall success of the According to MSC, the people of mission. Since this is the first time that the Dominica welcomed the Comfort with Continuing Promise mission has visited open arms, grateful for the medical care Dominica, we look forward to the opporand guidance that was offered. “Your prestunity to foster goodwill and build partner ence here attests to our friendship,” said capacity and capability through the dozens Roosevelt Skerrit, prime minister of Domiof collaborations with our Dominican nica. “When the (U.S. government) asked counterparts,” said Capt. Sam Hancock, whether or not we would accept the presContinuing Promise 2015 mission comence of the USNS Comfort here in Domimander. nica, my response was a resounding yes.” During that stop, more than 1,000 medAdditional stops are planned for the ical and dental services were provided in Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Honduras. two separate locations in just the first day of operations. Additionally, 17 surgeries Pacific Partnership were conducted aboard the Comfort. Halfway around the world in the PhilipAn SMEE was conducted at Princess pines, the USNS Mercy is busy supportMargaret Hospital covering topics such as ing Pacific Partnership 2015. In its tenth intensive care unit protocols and bed man- year, Pacific Partnership is described the Members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines tour an intensive care unit ward aboard agement. The experts also collaborated Navy as the largest annual multilateral the USNS Mercy in mid-August. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist with Dominican medical professionals to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief 2nd Class Mark El-Rayes) AB Thomas Schell gives instructions during sea and anchor detail aboard the USNS Comfort. (Photo by U.S. Navy Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Andrew Schneider) In the photo at right, the USNS Comfort moors pier-side in Roseau, Dominica during Continuing Promise 2015. (Photo by U.S. Navy Chief Mass Communication Specialist Larry Baruwa) � 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 September 2015 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES MORE TANKERS ORDERED MCDEW TAKES USTRANSCOM HELM AMP CALLS PROPOSALS TO DISRUPT PUERTO RICAN MARITIME TRADE ‘MISINFORMED’ TUG CREWS APPROVE NEW FIVE-YEAR CONTRACT GREAT LAKES TOWING BRINGS NEWER TONNAGE INTO FLEET CROWLEY LANDS PINEY POINT UPGRADES COUNCIL INTERVIEWS PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES ITF RECOVERS $59.5 MILLION FOR MARINERS IN EUROPE, ASIA SHIPPING CO. FOUNDER NIELS JOHNSEN DIES AT 93 BOSUN REFLECTS ON LONG, REWARDING CAREER SIU MEMBERS ASSIST STRANDED BOATERS IN PACIFIC SIX BOSUNS COMPLETE RECERTIFICATION COURSE SEAFARERS EXPRESS THANKS FOR CAREER OPPORTUNITIES, TRAINING NORTHERN EXPOSURE: FRESH FROM TRIP TO SOUTHERNMOST BASE, OCEAN GIANT HEADS TO NORTHERNMOST AMMV ORGANIZATION BELONGS TO ALL MARINERS SEAFARERS PREP CABLE SHIP FOR NEXT OPERATION TYCO DECISIVE HEADS NORTHEAST FROM HOME PORT OF BALTIMORE NMC ISSUES NOTICES ON MARINER FORMS, SEA SERVICE SHBP OFFERS COBRA CONTINUATION COVERAGE TO UNION MEMBERS HOSPITAL SHIPS SUPPORT HUMANITARIAN EFFORTS 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 09/01/2015 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. 9 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/ee29506e9cc888f77cdf2f82864e7e6f.pdf b27c11d6399f487c01908677be12066b PDF Text Text SEPTEMBER F E B R U A 2016 RY 2014 78ONO. V O L U M EVOLUME 76 o N . 29 2 Tankers Delivered, 2 More Set for Christening Additional New Tonnage Also Slated for Construction at NASSCO The union recently welcomed two new Jones Act tankers into its contracted fleet, and additional ones are on the way along with even more tonnage. In mid-August, Seafarers and SIU officials celebrated the christening of the Crowley tanker West Virginia at Philly Shipyard. The vessel is pictured directly above, while the photo inset shows Anne Swearingen breaking the ceremonial bottle near the bow. Meanwhile, in late July, the tanker Garden State (photo at immediate right) was delivered by General Dynamics NASSCO to the parent company of SIU-contracted Seabulk Tankers. Two more NASSCO tankers – the Constitution and the Bay State – were scheduled for christenings in late August and mid-September, respectively. The shipyard also recently conducted a keel-laying ceremony for the USNS Williams (an artist’s rendering of the ship, known as an expeditionary sea base, is below at right). Previously, the yard announced winning a Navy contract for the design and construction of the next generation of fleet oilers (artist’s rendering appears directly below). Page 3. El Faro VDR Retrieved Page 4 Credentials Committee Report Page 6 Ready for Some Football? Page 10 �Maritime Matriarch Bentley Dies at 92 President’s Report Bipartisan Backing of Jones Act Considering both the importance of the Jones Act to SIU members and the fact that the nation’s freight cabotage law regularly comes under attack, it was refreshing recently to see a bipartisan, proactive outreach standing up for this vital regulation. In mid-August, four members of the U.S. House of Representatives wrote to the newly formed Congressional Task Force on Economic Growth in Puerto Rico. The letter was signed by Congressmen Duncan Hunter (R-California), chairman of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation; John Garamendi (D-California), ranking member on the subcommittee; Randy Forbes (R-Virginia), chairman of the Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces; and Joe Courtney (D-Connecticut), ranking member on the subcommittee. The letter’s details are important, but the short version is that the congressmen urged the task force not to waste time scrutinizing the Jones Act’s effect Michael Sacco on Puerto Rico – not because it isn’t crucial, but because it’s already been done. And the findings are that the law is very beneficial to the commonwealth. In part, the four representatives wrote, “Based on our review over many years of issues related to the U.S. maritime industry, national sealift needs and port security initiatives, we do not believe a review of the Jones Act by the task force, on which neither our committees nor our subcommittees are represented, is necessary.” They continued by pointing out that the Jones Act “protects good U.S. jobs, provides jobs and industrial skills needed to support U.S. defense sealift, and provides a network of U.S. mariners who are on the water and provide a knowledgeable first line of defense in our efforts to keep our trade ports and harbors secure.” Then, they explained in detail (if questions arise about the Jones Act, and since misinformation about the law is being disseminated) how Puerto Rico benefits from it. They referred to a non-partisan, Government Accountability Office (GAO) study which found that the domestic maritime industry provides “reliable, on-time service” and “just in time” delivery to the island. “Many Puerto Rican importers rely on this ‘prompt and regular shipping’ to avoid warehousing and inventory costs, which are particularly high in Puerto Rico, according to the GAO,” the letter stated. “The agency further opined that changes to the Jones Act in Puerto Rico could undermine the crucial northbound service from Puerto Rico to the mainland. And, of course, the last thing Puerto Rico needs now is the disruption of its shipping or the outsourcing of its shipping jobs to other nations.” Of particular note, they pointed out, is the fact that shipping rates to Puerto Rico on Jones Act vessels from the mainland are the lowest in the region. If any Jones Act critics are reading this column, let that data sink in for a minute. In fact, shipping rates from the U.S. to Puerto Rico on Jones Act ships are the lowest in the Caribbean, they said, comparing them to those of foreign-flag vessels. The congressmen gave other sound reasons for a hands-off approach. They mentioned that the GAO found changes to the Jones Act in Puerto Rico could undermine national security. They pointed out that the current, massive, private-sector investments related to Jones Act shipping benefit the commonwealth. I applaud this proactive approach and its persuasiveness. In the SIU, we know the Jones Act helps maintain our jobs and those of other mariners. We know it’s vital to maintaining a domestic shipbuilding capability, and also critical for national and homeland security. And we know that it helps contribute billions of dollars each year to the U.S. economy. Further, we understand that it isn’t protectionist. It is sound policy, which explains why dozens of other nations have their own versions of the Jones Act. Not everyone on Capitol Hill has that same understanding, which is why the bipartisan letter is so timely and important. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 78 Number 9 o NO. 2 September 2016 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org Though short in physical stature, few if any people had a larger or longer-lasting presence than Helen Delich Bentley when it came to promoting the American maritime industry and in particular the Port of Baltimore. Bentley died Aug. 6 at age 92, at her home in Timonium, Maryland. She had been diagnosed with brain cancer. “There will never be another one like her,” stated SIU President Michael Sacco. “She was a fighter for what she believed in – and she believed in our industry and the men and women who work in it. No one could top her dedication and devotion to the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine. All of us will miss her tremendously.” Bentley was born in Nevada in 1923 to Serbian-American parents. After graduating from the University of Missouri’s School of Journalism in 1944, she was hired by the Baltimore Sun newspaper to cover the maritime beat. She started writing a column, “Around the Waterfront,” which was syndicated in a number of other papers. That column eventually evolved to include a TV program, “The Port That Built a City,” in 1950. She spent 24 years as a maritime reporter and editor before being appointed by President Nixon to serve as the Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) in 1969. She was the first female chairman of the FMC, which she led for six years before returning to the Baltimore Sun. After nine years, she ran for office and was elected as a Republican to represent the Second she always put people and their opportunity to earn a living over petty partisan politics,” said Mikulski. “Helen was a fighter and she believed in constituent service and she took on bureaucracy and foreign governments to get jobs in our community.” After an unsuccessful bid for governor, Bentley founded a business consulting firm which advised and lobbied for clients on behalf of international trade, U.S. shipping and U.S. manufacturing. Through her tireless advocacy for the Port of Baltimore, Continued on Page 7 Mewbourne Succeeds Shannon at Vital U.S. Maritime Agency The USNS Lewis B. Puller, crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division, was scheduled to host the change-of-command ceremony for the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) on Aug. 25 in Norfolk, Virginia (too late for inclusion in this edition). Rear Adm. Dee Mewbourne is succeeding Rear Adm. T.K. Shannon as MSC’s commanding officer. Mewbourne most recently has served as the Navy’s director of maritime operations, U.S. Fleet Forces Command. Shannon is retiring after a long career capped off by three years at MSC’s helm. Mewbourne grew up in Ormond Beach, Florida, and gradu- The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. Rear Adm. T.K. Shannon 2 Seafarers LOG District of Maryland. From 1985 to 1995, she was a strong ally of maritime in Congress, aggressively pursuing mariners’ rights and labor issues on Capitol Hill. Former Representative Duncan L. Hunter, who held office from 1981-2009 and is the father of current Representative Duncan D. Hunter, once said Bentley “made her presence felt in every room she ever entered.” Sen. Barbara A. Mikulski, dean of Maryland’s congressional delegation, was a longtime friend of Bentley. “She fought for jobs and she fought for the little people and SIU Vessel Hosts MSC Change of Command 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. Reversed to White Reversed to White Bentley is pictured with the late SIU President Paul Hall in this undated snapshot. ated in 1982 from the United States Naval Academy. He was designated a naval flight officer in December 1983 and later earned a master’s degree in business administration from Colorado State University. He is an honor graduate of the United States Naval Test Pilot School and completed the Navy’s Nuclear Power Program, Air Command and Staff College (ACSC), Joint Forces Staff College and numerous executive educational courses. Mewbourne’s command assignments include Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 139 aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, USS Nashville, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, USS Enterprise, USS Harry S. Truman, Naval Service Training Command (NSTC), Carrier Strike Group 3 and Carrier Strike Group 11. He has completed numerous sea-based flying assignments and also served as the executive officer of the USS George Washington. Mewbourne has been a flight instructor, military assistant for the secretary and deputy secretary of the Defense Department, and chief of staff for Navy Cyber Forces. Additionally, Mewbourne has deployed supporting Operations El Dorado Canyon, Provide Comfort, Deny Flight, Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom, New Dawn, Enduring Freedom, and Rear Adm. Dee Mewbourne the 2006 Lebanon War. He has accumulated over 3,600 total flight hours in over 50 various aircraft and over 1,000 arrested landings on 14 carrier decks. Mewbourne’s awards and decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit (six awards), Meritorious Service Medal (five awards), Air Medal with Combat V, Strike/ Flight Air Medal (two awards), and various other personal and unit awards and campaign medals. While at the Naval Academy, he received the Carl Vinson Leadership Award. September 2016 �Dave Farrell, project manager for American Petroleum Tankers (left in photo above), and Matt Luxton, general counsel for General Dynamics NASSCO, make the delivery of the Garden State official. In the photo at right, three Medal of Honor recipients, including the ship’s namesake (center), are pictured at the keel-laying ceremony for the USNS Williams: Col. Robert Modrzejewski, USMC (Ret); CWO-04 Hershel “Woody” Williams, USMC (Ret); and Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator (SEAL) Edward Byers, Jr. (Photos courtesy General Dynamics NASSCO) NASSCO News Means New Jobs for Seafarers Union Shipyard Delivers Tanker, Prepares to Host Christenings The General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard has been bustling with activity, and most of the news emanating from the San Diego facility affects SIU members. At press time, the union yard was set to host a christening ceremony for the ECO Slated for christening in mid-September, the Jones Act tanker Bay State will be crewed by SIU members. (Photo courtesy General Dynamics NASSCO) tanker Constitution, which was built for American Petroleum Tankers (APT), parent company of SIU-contracted Seabulk Tankers. That event was slated for August 27. Also on the calendar is the Sept. 17 christening of the Bay State, which is part of the same class as the Constitution. The Bay State is the fourth of five LNG-conversionready Jones Act tankers being built for APT. The third ship in the ECO class, the Garden State, was delivered in late July. Each of the 50,000 dwt tankers has a 330,000-barrel cargo capacity and is 610 feet long. Those aren’t the only recent bulletins from NASSCO. On Aug. 2, the yard hosted a keel-laying ceremony for the future USNS Hershel “Woody” Williams, the fourth ship of the Montford Point class. Known as an expeditionary sea base, the ship is being named for the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from the Battle of Iwo Jima. The former chief warrant officer attended the ceremony. Finally, earlier this summer NASSCO announced that it has been awarded a U.S. Navy contract for the design and construction of the next generation of fleet oilers, signaling job opportunities for members of the SIU Government Services Division. The contract calls for the construction of six ships (the John Lewis class). The flurry of stories from NASSCO (whose president, Fred Harris, sailed as a union mariner) was noteworthy but not necessarily unusual. The Garden State milestone, for example, marked the seventh vessel delivery in a little more than one year. “In the past year, NASSCO shipbuilders have delivered seven ships – or the equivalent to 100,000 tons’ worth of steel,” said Kevin Graney, vice president and general manager for General Dynamics NASSCO. “Among the seven vessels delivered, three have been lead ships: the world’s first containership powered by liquefied natural gas, the U.S. Navy’s first expeditionary sea base and the nation’s most fuel efficient product tanker. We are proud of the diverse design and build portfolio we have delivered during the course of this year.” All of those vessels carry or will carry SIU crews, including the Tote-operated Isla Bella and Perla Del Caribe. Those LNGpowered containerships (each 764 feet long) sail in the Jones Act trade between Jacksonville, Florida, and Puerto Rico. During the ceremony for the Williams, the vessel’s namesake – a retired Marine – addressed the crowd. He and his two daughters welded their initials onto the keel of the ship. Many dignitaries and fellow Medal of Honor recipients attended the ceremony, including retired Marine Corps Col. Robert Modrzejewski, a Medal of Honor recipient recognized for his conspicuous gallantry during the Vietnam War; Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator (SEAL) Edward Byers, Jr., a Medal of Honor recipient recognized for his efforts during a hostage rescue in Afghanistan; and Brigadier Gen. William M. Jurney, Commanding General, Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego. “The story of Hershel ‘Woody’ Williams is remarkable. It’s a story of valiant devotion, extraordinary courage and American heroism,” said Graney. “We have the distinct honor of constructing a ship that will reflect the strength and fearlessness of its namesake and will provide global, advanced capabilities for future generations of Marines and sailors to come.” The 784-foot-long ship will serve as a flexible platform to support a variety of missions, including air mine countermeasures, counter-piracy operations, maritime security and humanitarian missions. It will provide for accommodations for up to 250 personnel and will feature a 52,000-square-foot flight deck, fuel and equipment storage, and will also support MH-53 and MH-60 helicopters with an option to support MV-22 tilt-rotor aircraft. The ship is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2018. New Jones Act Tanker Christened in Philly Shipyard The SIU-contracted Jones Act fleet made a noteworthy addition Aug. 16 when the unionbuilt tanker West Virginia was christened at Philly Shipyard. SIU crew members and officials (Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi and Port Agent Joe Baselice) attended the ceremony. Like its sister ships Louisiana, Ohio and Texas, the West Virginia can be converted for propulsion by liquefied natural gas (LNG). Anne Swearingen, wife of John Swearingen, senior vice president, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, performed the timehonored tradition of christening the vessel by breaking a ceremonial bottle of champagne across the West Virginia’s hull. Marathon Petroleum will utilize the tanker under a longterm charter. “Today represents a banner day for our company, Marathon Petroleum and Philly Shipyard as we welcome the West Virginia to our tanker fleet,” said Tom Crowley, chairman and CEO of Crowley Maritime. “The christening of this vessel, along with its sister ships, represents the best of the U.S. maritime industry – from the men and women who built her to the men and women who will operate her with great safety, integrity and high performance.” September 2016 The new tankers are based on a proven Hyundai Mipo Dockyards (HMD) design that incorporates numerous fuel efficiency features, flexible cargo capability and the latest regulatory requirements. At 600 feet long, the West Virginia is 50,000 deadweight tons (dwt) and capable of carrying 330,000 barrels of product. The tanker can transport crude oil or refined petroleum products, as well as various chemical cargoes. When the ship was delivered the week before the christening, Crowley’s Rob Grune, Crew members along with company and shipyard officials gather on stage during the pier-side ceremony. senior vice president and general manager, petroleum services, stated, “The delivery of the West Virginia represents our total commitment at Crowley to providing the best performance for our customers with efficiency and innovative solutions. The completion of West Virginia and its sister ships demonstrates our belief in the Jones Act trade, and our commitment to supporting our economy through U.S. shipbuilding and crewing. We congratulate Philly Shipyard for reaching this milestone, as well as the dedicated, hard-working men and women who build and crew these ships.” Said Philly Shipyard’s President and CEO Steinar Nerbovik, “Today’s delivery marks the successful completion of a four-tanker series for Crowley. We have appreciated a strong partnership with Crowley, stemming from the previous two Crowley tankers delivered in both 2012 and 2013, and today are proud to add these four safe and quality vessels to its growing fleet. On behalf of the men and women at the shipyard, we send our well wishes to the dedicated crew that will operate the West Virginia.” The ship’s first SIU crew included Recertified Bosun Hanapiah Ismail, ABs Gil Acapulco, Mapalana Gamage, Juberto Perez, Continued on Page 5 Seafarers LOG 3 �Investigators Recover Recorder from Cargo Ship El Faro The voyage data recorder (VDR) from the El Faro, the U.S.-flagged cargo ship that sank during Hurricane Joaquin in Oct. 2015 and claimed the lives of 33 mariners, including 17 SIU members, was successfully recovered from the ocean floor Aug. 8. The recovery of the capsule – facilitated by the USNS Apache, which is crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division – ends a 10-monthlong effort to retrieve the device, which was designed to record navigational data and communications between crew members on the ship’s bridge. While the plan for what happens next is clear, the timetable is indefinite. According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), examination of the data that may be contained on the recorder began Aug. 15 at the agency’s lab in Washington, D.C. In a news release, the agency explained, “The examination, called an audition, will happen in two rounds. The initial round only includes the NTSB Office of Marine Safety acting director, the NTSB research and engineering director, the NTSB’s investigator in charge, and the U.S. Coast Guard’s chief of investigations and casualty analysis. This audition is of the raw audio without any clean up or filtering and helps to determine the future scope of work. “From the first audition, the NTSB research and engineering team will produce a general characterization of the data that details Within this protective inner capsule is the memory chip that stores data from the voyage recorder. National Transportation Safety Board personnel (photo at left) monitor video from the remotely operated vehicle CURV-21 during the recovery of El Faro’s voyage data recorder capsule. In the photo above, an NTSB engineer removes material from the inner capsule assembly. (NTSB Courtesy Photos by James Anderson) the number of hours, quality of data, quality of audio, presence of GPS, radar, and any other data captured,” the statement continued. The NTSB’s next step will be to convene the VDR investigative group. The agency reported that this group may consist of representatives from the NTSB, Coast Guard, American Bureau of Shipping and Tote Services (operator of the El Faro). These parties are requested to participate as subject matter experts because they can provide expertise in analyzing the VDR information and creating a transcript. “The recovery of the recorder has the potential to give our investigators greater insight into the incredible challenges that the El Faro  crew faced,” said NTSB Chairman Christopher A. Hart, “but it’s just one component of a very complex investigation. There is still a great deal of work to be done in order to understand how the many factors converged that led to the sinking and the tragic loss of 33 lives. I want to thank the dedicated professionals in the many organizations — especially the U.S. Navy, the Coast Guard, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute, the National Science Foundation and the University of Rhode Island — who worked with NTSB investigators and Crowley LNG Agreement Means Increased Cargo For SIU-Crewed Vessels An SIU-contracted company continues to make its mark in the domestic as well as international maritime trades. Crowley Maritime Corporation’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) services group has been awarded a multi-year contract to supply containerized LNG from the U.S. mainland to Puerto Rico. Molinos de Puerto Rico, the Caribbean arm of Ardent Mills LLC, will be on the receiving end of the fuel. It is the territory’s leading supplier of flour as well as wheat, corn and rice-based food ingredients. According to press release issued Aug. 4 by Crowley, the contract, which was executed through its subsidiary Carib Energy (USA) LLC, includes both the supply and transportation of LNG. The pact will help Molinos expand environmental sustainability efforts and better manage any weather-related power challenges that can affect the island of Puerto Rico. The transportation of LNG from liquefaction facilities on the mainland to Molinos’ plant will be managed by Crowley’s domestic logistics team, which will coordinate the overthe-road transport of 40-foot ISO containers, authorized by the U.S. Department of Transportation to carry approximately 10,000 gallons of LNG, to the company’s Jacksonville, Florida, shipping terminal. Once in Jacksonville, the containers will be loaded onto SIU-crewed, Crowley-owned vessels departing for Puerto Rico. Upon arrival on the island, Crowley’s Puerto Rico- 4 Seafarers LOG based logistics team will deliver the LNG to the customer’s facility. There, the LNG will be re-gasified and used for power consumption. LNG is a safe, environmentally-friendly fuel that is simply natural gas in a liquid state. Natural gas is the cleanest burning fossil fuel and is being used throughout the world to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Compared to coal and other fuel oils, natural gas produces far fewer carbon dioxide and sulfur emissions. It is also widely abundant and cost effective.   “Carib Energy is extremely pleased to be a vital supplier and logistics provider of LNG to Crowley’s longtime liner services customer, Molinos de Puerto Rico,” said Greg Buffington, Crowley vice president. “Our teams have been working side by side with Molinos, the Caribbean arm of Ardent Mills, assisting with the engineering to utilize the natural gas and also the logistics necessary to accommodate LNG delivery to the Molinos plant. We want to thank Ardent Mills and Molinos for having confidence in Crowley and Carib Energy to allow us to play a pivotal role in supplying a cost-efficient, safe, reliable and environmentally friendly natural gas fuel source for their operations.” Jon Stuewe, Molinos de Puerto Rico president, stated: “We appreciate the nearly two years of thoughtful care and planning that have gone into this effort. We also appreciate the additional capabilities and assured ingredient supply made possible by this important alternate fuel source. We are committed to support staff over three missions in 10 months to make this successful recovery possible.” Upon recovery, the VDR was placed in fresh water to help prevent corrosion of the electronic components. Coast Guard and NTSB personnel decided to disassemble and visually examine the VDR while at sea to gain a better understanding of the condition of the memory unit and to identify what steps would be needed to recover the data. All of the components were transported to the nation’s capital on Aug. 12. The Apache, a fleet ocean tug, departed Virginia Beach, Virginia, on Aug. 5 with personnel from the NTSB, Coast Guard, Navy and Phoenix International aboard. After arriving at the accident location, technicians maneuvered CURV-21, a deep ocean remotely operated underwater vehicle, down about 15,000 feet to the sea floor where the wreckage of El Faro rests. Specialized tools were used to remove the VDR capsule from the wrecked mast to which it was attached. It is not yet known how long it may take to review the data and audio information that may be captured on  El Faro’s VDR. While the minimum design requirement for VDRs of operating across our supply chain with innovative ideas that also deliver a more positive environmental impact.” Crowley’s Carib Energy was the first company to receive a small scale, 25-year, LNG export license from the U.S. Department of Energy for LNG transportation from the U.S. into Free Trade Agreement (FTA) countries. Shortly thereafter, a Crowley LNG services group was formed to begin offering supply, transportation and distribution of LNG services via 10,000-gallon ISO tanks. Additionally, the company was granted the first small-scale license for supply, transportation and distribution of LNG into Non-Free Trade Agreement (NTFA) countries in the Caribbean, Central and South America. Molinos de Puerto Rico joins several other customers receiving containerized LNG sup- this type is for 12 hours of recording, it may contain additional information – the review of which is a thorough and time consuming undertaking, according to the NTSB. No further missions to the accident site are planned unless warranted as the investigation continues. The VDR group will work together to create a transcript of any audio recovered from the VDR. The transcript will be used to inform the future activities related to the El Faro investigation, and any part of the transcript that is considered relevant to the investigation will be released in the public docket. There is no current timeline for the release of the public docket. The NTSB has said that, by law, they cannot publicly release the audio recordings at any time. According to U.S. Code Title 49 § 1154, “[The NTSB] may not disclose publicly any part of a surface vehicle voice or video recorder recording.…” Some of the families of those who lost their lives are pushing to hear their last words, and are asking for anyone who agrees with them to write letters to their senators, petitioning for the release of the bridge audio. ply in Puerto Rico, where a virtual natural gas pipeline has been established by Crowley from the U.S. Crowley is already supplying LNG to Coca-Cola Puerto Rico Bottlers in Cayey and Club Caribe in Cidra, both wholly owned subsidiaries of CC1 Companies, and to a major pharmaceutical company on the island. Additional industrial companies on the island are considering making the switch to LNG. Crowley has served the Puerto Rico market from the 75-acre Isla Grande terminal since 1954, longer than any other Jones Act carrier in the trade. The company, with over 250 Puerto Rico employees, is also the number one ocean carrier between the island commonwealth and the U.S. mainland with more weekly sailings and more cargo carried annually than any other shipping line. As part of Crowley’s new contract, forty-foot ISO containers like the one shown above (authorized by the U.S. Department of Transportation) will transport 10,000 gallons of LNG from various U.S. mainland liquefaction facilities to the company’s shipping terminal in Jacksonville, Fla. (Photo Courtesy of Crowley Maritime Corp) September 2016 �Union Provides International Shipholding Corporation Update Seafarers-contracted International Shipholding Corporation (ISHC) and some of its subsidiaries have filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in New York. As noted in a recent letter from the union to SIU members aboard ISHC’s vessels operated by Waterman, Central Gulf and Sulphur Carriers, respectively, “We are in close contact with the company every day and will take every reasonable step to help them move forward with a successful restructuring that maintains SIU jobs.” The letter from SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker also reads in part, “While there is nothing desirable about any form of bankruptcy, a Chapter 11 procedure very clearly means the company is trying to make a go of it, and we know from U.S. maritime history that such reorganizations have worked. It may initially sound strange under the circumstances, but for now it is business as usual aboard the ships… On that note, it is critical that you remain aboard the company’s vessels and continue to handle your respective jobs with ongoing professionalism. I am cautiously optimistic about the company’s future, but their ability to reorganize and move forward depends in large part on reliable shipboard manpower.” In a letter to its customers, ISHC noted, “The company’s Chapter 11 filing does not mean that our company is going out of business. Rather, this filing is a critical step on our company’s pathtowards an orderly financial restructuring with our lenders and shareholders. Throughout the Chapter 11 process, our company will continue conducting normal business operations. On behalf of all of our employees operating today in the United States and abroad, we also want to take this opportunity to thank you for staying the course and believing in our company.” ISHC also posted a news release in which Erik L. Johnsen, president and CEO, commented, “Today, we took a critical step toward right-sizing the company’s balance sheet. While the company is facing challenges with its debt and capital structure, we believe our core business segments are performing satisfactorily. During the Chapter 11 process we look forward to continuing to provide our customers the same high quality, reliable shipping services they’ve come to consistently expect from us.” There are several related links on the company’s home page: http://www.intship.com/ Information also is linked in an Aug. 5 news post on the SIU website, and updates will be posted as warranted. SIU Mourns Recent Death Of Congressman LaTourette The SIU joined with all of American maritime labor in mourning the passing of retired Congressman Steve LaTourette, 62, who lost his battle with pancreatic cancer on Aug. 3. The 18-year representative from northeastern Ohio was a solid supporter of the Jones Act, Maritime Security Program and cargo preference. He was a leading voice within the House Appropriations Committee on behalf of maritime labor. First elected in 1994, the Republican was respected by members from both political parties because of his ability to work with others for the causes in which he believed. During his tenure, he served as cochair of the Republican Labor Caucus and later as chair of the Republican Main Street Partnership. LaTourette was one of the strongest supporters for working families in his party. During the financial crisis of 200809, he supported legislation extending unemployment benefits. He also fought for health and social services issues. The Cleveland Plain Dealer quoted LaTourette when he announced his retirement from Congress in 2012: Steve LaTourette “For a long time now, words like compromise have been considered to be dirty words. I’ve always believed … that the art of being a legislator is fining common ground.” The membership and officials of the SIU will miss LaTourette’s leadership and concern for all working men and women. Rank-and-File Members Comprise Group Credentials Committee Reviews Nomination Petitions for Election The SIU-crewed West Virginia, built in a union yard, can be converted for LNG propulsion. The credentials committee, composed of six rankand-file SIU members, has reviewed all nominating petitions of Seafarers seeking office in the 2016 district-wide elections in the union’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters components. After meeting last month and studying the nomination applications to ensure each candidate had complied with the criteria spelled out in the SIU’s constitution, the credentials committee issued its report, which will be presented to the membership for its approval at the September meetings. Twenty-six candidates for 25 ballot positions qualified to run in the election, which takes place Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, the committee reported. Members of the committee were elected during the August membership meeting conducted at headquarters-port of Piney Point on Aug. 8, 2016. Voted to the committee by their fellow Seafarers were Scott Smith, Tim Pillsworth, Adrian Jones, Darryl Jackson, Steven Hoskins and Jayne Peterson. Peterson was selected by the committee to serve as chairperson. During the meeting on Aug. 8, Seafarers had to present their union books in order to be nominated to the committee. After the voting took place, results immediately were made known. The union constitution establishes guidelines for the credentials committee in Article XIII, Section 2. According to those rules, the committee must be elected at the port where headquarters is located (Piney Point). The credentials committee must consist of six fullbook members, including two members from each of the three shipboard departments: deck, engine and steward. Additionally, no elected official or candidate for union office is permitted to serve on the committee. Members seeking the position of president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, vice president, assistant vice president or one of 10 port agent posts had to submit nominating papers between July 15 and Aug. 15. See page 6 for the entire report SIU Membership Welcomes Crowley Vessel West Virginia Continued from Page 3 Robert Surette and Wilson Trayvilla, QEP Scott Fuller, Oiler Kyle Miller, OMU Terrance Jackson, Recertified Steward Milton Yournett, Cook/Baker Shantay Joquin and SA Marvin Davis. The Jones Act has helped boost America’s economic, national and homeland security since it was enacted in 1920 as part of the Merchant Marine Act. The nation’s freight cabotage law requires that cargo moving between domestic ports is carried on vessels that are crewed, flagged, built and owned American. According to a detailed study by PricewaterhouseCoopers, the Jones Act helps maintain nearly 500,000 American jobs while contributing billions of dollars each year to the economy. With that in mind, perhaps it is not surprising that the law always has enjoyed strong bipartisan support and the backing of every administration. Moreover, high-ranking U.S. military officials in recent years have been outspoken proponents of the Jones Act. The law helps maintain a pool of well-trained, reliable, U.S. citizen mariners and also is vital to sustaining the nation’s shipbuilding capability. September 2016 Six rank-and-file union members (photo above) last month reviewed all nominating petitions of Seafarers seeking office in the 2016 district-wide elections. Seated from left are Darryl Jackson, Adrian Jones, Tim Pillsworth and Scott Smith. Standing are Steven Hoskins (left) and Jayne Peterson. Seafarers LOG 5 �Credentials Approved for Candidates to 25 Union Offices REPORT OF CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE ON CANDIDATES FOR 2016 ELECTION OF OFFICERS FOR TERM 2017-2020 SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICAATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS We, the undersigned members of the Credentials Committee, were duly elected at the August Membership meeting held in Headquarters-Port of Piney Point on August 8, 2016. We have examined the credentials of candidates for elective office or job in the Seafarers International Union of North America-Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters for the years 2017-2020, in accordance with Article XI, Section 1, and submit the following report. Your Committee qualified or disqualified those members who submitted for office based upon the Union Constitution, particularly those provisions contained in Articles XII and XIII. The applicable constitutional provisions are as follows: ARTICLE XII Qualifications for Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Port Agents, and Other Elective Jobs Section 1. Any member of the Union is eligible to be a candidate for, and hold, any office or the job of Assistant Vice-President, or Port Agent provided: (a) He has at least three (3) years of seatime in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels. In computing time, time spent in the employ of the Union, its subsidiaries and its affiliates, or in any employment at the Union’s direction, shall count the same as seatime. Union records, Welfare Plan records and/or company records can be used to determine eligibility; and (b) He has been a full book member in continuous good standing in the Union for at least three (3) years immediately prior to his nomination; and (c) He has at least one hundred (100) days of seatime, in an unlicensed capacity, aboard an American-flag vessel or vessels covered by contract with this Union or one hundred (100) days of employment with, or in any office or job of, the Union, its subsidiaries and its affiliates, or in any employment at the Union’s direction or a combination of these, between January 1 and the time of nomination in the election year, except if such seatime is wholly aboard such merchant vessels operating solely upon the Great Lakes or, if such seatime is wholly aboard tugboats, towboats or dredges and contractual employment thereon is for fixed days with equal amount of days off, he shall have at least sixty-five (65) days of such seatime instead of the foregoing one hundred (100) days; and (d) He is a citizen of the United States of America; and (e) He is not disqualified by law. He is not receiving a pension from this Union’s Pension Fund, if any, or from a UnionManagement Fund, to which Fund this Union is a party or from a company under contract with this Union; unless such individual commenced receiving a pension benefit from any such fund by virtue of having reached the age of 70½. (f) He has not sailed in a licensed capacity aboard an American flag merchant vessel or vessels within twenty four (24) consecutive months immediately prior to the opening of nominations. Section 2. All candidates for, and holders of, other elective jobs not specified in the preceding sections shall be full book members of the Union. Section 3. All candidates for, and holders of, elective offices and jobs, whether elected or appointed in accordance with this Constitution, shall maintain full book memberships in good standing. ARTICLE XIII Election for Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, and Port Agents Section 1. Nominations. Except as provided in Section 2(b) of this Article, any full book member may submit his name for nomination for any office, or the job of Assistant Vice-President, or Port Agent, by delivering or causing to be delivered in person, to the office of the Secretary-Treasurer at Headquarters, or sending a letter addressed to the Credentials Committee, in care of the SecretaryTreasurer at the address of Headquarters. This letter shall be dated and shall contain the following: (a) The name of the candidate. (b) His home address and mailing address. (c) His book number. (d) The title of the office or other job for which he is a candidate, including the name of the Port in the event the position sought is that of Port Agent. (e) Proof of citizenship. (f) Proof of seatime and/or employment as required for candidates. (g) In the event the member is on a vessel, he shall notify the Credentials Committee what vessel he is on. This shall be done also if he ships subsequent to forwarding his credentials. (h) Annexing a certificate in the following form, signed and dated by the proposed nominee: I HEREBY CERTIFY that the during the past thirteen (13) years I have not been convicted of, or served any part of a prison term resulting from a conviction for robbery, bribery, extortion, embezzlement, grand larceny, burglary, arson, violation of narcotics laws, murder, rape, assault with intent to kill, assault which inflicts grievous bodily injury, or violation of Title II or III of the Landrum Griffin Act, or conspiracy to commit such crimes. In addition, I certify that I support the Constitution of the United States of America, its institutions and form of government. Dated --------------------------------------------Signature of Member --------------------------Book No. ----------------------------------------Printed forms of the certificate shall be made available to nominees. Where a nominee cannot truthfully execute such a certificate, but is, in fact, legally eligible for an office or job by reason of the restoration of civil rights originally revoked by such conviction or a favorable determination by the Board of Parole of the United States Department of Justice, he shall, in lieu of the foregoing certificate, furnish a complete signed statement of 6 Seafarers LOG the facts of his case together with true copies of the documents supporting his statement. Any full book member may nominate any other full book member in which event such full book member so nominated shall comply with the provisions of this Article as they are set forth herein relating to the submission of credentials. By reason of the above self nomination provision the responsibility, if any, for notifying a nominee of his nomination to office shall be that of the nominator. All documents required herein must reach Headquarters no earlier than July 15 and no later than August 15 of the election year. The Secretary-Treasurer is charged with safekeeping of these letters and shall turn them over to the Credentials Committee upon the latter’s request. In order to ascertain the meaning of the term “member in good standing” which is used in Article XII, Subsection 1(b), the Committee referred to Article XXIV, Section 9 of our Constitution which reads as follows: Section 9. The term “member in good standing” shall mean a member whose monetary obligations to the Union are not in arrears for thirty (30) days or more, or who is not under suspension or expulsion effective in accordance with this Constitution. Unless otherwise expressly indicated, the term “member” shall mean a member in good standing. Your Committee sought guidance from the Union’s General Counsel and the Secretary-Treasurer as to whether this section would apply to a member who is unable to pay dues because of employment aboard an American flag merchant vessel as stated in Article III, Section 3(e). Your Committee was advised that, in keeping with past practice and constitutional interpretation, the same thirty (30) day grace period should be applied in these situations. Accordingly, when a member who is working on foreign articles leaves the vessel, the dues for the applicable quarter must be paid within thirty (30) days from the date of discharge in order to maintain good standing. Your Committee also referred to Article XXIV, Section 13 for the definition of the term “seatime”. This section reads as follows: Section 13. The term “seatime” shall include employment upon any navigable waters, days of employment in a contracted employer unit represented by the Union or time spent in the employ of the Union or one of the Union’s direct affiliates as an elected or appointed representative. We also noted in Article XXIV, Section 14, the meaning of the term “in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels.” This portion of the Constitution reads as follows: Section 14. The term “in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels” shall include persons employed in an unlicensed or licensed capacity aboard dredges, tugboats, towboats and similar vessels used to tow, propel, or push barges or other conveyances or assist merchant vessels in docking or undocking, or persons otherwise employed in a contracted employer unit represented by the Union. After full and careful deliberations, the Committee made its decisions and sent appropriate notification to candidates. The ultimate decisions of this Committee are later set forth. In arriving at these ultimate decisions, the Committee was most concerned with carrying out a stated principle of our Union which is that “every qualified member shall have the right to nominate himself for, and, if elected or appointed, to hold office in this Union.” In connection with the foregoing, we have also consulted with the Secretary-Treasurer who, under our Constitution, has the obligation to insure appropriate election procedures as legally required (Article XIII, Section 7). Our Secretary-Treasurer has further consulted with the Union’s Counsel as to the law applicable in Union nominations and elections. The following is a complete listing of all members who submitted their credentials to the Committee. Their names and the office or job for which they submitted such credentials are listed in the order in which this Committee feels they should be placed on the general ballot, that is, in alphabetical order under the office or job for which they run, and that the Ports, following the Headquarters offices, beginning with Piney Point, be arranged on the ballot geographically, as has been done in the past. After each member’s name and book number is his/her qualification or disqualification, followed by the reason for that decision. PRESIDENT Michael J. Sacco, S-01288 Qualified Credentials in order EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Augustin Tellez, T-00764 Qualified Credentials in order SECRETARY-TREASURER David W. Heindel, H-01443 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT George Tricker, T-00919 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST Joseph T. Soresi, S-02658 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Dean E. Corgey, C-05727 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST Nicholas J. Marrone, M-02308 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS Thomas Orzechowski, Jr, O-00601 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Kermett T. Mangram, M-02394 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT Linnell Coleman, C-05727 Disqualified – was not in continuous good standing for (3) years prior to time of nomination. Archie Ware, W-01169 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST Nicholas A. Celona, C-01578 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Ambrose L. Cucinotta, C-01795 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST Bryan Powell, P-01987 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS Michael Russo, R-05772 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Chester Wheeler, W-25058 Qualified Credentials in order PINEY POINT PORT AGENT Patrick Vandegrift, V-00488 Qualified Credentials in order NEW JERSEY PORT AGENT Mark von Siegel, V-00612 Qualified Credentials in order PHILADELPHIA PORT AGENT Joseph Baselice, B-02795 Qualified Credentials in order BALTIMORE PORT AGENT Georg Kenny, K-01041 Qualified Credentials in order MOBILE PORT AGENT Jimmy White, W-01600 Qualified Credentials in order NEW ORLEANS PORT AGENT Chris Westbrook, W-05787 Qualified Credentials in order HOUSTON PORT AGENT Kris Hopkins, H-01658 Qualified Credentials in order OAKLAND PORT AGENT Nicholas Marrone II, M-03537 Qualified Credentials in order ST. LOUIS PORT AGENT Chad Partridge, P-02057 Qualified Credentials in order Lisa Sottile, S-02957 Qualified Credentials in order DETROIT-ALGONAC PORT AGENT Todd Brdak, B-02684 Qualified Credentials in order As you will note in the foregoing sections of the Committee’s Report, the provisions of the SIU Constitution governing election procedures made it mandatory that one of the nominees be disqualified. In light of these circumstances, the Committee wishes to call to the attention of all members the necessity of following all requirements and procedures which are established by our Constitution to govern eligibility to candidacy to Union office. However, at this time, the Committee particularly desires to point out the provisions of Article XIII, Section 2(c) of the Constitution, which spell out in detail the right of a disqualified candidate to appeal from the decision of the Credentials Committee and how he does it. In compliance with Article XIII, Section 2(b) of our Constitution, and in an attempt to give every nominee every consideration and to try to prevent any disqualifications by this Committee, Jayne Peterson, of the Credentials Committee, remained at the Continued on Page 8 September 2016 �Maritime Stalwart Succumbs to Brain Cancer Continued from Page 2 she helped to make the port number one in the nation for automobile imports and breakbulk cargo, as well as one of the few East Coast ports that is “Neopanamaxready.” In 2006, the Port of Baltimore was officially renamed the “Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore” by then-Governor Robert Ehrlich. During a speech made at Bentley’s 90th birthday celebration, Ehrlich was quoted as describing the 500 members of the crowd as, “a roomful of people who both love her and fear her – but not in that order.” “Congresswoman Bentley worked with tenacity, energy, and passion on behalf of her constituents, making her a rare breed in politics and a role model to public servants across Maryland,” Governor Larry Hogan said. “She was a trailblazer for women in media and government, a longtime champion for manufacturing, maritime issues, and the Port of Baltimore which proudly bears her name as an everlasting tribute to her achievements.” As a testament to her lasting impact on Bentley, at the time serving as the top official of the Federal Maritime Commission, addresses the SIUNA convention in 1971. the industry, it seems that every prominent figure in maritime has a story to tell involving Bentley. The Washington Post recalled a classic Bentley incident during a congressional hearing when an admiral told her that parts the Navy needed were cheaper in South Korea. She responded, “Well, Admiral, they make admirals cheaper in Korea, too, and maybe we should buy some.” Current FMC Chairman Mario Cordero said, “Helen Bentley was a pioneer in many different fields and industries, but she will forever be remembered for her work on maritime matters. From the newsroom to the Baltimore waterfront, from the halls of Congress to the chair of the Federal Maritime Commission, she distinguished herself in each and every endeavor she undertook. It is a testament to the fortitude and tenacity that she was known for that she remained an active, forceful, and articulate advocate on shipping and port issues to the very end of her life. It was a privilege to have had the opportunity to know her and I join the many who are saddened by her departure.” Bentley was instrumental in establishing Baltimore’s Maritime Industries Academy, one of the first high schools in the nation to promote a maritime curriculum. She also helped ensure the preservation of the SS John W. Brown, one of only two operating Liberty ships in the nation. “Helen played an absolutely vital role in our obtaining the Brown,” said former Project Liberty Ship Chairman Capt. Brian H. Hope, a retired Chesapeake Bay pilot. “The Coast Guard commandant told us we needed to get a bill through Congress that exempted the Brown from modern ship passenger regulations.… The Brown arrived in Baltimore in 1998, and the first person up the gangway was Helen Delich Bentley.” Shown at the 2011 AOTOS dinner in New York, Bentley was known for tenacity and getting results. A recipient of numerous honorary degrees, Bentley has also christened countless vessels and was the annual emcee of the Admiral of the Ocean Sea awards dinner. Her husband, William Roy Bentley, passed away in 2003. The couple had no children. Spotlight On Mariner Health Become Familiar With the Symptoms of High Blood Pressure There are many people who say they can tell when their blood pressure is up. This may be true in the later stages of the disease, but what about at the beginning? The truth is that hypertension is mostly a silent problem. Many do not know they have it until they go to their doctor for a check-up or just have their blood pressure evaluated at a local health fair. Some are very surprised to find out that it is up and usually say that they feel just fine. This becomes a problem. The blood pressure goes unnoticed for many years and that is when the damage to the circulatory system occurs. Untreated hypertension can lead to many problems for an individual. If blood pressure continually stays above the normal values, it can result in the following: stroke; heart attack, angina or both; kidney failure; peripheral arterial disease; eye/retinal problems and more. Individuals may take many steps to reduce, eliminate or prevent high blood pressure. Medical experts recommend reaching and maintaining a healthy weight; eating healthful meals that are low in salt and sugars as well as trans fats/saturated fats; and limiting alcohol intake. It’s also helpful to be physically active for at least 30 minutes per day, at least three or four times a week. Last but not least, take medications as directed by your doctor, monitor your blood pressure and work on keeping it at a constant, lower level as determined by you and your doctor. Treatments for high blood pressure will be discussed in an upcoming edition. September 2016 Healthful Recipe Provided by the Paul Hall Center’s Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship Shrimp & Pineapple Thai Curry Servings: 25 10 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined 4 tablespoons coconut oil 6 cups fresh pineapple chunks 16 fluid ounces coconut milk 1 1/4 quarts skim milk 4 cups yellow onion, diced 2 cups red bell pepper, diced 8 cloves garlic, minced fine 5 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated 6 tablespoons curry powder, ground 5 teaspoons honey 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper sea salt, dash 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped cornstarch cold water In a 12” heavy skillet heat one-half of the coconut oil on medium high heat for 2 minutes. Add the shrimp and cook until just pink. Set aside and drain the remaining liquid out of the skillet. Add 1 tablespoon of the remaining coconut oil and add the onions cooking on medium. Cook for about 2 minutes and add the garlic and the red pepper. Cook for 2 minutes more until the peppers start to soften but not mushy. Drain and set aside. Add the remaining coconut oil and curry powder to the skillet cooking for a minute until the paste becomes fragrant. Add the coconut milk (it may have separated in the can so be sure to get the thick stuff out) ginger, fish sauce and stir with a whisk, being sure to break up the paste and combining the ingredients well. Simmer until the mixture starts to thicken. Add the honey to get a slight sweet taste. Then add the cayenne pepper to perfect the heat. After the sauce has reduced by 1/3 add the shrimp, peppers and onions back to the skillet and heat through (about 1-2 minutes). Then add one-half the cilantro, stir. Thicken with a cornstarch slurry as needed. Serve in a bowl or over Jasmine rice. Garnish with the remaining cilantro salt to taste. Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 316 Calories; 10g Fat (29.8% calories from fat); 40g Protein; 15g Carbohydrate; 2g Dietary Fiber; 277mg Cholesterol; 300mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain (Starch); 5 Lean Meat; 1/2 Vegetable; 1/2 Fruit; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 1 1/2 Fat; O Other Carbohydrates. Seafarers LOG 7 �Engine Assessment Program Launched in Piney Point The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) has started conducting a new engine assessment program for engineering officers employed by Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime. In conjunction with subject matter experts and an engineering instructional team at the PHC, the school created a twoday curriculum which “evaluates the ability of engineering officers with respect to International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) requirements and company core values,” noted Susan Fagan, simulator coordinator and an instructor at the facility in Piney Point, Maryland. “After months of planning and running pilot courses with volunteers actively sailing in the industry, with credentials ranging from designated duty engineer to chief engineer, we have been able to create effective assessment criteria which will allow us to determine a candidate’s ability to successfully perform routine duties pertinent to the STCW-Officer In Charge of an Engineering Watch (OICEW) rating; respond in emergency situations specified in the STCW-OICEW rating; and work comfortably in an automated engine room.” Consistent with the school’s 49-year history, the class is an example of how the PHC is able to produce company-specific curriculums. This assessment program is open to all existing and potential Crowley Maritime engineering officers and is scheduled by the company. Fagan added that the program utilizes the school’s state-of-the-art, full-mission engine room simulator and is the first of its kind in the U.S. Prospective students should possess an endorsement for designated duty engineer (DDE) or higher. In its announcement about the new curriculum, Crowley noted, “The program teaches students how to use the simulator, and catalogs and critiques mariner responses to conditions that would be difficult or impractical to duplicate at sea. Results are used to track fleet-wide skills and performance, and better focus training into areas needing improvement.” Crowley mariners and school instructors are pictured (photo directly above and the two others at the the top of this page) during the initial offerings of the new engine assessment program in Piney Point, Maryland. Committee Releases Report on Candidates Continued from Page 6 entrance of the Headquarters building of the Union until midnight of Monday, August 15, 2016, to receive any credentials that might have been delivered by hand after the closing of business hours by the Union. The Committee points out that in the President’s Pre-Balloting Report approved by the membership as per the Constitution and published in the May SEAFARERS LOG the exact offices and jobs for which nominations were to be made was set forth. In passing upon the credentials for certain of the nominees, this Committee had to make one disqualification, and the following are the details relative to that disqualification: 1. Linnell Coleman, C-05727 – candidate for Assistant Vice President of Contracts & Contract Enforcement. Your Committee noted the receipt of a letter dated July 22, 2016, addressed to the Secretary-Treasurer/ Credentials Committee in which Brother Coleman requested his name be placed on the ballot for election to the position of Assistant Vice President of Contracts. Union records indicate that Brother Coleman paid his dues for the Fourth Quarter of 2013 on November 18, 2013, whereas they should have been paid no later than November 1, 2013; First Quarter of 2014 dues were paid on September 11, 2014, whereas they should have been paid no later than April 1, 2014; Second Quarter of 2014 dues were paid on September 11, 2014, whereas they should have been paid no later than May 1, 2014; Third Quarter of 2014 dues were paid on September 11, 2014, whereas they should have been paid no later than August 1, 2014; Fourth Quarter of 2014 dues were paid on January 23, 2015, whereas they should have been paid no later than November 1, 2014; Second Quarter of 2015 dues were paid on June 2, 2015; whereas they should have been paid no later than May 1, 2015; Third Quarter of 2015 dues were paid on March 10, 2016, whereas they should have been paid no later than August 1, 2015; Fourth Quarter of 2015 dues were paid on March 10, 2016, whereas they should have been paid no later than November 1, 2015; First Quarter of 2016 dues were paid on March 10, 2016; whereas they should have been paid no later 8 Seafarers LOG than February 1, 2016; Second Quarter of 2016 dues were paid on July 12, 2016, whereas they should have been paid no later than May 1, 2016. Based upon the provisions of Article XII, Section 1 (b), and further supported by Article III, Section 3; Article V and Article XXIV, Section 9 previously carried herein, the committee disqualified Brother Coleman for the job of Assistant Vice President of Contracts & Contract Enforcement solely as a result of not being in continuous good standing during the relevant time period. In accordance with the requirements of Article XIII, Section 2 (c) of our Constitution, and in order to assure adequate notice of its decision, the committee informed Brother Coleman of his disqualification and set forth the reason for such disqualification by certified overnight mail sent on August 16, 2016 to the address stated in his letter of nomination. A copy of the Union Constitution was enclosed with the aforementioned letter so that Brother Coleman would have available the procedure to be followed in appeal from the disqualification decision of the Committee. Your committee was notified that Brother Coleman was currently onboard the Alliance Norfolk. The committee tried to reach Brother Coleman by phone with a phone number that he provided on his nomination letter. He was unavailable, so Secretary-Treasurer Heindel and the committee left him a message. All credentials received as of August 15, 2016 have been furnished to the Committee in good order. All credentials have been examined in strict accordance with the Constitution. Any defect in the credentials disposed of by the Committee has been the sole responsibility of the sender and no person adversely affected by such defect has denied this to the Committee. Dated: August 16, 2016 Jayne Peterson, P-2122 Chairman Steve Hoskins, H-1691 Darryl Jackson, J-774 Adrian Jones, J-848 Timothy Pillsworth, P-1872 Scott Smith, S-6153 Union Constitution Gives Procedure For Obtaining 2016 Absentee Ballots Elections for the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters are scheduled for later this year. As in past SIU election years, a comprehensive guide will be published in the Seafarers LOG prior to the balloting. In the case of members eligible to vote who believe they will be at sea during the Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2016 voting period or who otherwise think they will need absentee ballots, absentee ballots will be available. The SIU constitution ensures that members who are eligible to vote and who find themselves in this situation may vote. Procedures are established in the SIU constitution to safeguard the secret ballot election, including the absentee ballot process. Here is the procedure to follow when requesting an absentee ballot: 1. Make the request in writing to the SIU Office of the SecretaryTreasurer, 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. September 2016 �SIU Crews Help Execute ‘Skin to Skin’ Maneuver SIU members recently put their skills on display when they helped to flawlessly perform a technical maneuver at sea. The crews of the USNS Dahl and the USNS Montford Point executed a “skin to skin” (S2S) operation in July in the Pacific, in order to demonstrate the unique seabasing capabilities of civilian-crewed Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessels. The USNS Montford Point is operated by Ocean Shipholdings, while the USNS Dahl is operated by Patriot Contract Services. In a S2S operation, the ships navigate alongside and are moored together. During the maneuver, the Montford Point acted as a floating pier, while the Dahl simulated the offloading of vehicles and equipment. While in this case no equipment was transferred, during a real operation, vehicles and other cargoes are moved between the vessels via the Montford Point’s ramp. The two vessels repeated the operation twice more in subsequent days, to show how routinely the ships can complete a S2S maneuver. According to MSC, the Montford Point is categorized as an expeditionary floating pierat-sea. The ship is part of Maritime Prepositioning Ships Squadron (MPSRON) 3, and is assigned to the Marine Corps. Among other services, the Montford Point can provide a pier-at-sea to move and transfer cargo from large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) ships onto landing craft air cushion (LCAC) vessels that can dock with the Montford Point. When the Montford Point is on a mission, the ship submerges to about 40 feet while underway to the area of operations. Once on Mariners gather (photo above) near the vessels, with the vehicle transfer ramp in the background. In the photo at right below, the Montford Point (right) and Dahl connect for the exercise. In the remaining photo, two Navy captains observe from the USNS Dahl as the USNS Montford Point approaches in the Pacific. station it submerges to about 50 feet, so that the LCACs can maneuver onto the mission deck to pick up cargo. A Navy officer recently lauded the Montford Point’s “unique capability” within the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility. The flexibility of the Montford Point also allows the vessel to be useful for humanitarian disaster response as well as warfighter support. According to the Navy, the main advantage of the pier-at-sea concept is the mobility of the two ships. That maneuverability allows the floating pier to remain mobile, thus making them a less-opportunistic target for enemy combatants. The makeshift pier can operate 25 miles off shore and still provide support for the military services. 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: September 2016 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 9 �NFL Kickoff Has Strong Union Connection As many union members celebrate the start of another NFL season, some may not be aware that they are also cheering for their union brothers taking the field. Despite the high-profile occupations of its members, the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) is an AFLCIO affiliate union just like the SIU and dozens of others. The NFLPA was formed in 1956, and represents both former and current NFL players. Since its inception, the union has fought against the league’s owners over many issues that ring true for all union members, including clean, safe uniforms and equipment; a minimum wage; health insurance; and even direct deposit. “The locker room is a workplace, the football field is a workplace,” said the NFLPA’s Public Policy Counsel Joe Briggs, explaining the many similarities between the NFLPA and other unions. NMC Posts Update Relating to Mariner Credential Exams The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC) in late July announced that in order to comply with updated laws, the agency “will cease public disclosure of examination questions and other information related to exams.” Specifically, the NMC noted that the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2015 “requires several actions regarding merchant mariner credentialing…. The Coast Guard is actively engaged in these actions and will publish additional information as it becomes available.” In place of the exam questions, the NMC has posted an outline of merchant mariner examination topics along with sample questions. Moreover, the agency reported that it “intends to remove the current back of examination questions and illustrations from the National Maritime Center website on or about Sept. 1, 2016” (after this issue of the LOG went to press). Questions or feedback regarding the sample examinations may be made by email at IASKNMC@uscg.mil or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888427-5662), or by using the agency’s online chat or ticketing system. The latter resources are linked in a July 28 post in the News section of the SIU website and are available on the NMC website: www.uscg.mil/nmc “Each of the 32 teams has a player representative, or shop steward,” he added during a July 19 gathering at AFL-CIO headquarters in Washington, D.C. According to a video produced by the NFLPA, “Winning in this sport takes more than toughness on the field – it takes a union.” And the history of the NFL supports that claim, as the sport Americans know and love would look vastly different if not for the influence of the NFLPA. A league minimum wage, free agency, and even the ability for fans to purchase a player’s jersey all came to fruition through contract negotiations between the league and the NFLPA. In modern times, the NFLPA has fought for member benefits that are commonplace for much smaller shops. “In 2011, only 10 teams paid players via direct deposit. The rest of the league could hand players checks for hundreds of thousands of dollars every Sunday,” remarked Briggs, who added the union won that initiative. While workplace safety is critical for every union member, the NFLPA has always had to fight an uphill battle against the league to have their concerns recognized and heard, Briggs said. As part of the very first negotiations, the NFLPA’s first president, John Mackey, had three demands. “In the first round of bargaining, the guys wanted three things: clean uniforms, a $5,000 minimum wage, and injury insurance. All three requests were denied by the league,” said Briggs. Eventually the league and the union would work together to make the game safer – and more profitable – for members and owners alike. Sixty years later, the game has seen many improvements to player safety, due in large part to the NFLPA fighting tirelessly for their members. As part of the NFLPA’s most recent contract renegotiation in 2011, an agreement was reached with the league to remove “two-a-day” practices, and limit the number of full-pad practices to 14 times a season. These changes were in response to the growing concerns of the players in relation to the risk of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) cause by concussions. The NFL may have a league average salary that leaves many union members green with envy, but the football players who take the field on Sundays are nevertheless union-made. Their workplace struggles mirror many who fight for workers’ rights every day, and their success stands as a shining example of what can be accomplished thanks to collective bargaining. SHBP Notice to Seafarers Plan Offers New Tobacco Cessation Benefits The advantages of quitting smoking are well known, but quitting is difficult. If you are thinking of quitting, the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) has a new benefit to help you. The Plan now offers tobacco cessation benefits, in partnership with CIGNA, to assist you in your effort to stop smoking or using tobacco. This program is available to all eligible members, their spouses, and their children over age 18. The program includes nicotine replacement, as well as coaching services, and other online tools and resources. Anyone who enrolls in the program will receive an eight-week supply of nicotine patches or 12 weeks of nicotine gum. To enroll, contact CIGNA/CareAllies at 1-866-4177848. Tobacco is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the U.S. The benefits of quitting smoking include reduced risk of cancer, lung disease, stroke, heart disease, eye disease and osteoporosis. Smoking not only harms the smoker, but exposure to secondhand smoke increases health risk to non-smokers as well. Each year, thousands of young chil- dren and babies become ill because they live in the home of a smoker. More information about the risks of tobacco and the benefits of quitting are available at www. smokefree.gov. If you or a member of your family are trying to stop smoking or using tobacco, we encourage you to take advantage of this new benefit. The SHBP sent information regarding this benefit to all participants in a letter dated July 15. If you did not receive the letter, or have any questions about this benefit, please contact the Plan at 1-800-252-4674. Sailors’ Snug Harbor Still Assisting Retired Mariners A charity with more than 200 years of experience in serving retired mariners is still committed to that goal, and now aims to help even more men and women by using a fresh approach. The Trustees of the Sailors’ Snug Harbor (SSH) was incorporated in 1806 as the result of a bequest made by Captain Robert Richard Randall, a wealthy New York merchant. It was Captain Randall’s desire to have his estate utilized to assist “aged, decrepit and wornout seamen….” While in the past SSH operated retirement facilities for mariners in Sea Level, North Carolina, and Staten Island, New York, today they assist mariners in their home communities where they are more likely to be near family and friends. The SSH is one of the oldest secular charities in the country, whose mission is to financially aid retired career mariners with a proven need of assistance. More than 16,500 mariners have been assisted since its inception. While the SSH helps many mariners every day, even more eligible mariners may be unaware of the possible financial assistance available. Previously exclusive to deep sea mariners, SSH has recently added inland mariners to their eligibility criteria. In order to qualify for financial assistance from SSH, a retired mariner must be able to demonstrate they have a need for financial assistance and meet the following requirements: n 2,555 days of deep sea time, at least five years on U.S.-flagged ships or 14 years working on inland waters n 65 years of age or older or on disability (some exceptions may be made) n Proven need for financial assistance n An individual with at least $50,000 in assets will not be eligible (primary residence excluded) n All public benefits available to a mariner must be accessed (if eligible) before any subsidy from SSH is approved – for example, VA benefits, Medicaid, food stamps etc. Each interested mariner must complete an application that requires detailed information about present living arrangements, financial history, and more. The application can be found online at www.thesailorssnugharbor. org or by calling SSH at 1-888-2575456. Seakay Spirit Sails in Houston Seafarer John Cox submitted this photo of the Keystone-operated vessel transiting the Houston Ship Channel in early August. 10 Seafarers LOG September 2016 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU EARNEST UPDATE FROM USNS WHEELER – Vessel master Capt. Glenn Macario submitted this description and accompanying photo from the Tote Services vessel: “Recently the crew of the USNS VADM K.R. Wheeler took a break from dodging blame, shirking responsibility, and embellishing their accomplishments. In a show of solidarity, ship’s pride (and to escape work for 20 minutes), all available hands assembled at the newlypainted gangway with the ship’s new gangway banner, wearing their new “Wheeler Crew” Tshirts and shooting the “Wheeler crew” (WC) gang symbol. On the gangway from left to right: AB Jay “are we done yet” Aki; 3/M John “I will not miss this in retirement” Robbins; Captain Glenn “you guys only like me when I do payroll” Macario; Chief Engineer Frank “step aside captain” Celino; Bosun Jerry “I had nothing to do with this” Gonzaga; 2/M Chris “can I go home now?” Kali; QMED D.J. “I don’t know these guys” Signal. On the ground from left to right: C/M Mark “yes I am taking the credit for this” Kerr; AB Walter “good, they can’t see my face” Lichota; 3 A/E Chris “this is not so bad” Gilman; 3 A/E Royce “they can still see me” Dudley; First Engineer Shannon “what is that bright thing in the sky?” Wilson; 3 A/E Roy “I’d rather be in the Philippines” Coleman; 3/M Joe “five and a wake up” Newhouse; 2 A/E Chris “Mongo” Rich; 3/M Tommaso “I signed up for THIS?” Giannetti; Wiper Jarvis “my first ship and I’m scarred for life” Carter; AB James “this sure beats needle gunning” Wynegar. Not pictured are AB Kevin “drone man” Hanmont (sleeping/off watch), Chief Steward Ramon Tolosa and Cook Rommel Reston (in the galley preparing/burning lunch). Proof once again that Wheeler is one big happy (though slightly dysfunctional) family.” WELCOME ASHORE IN HOUSTON – Two recertified bosuns – each with 40 years in the SIU – recently wrapped up their respective seagoing careers. Harold Sebring is at right in the photo above at left, with Patrolman Joe Zavala, while Billy Hill is at left in the photo at right, with Patrolman J.B. Niday. Both Seafarers picked up their first pension checks at the Houston hall. ABOARD APL BELGIUM – Chief Steward Thomas Johnson (right) submitted this photo of SIU steward department members on the APL Belgium, on Independence Day. From left: Chief Cook Benjamin Feria, ACU David Simon and Chief Steward Johnson. ABOARD PERLA DEL CARIBE – Chief Cook Ingrid OrtizR o s a r i o helps keep fellow mariners well-fed aboard the Tote Services-oper ated vessel. FULL BOOK ABOARD FERRY – Seafarer Paul Sprieser (right), a captain with NY Waterway, recently picked up his full union book. Presenting it is Patrolman Ray Henderson. ABOARD YORKTOWN EXPRESS – Recertified Bosun Patrick Ray is pictured on the Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning ship this summer. September 2016 WELCOME ASHORE IN JACKSONVILLE – QMED/Electrician Rene Rosario (left) receives his first pension check at the union hall, from Patrolman Joseph Koncul. Rosario’s career spanned 40 years. Seafarers LOG 11 �Eleven Bosuns Ascend Ladder to Top, Achieve Recertified Status Eleven deck department Seafarers recently recorded the crowning achievements of their respective upgrading careers when they graduated from the Bosun Recertification course at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Maryland. In recognition of their ascent to the summit of the deck department hierarchy, each received certificates Aug. 8 during the union’s membership meeting at the PHC. The graduates—Bosuns Kenny Abrahamson, Bernard Baker, James Blitch, David Denizac, Paul Inniss, Karl Mayhew, Hussein Mohamed, Noel Otero, Ritche Acuman, Ron Sagadraca and Tecumseh Williams—also addressed union officials, fellow upgraders, trainees and guests who attended the meeting. Collectively, they expressed their gratitude for the opportunities they have been afforded to enhance their skills, improve their lives and those of their families, and become better shipmates to their brothers and sisters aboard SIUcontracted vessels. In addition, each thanked the union leadership for its continued support, and the PHC vocational and hotel staffs for their excellent instruction and accommodations, respectively. Finally, they acknowledged a host of other individuals who played key roles in their successes. Bernard Baker Baker was the first to take the podium. He sails out of the Port of St. Louis and has returned to the school nine previous times to improve his skills. Baker signed on with the union in 1993 in Honolulu. “I have been sailing for 46 years … 23 in the Navy and 23 with the SIU,” he told the audience. “The union has been my lifeline after leaving the Navy. It has given me a place to use the leadership skills I acquired in the Navy and has taught me a great deal not only about deck seamanship but also about the Brotherhood of the Sea.” Baker then expressed his appreciation to the school and the union’s leadership for supporting him over the years. “I would like to thank the instructors and staff of the school—past and presRecertified Bosun ent—for all the help and enBernard Baker couragement they have given me throughout the years,” he said. “I also thank the union leadership for all their hard work protecting our jobs.” In closing, Baker offered words of encouragement to the apprentices who were in attendance. “You are the future of the union,” he said “Learn as much as you can so that you can position yourselves to become the leaders of the SIU’s future. Listen, learn and never be afraid to ask questions.” James Blitch Blitch sails from the Port of Jacksonville and has been a member of the SIU family since 1979. “I was a member of Class 275-B,” he told the audience. “Sailing in the deck department as ordinary seaman, able bodied seaman and as bosun, I have sailed around the world a dozen times. The union has provided me and my family the ability to enjoy the life of a proud American and proud union member.” He then recognized the school’s instructors and the union’s leadership for their respective contributions toward his career accomplishments, saying: “I would like to thank everyone at the school for their instruction and help. Every time I return to the school, you have become more professional and helpful. “The union leaders’ hard work at headquarters and the training at the school have secured jobs for the future,” he continued. “All Seafarers are grateful to you.” He then reminded his brothers and sisters of the importance of being politically active and how it benefits the entire organization. “SPAD is one thing we should not forget because it works for all of us,” Blitch said. He encouraged everyone to supRecertified Bosun port SPAD by continuing James Blitch to make donations. 12 Seafarers LOG “You trainees should always remember this: You have the opportunity to live the life others only dream of,” he said to the apprentices in closing. “It’s (sailing) long hours of hard work that will pay you back ten-fold. Always remember the men and women who came before you and make them proud. “Don’t forget to vote in all elections,” he added. Hussein Mohamed Mohamed hails from the Port of Wilmington. He joined the SIU in 1997 in Honolulu and on three previous occasions has upgraded his skills in Piney Point. “The union has been important in my life because if it were not for the SIU, I would not be standing here in front of you,” he said. The son and grandson of former SIU members, Mohamed said, “The SIU gave me the opportunity to improve myself and be able to support my family. I am proud to be a part of the SIU and I strongly encourage all union members to come to the school and upgrade your skills in order to advance your careers. Many thanks to Recertified Bosun the staff and instructors at the Hussein Mohamed Paul Hall Center for a great job here at the school.” Turning his attention to the leadership, Mohamed thanked officials for their efforts that have benefitted the membership. “I would like to give thanks to the union leadership for all their hard work preserving and protecting our jobs, he said. “For them to continue to protect our industry, they need our help. We need to donate to SPAD and exercise our right to vote, especially this year.” Addressing the apprentices, he said, “You are the future of the SIU. Study hard, work hard and listen to your instructors.” He closed by advising all members present that it is vital to return to the school as often as possible to upgrade their skills. Kenny Abrahamson Abrahamson sails from the Port of Oakland. A Seafarer since 1998, he was member of Paul Hall Center Apprentice Class 574. Prior to attending the bosun recertification class, Abrahamson returned to the school on three previous to enhance his skills. “I have sailed to every continent and have crossed every ocean,” he said upon taking the podium. “Seeing the world has given me a unique opportunity to appreciate being an American, an experience that would not have been possible without the SIU. “The union has been important in my life because it has provided me with a career in which I can support my family and handle a mortgage,” he continued. “I appreciate all of the hard work the union leadership has done to make my career possible and the things they Recertified Bosun still do to protect our jobs and Kenny Abrahamson our fleet. During my visit to headquarters, I got to see how dedicated they all are to us and our future.” He added that rank-and-file support is crucial when it comes to protecting jobs and the industry. “We can do this by being professionals at work, upgrading the skills we need to do our jobs and donating to SPAD,” Abrahamson stated. “We donate to SPAD so we can have a voice in Washington.” Abrahamson also told those present to be politically active by voting in the upcoming union as well as national elections. “Apply yourselves while you are here,” he urged the apprentices in closing. “When you get aboard ships, work hard and pay attention to the old timers.” Ron Sagadraca A union member since 1983, Sagadraca donned the SIU colors in Honolulu. He calls the Port of Wilmington home and has upgraded his skills at the school on two prior occasions. “I’ve been sailing for 33 years,” Sagadraca told his union brothers and sisters. “It’s an honor to be here today. The union has provided me with a solid foundation throughout my career. I could not have achieved what I have without the professionalism and support of the staff and instructors here at the school and our leadership at headquarters.” Reflecting on the training he received during the recertification curriculum, he said it was a great experience and a wonderful learning opportunity. “I would like to thank the committee and my peers Recertified Bosun for selecting me to be a memRon Sagadraca ber of this bosun recertification class,” he said. “It gave me a broad vision and greater understanding of how hard the SIU works for us.” He added that the knowledge he gained during his training would make him a more effective leader aboard his vessel. “I will now be able to provide crew members with accurate information on how the union really works,” he said. “Hopefully, this will groom and guide them into becoming more professional mariners and better representatives for the SIU.” Sagadraca closed by offering the trainees encouragement in their studies and best wishes for successful careers. “Study hard, listen to your instructors and don’t forget to vote in the upcoming union and national elections,” he said. Tecumseh Williams Williams has been sailing under the SIU colors since 1977. He joined in Norfolk, Virginia, the same port which he currently calls home. Williams expressed his gratitude to all involved for the wealth of new knowledge he gained about the SIU and maritime industry as a result of attending the class. “I thank everyone involved for this opportunity to get into the bosun recertification course,” he said. “During this training, I learned a lot of things about the union that I didn’t know.” Williams said he was especially impressed with his visit to headquarters. It was there that he and his classmates received an upclose and personal look at the things that go on quietly behind the scenes which help keep the organization running. “I learned a lot about what our officials do on a Recertified Bosun daily basis on behalf of the Tecumseh Williams union’s membership,” he said. “They work very hard to get and keep our jobs and protect our industry.” He thanked the school’s instructors and staff for making his Piney Point experience a memorable one. “The instructors did a great job and the staff was very supportive,” he said. “I thank them all as well as my classmates for making my trip here informative and rewarding. “The SIU is a great career,” he said to the apprentices in closing. “Work hard and upgrade.” Ritche Acuman Acuman was next to address the meeting. An SIU member since 2002, he signed on in the Port of San Francisco. He sails from the Port of Oakland and on six previous instances has upgraded his skills at the PHC. “In 1992, I graduated in the Philippines with a bachelor of science in marine transportation,” he said. “After my graduation, I was able to sail right away. Working on a ship has always been my passion. “Since joining the SIU in San Francisco, I can say without a shadow of a doubt that my career has blossomed,” he continued. “Since joining the union, I am living the American dream.” Recertified Bosun Ritche Acuman Acuman said he feels September 2016 “fortunate that I found the SIU” and added, “It’s an honor to be a part of it. I now have a stable income, extra money to help my family here and my relatives back home in the Philippines and peace of mind in knowing that there will always be a job for me and for all of us. There are lots of opportunities out there waiting for us to take advantage of them.” Addressing the apprentices, Acuman said that if they demonstrate perseverance, they have an excellent chance to realize their career goals. “Be open-minded, be hungry, believe in yourselves and stay focused on your goals,” he said. “Always conduct yourselves in a professional manner regardless of the situation you may face because you are ambassadors for the SIU.” Acuman then thanked the union officials – including those based at headquarters and Oakland, respectively – for the hard work they have done on behalf him and the rest of the membership. He also expressed his gratitude to the PHC instructors and staff. “I would not be here today of God had not blessed me with good people who supported me 100 percent,” he said. “Last but not least (I thank) my lovely wife, Myrel, for always being there for me and my children who keep me grounded,” he concluded. “Before I return to my seat, I want to share a passage from the Bible with you: In Philippians 4:13, it says I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.” Paul Inniss Inniss, who joined the union in 2001 in New York and who currently ships from the Jersey City, New Jersey, hall, upgraded in Piney Point two other times before entering the recertification class. He described his recent experience at the school as “very educational.” Additionally, Innis said he particularly enjoyed meeting with headquarters officials and gaining new insights about both the SIU and its affiliated school. He credited officials and staff members with promptly and accurately answering his questions on Recertified Bosun various topics. Paul Inniss During the class, Innis also fondly recalled becoming part of the SIU when his old labor organization (the National Maritime Union) merged into the Seafarers. The merger helped him stick with a career he finds meaningful. “I come from a seafaring background – my uncles sailed,” he noted. “There are many reasons I love being a seaman. I love my job and it’s good money, too.” Noel Otero A proud union member since 1999, Otero was next to address his brothers and sisters. He sails from the Port of San Juan. “Yes, I’m another tall, good looking guy from San Juan, Puerto Rico,” he said in a friendly reference to Port Agent Amancio Crespo. “Today, I am a proud member of another prestigious bosun recertification class. I am ready to take on another job and to continue my seaworthy career with the SIU.” Reflecting on past events that led him to donning the SIU colors, Otero offered, “It is with happiness and sorrow that I remember my first days as an ordinary seaman. After 10 years of continuous service, I was laid off from a hotel at which I had been working.” Recertified Bosun It was at that point that he Noel Otero discovered the SIU. “I took on the challenge that this great organization offered me,” he recalled. Job security has not been an issue for him since those early days; but he has noticed the maritime transportation business fluctuating before his eyes. “The maritime industry has changed tremendously since then,” he said. “Every time we look around, another new rule or regulatory amendment comes across our bow.” Otero pointed out that given the emphasis on vessel safety and the constant threat of maritime terrorism on September 2016 At the conclusion of the membership meeting, the 11 newly recertified bosuns joined for this group photo. Pictured from left to right are: Karl Mayhew, Noel Otero, David Denizac, Paul Inniss, Ritche Acuman, Bernard Baker, Hussein Mohamed, Kenny Abrahamson, James Blitch, Ron Sagadraca and Tecumseh Williams. the high seas, mariners must always be at the top of their game where education and professionalism are concerned. “It is comforting and assuring to know that we belong to a union that prepares its members in the highest levels of maritime science and safety so that operators will be assured of success,” he said. “This secures a great future for members and their families as well.” After wishing the trainees the very best in their careers, he reminded them of the importance of returning to the school to hone their skills. “This maritime center for training and education has been a lighthouse for those lost at sea … and with our support and participation, it will continue to be an industry icon,” he said. Karl Mayhew Mayhew hails from the Port of Jersey City. An SIU member since 2001, he signed on in New York. Brother Mayhew has upgraded his skills on 12 previous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. “I am proud to be a member of the SIU,” he said. “I have been fortunate to ship from the port of New York and Jersey City since 1990.” Mayhew told the audience that it is vitally important for them as mariners to always carry and conduct themselves as professionals. “You should do this whether you are in one of our union hiring halls, here at the school or on a ship,” he said. Recertified Bosun “Treat other people like you Karl Mayhew would like to be treated.” Reflecting on what being an SIU member has meant to him, Mayhew said that being a union member in good standing over the decades has made it finically possible to provide himself and his family a better standard of living. “Try maintaining an SIU standard of living with a non-union paying job. Good luck with that,” he said. Addressing the importance of political activity, Mayhew told those present that as they advanced in their careers—which is not just a job—they should give back in order to help those who follow them. “I honestly did not always appreciate the importance of our Seafarers Political Action Donation program” he said. “Without SPAD to help our elected officials inform everyone possible about what we professional mariners do, our union jobs could end up being eliminated in the future.” He reminded the audience that the SIU of Canada recently won a fight to make sure that their union members got first chance for employment on domestic ships. “Without SPAD, we would all have no chance,” he said. “Please let us all work together for our future.” He then thanked the union leadership for their hard work in protecting the membership’s future and jobs. Mayhew suggested that union members should demonstrate their appreciation to the organization by always doing their best on the job. “To do this, we must make a commitment to continually upgrading our maritime skills here at one of the best Coast Guard-approved training facilities in the United States,” he said. “Also, please vote in our union and presidential elections this November. “I would like to thank the good instructors here at this school, especially Peggy Densford in the academic department for her help with our speeches,” he continued. “All the great people here do such a good job of making our school run so well, day in and year out, they should be commended.” He then sent shout-outs to union officials on the dais and at the Jersey City Hall—including Port Agent Bobby Selzer—for all they do. “To the trainees, never be afraid to ask questions and please try to learn from your instructors while you are here,” Mayhew said in closing. “One of the more important lessons you’ll face is learning how to work together as a team with your classmates. “Teamwork is vital in doing our jobs,” he concluded. David Denizac Denizac was the final graduate to address his peers. He sails from the Port of Jacksonville, joined the union in New York and has enhanced his sills on four previous occasions in Piney Point. “I have been sailing for 30 years,” he said. “The union has been important in my life because I am able to have a job and a house. If not for the SIU, I would not have all of these things. “I would like to thank the union leadership for their hard work and all the things they do to protect our jobs,” he said. “During my visit to headquarters I saw firsthand their work as a team. I send thanks to Mike, Augie, George, David, Maggie, Ambrose, Bobby, Kermett, Jack and Archie. “I would not be here today if God didn’t bless me with good people who supported me 100 percent,” he added. Denizac then thanked the school’s instructors and staff for the support they provided to him and his classmates. He urged the apprentices to study hard and always put their best efforts forward. “I encourage everyone to Recertified Bosun vote,” he added. David Denizac Seafarers LOG 13 �For Every Part of Your Life From buying a home or a car to savings on wireless service and travel, Union Plus provides money-saving benefits and services uniquely designed to meet the needs of union members and their families. Learn more at UnionPlus.org SAVINGS • SERVICE • SOLIDARITY 9/16 SIU-EP-08-15-16 14 Seafarers LOG September 2016 �September & October Membership Meetings Piney Point.........*Tuesday: September 6, Monday: October 3 Algonac....................................Friday: September 9, October 7 Baltimore...........................Thursday: September 8, October 6 Guam...............................Thursday: September 22, October 20 Honolulu...............................Friday: September 16, October 14 Houston..........Monday: September 12, **Tuesday: October 11 Jacksonville........................Thursday: September 8, October 6 Joliet.................................Thursday: September 15, October 13 Mobile........................Wednesday: September 14, October 12 New Orleans......................Tuesday: September 13, October 11 Jersey City............................Tuesday: September 6, October 4 Norfolk...............................Thursday: September 8, October 6 Oakland...........................Thursday: September 15 October 13 Philadelphia....................Wednesday: September 7, October 5 Port Everglades................Thursday: September 15, October 13 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea July16, 2016 - August 15, 2016 Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS San Juan...........................Thursday: September 8, October 6 St. Louis..............................Friday: September 16. October 14 Tacoma.................................Friday: September 23, October 21 Wilmington...........................Monday: September 19, October 17 *Piney Point Change created by Labor Day Holiday **Houston change created by Columbus Day Holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Help Us Help You! Donate to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation) September 2016 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 Total Registered Total Shipped Registered on Beach All Groups A B C All Groups Trip All Groups A B C Reliefs A B C Deck Department 16 9 3 16 4 2 6 28 14 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 10 6 2 3 2 1 2 10 6 2 15 13 4 17 8 1 2 31 22 4 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 7 3 0 16 2 0 10 2 1 4 24 4 1 6 7 1 8 5 0 2 18 9 1 58 10 9 45 9 6 27 102 20 8 30 14 4 34 10 5 15 72 25 3 50 17 3 24 6 1 17 85 25 4 6 3 1 1 2 1 1 9 4 0 8 3 1 7 2 2 5 14 6 1 21 20 1 19 9 0 10 43 27 2 13 7 0 10 6 0 4 32 7 0 8 0 0 6 1 2 2 11 3 2 3 3 0 4 3 0 5 3 3 0 8 2 0 3 3 0 2 10 5 0 24 8 3 27 5 1 7 64 19 5 2 5 2 0 2 0 0 3 3 1 24 14 4 28 13 1 8 55 22 3 319 144 39 264 92 24 119 621 228 39 Engine Department 2 4 1 1 2 1 0 5 6 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 3 7 2 1 5 1 1 5 7 1 6 3 1 7 2 0 2 11 6 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 5 4 0 0 0 0 0 6 3 0 4 4 0 5 3 0 1 17 14 0 13 10 2 9 4 1 6 33 13 2 21 12 3 16 9 1 7 34 30 4 13 11 2 9 2 1 1 26 13 1 2 1 0 2 2 0 0 5 2 0 7 2 1 4 4 0 3 9 4 2 16 10 1 8 13 0 7 25 17 1 10 3 0 6 2 0 0 21 8 2 3 2 1 2 3 0 0 5 3 1 3 3 2 0 4 0 1 3 2 2 3 6 0 7 8 0 5 5 6 0 10 6 1 16 4 1 6 27 10 2 0 2 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 9 8 1 8 5 0 3 24 20 1 131 98 19 102 73 6 43 264 166 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 Steward Department 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 3 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 6 0 0 2 0 0 0 6 0 0 10 4 0 5 2 0 1 19 5 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 2 1 0 1 8 1 0 5 2 0 8 1 0 4 20 2 0 16 4 1 16 4 0 6 45 11 1 18 10 1 17 6 0 6 34 13 1 18 2 0 9 3 0 3 18 3 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 2 1 1 0 2 1 0 6 3 0 20 8 2 13 3 0 9 26 14 4 14 4 1 12 3 0 6 32 5 3 1 0 0 3 0 0 1 4 0 0 2 0 0 1 2 0 1 4 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 0 2 5 6 0 13 4 0 12 2 0 4 18 4 1 1 0 0 3 0 0 2 1 0 0 15 2 4 15 4 1 4 24 5 4 147 48 10 121 36 2 50 274 79 15 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonvi lle Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 0 12 5 1 6 2 2 5 20 5 0 0 2 0 2 2 0 0 0 2 1 2 0 0 0 1 0 1 2 0 1 6 5 0 6 1 0 2 3 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 1 1 3 0 1 2 0 1 1 2 5 1 2 3 0 1 7 10 6 4 4 6 3 3 2 8 29 11 3 7 18 0 10 14 3 4 23 49 4 15 4 3 10 2 2 5 22 4 0 2 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 1 3 0 1 0 0 2 2 1 0 14 4 0 12 11 2 0 23 14 2 7 6 3 8 5 5 2 22 8 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 1 0 6 5 0 4 0 3 0 1 3 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 6 7 7 3 8 10 4 9 10 17 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 13 18 1 0 8 0 2 22 49 27 103 87 20 77 63 25 45 192 181 All Departments: 624 393 155 507 278 95 237 1,204 665 257 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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by SIU members at the union hall in Honolulu, Hawaii. Please note that information about absentee voting is available online at www.vote411.org, www.fvap.gov and through other sources. Question: Do you plan to vote in November and why? Mark Canada QMED Yes. I believe it is my right and my responsibility because of my background and the struggles of my forefathers. I have voted in every election. Julius Udan AB Yes, if I am not at sea, because I want to help Democrats. Jaime Austria Chief Cook I would like to if I am not out at sea. I want to see a change in the government. Erni Lizada Chief Cook Yes, if I am here. I want a better future for everybody. Paul Newman DEU Yes, because my vote counts. Getolio Medallo QMED Yes, we need a change and I like Hillary. ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1730 Jefferson St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Pic From The Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Originally published in an August 1946 issue of the LOG, this snapshot features SIU members gathering in Philadelphia for a special meeting which included a review of a newly signed contract between the union and the Mississippi and Waterman Steamship Companies. Reaction to the contract was extremely favorable, as noted in the accompanying article, which read in part: “The signing of the terrific contract with the Waterman and the Mississippi Steamship Companies was the occasion for a large special meeting. All of the men present, and there were quite a few, wanted to take the deck to talk about the glorious victory we won over the operators. There is no doubt about it: this is the best contract ever won by any union of merchant seamen. In this, as in all other matter that concern men who go to sea for a living, the SIU leads the field.” 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 September 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 MICHAEL ALGHAFEILI Brother Michael Alghafeili, 68, joined the SIU in 2002. His first trip was aboard the Atlantic Guardian. Brother Alghafeili sailed in the deck department. He upgraded in 2007 and 2015 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Alghafeili last worked on the Cape Washington. He was born in Minneapolis and now calls Baltimore home. MOHAMED ALJAHMI Brother Mohamed Aljahmi, 65, became a union member in 2003. He initially worked on the Abby G. Brother Aljahmi sailed in the steward department. Brother Aljahmi’s most recent voyage was aboard the Maersk Montana. He makes his home in Brooklyn, New York. JOHN COLEMAN Brother John Coleman, 66, started sailing with the union in 1967. His first trip was aboard the Neva West. Brother Coleman enhanced his skills on two occasions at the Piney Point school. The engine department member last shipped on the Cape Hudson. Brother Coleman lives in Berkley, California. GERALD COOPER Brother Gerald Cooper, 65, joined the SIU ranks in 1971. He originally sailed on the Fairland. Brother Cooper shipped in the engine department. He upgraded twice at the Seafarersaffiliated school in southern Maryland. Brother Cooper’s most recent ship was the USNS Bellatrix. He is a resident of Schenectady, New York. DENNIS GAFFNEY Brother Dennis Gaffney, 66, first donned the SIU colors in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He was a deck department member. Brother Gaffney upgraded in 2000 and 2001 at the Piney Point school. He last worked on the Overseas Nikiski. Brother Gaffney lives in Anacortes, Washington. EUGENE GRANTHAM Brother Eugene Grantham, 61, began sailing with the union in 1971. He was first employed on the Longview Victory. Brother Grantham enhanced his skills often at the Paul Hall Cen- September 2016 ter. The deck department member most recently worked aboard the Charleston Express. Brother Grantham makes his home in Tylertown, Mississippi. on with the SIU in 1982. His first trip was on the LNG Aries. Brother O’Connell attended classes often at the Paul Hall Center. He worked in the deck department, most recently aboard the Pacific Collector. Brother O’Connell resides in Hyde Park, Massachusetts. DOUGLAS GREINER KENNETH PELL Brother Douglas Greiner, 65, joined the union in 1967. His first ship was the Sea Del; his most recent, the Horizon Discovery. Brother Greiner worked in both the steward and engine departments. He upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Greiner resides in Pleasant Valley, New York. Brother Kenneth Pell, 63, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1969. He originally sailed aboard the Commander. A member of the engine department, Brother Pell last shipped on the USNS Petersburg. He was born in New Orleans and now makes his home in Atkinson, North Carolina. AMANTE GUMIRAN Brother Amante Gumiran, 66, signed on with the Seafarers in 1990. His first trip was on the Independence. In 2006, Brother Gumiran took advantage of educational opportunities available at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. He was born in the Philippines and sailed in the deck department. Brother Gumiran last sailed aboard the Endurance. He lives in Livermore, California. GEORGE LUBIALULI Brother George Lubialuli, 66, became an SIU member in 2001. He sailed in the deck department, most recently aboard the Great Land. Brother Lubialuli was born in Kenya but calls SeaTac, Washington, home. EDWIN MANZANO Brother Edwin Manzano, 65, began shipping with the SIU in 1996. He initially worked on the OMI Star. Brother Manzano, who sailed in the deck department, enhanced his skills in 2000 at the Piney Point school. His most recent voyage was aboard the Overseas Chinook. Brother Manzano calls Houston home. ERRICK NOBLES Brother Errick Nobles, 66, joined the Seafarers in 1977. He first sailed aboard the Mary, as a member of the steward department. Brother Nobles upgraded frequently at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point. He last shipped in the deck department on the Overseas Tampa. Brother Nobles is a resident of Mobile, Alabama. JOHN O’CONNELL Brother John O’Connell, 59, signed WILLIAM PERRY Brother William Perry, 57, joined the union in 1980. He initially worked aboard the Overseas Natalie. Brother Perry enhanced his skills on numerus occasions at the Piney Point school. He was born in Norfolk, Virginia, and sailed in the steward department. Brother Perry’s most recent ship was the Maersk Ohio. He continues to call Norfolk home. BRIAN POST Brother Brian Post, 66, became a Seafarer in 1991. His first trip was on the USNS Chauvenet. Brother Post worked in the deck department. His last vessel was the 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez. Brother Post lives in Fresno, California. JAMES RADER Brother James Rader, 65, first donned the SIU colors in 1973. He originally sailed on the Gateway CT. Brother Rader enhanced his skills frequently at the Piney Point school. He was a member of the deck department and last shipped aboard the Cape Horn. Brother Rader is a resident of Morgan Hill, California. RAYNALDO RAMIREZ Brother Raynaldo Ramirez, 66, signed on with SIU during the SIU/ NMU merger in 2001. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Ramirez’s most recent voyage was aboard the Charleston. He resides in Houston. JULIO ROMAN Brother Julio Roman, 73, began shipping with the Marine Cooks & Stewards in 1979. His initial trip was on the President Pierce. Brother Roman upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. He last sailed aboard the Cape Jacob. The steward department member calls Tacoma, Washington, home. LINDA ROTTER Sister Linda Rotter, 67, became a union member in 1989. She was initially employed on the Independence. Sister Rotter worked in the steward department and enhanced her skills frequently at the Piney Point school. Her last trip was on the Charger. Sister Rotter lives in Hilo, Hawaii. ROBERTO SOLANO Brother Roberto Solano, 65, joined the Seafarers in 2000. He originally shipped aboard the Independence. Brother Solano was a member of the steward department. He most recently worked on the Maersk Wisconsin. Brother Solano calls Bronx, New York, home. LONZELL SYKES Brother Lonzell Sykes, 66, started his SIU career in 1988. He first worked aboard a Bay Tankers vessel. Brother Sykes sailed in the steward department. In 1990, he attended classes at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Sykes last shipped aboard Cape Judy. He is a resident of Chesapeake, Virginia. CHARLES TURNER Brother Charles Turner, 68, first donned the SIU colors in 1999. He initially worked on the USNS Petersburg; his final ship was the Horizon Pacific. The deck department member upgraded in 2001 at the union-affiliated school. Brother Turner makes his home in Incline Village, Nevada. WENDELL WILMOTH Brother Wendell Wilmoth, 66, began his SIU career in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. Brother Wilmoth was a deck department member. His most recent ship was the Overseas Chinook. Brother Wilmoth enhanced his seafaring abilities twice at the Piney Point school. He lives in Plantation, Florida. INLAND JAMES ATKINSON Brother James Atkinson, 62, started shipping with the union in 1997. He originally worked with Virginia Pilot Corporation. Brother Atkinson sailed in the deck department. His final trip was with the Association of Maryland Pilots. Brother Atkinson settled in Virginia Beach, Virginia. JAMES KELLY Brother James Kelly, 63, began his seafaring career in 1974. He initially worked with Steuart Transportation Company. Brother Kelly sailed as a member of the deck department. On two occasions, he took advantage of educational opportunities available at the union-affiliated school in Maryland. Brother Kelly’s most recent trip was with Penn Maritime Inc. He has retired to Chesapeake, Virginia WAYNE SKAGGS Brother Wayne Skaggs, 62, started shipping with the union in 1996. He mainly sailed aboard vessels operated by Higman Barge Lines. Brother Skaggs worked in the deck department. He makes his home in Many, Louisiana. GREAT LAKES MICHAEL BUDNIK Brother Michael Budnik, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1970. He was first employed on the Lewis G. Harriman. Brother Budnik was a member of engine department. He last shipped aboard the American Republic. Brother Budnik resides in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. JAMES STETTER Brother James Stetter, 72, started sailing with the union in 2001. He originally sailed on the Indiana Harbor. Brother Stetter was born in Detroit. A deck department member, Brother Stetter last shipped aboard the St. Clair. He lives in Calumet, Michigan. JAMES TANK Brother James Tank, 63, became an SIU member in 1999. He was employed with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington for the duration of his career. Brother Tank, a deck department member, attended classes often at the Paul Hall Center. He is a resident of San Diego. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA BENITO CASTILLO Brother Benito Castillo, 59, died May 10. He became a union member in 2005. Brother Castillo initially worked on the Horizon Fairbanks. He was born in Honduras and shipped as a member of the deck department. Brother Castillo’s final ship was the TYCO Decisive. He made his home in Orlando, Florida. VINCENT EDER Brother Vincent Eder, 92, passed away January 17. He joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards in 1961, originally sailing on the Santa Maria. Brother Eder was born in the Philippines and shipped in the steward department. He last sailed aboard the President McKinley. Brother Eder called San Francisco home. RODOLFO JACKSON Pensioner Rodolfo Jackson, 73, died March 27. Born in Honduras, he started shipping with the Seafarers in 2007. Brother Jackson initially worked on the Pride of Aloha; his final ship was the Courage. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Jackson became a pensioner in 2015 and lived in Cutler Bay, Florida. DANIEL KRESCONKO Pensioner Daniel Kresconko, 73, passed away May 23. He signed on with the union in 1991. Brother Kresconko’s first ship was the Diamond State; his last was the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Kresconko began collecting his pension in 2008. He was born in Buffalo, New York, and most recently resided in South Daytona, Florida. MOHAMED MUNASSER Pensioner Mohamed Munasser, 63, died May 23. He joined the SIU in 1991. Brother Munasser was born in Yemen. He originally sailed on the Gopher State. Brother Munasser concluded his seafaring career aboard the APL Thailand. A member of the steward department, he started collecting his retirement compensation in 2014. Brother Munasser settled in Oakland, California. JOSEPH PUGLISI Pensioner Joseph Puglisi, 84, 18 Seafarers LOG passed away June 19. He began sailing with the union in 1952. Brother Puglisi first sailed with Pan Shipping Corporation. He worked in the deck department. Brother Puglisi’s final vessel was the Voyager. He retired in 1987 and made his home in Staten Island, New York. JOE MARTIN Pensioner Joe Martin, 81, died April 14. Brother Martin started sailing with the SIU in 1962. He was originally employed aboard the Overseas Ulla. Brother Martin sailed in the deck department. He last shipped on the Del Norte. Brother Martin went on pension in 1984 and was a resident of Gulfport, Mississippi. WILLIAM MILLS Pensioner William Mills, 76, passed away May 14. He became a union member in 1967. Brother Mills’ first trip was with Delta Steamship Lines. He sailed in the steward department, most recently aboard the Samuel L. Cobb. Brother Mills called West Sacramento, California, home. SHIGERU MORITANI Pensioner Shigeru Moritani, 95, died April 22. He began his SIU career in 1961. Brother Moritani was an engine department member. His most recent ship was the Mariner. Brother Moritani starting collecting his pension in 1987 and made his home in Kingston, Washington. MILOSZ RACIBORSKI Brother Milosz Raciborski, 59, passed away January 3. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1991. Brother Raciborski initially worked on the USNS Kane. He was born in Poland and shipped as a deck department member. Brother Raciborski’s final trip was aboard the Shughart. He lived in Poland. BRIAN REDOUTE Brother Brian Redoute, 58, died June 19. He was a native of Detroit. A member of the deck department, he first sailed on the Banner. Brother Redoute last worked aboard the 2nd Lt. John Paul Bobo. He was a resident of Dunnellon, Florida. EDWARD REDOUTE Brother Edward Redoute, 85, passed away. He joined the union in Detroit. Brother Redoute shipped in the deck department. He was born in Mt. Clemens, Michigan. Among other vessels, Brother Redoute sailed aboard the Paul H Carnahan. He settled in Harrison Township, Michigan.                       in 2003, Brother Enna was employed with Crescent Towing of New Orleans. He made his home in Metairie, Louisiana. JAMES ROBINSON Pensioner James Robinson, 88, died April 30. He became an SIU member in 1961. Brother Robinson initially worked aboard the Capri. He was born in South Carolina, and sailed in the steward department. Brother Robinson’s final ship was the Paul Buck. He became a pensioner in 1992 and resided in Greenville, South Carolina. LOUIS FLADE Pensioner Louis Flade, 86, passed away April 11. He started shipping with the union in 1961. Brother Flade originally worked on an PF Martin Company vessel. He was born in Pennsylvania and sailed in the deck department. Brother Flade’s final vessel was operated by Turecamo Maritime. He began receiving his pension in 1993 and resided in Walterboro, South Carolina. CLYDE SMITH Pensioner Clyde Smith, 90, passed away April 30. Brother Smith started his seafaring career in 1951. His first ship was operated by CSX Lines. Brother Smith sailed in the deck department. He last sailed on the Overseas Harriette. Brother Smith began receiving his pension in 2006 and was a resident of Dallas. ALEXANDER STAMATELAKY Pensioner Alexander Stamatelaky, 81, died April 15. Brother Stamatelaky started shipping with the SIU in 1996. He was originally employed aboard the USNS Silas Bent. Brother Stamatelaky last sailed on the Liberty Star as a member of the steward department. He went on pension in 2005 and lived in Hammond, Louisiana. RAYMOND ULATOWSKI Pensioner Raymond Ulatowski, 91, passed away April 22. He donned the SIU colors in 1948. Brother Ulatowski first sailed on the Lafayette. He was an engine department member. Brother Ulatowski’s final ship was the Integrity. He began receiving his pension in 1990 and called New Britain, Connecticut, home. CHARLES TESSARO Brother Charles Tessaro, 63, died March 7. The Canadian-born mariner became an SIU member in 2013. He was employed with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville for the duration of his career. Brother Tessaro was a deck department member. He lived in Ontario. GREAT LAKES MARTIN CHAMBERS Pensioner Martin Chambers, 82, passed away April 2. Brother Chambers began sailing with the SIU in 1962. He primarily worked with Great Lakes Towing Company. Brother Chambers became a pensioner in 1995 and called Rocky River, Ohio, home. CLEYON DART Pensioner Cleyon Dart, 75, died May 10. He signed on with the union in 1967. Brother Dart originally worked with Roen Steamship Company. The engine department member was last employed with Michigan Interstate Railway. Brother Dart retired in 2005 and made his home in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. INLAND NATIONAL MARITIME UNION JOSEPH ENNA Pensioner Joseph Enna, 70, died April 24. Born in New Orleans, he donned the SIU colors in 1966 and was a member of the deck department. Brother Enna originally worked on the Southwestern Victory. Prior to his retirement HECTOR BENITEZ Pensioner Hector Benitez, 96, passed away May 22. Brother Benitez was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He went on pension in 1970 and called Coolbaugh Township, Pennsylvania, home. IRVING BERG Pensioner Irving Berg, 97, died May 4. Born in Poland, Brother Berg started receiving his pension in 1972. He resided in Smyrna, Georgia. HORACE PREVOST Pensioner Horace Prevost, 79, passed away May 1. He was a native of Franklin, Louisiana. Brother Prevost began collecting his pension in 1998. He lived in Port Arthur, Texas. RICHARD ROBINSON Pensioner Richard Robinson, 85, died May 5. Brother Robinson was born in Clarks Fork, Montana. He went on pension in 1973 and made his home in Green Valley, Arizona. JOHN SERRIDGE Pensioner John Serridge, 85, passed away May 29. Born in Ireland, Brother Serridge started receiving his pension in 1986. He was a resident of Groveland, Florida. CHARLES ST. THOMAS Pensioner Charles St. Thomas, 87, died April 7. Brother St. Thomas was born in Louisiana. He retired in 1972 and resided in San Francisco. ROBERT TROY Pensioner Robert Troy, 72, passed away May 3. The Texas native became a pensioner in 2008. Brother Troy called Port Arthur, Texas, home. He worked as a patrolman following the merger of the NMU into the SIU in 2001. RAMON URBINA Pensioner Ramon Urbina, 90, died May 11. Brother Urbina was born in Honduras. He started collecting his pension in 1983 and was a resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Name Age Betancourt, Angel 86 Buckley, Eileen 94 Cruz, Andres 86 Ebanks, Edwards 94 Gachette, Alphonso 90 Geer, Robert 90 Kulikowski, Cheslaw 86 Leslie, Alberto 87 Martinez, Carlos 93 Schooff, John 85 Todd, Roy 78 DOD April 20 May 7 April 15 April 14 April 11 April 7 Mar 12 April 1 Feb 29 April 18 Feb 24 September 2016 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings OCEAN FREEDOM (Crowley) June 16 – Chairman Thomas Temple, Secretary Christopher J. Mosely, Deck Delegate Nathaniel Bales, Engine Delegate Fidel Pascua. Chairman announced payoff on June 23 in New Orleans. Secretary reminded crew of STCW requirements. Mariners were urged to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members were encouraged to read the Seafarers LOG for up-to-date information pertaining to the maritime industry. Request was made for new blu-ray player for crew lounge. Next port: New Orleans. ISLA BELLA (TOTE) June 5 – Chairman Timothy B. Fogg, Secretary Richard K. Wood, Educational Director Ramon L. Borrero, Deck Delegate Tavell R. Love, Engine Delegate Jermaine L. Love. Chairman reported that new chairs for state rooms are on their way and cable boxes for rooms is a work in progress. Secretary asked crew to keep laundry room and lounge neat. Educational director urged mariners to keep an eye on expiration dates of documents and take advantage of SIU portal for updating information. Members were also urged to enhance skills at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to increase vacation days. Next ports: San Juan, Puerto Rico and Jacksonville, Florida. MATSON KODIAK (Matson Navigation) June 5 – Chairman Christopher Pompel, Secretary Norman Cox, Educational Director Christopher Earhart, Deck Delegate Wayne Green, Engine Delegate Trevor Cohn, Steward Delegate Joseph Laureta. Bosun The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Cape Mohican Crew Sharpens Skills The SIU-crewed Ready Reserve Force vessel Cape Mohican performed a Williamson Turn while en route from Alameda, California, to Portland, Oregon, on Aug. 5. The maneuver was part of a man-overboard drill. AB Shawana Mills is pictured at the wheel (above) while the photoat right features AB Zaid Said (foreground) and Third Mate Steve Corachan, an SIU hawsepiper. The vessel is operated by Ocean Duchess, Inc. Thanks to Michael Thomas for the photos. recommended mariners pay close attention to shipping documents, make sure all information is correct and up-to-date. If any they had any concerns, they were asked to show union representative to help ensure accuracy. Secretary reported that new sheets, pillows and blankets have been ordered. Educational director talked about new STCW training required in 2017. He advised all mariners to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. No disputed OT; beef reported in the engine department. Steward department was thanked for exceptional desserts and meals. It was noted that hiring halls have two job calls per day, at 1000 and 1400. Crew members sent congratulations and thanks to member of LOG staff for 25 years on the job. Next ports: Tacoma, Washington, Anchorage, Alaska and Kodiak, Alaska. USNS MAJOR STEPHEN PLESS (Keystone Shipping) June 12 – Chairman Duane R. Frosburg, Secretary Ernest Dumont, Educational Director Mario J. Delacruz, Deck Delegate Lloyd Labeach, Steward Delegate Rashawn Arrington. Chairman talked about desire to increase vacation days in upcoming contract negotiations. Crew members would like email access. Question was raised concerning ROS crews and reclaiming jobs. Educational director urged everyone to keep all documents up-to-date. No beefs or disputed OT reported by department delegates. Crew Seafarers Partake in Independence Day Feast Aboard H. Lee White Steward department personnel aboard American Steamship Company’s H. Lee White made sure there was no shortage of appealing menu selections for the main meal on July 4. Offering full-service selections for a couple of hours followed by self-service options, the galley gang put out appetizers including pickled shrimp with lemon chive aioli, deviled eggs, and turkey dip; entrees such as St. Louis-style BBQ ribs, smoked beef brisket, char-grilled lamb chops, chicken shish kebab, hot dogs, hamburgers, and assorted sausages; a half-dozen side orders including candied yams and rice pilaf; and various desserts. Recertified Steward Bobby Darku is pictured at left in photo below with SA Nasser Ahmed. A few of their shipmates are shown in the photo at top right, while the remaining photo shows a few of the delicacies. reported a safe journey. GREEN BAY (Central Gulf Lines) July 17 – Chairman Pablo Borja, Secretary Joseph Welle, Educational Director Febian M. Jefferson, Steward Delegate Penny Pollard. Chairman went over ship’s itinerary and encouraged crew to donate to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation) for job security. Secretary discussed the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan scholarship program and read the names of the 2016 recipients. Educational director urged members to enhance their skills at the Paul Hall Center to excel in their positions. He also advised them to keep documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Those departing vessel were asked to clean state rooms for next mariners. Steward department was thanked for excellent food. Room inspection on July 18 was announced. LIBERTY PROMISE (Liberty Maritime) July 10 – Chairman David Denizac, Secretary Donna Hickman, Deck Delegate Victor Eligio, Engine Delegate Rodolfo Delacruz. Bosun advised crew members to read president’s report in Seafarers LOG. Educational director recommended training at the Piney Point school and applying for scholarships when available. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Seafarers would like internet service, refrigerators and electric fans for crew rooms. New gym equipment and cheaper phone cards were also requested. Next ports: Charleston, South Carolina, Jacksonville, Florida and Beaumont, Texas. OVERSEAS NEW YORK (OSG) July 19 – Chairman Jerry Sobieraj, Secretary Judi L. Chester, Educational Director Ashley Carmichael, Steward Delegate Jorge Ellis. Bosun recommended mariners read the Seafarers LOG to stay current on issues facing maritime industry. Educational director urged fellow crew members to try to be healthy. With all the physical requirements, your health is important to your livelihood. Treasurer reported $2,200 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested refrigerators for crew rooms and reliable Wi-Fi. September 2016 Seafarers LOG 19 �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Gap Closing Courses Engineroom Resource Management September 17 September 23 October 1 October 7 October 8 October 14 October 15 October 21 October 29 November 4 November 26 December 2 December 3 December 9 December 10 December 16 Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Marine Refer Tech November 5 December 16 Pumpman December 3 December 16 Welding September 24 October 14 October 22 November 11 November 26 December 16 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops October 8 November 4 December 3 December 30 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start September 10. Chief Steward September 24 November 4 November 5 December 16 Galley Ops October 8 November 4 Leadership and Managerial Skills September 17 September 23 October 1 October 7 ServSafe November 19 November 25 October 22 October 28 November 26 December 2 Safety Upgrading Courses MEECE September 24 September 30 October 1 October 7 October 15 October 21 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck October 8 November 4 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Stu- dents will be advised of dates once accepted. Basic Training w/16hr FF September 17 September 23 October 15 October 21 Basic Training Revalidation September 23 September 23 October 21 October 21 December 9 December 9 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation September 10 September 16 October 1 October 7 November 12 November 18 December 10 December 16 ARPA December 3 December 9 ECDIS September 24 September 30 December 3 December 9 GMDSS November 5 November 18 Lifeboat September 24 October 7 October 22 November 4 Radar Observer November 19 December 2 RFPNW September 10 October 7 Engine Department Upgrading Courses BAPO September 10 October 7 FOWT October 8 November 4 Machinist November 12 December 2 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting September 24 September 30 October 22 October 28 November 26 December 2 Government Vessels September 17 September 23 October 8 October 14 October 22 October 28 November 12 November 18 December 3 December 9 Medical Care Provider September 3 September 9 October 1 October 7 October 29 November 4 December 3 Decenber 9 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL/LG November 19 December 2 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG September 24 September 30 October 22 October 28 December 3 December 9 Marine Electrician September 10 November 4 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name_________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth___________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #__________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # and dates attended___________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG COURSE ____________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION ________________________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, or any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 9/16 September 2016 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #813 – The following apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 15: Francois Emmanuel Doucet III, Stacy Fuller, Madigan Gilligan, Jarrett Glover, KyJon Jones, Ashley Khuyen Nguyen, John Price, Kyle Savage, Robert Thomas, Greg Watts and Calvin Wilson. ECDIS – Seven upgraders completed this course July 22. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Roberto Flores Monge, Dennis Gaskill Jr., William Hudnell, Riley Johnson Jr., Ben Johnson, Norman Skipper Jr., and Foster Watts Jr. Patrick Schoenberger, their instructor, is at the far left. Government Vessels – The following Seafarers (photo at right, in alphabetical order) finished their requirements and graduated from this course July 22: Keondre Bell, Partick Brill, Michael Deren, Vincente Dunbar, James Gregory, Nieves Calixto Guerrero Mariano, Tsawang Gyurme, Aurora Santos Kirkwood, Kenneth Lockhart, Wilfredo Delgado Lopez, Brian Manion, Thomas Morgan, Reynaldo Castillo Nuqui, David Perry, Michael Ratigan, Darryl Roundtree, Richard Swirtz, Julius Thomas, Brandon Webb, Anthony Williams and Emmanuel Wilson. Class instructor Mark Cates is in the back row at the far right. UA to FOWT – Fifteen upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course July 15. Graduating (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: Ryan Cameron, Calvin Davidson Jr., Erin Joshua Lauyan Evangelista, Jasen Flippin, Jarrett Ford, Michael Gessford, Brandon Hickman, Kalil Hughes, Asadullah Khan, Melody Mitchell, Xyla Jillain Toledo Bautista Nazareta, Michael Rivera, Alvin Surrency, Paul Watts and Scott Wyland. Their instructor, John Wiegman III, is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) UA to Able Seaman (Deck) – The following individuals (photo at right, in alphabetical order) improved their skills when they graduated from this course July 15: Deontre Blount, Priscilla Brooks, Edward Chang, Tanisha Edwards, Nicholas Fugate, Krystal Glenn, Henry Green, Harriet Groenleer, Jack Hufford, Chelsey Jackson, James McGonigal, Dauron Mitchell, Shereka Morris, Christian Jafet Perez Gonzalez, Dymond Roberts and Jake Tierney. Class instructor Tom Truitt is kneeling in the front, center. September 2016 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Celestial Navigation – Five Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 29: Lindsey Austin, Johnny Dozier III, Ryan Landers, Noel Lau and Ryan McElroy. Brian Moore, their instructor, is at the far right. Machinist – Nine upgraders completed their requirements in this course July 22. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Dennis Blake II, Allan Bombita, Corey Covington, Randall Craig, Van Dixon, Julio Gomez, Jeremy Jendrusiak, Xavier Normil and Lateef Ojomu Sanusi. Class instructor Keith Adamson is at the far left. Fast Rescue Boat – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 22: Tanisha Edwards, Krystal Glenn, Henry Green, Jack Hufford, Chelsey Jackson, Dauron Mitchell, Shereka Morris and Dymond Roberts. Stan Beck, their instructor, is at the far right. Cargo Handling – Seven upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course July 29. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Roy Carey, Johathan Omar Chaparro Lorenzo, Adolf Lopez Floresca, Bud Sok Khuth, Clayton Lupton, Jarred Moylan and Julio Enrigue Perez. Basic Training (Firefighting) - Seafarer Artis Pilgrim (above, right) completed his requirements in this course and graduated July 8. Helping to celebrate his achievement is his instructor, John Thomas. 22 Seafarers LOG Small Arms – Four individuals completed their requirements in this course July 28. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were Bernard Baker, Leonard Johnson Jr., Karl Mayhew III and John Thomas. Instructors Robert Springer and Stan Beck are at the far left and far right respectively. Basic Motor Plant – Graduating from this course July 15 (above, in alphabetical order) were: Tom Dary, Wilfredo Delgado Lopez and Dennis Mira Pangan. John Wiegman III, their instructor, is at the far right. Certified Chief Steward – Steward Department Seafarer Assiel Elias Roedan Santana (above) recently completed the enhancement of his skills in this course. He graduated July 15. Basic Firefighting – Sixteen upgraders completed this course July 15. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Alexander Banky III, Nelson Tulio Bernardez, Mark Billiot, Jonathan Brown, James Gregory, Julio Guzman, John Huyett, Aurora Kirkwood, Nelson Arnaldo Montoya, Ronnie Rankin, Salahuddin Fadl Saleh, Albert Sison, Jacqueline Sivels, Sacarias Suazo, Anthony Sumlar and John Young. Their instructors, Mike Roberts and Leonard Johnson Jr., are at the far left and far right, respectively. September 2016 �Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Firefighting – Sixteen upgraders completed this course July 29. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Kenneth Abrahamson, Ritche Asumbrado Acuman, James Blitch Jr., William Dowzicky III, Vincente Dunbar, Nives Calixto Guerrero Mariano, Paul Inniss, Jerome Jordan, Juma Saleh Juma, Hussein Abdul Mohammed, Manuel Orlando Rodriguez, Ron Sagadraca, Stig Sasse Jr., Julius Thomas, Cortney Williams and Tecumseh Williams. Class instructor Mike Roberts is at the far right. Basic Training Revalidation – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) finished this course July 29: Tyesha Boyd, Dante Fernandez Cruz, Matthew Dalgetty, David Denizac, Kabir Garcia Santiago, Tesfaye Gebregziabher, Claude Letts, Karl Mayhew III, Shawana Mills, Jan Morawski, Shereka Morris, Jesse Natividad Jr., Michael Papaioannou, Jayne Peterson and John Zarroli Jr. Their instructor, Mike Roberts, is at the far right. Advanced Galley Ops – Two members of the steward department completed their requirements in this course July 16. Graduating (above, from left) were Rene Fernando Gil and Ashley Lee. Celebrating the duo’s achievement with them is instructor Jesse Sunga. Certified Chief Cook – Four Seafarers, all of whom sail in the steward department, completed the enhancement of their skills in this course July 29. Graduating (above from the left) were Sharray Turner, Keith Small, Juan Ramon Iglesias and Jorcell Davis. John Dobson, their instructor, is at the far right. Certified Chief Cook - Four steward department Seafarers late last year upgraded their skills in this course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Theophil Igielski, Mary Maddox, Ferando Javier Marquez Ortiz and Wilson Peniston. Advanced Galley Ops - The following steward department upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) recently improved their skills by completing this course: Adam Bucalo, Rio Ngitong Cuellar, Sulay Esmenia Martinez, Dennis Redding and Johnny Sawyer. Jesse Sunga, their instructor, is at the far left. September 2016 Water Survival – Two upgraders completed their requirements in this course July 15 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Graduating were Seafarers Marvin Fabrizius (above, left) and Kenneth Lockhart. Chief Cook - A pair of steward department Seafarers graduated from this course late last year. They are Dalino Valencia (above, left) and Gilbert Allende. Seafarers LOG 23 �SEPTEMBER F E B R U A R Y 2016 2014 o VOLUME VOLU M E 7 6 78 NNO. O . 92 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 Operated by Maersk Line, Limited, the vessel spent three days discharging cargo. In the photos at left and above, the tanker approaches Thule Air Force Base. SIU Members Deliver in ‘Pacer Goose’ The SIU-crewed tanker Maersk Peary recently completed the annual resupply mission to Thule Air Force Base in Greenland. Named Operation Pacer Goose 2016, the deployment required the Peary to spend three days discharging cargo at the base before departing on July 16. A summary of the mission by the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers noted that the fuel supplied by the tanker is vital and “necessary for the operation of generators used for running the facilities and the operation of infrastructure critical to the U.S. Department of Defense. Airplanes servicing the facility also refuel at the base, and the supply delivered will sustain the base until the arrival of the summer months in 2017.” A Canadian icebreaker provided assistance during part of the voyage, which saw the Peary sail up the west coast of Greenland, well north of the Arctic Circle. Vessel master Capt. David Perron credited the entire “polar-trained crew” with deftly handling the mission’s challenges: “All were enthusiastic and proud of a job well done.” SIU and AMO mariners gather for a group photo. AB David Kennedy, AB Marie Acosta, QE4 Rene Hallasgo, Recertified Steward Tony Spain A launch boat is pictured near the base. GSTU Anas Mihakel Pictured above (from left) are AB David Kennedy, AB Irving Rueda, and AB Rimando Cueto. Among those taking a look at the ice (photo at right) are QE4 Rene Hallasgo, QEP Virgilio Demegillo and Wiper Joshua Claffey. � 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 September 2016 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES MARITIME MATRIARCH BENTLEY DIES AT 92 SIU VESSEL HOSTS MSC CHANGE OF COMMAND MEWBOURNE SUCCEEDS SHANNON AT VITAL U.S. MARITIME AGENCY NASSCO NEWS MEANS NEW JOBS FOR SEAFARERS UNION SHIPYARD DELIVERS TANKER, PREPARES TO HOST CHRISTENINGS NEW JONES ACT TANKER CHRISTENED IN PHILLY SHIPYARD INVESTIGATORS RECOVER RECORDER FROM CARGO SHIP EL FARO CROWLEY LNG AGREEMENT MEANS INCREASED CARGO FOR SIU-CREWED VESSELS UNION PROVIDES INTERNATIONAL SHIPHOLDING CORPORATION UPDATE CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE REVIEWS NOMINATION PETITIONS FOR ELECTION CREDENTIALS APPROVED FOR CANDIDATES TO 25 UNION OFFICES MARITIME STALWART SUCCUMBS TO BRAIN CANCER ENGINE ASSESSMENT PROGRAM LAUNCHED IN PINEY POINT UNION CONSTITUTION GIVES PROCEDURES FOR OBTAINING 2016 ABSENTEE BALLOTS SIU CREWS HELP EXECUTE ‘SKIN TO SKIN’ MANEUVER NFL KICKOFF HAS STRONG UNION CONNECTION PLAN OFFERS NEW TOBACCO CESSATION BENEFITS SAILORS’ SNUG HARBOR STILL ASSISTING RETIRED MARINERS NMC POSTS UPDATE RELATING TO MARINER CREDENTIAL EXAMS SIU MEMBERS DELIVER IN ‘PACER GOOSE’ 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 09/01/2016 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. 9 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/075238ba31b9ae5906bd0fdfa1faad90.pdf 45e67cca7729a29073c0b054550f06b3 PDF Text Text SEPTEMBER 2017 FEBRUAR Y 2014 NO. V O L U M EVOLUME 7 6 o 79 NO . 29 New Jones Act Tanker Delivered American Liberty Signals Jobs for Seafarers Pictured near the site of its construction (Philly Shipyard, a union facility), the modern Jones Act tanker American Liberty is one of the newest additions to the Seafarers-contracted fleet. Page 3. (Photo by John Curdy) Seafarers to the Rescue! The Seafarers-crewed Overseas Texas City recently saved all five people from a capsized boat near Galveston, Texas. The SIU crew included (from left) Steward/Baker Luis Santiago, OS Gamaliel Choh Zuom, GUDE Muafa Musad, Bosun Lonnie Porchea, GUDE Abdulfata Shammam and QEP Pedro Santiago, among others. Page 3. Buzby Takes Helm at MARAD SIU executives were on hand to observe and welcome the swearing-in of Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (U.S. Navy Ret) as the new head of the U.S. Maritime Administration. Formerly the commanding officer of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, Buzby is a longtime backer of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Pictured after the Aug. 14 ceremony in the nation’s capital are (from left) Buzby, SIU President Michael Sacco, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao. and SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez. Page 6. Piney Point Coverage Page 2 Halls Host Benefits Conferences Pages 4-5 Bosuns Graduate Pages 12-14 �SIU Jobs Retained in T-AGS Award President’s Report Ocean Shipholdings to Operate Seven Vessels Half-Century of Growth, Progress As the SIU’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, enters its second half-century of operations, I remain proud of the institution’s remarkable advancement. I was there almost from the school’s earliest days. It officially opened in August 1967, but, as has been well-chronicled, Piney Point was more of a construction zone than a maritime school in those initial years. I’m not sure any of us who were there in the late 1960s could have truly, fully envisioned what a first-class, comprehensive, modern training facility Piney Point would become. That includes the campus’ namesake, Paul Hall, the second president of the Seafarers International Union of North America (SIUNA) and the top official of the SIU Atlantic and Gulf Districts starting in 1947. Paul was a visionary who could get things done sometimes by sheer force of will, but he was also smart enough to see how raw our slice of Piney Point was when the property was acquired. I knew him long enough, and worked for him closely Michael Sacco enough, that I’m confident in saying while he wouldn’t have been shocked by the school’s success, he’d have been pleasantly surprised by the high-tech details and refinements. By the way, although Paul is rightly credited for making the school a reality, there’s a closely related part of our history that sometimes gets overlooked. Namely, he also set in motion the founding of three other main SIU training facilities beginning in 1952. These were the forerunners of Piney Point, and they were known as Andrew Furuseth Training Schools, named in memory of the person considered the father of the American maritime labor movement. Furuseth was president of the old International Seamen’s Union, which eventually spawned the SIU. Anyway, the Furuseth schools were located in New York (then the site of SIU headquarters), Mobile, and New Orleans. Paul changed the name in 1965 to the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship – a tip of the Stetson to the first president of the SIUNA, who died in 1957. Two years following the renaming, he consolidated those operations in southern Maryland. Paul would be the first to tell you that the credit for the school’s growth belongs to many, many people. Union and school officials, instructors, staff, students and employer trustees have all played essential roles as the Paul Hall Center became our lifeblood. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to help spearhead some of that progress; I served as the school’s vice president from 1968 to 1979, and I still go there every single day unless I’m travelling. I remain closely involved. During previous anniversaries, we’ve published long articles and timelines and testimonials about the school. We’re trying something different this year, as detailed elsewhere on this page. Sometime after Labor Day, we’re mailing a special edition of the LOG to our ships and union halls. That’ll be a photographic history – representative rather than comprehensive, but a lot of work has gone into it. We’ll also be posting a related video on our website by early October. Meanwhile, if I had to summarize what the school means to our union, I would say it’s one of the keys to our future, and it’s the hub of the ship’s wheel. Although we’re constantly working with the U.S. Coast Guard and others to ease the regulatory burdens on mariners, there will always be training requirements – and I suspect our industry will always be closely regulated. That means there will be an ongoing need for department-specific training as well as general shipboard safety classes for our members from the United States and Canada. Piney Point will be there to deliver that training for the next 50 years and another 50 after that. Our school – the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, which includes the Lundeberg School as well as the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School – is second to none in the world. Visit the campus and you’ll know that’s not hype. Happy anniversary! FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 79 Number 9 o NO. 2 September 2017 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, 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. Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG SIU members will continue sailing aboard seven oceanographic surveillance ships, following a recent government contract award to Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. (OSI). The new operating agreement includes a series of one-year options and one shorter option that would extend it to mid-April of 2022. It covers the following ves- sels: USNS Maury, USNS Waters, USNS Bruce Heezen, USNS Pathfinder, USNS Bowditch, USNS Henson and USNS Mary Sears. Turnover dates for those vessels (all of which already carry SIU crews) are scheduled to start in mid-September and continue until around mid-January. All SIU jobs are retained under The USNS Pathfinder, pictured late last year in Norfolk, Virginia, will continue to carry an SIU crew. (US Navy photo by Robert Fluegel) the new contract. Also known as T-AGS vessels, the aforementioned ships support worldwide oceanographic programs. According to the U.S. Navy, the vessels “gather data that provides much of the military’s information on the ocean environment. The collected data helps to improve technology in undersea warfare and enemy ship detection. The oceanographic and hydrographic survey ships’ multibeam, wide-angle precision sonar systems make it possible to continuously chart a broad strip of ocean floor. Survey ships have charted three-fourths of the world’s coastlines, making it easier for navigators to find their way along both well-traveled and notso-familiar shipping routes.” The USNS Maury, the newest of the T-AGS ships, is 353 feet long and can sail at 15 knots. It was built at VT Halter Marine and delivered in 2016. The Pathfinder, Bowditch, Henson, Heezen and Mary Sears are 328.5 feet long and can sail at 16 knots. They were constructed at Halter Marine and had delivery dates ranging from 1993-2000. The Waters, 457 feet long, was built at Avondale and can sail at 13 knots. Paul Hall Center Featured in Video The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) is featured in a new, five-minute video produced by the Southeast Maritime and Transportation Center (SMART) in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Labor. In particular, the video focuses on the PHC’s apprentice program, as does an accompanying article on the SMART website. The video is linked in the Gallery section of the SIU website and also may be found on SMART’s YouTube channel. To access it on the SMART website, go to www.maritime-technology.org/ and search for Piney Point. The article cites a “critical need for trained, credentialed mariners.” It describes the PHC apprentice program as consisting of an initial 15 weeks of entry level training (blending classroom and hands-on instruction) in Piney Point, Maryland, followed by at least 90 days of shipboard deployment. Subsequently, students return to the school for follow-up training before shipping out. Regardless of which department A screen shot of the new video shows the training vessel Freedom Star in the foreground. (deck, engine or steward) an individual chooses, all apprentices must take courses covering shipboard emergencies and operations including fire fighting, water survival, first aid, CPR, industrial relations and so- cial responsibilities. For more information about the program and the application process, contact the PHC admissions office at (301) 994-0010 (prompt 2) or email Admissions@seafarers.org LOG Special Edition Salutes School’s Anniversary The union is planning to publish a special issue of the Seafarers LOG celebrating the 50th anniversary of its affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Tentatively scheduled for mailing after Labor Day, this issue will almost entirely consist of photos taken from 1967 to 2017 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. It’ll be mailed to SIU halls and Seafarers-crewed vessels. A PDF version will be posted in the Paul Hall Center section of the SIU website at: http://www.seafarers.org/paulhallcenter/phc.asp Additionally, a video commemorating the anniversary is slated to debut in late September as part of the Seafarers International Union of North America’s (SIUNA) quinquennial convention. Subsequently, that video (approximately 12 minutes long) will be posted in the Gallery section of the SIU website. Although the school and its location aren’t one and the same, the campus is commonly referred to simply as Piney Point. When it opened in 1967, the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship consolidated several SIU-affiliated facilities that had been operating across the country. In 1991, the overall campus was renamed in memory of Paul Hall, the SIUNA’s second president – and the driving force behind the school’s founding. The Paul Hall Center still includes the Lundeberg School as well as the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School. The latter facility, which opened in 1999, is located on nearby property. The logo above will be featured on the cover of the special edition and in a related video. More than 200 photos are included in the commemorative issue. September 2017 �The newly delivered tanker American Liberty, built with union labor, signals new jobs for SIU members. (Photo courtesy Philly Shipyard) Philly Shipyard Delivers Jones Act Tanker Union-Built American Liberty Will Carry SIU Crew The SIU in late July welcomed news of the delivery of a state-of-the-art tanker that will sail in the Jones Act trade. The American Liberty is the third of four 50,000 dwt product tankers built by Philly Shipyard (a union facility) for American Petroleum Tankers (ATP), a Kinder Morgan subsidiary. It’ll be operated by SIU-contracted Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning. “It looks really good,” said AB Jeffrey Beasley, one of the first SIU members to climb the American Liberty’s gangway. “Everything is brand new, clean and well-structured. I’m looking forward to sailing on it.” “We are proud to deliver another quality vessel to American Petroleum Tankers,” remarked Steinar Nerbovik, Philly Shipyard’s president and CEO. “This vessel is delivered on time, the hallmark of great shipbuilding that our customers depend on. As we celebrate this achievement and say farewell to the American Liberty, we wish the crew a safe and successful voyage beyond our shipyard here in Philadelphia.” The 600-foot-long tanker is the twenty-seventh vessel built by Philly Shipyard (formerly named Aker Philadelphia Shipyard). In a news release about the July 27 delivery, the yard noted that the American Liberty’s design “incorporates numerous fuel efficiency features, flexible cargo capability, and the latest regulatory requirements. The vessel has also received LNG Ready Level 1 approval from the Ameri- can Bureau of Shipping (ABS). [It] has a carrying capacity of 14.5 million gallons of crude oil or refined products,” which equates to around 337,000 barrels. The ship can sail at 15 knots. The Jones Act requires that cargo moving between domestic ports be carried on vessels that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. The nation’s freight cabotage law helps sustain nearly half a million U.S. jobs while contributing billions of dollars to the American economy each year. Overseas Texas City Rescues 5 All five occupants of this capsized boat were brought to safety. (U.S. Coast Guard photo) MSP on Track For Full Funding Through 2018 With the Senate’s proposed Transportation Bill approved, the Maritime Security Program (MSP) is on track to secure the the necessary funding to operate at full strength through 2018. The proposed “FY2018 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act” passed the Senate Appropriations Committee with unanimous support this summer. The House of Representatives passed its version of the Transportation Appropriations bill earlier in the year. Under both versions of the proposed bills, the MSP would be fully funded, receiving $300 million for Fiscal Year 2018. Given that both the House and September 2017 The Brotherhood of the Sea once again came to the fore July 22 near Galveston, Texas, when the SIU-crewed Overseas Texas City rescued five people from a capsized boat. No one was injured. “We got everything ready in no time,” recalled Bosun Lonnie Porchea. “Everybody was in position and everything went smooth. Five in the water, five out of the water. It’s a good thing the mate on watch saw them in time – he saw them bailing water and knew it wouldn’t be long” (until their boat wasn’t habitable). Pumpman Pedro Santiago stated, “The captain ordered the emergency rescue boat down, and within five minutes we had those people aboard. We do drills but this was no drill. People were trying to stay away from the sharks that were smiling at them.” Before the U.S. Coast Guard picked up the boaters, the SIU steward department provided towels and food. The people who were rescued “couldn’t thank us enough, and Senate have passed legislation approving full funding for MSP, it is likely that this level will remain in place in whatever final spending package Congress must approve in September. Funding for fiscal year 2017 ends in October, and Congress must pass a funding package before October 1 to avert a government shutdown. The MSP is a fundamental program to the American maritime industry. It supports the U.S. national economy and makes it possible for our military to project power around the globe. The program provides funding for 60 militarily-useful and commercially viable vessels, which are kept active in international trade, ensuring they remain operational and ready to assist with any military operation if called upon. It also ensures that those vessels remain crewed by skilled American mariners, helping to maintain and grow the domestic mariner pool. Both in peace and in war, the MSP is a cost-effective resource, consistently praised since its inception by nearly every head of the U.S. Transportation Command, the Coast Guard also thanked us,” Santiago added. “If not for the diligence of the crew of the tanker Overseas Texas City, the outcome of today’s events may not have been as successful,” said Coast Guard Petty Officer First Class Chris Rendon. “It is incredibly important that boaters are aware of their surroundings and prepared for emergency situations.” At press time, the agency hadn’t reported what caused the boat to capsize approximately 12 miles from shore. In addition to Porchea and Santiago, the SIU crew on the Overseas Ship Management vessel included Bosun Jose Castillo, AB Robert Duncan, AB Allen Davis, AB Matthew Szczepaniak, OS Gamaliel Choh Zuom, OS Mohamed Gazaly, GUDE Saeed Saleh, GUDE Muafa Musad, GUDE Abdulfata Shammam, Steward/Baker Luis Santiago, Chief Cook Nilsa Manaiza and SA Carlos Bernardez Norales. the Maritime Administration (MARAD) and the Department of Defense, among many others.The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has pointed out that MSP ship crews “are a major source for the DOD surge fleet.” The DOT also described the program as “a vital element of our military’s strategic sealift and global response capability. Without the MSP fleet, the United States would have assured access to very few U.S.-flag commercial vessels to support Department of Defense operations.” In a recent hearing, U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman (R-Virginia), one of the maritime industry’s strongest champions in Congress, said in defense of the MSP fleet: “Our nation cannot presume that a foreign-owned maritime sealift component will be available during times of conflict to deploy into contested waters. Our nation needs U.S. mariners on U.S.-flagged ships.” Wittman is the Chairman of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee.The Senate bill allocates $577.6 million for MARAD, an increase of $55 million above the FY2017 funding level. The version passed by the House, however, reduces MARAD funding to $490.6 million, though MSP remains fully funded at $300 million. House and Senate negotiators will have to work together to develop a compromise funding level for MARAD in whatever spending package emerges before the Oct. 1 deadline. It is not anticipated that the MARAD funding level differences will impact the MSP. As reported in the June edition of the Seafarers LOG, the Transportation Appropriations Bill for Fiscal Year 2017 was approved in May, which funded MARAD and the MSP through September. At that time, MSP funding was increased to $300 million, or $5 million per vessel in the MSP fleet. Military and government leaders have explained that the total cost of the MSP is a tiny fraction of the tens of billions of dollars it would cost the U.S. to replicate the sealift capability, intermodal infrastructure and other support made available to the Department of Defense by private-sector program enrollees. Seafarers LOG 3 �Seafarers Turn Out for Benefits Conferences Meetings Offer Reviews, Detailed Descriptions to Members and Staff Paul Hall Center The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan office last month conducted a series of educational conferences, and more are scheduled. The inaugural session took place Aug. 7 at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. This event was followed by conferences at SIU halls in the ports of New Orleans (Aug. 11), Houston (Aug. 14) and Jacksonville, Florida (Aug. 16). Designed to educate rank-and-file-members as well as union employees, the conferences focused on various Seafarers Plans. Conference goals were to make enrollees aware of benefits available to them under each plan. Special emphasis was placed on points that plan participants may not have known about. Each conference was slightly more than one hour in duration and featured remarks by SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel; Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen; Seafarers Plans Benefits Director Teresa Zelko and CIGNA Representative Melissa Smith. Future benefits conferences, their respective dates and locations are as follows: Aug. 28 - Port of Jersey City, New Jersey; Aug. 30 – Port of Norfolk, Virginia; Dec. 11 – Port of Tacoma, Washington; Dec. 12 – Port of Wilmington, California, and Dec. 13 – Port of Oakland, California. Plans officials pointed out that conferences specifically for SIU members will commence promptly at 10:30 a.m. at each location and continue until approximately noon. The events are open to members, pensioners and their families. Paul Hall Center Port of Houston 4 Seafarers LOG September 2017 �Port of New Orleans SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel addresses members during a benefits conference at the Port of New Orleans. Looking on are Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen (left) ; Seafarers Plans Benefits Director Teresa Zelko (right of Heindel) and CIGNA Representative Melissa Smith (far right). Port of New Orleans Port Of Jacksonville Port Of Jacksonville Notice/Reminder Member Portal Offers Option for Scheduling Clinic Exams SIU members are reminded that they have an online option for placing orders for clinic exam services in addition to services offered at the hiring halls. As previously reported, those services may be ordered through the membersonly portal on the union’s website, www. seafarers.org. The members-only area itself has been available since June 2011 and is free of charge. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plans (SHBP) Administrator Maggie Bowen stated, “You can order exams within 60 days of your current expiration dates, so don’t wait until the last minute. This site also allows ineligible participants to order exams and pay using PayPal.” She added, “If you do not see the exam that you are trying to order, please email shbpmedical@seafarers.org and if you have any other questions please email map@seafarers.org or call 1-800-2524674.” The SHBP started using a new health clinic system, Comprehensive Health Services (CHSi), in early 2013. CHSi features more than 2,000 participating facilities in the contiguous United States, which has made it much easier for Seafarers to find clinics that are closer to home, whether they’re taking annual exams, functional capacity evaluations or interval exams. Using the member portal allows mari- September 2017 ners to order the exams they need as follows: Automated Exams n Annual/MSC Physical Examination – Required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date of the previous exam. n Functional Capacity Evaluation – Required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to expiration date of previous annual exam. n New Member Physical Exam – This is a one-time requirement and is necessary prior to registration. n U.S. Coast Guard Exam – Required once every two years unless the mariner is upgrading. n Interval Exam – Needed once every six months after annual exam for deep sea members and under several inland contracts. n DOT/U.S. Coast Guard Drug Test (Pre-Employment or Periodic) – Required when renewing documents, returning to work, or when random exception expires. n Benzene Clearance – Mandatory (for Are You Ready to Ship Out? Make sure your documents and paperwork are current: n Merchant mariner credential (MMC) with security endorsements (security awareness and/or vessel personnel with designated security duties, abbreviated as VPDSD, VSO for officers) n MMC indicating completion of Basic Training (formerly BST) (VI/1 and related verbiage) n Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) n Passport n ServSafe Management (chief cook and higher) n ServSafe Food Handler (entry level) n Medical certificate (acquired by pass- ing U.S. Coast Guard physical once every two years and submitting to local REC) n Annual physical exam and interval exam (required once every six months) n Drug test (every six months unless continuously sailing) n 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. mariners sailing on tankers) no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date of previous clearance. n Food Handler Certification – Required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date of the mariner’s certification. n Unlicensed Apprentice Physical Exam – This exam is required for those participating in the UA program. Once the admissions department notifies you of acceptance into the UA program, you must work with a local port office. n TB Screening only – Required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to expiration of existing clearance. The TB screening is included in every Annual/MSC exam, UA exam and New Member exam. Approval Required Exams n Return to Duty Exam – (repatriation, interval illness or injury, etc.) Required upon demand by SHBP medical department. n MSC Shots only – Required by job order and approved as necessary by the SHBP medical department. n Commercial Non-MSC Shots only – Approved as necessary by the SHBP medical department. n ARC Exam – Approval required by Addictions Rehabilitation Center (ARC) and SHBP medical department. Seafarers LOG 5 �Broadmeadow Becomes TRANSCOM Deputy; Buzby Assumes Maritime Administrator Post Two positions of great significance to the American maritime industry recently were filled. In early August, the U.S. Senate confirmed Lt. Gen. John Broadmeadow as the new deputy commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM). Then, on Aug. 14, Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (U.S. Navy, Ret) was sworn in as the top official at the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD). Headquartered at Scott Air Force Base in Illinois, USTRANSCOM oversees eight combatant commands and five related component commands, including the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC). Its commanding officer is Gen. Darren McDew, an outspoken advocate of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Broadmeadow previously served as the commander of Marine Corps Installations Command, and also was the assistant deputy commandant, Installations and Logistics (Facilities), and commanding general, Marine Corps National Capital Region. Previously, he was vice director J4, Joint Staff. Before that assignment, he served as commanding general, Marine Corps Logistics Command from July 2013 to May 2015. A 34-year career Marine, Broadmeadow is the fifteenth deputy commander at USTRANSCOM. In an informal message announcing the confirmation, McDew enthusiastically cited Broadmeadow’s leadership and experience. Meanwhile, Buzby is the new maritime administrator, taking over a Department of Transportation agency tasked with promoting the U.S. Merchant Marine (among other responsibilities involving the American maritime industry). He needed no introduction to the key issues facing maritime; Buzby was MSC’s commanding officer from 2009 until he retired from Naval service in 2013, capping a 34-year Navy career. He had been serving as president of the National Defense PricewaterhouseCoopers Details Inland Maritime’s Economic Impact This is the most recent official photo of Lt. Gen. Broadmeadow, who has since added a third star. Transportation Association (NDTA) since November 2014. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao spoke at Buzby’s swearing-in ceremony in the nation’s capital. SIU President Michael Sacco and Executive Vice President Augie Tellez attended the gathering. Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, the new maritime administrator, addresses the gathering at his swearing-in ceremony as U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao (standing at right) looks on. (Photo Courtesy of DOT) MV Rena Fails To Pay Mariners, Gets Banned After being alerted by the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has banned a flagof-convenience vessel from Australian ports. The ship, Bahamas-flagged bulk carrier MV Rena, repeatedly failed to pay outstanding wages and maintain a safe workplace for its crew. On June 30, AMSA received a complaint from the ITF, alleging the crew had not been paid their total wages for several months. AMSA conducted a port state control inspection on July 6, when the Greek-owned ship arrived at 6 Seafarers LOG New Study Underscores Jones Act’s Benefits Hay Point in Queensland. Upon completion of the inspection, AMSA reported a number of serious deficiencies with the ship, including: n Failure of the emergency generator to start; n Failure of the lifeboat starting arrangements; n Shortcomings in the safety management system (ISM); and n Failure to pay crew the cash component of their wages, which totaled about $53,000 The safety issues were found to present a clear risk to the crew, the ship and Australia’s marine environment. Failure to pay the crew is a breach of the Maritime Labor Convention 2006, and confirmed what the ITF had originally alleged. The ship was detained due to these failures; it remained at Hay Point for 29 A new report from the highly regarded company PricewaterhouseCoopers concluded that America’s inland maritime industry significantly contributes to the United States economy. Announced in late July by the American Waterways Operators (AWO), the study focused on the tugboat, towboat and barge industry. It was developed jointly by the AWO (whose members include several SIU-contracted companies) and the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD). Specifically, the study explored the industry’s economic contributions to employment, gross domestic product, and taxes at the national and state levels; detailed the types and quantities of vital commodities transported on American waterways; and compared waterborne transport to other modes of freight transport in terms of efficiency, environmental impact and public safety. America’s domestic maritime industry functions under the auspices of the Jones Act. The nation’s freight cabotage law requires that cargo moving between U.S. ports be moved on vessels that are crewed, flagged, built and owned American. Highlights from the PricewaterhouseCoopers study include: n The tugboat, towboat and barge industry supports more than 300,000 jobs nationwide – including 50,000 in the industry itself, 38,000 of which are on board vessels – and has a total annual impact on GDP of $33.8 billion. n The industry annually moves more than 760 million tons of cargo that fuels the American economy, including critical commodities like petroleum, agricultural products, chemicals, coal, and manufactured goods. n One inland dry cargo barge can haul 1,750 tons of dry cargo, the equivalent of 16 bulk rail cars or 70 tractor trailers, with greater fuel efficiency and fewer greenhouse gas emissions. AWO President and CEO Tom Allegretti said, “AWO could not be prouder to unveil this PricewaterhouseCoopers study thoroughly quantifying what the dedicated men and women who make up the tugboat, towboat and barge industry have long known, from decades of firsthand experience: the extent to which maritime freight transport serves as a critical pillar of the American economy. We are especially pleased to have partnered with MARAD to produce this invaluable resource, and we look forward to using it to educate policymakers, the media, and the public about the role this industry plays in fueling our nation’s prosperity.” MARAD Executive Director Joel Szabat stated, “The maritime industry enables the movement of goods and cargo quickly, efficiently, and at low cost between producers and markets along our nation’s waterways. Waterborne commerce opened up our nation to trade and helped transform a fledgling democracy into the economic superpower it is today. Energy-efficient water transport continues to play a pivotal part in our nation’s transportation system and helps make America’s economy more competitive.” The full study (a 109-page PDF file) may be accessed on the AWO website, www.americanwaterways.com days until early August, when AMSA and the vessel’s flag state received evidence that the crew had been paid their outstanding wages. AMSA’s General Manger of Operations, Allan Schwartz, said the shipowner’s negligence gave his organization considerable cause for concern, though he also expressed appreciation to the Bahamas Maritime Authority for taking an active role in resolving the issues. “The failure of the ship operator to ensure that the ship is effectively managed along with the repeated failures of the ISM Code and Maritime Labor Convention, is a clear indication the ship is not being operated to meet applicable minimum standards,” Schwartz said. “The length of time taken to rectify the outstanding issues, particularly in relation to crew welfare, is completely unacceptable.” All vessels operating in Australian waters must comply with the international standards reflected under Australian law. Shipowners must ensure that their vessels are operated and maintained to meet or exceed certain mechanical and safety standards, and that their crews are treated in line with their obligations under the Maritime Labor Convention. Since substandard ships are not welcome in Australian waters, AMSA has banned the MV Rena from all Australian ports for six months, expiring on February 3, 2018. If the ship is detained again by AMSA for serious deficiencies, it may be subject to a further ban of 12 months. A different ship by the same name (a Greek-owned container vessel) made headlines in 2011 when it ran aground in New Zealand. September 2017 �Determined to Succeed Paul Hall Center Apprentice Undaunted by Challenge of Prosthesis Four years after an accident that claimed his right leg, Paul Hall Center Apprentice Tommy Gwynn couldn’t be more matter-of-fact about how he deals with the related challenges. But, that’s been the case since the first days following the mishap in 2013, which happened while Gwynn worked aboard a commercial fishing processor in Alaska. “I didn’t have time to go through the, for lack of a better term, grief and self-pity phase,” said Gwynn, who is 36 years old and uses a prosthesis. “My wife was three-anda-half months pregnant with our first child at the time, and there were lots of doctors – all day, every day.” Fast forward to 2017, and it’s no stretch to say Gwynn isn’t slowed much, if at all, by his handicap. He’s a competitive athlete (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, abbreviated as BJJ) and also enjoys fishing and hiking. He’s done well in the apprentice program at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, since starting phase one in June. Paul Hall Center Assistant Vice President Bart Rogers said Gwynn “took a leadership role in the trainee program and took a lot of time talking to kids about safety. He used his leg as an example.” A U.S. Marine Corps veteran (he served from 19992001), Gwynn has his sights set on the deck department. His initial impressions of the Paul Hall Center are favorable. “No complaints so far,” he stated. “It hasn’t been too bad at all. The best thing I could say to anyone considering applying is to know what you’re getting into, especially if you’re younger. This is a very serious career, and it’s not to be taken lightly from a safety standpoint. Just do what you’re told and what’s expected, and it won’t be difficult.” SIU on Horizon Even before the accident, Gwynn – who lives in Chesapeake, Virginia, with his wife and their two children – began planning to switch to deep-sea shipping. His vessel’s captain in Alaska had mentioned the SIU. “It was an easy decision to make,” Gwynn said, crediting personnel at the SIU hall in Norfolk, Virginia, for helping him with the transition. “I didn’t have trouble passing any of the [exams]. My physical therapist and rehab therapist did a great job of getting me back on my feet as soon as possible.” (He no longer needs physical therapy.) Gwynn wants to sail on breakbulk freighters and containerships, and is interested in “travel and having some port time – just getting out and experiencing different local cultures and things of that nature.” It doesn’t hurt that he’s got full support from his wife. “She grew up in the industry,” Gwynn noted. “Her father is a ship captain in Alaska; she and I met on the ship I used to work on. She understands the life and knows what it’s about. She’s perfectly at ease with me doing what I’m doing, and she understands the end game a little more than most people.” ‘Is What It Is’ No matter how resolute his attitude about physical recovery, there have been, of course, significant trials. “For the most part, it’s been around 90 percent positive,” Gwynn said. “There’s not really too much that I can’t do now that I was able to do before. Running is an exception. “The first two years were a little rough and spotty, just trying to find someone to build a prosthetic that I could walk on,” he continued. “A good, solid, comfortable fit is difficult to come by. But now, most people don’t even know I have a prosthetic leg when I’m wearing pants.” Among those who are aware of his circumstance, Gwynn doesn’t think people treat him differently. “I can’t say I’ve ever had people feel sorry for me or go out of their way to help me because of it,” he stated. “My attitude from the beginning has been, it is what it is. It’s amazing the number of people who find themselves in my situation who either expect special treatment or try to almost deny the whole thing. Those are typically the people I’ve noticed having a hard time dealing with it.” While devoted to his family, Gwynn also has invested lots of time in BJJ, a grappling sport that he studies most days when he’s home. He has competed in a handful of tournaments (“with varying degrees of success”) and is working with others in pushing for the addition of a “para” division among the sport’s governing bodies. In the tournaments, Gwynn competes against “ablebodied people,” he noted. “Adding to the fun factor, I have to take off my prosthetic any time I compete.” Still, as with the apprentice program, BJJ has been a good fit. “I got into it because I knew I wanted to go back to work on board a ship, and I wanted to start rehabbing myself,” he explained. “I figured if I was able to stand up to some form of martial arts training, it would be a good Apprentice Tommy Gwynn plans to sail in the deck department. way to prepare myself for the physical nature of working on board a ship. Plus, I had gained 60 or 70 pounds in two or three years, and I wanted to lose weight and get back in shape. It went from being something to just get in shape to becoming something I absolutely love to do.” Spotlight on Mariner Health Take Steps to Mitigate Migraines According to the American Migraine Association, migraines affect more than 36 million Americans. This is 12 percent of the population. Overall, migraines are a leading cause of outpatient and emergency-room visits. They’re a potentially debilitating nerve disease that affects both sexes. However, women are effected far more often than men. Migraines and other types of headaches, such as tension headaches and sinus headaches, are very painful. There’s usually no exact cause for migraines. Doctors have speculated that smoking, skipping meals, wine, other alcohols, hormonal fluctuations, monosodium glutamate (MSG), and stress may cause them. Migraine symptoms include a pounding headache that can increase with physical activity and straining. The sufferer can also have nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, diarrhea, and light sensitivity. Migraines can drastically affect your daily routine. In some cases, they may keep a person bedridden for days. Migraines can be preceded or accompanied by sensory warning signs called an “aura.” These may include flashes of light, blind spots, zig-zag lines in the visual field, difficulty in concentration and speaking, and tingling in the arms and legs. (Remember, if you have a headache that is very severe, with other neurological signs such as the inability to lift your arms or legs, or if you cannot walk, talk, or smile, get the hospital right away. This could be something much worse than a migraine.) Treatment is aimed at helping the pain and nausea. There is presently no cure for migraines. Doctors are trying to limit the use of narcotics. They are encouraging patients to get enough sleep, try to reduce the stress, drink plenty of water, decrease alcohol intake, avoid certain foods and drinks, and get September 2017 regular exercise. If you think that a migraine may be on the horizon, be prepared. Migraine prevention begins with avoiding the things that can trigger the condition. Once the migraine does start, however, you should have your meds on hand. Migraine sufferers use a variety of things to help stop the pain. These medications and activities may include yoga, acupuncture, meditation, Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Excedrin-Migraine, anti-nausea meds, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, Imitrex, antidepressants, beta-blockers, anticonvulsants, Botox, herbs, vitamins, exercise, and sleep. There are many new things being tried to help with migraine pain other than medications, including biofeedback tapes, massages, and aromatherapy. Many have tried a new apparatus called a Cefaly device, with good results. This is a small device that attaches to the forehead like a headband and delivers a pulse to the targeted areas in the brain that are believed to be causing the pain. It uses a palm-size rechargeable battery to deliver the needed pulses. Some people swear that it does help them with their migraine pain. Another new approach involves something called a Daith piercing. It involves the piercing of the innermost cartilage fold of the ear. This is an attempt to simulate acupuncture. Some have had good results with this type of pain relief. This is not a do-ityourself procedure; a qualified acupuncturist should handle it. Making sure that you know what triggers your headache pain and how to treat it can help to eliminate many hours of suffering. As always, seek your medical doctor’s advice in all matters of migraine pain and do whatever follow up is recommended to make you feel better. Health Recipe Chicken Ratatouille Servings: 25 10 pounds chicken breast half without skin, defrosted 1/16 cup kosher salt ½ tablespoon black pepper 1 tablespoon olive oil ½ tablespoon paprika 1 tablespoon granulated garlic 1 cup eggplant, chopped 1 cup zucchini, chopped 1 cup yellow squash, chopped 1 cup onion, chopped ½ quart tomato puree ½ tablespoon rosemary, ground ½ tablespoon thyme, ground ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper, ground 1/3 tablespoon granulated garlic ½ tablespoon granulated sugar 1/16 cup olive oil Fresh parsley, chopped Preparation n In a large container, add the chicken and the seasoning. Marinate for 2 hours. n Grill the chicken on an oiled griddle or grill over med-high heat. Cook the chicken half way through. Place in 2” hotel pans, cover and set aside. n In a large stock pot or steam kettle sauté the ratatouille vegetables until tender. n Add the tomato puree and all the seasonings, cook for about 5-10 minutes on low heat. n Drizzle olive oil on top of the chicken breasts. Bake in a 325 degree Fahrenheit oven for about 15-20 minutes uncovered, until internal temperature of 165 degrees is reached. n Top the chicken breast with the cooked ratatouille. Cover and serve, garnish with fresh parsley. Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 186 Calories; 3g Fat (15% calories from fat); 34g Protein; 4g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 84mg Cholesterol; 443mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain (Starch); 4 ½ Lean Meat; 1/2 Vegetable; 0 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates. Provided by the Paul Hall Center’s Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship Seafarers LOG 7 �Seafarers Mobilize for ‘Pacer Goose’ SIU crews aboard the M/V Ocean Giant and MT Maersk Peary once again answered the call, supporting the U.S. military on an annual Arctic resupply mission. The Ocean Giant is operated by Waterman, and the Maersk Peary is operated by Maersk Line, Limited. Pacer Goose 2017, the annual resupply mission to Thule Air Base in Greenland, got under way in Virginia on July 13. The Ocean Giant, chartered by the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), began the assignment by spending three days taking on equipment and supplies at Naval Station Norfolk. The vessel was loaded with 100 shipping containers full of supplies, modular buildings and four K-Loads, which are used to load and offload military cargo aircraft. “Ocean Giant is going to deliver the goods needed for the air base to operate,” said Capt. Timothy Arey, the Ocean Giant’s master. “We are going to sail through the ice and the cold to get them what they need and take away the items which are no longer needed at Thule.” Operation Pacer Goose began in 1952, using U.S. Navy combatant ships to transport equipment and materials to the remote military base. The operation accounts for one of the Arctic outpost’s few sources of food, spare parts and other manufactured goods needed each year. Even though the temperature was freezing, summer is the only time of year that the ice is thin enough to break through, added Arey. The Ocean Giant then linked up with the tanker Maersk Peary, which was loaded with fuel for Thule. The two ships followed a Canadian icebreaker through the ice and into the air base’s harbor. After unloading the critical supplies, the ships backloaded all of the base’s solid waste and non-repairable equipment for return to the United States.  Arey pointed out that the Ocean Giant “is a great fit for this mission because it is double hulled to handle the ice and is extremely maneuverable. Additionally, the ship has its own cranes so it can load and offload cargo independently. “Ocean Giant’s merchant marines run lean and mean,” he added. “Because of the size of the crew, our mariners tend to wear a lot of hats. Our crew multi-tasks lots of different jobs which keeps the ship running efficiently…. Merchant mariners have a proud history of service to the United States. During World War II, civilian mariners did their part in support of the war effort and we are very proud to be supporting the military by delivering supplies to Thule. We are really excited about this mission and feel very privileged to be a part of it.” U.S. Navy Sailors look on as the SIU-crewed Ocean Giant prepares to sail. (Photo courtesy of Bill Mesta) SIU-Crewed Prepositioning Ships Take Action in Group Sail Six SIU-crewed, Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessels participated in a multi-ship training exercise, referred to as a group sail, off the coast of Saipan from Aug. 2-3. Taking part in the exercise were the USNS 1st LT Jack Lummus (Operated by Crowley), USNS 2nd LT John P. Bobo, USNS GYSGT Fred W. Stockham, USNS Pililaau, USNS Red Cloud and USNS So- derman, among other vessels in Maritime Prepositioning Ships Squadron Three (MPSRON-3). The Lummus, Bobo and Stockham are operated by Crowley; the Pililaau by American Overseas Marine; and the Red Cloud and Soderman by Patriot. The exercise, used to prepare the prepositioning ships in tactical movement, also saw the MSC vessels working alongside the rest of the MSPRON-3 squadron, training the ships in interoperability with U.S. Navy assets. As described by the Navy, the MPSRON ships executed close quarter turns, torpedo evasion tactics and formation steaming during the exercise, as well as practiced nighttime signal communications and worked with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Two Five for deck landing qualifications. “I am very pleased with how this event was executed. My staff worked very hard with all involved to ensure a crawl, walk, run phasing and the efforts in planning have shown themselves in the results,” said U.S. Navy Capt. Eric Lindfors, who heads up MPSRON-3. “The success was only possible with the inputs we received from the ships’ masters as we were operating with four different classes of ships all about the size of an aircraft carrier. I look forward to the next event and increasing the complexity so that we are better ready to support any call received.” GUDE Monica Coffelt (above) opens a lube oil cooler earlier this year aboard the Lummus. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Fulton) In the photo at right, SIU-crewed prepositioning ships change formation during an exercise off the coast of Saipan. (Photo courtesy of U.S. Navy) Practice Makes Perfect The aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (top) pulls alongside the Seafarers-crewed dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS William McLean during a practice underway replenishment Aug. 14 in the Atlantic. The McLean is crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Mathew R. Fairchild) 8 Seafarers LOG September 2017 �Hands-On Training in Piney Point Practical training has always been a key part of many curriculums offered at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. These snapshots of upgraders were taken at the school around the start of summer. The Union Plus Scholarship Difference Helping SIU members and their children attend college Union Plus Scholarships help SIU families with the cost of college Awards range from $500 to $4,000 and are available annually to students attending college, trade or graduate schools. The Union Plus Scholarship application is now available. Deadline to apply is January 31, 12pm (noon), Eastern Time 9/17 Learn more at unionplus.org/Scholarship 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: September 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 offi- cial 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 9 �ABOARD OCEAN CRESCENT – Pictured from left to right aboard the Crowley-operated ship while it was docked at Concord Naval Weapons Station in California are QEE Tomas Merel, Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli, AB Sean Furlanic, Capt. Alan White, Port Agent Nick Marrone II, OMU Omar Espinosa, AB Dominador Diaz and Bosun Richard Hitchcock. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD SEATTLE – Pictured aboard the vessel in Concord, California, are (from left) Port Agent Nick Marrone II, Steward/Baker Troy Smith, QMED Patrick Buckley (seated), AB Thomas Drummond, AB Ryan Drummond and Bosun Ed Majesky. SA Kimberly Dawson is behind the camera. Formerly named BBC Seattle, the vessel is operated by JM Ship LLC. ABOARD ATB COMMITMENT – These photos were taken in early August in Long Beach, California. Pictured aboard the Crowley vessel are Capt. Joel Anderson (above, left), Chief Engineer Piotr Kwiatkowski (above, center), Utility Eugene Narubin (directly above) and Utility Evan Flynn (photo at immediate right) 10 Seafarers LOG September 2017 �ABOARD USNS RED CLOUD IN GUAM – Pictured from left to right on the Patriot-operated vessel are (front) SA Emily Lepley, SA Elena Hoener, Port Agent Fred Sanchez, Steward/Baker Shirley Jenkins, (back) Chief Cook Dennison Dizon and Storekeeper Edwin Coleman. ABOARD MONTFORD POINT – Among those pictured are AB Jon Sunga, AB John Garrett, AB Dhindo Faulve, QEE Thomas Jones, Bosun Ken Steiner, STOS Rodelo Ayaton, SK Chris Maye, QMED Rey Tendido, AB Larry Dizon, CC Aurelio Esperanza, Port Agent John Hoskins, Port Agent Fred Sanchez, Steward Cesar Delacruz, STOS Edmar Guanzon, QMED Mike Gray, Bosun’s Mate Jason Davis, QEP Kenneth Lockhart, SA Ronnie Quess, AB Bruce Ilao, AB Rolando Dinong, STOS Alan Boiser, and DEU Solomon Godwin. The vessel, operated by Ocean Shipholdings, was in Guam when the photo was taken. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD MANUKAI – This photo was taken while the Matson-operated vessel was in Guam. That’s Chief Cook Susano Cortez in front; standing left to right in back are ACU Nasser Hasson, Port Agent Fred Sanchez and Recertified Steward George Monseur. OATH IN JACKSONVILLE – QE4 David Garrett (left) is sworn in for his full book by Patrolman Adam Bucalo at the union hall. WITH SEAFARERS IN CHARM CITY – Pictured in late July aboard the Tote Services-operated MV Freedom in Baltimore are (from left) Patrolman DeCarlo Harris, Recertified Bosun Stephen Herring, Chief Steward Frank Starling and Port Agent John Hoskins. ABOARD APL BELGIUM – Pictured from left are ACU Bernie Igot, Recertified Steward Ali Matari and Chief Cook Tashara Newton. Thanks to Recertified Bosun Gerry Gianan for the photo. WELCOME ASHORE IN WILMINGTON – Longtime inland division member Marijan Masnov (left) picks up his first pension check at the union hall, where he’s congratulated by Port Agent Jeff Turkus. Masnov sailed in the engine department, most recently with Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning. ABOARD MV LIBERTY – Bosun Jerrold Foke took these snapshots aboard the Tote-operated car carrier. Pictured at left, STOS Jose Hercules fashions a new winch cover. In photo above at center, STOS Paul Ebanks scrubs the deck. In the remaining photo, AB Tony Ayala grabs a tool box and rehabs some boat wire. NEW ADDITION – AB Kane Prew (left) is pictured at the SIU hall in Jacksonville, Florida, with his wife, Becky, and their newborn daughter, Willow. The bundle of joy was four weeks old when this snapshot was taken in early June. September 2017 HAWAIIAN PRIDE – The LOG’s commitment to accuracy precludes altering the name board so it reads “Hawaiian Legends,” but please note that all four of these ABs hail from the Aloha State. From left aboard the Alaska Tanker Co. vessel are SIU members Lindsey Austin, Dylan Casuga, Pomaikai Velasquez and Elijah Huff. All are graduates of the Paul Hall Center’s apprentice program. (Thanks to Port Agent Hazel Galbiso for the photo.) Seafarers LOG 11 �Nine Bosuns Ascend Ladder to Recertified Status N ine deck department Seafarers recently achieved the crowning triumphs of their respective upgrading careers when they graduated from the bosun recertification course at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Maryland. In recognition of their ascent to the pinnacle of the deck department ladder, each received a certificate Aug. 7 during the union’s membership meeting at the PHC. In keeping with tradition, the graduates – Roberto Flauta, Albert Konning Jr., Marc Marcus, Hussein Mohssen Mohamed, Walter Ritvalsky, Rodney Roberson Sr., Stig Sasse Jr., LBJ Bliss Tanoa and Abel Vazquez Torres – also addressed union officials, fellow upgraders, trainees and guests who attended the meeting. The two-week class features a blend of new and refresher handson training, classroom instruction, meetings with representatives from various union offices, and gatherings with personnel from the Seafarers Plans, among other activities. During their presentations, the bosuns expressed gratitude for the opportunities they have been afforded to enhance their skills, improve their lives and those of their families, and become better shipmates to their brothers and sisters aboard SIUcontracted vessels. They collectively thanked the union leadership for its continued support, and the PHC vocational and hotel staffs for their excellent instruction and accommodations, respectively. the scenes on our behalf,” he said. “And I encourage you to continue to support them in all of their efforts. That includes your continued donations to SPAD because it really works.” Ritvalsky then expressed his gratitude to the school’s instructors and staff for “implementing, running and being at the forefront of new technologies that impact the maritime industry. We have a world-class facility here with state-of-the-art equipment, training aids and up-to-date course materials,” he said. “The staff is very hands-on, warm and courteous. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the school and all it has to offer.” Addressing the trainees, Ritvalsky said, “You only get out what you put in. So, invest in yourself and your future.” He continued by telling all present that knowledge is power. “The more (knowledge) you gain, the more powerful you become,” he said. “Take advantage of all the courses that you can here at the school and move up quickly. “Once you go aboard ship, never hesitate to go to your bosun if you have concerns,” he concluded. “We represent you and are there for you. Always remember, we have all walked in your shoes.” “You are not going to get very far in life based on what you already know,” he said. “You’re going to advance in life by what you’re going to learn and accomplish after you leave here. Once you get out to sea, continue to work hard carry your load and never be afraid to ask questions.” In closing, he told the apprentices that the best leaders are grown from within the organization. “You have been chosen by the current leadership for this opportunity because of your recognized ability to lead your fellow teammates,” he said. “Remember, education does not stop after you graduate from here…. The acquisition of wisdom is a moral duty, not just something you do to advance in life. “Be the leaders you were appointed to be and make your team the best of the best,” he concluded. “We, the few and the proud, we thank you, SIU.” Marc Marcus Ritvalsky was the first to take the podium. A military veteran, he signed on with the union in 1991 and hails from port of Norfolk, Virginia. “I came into the union 26 years ago through the veterans’ program after serving six years in the U.S. Coast Guard,” he said. “Being a part of this brotherhood (the SIU) has given me a sense of belonging, made me an integral part of something bigger than myself and taught me the real meaning of self-worth.” Reflecting on the overall experience of going through the recertification course, Ritvalsky said that spending in-depth, one-on-one time with the union leadership afforded him a working knowledge of what it takes to run the successful organization that the SIU is. “Our union leadership and staff deserve true recognition for the outstanding job they are doing behind Roberson has been going to sea under the SIU banner for some 25 years. He sails from the port of Philadelphia and is a veteran of both the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps. “I am the first and only member of my family to be a member of the U.S. Merchant Marine,” he told the audience upon taking the podium. “Being a merchant mariner has been the most exciting experience of my career.” Having circumnavigated the globe aboard union-contracted vessels on more than one occasion, Roberson said he has met a lot of interesting people, experienced a variety of cultures and seen many interesting things. “The SIU has been good to me and my family over the many years I have sailed,” he said. “I extend my thanks to all who have given me the opportunity to have a better life. I send a special thanks to our union officials for all of their efforts; especially for keeping the SIU strong and well.” Offering timely advice to the trainees, Roberson told them to study hard while at the school, become accustomed to working with classmates and to learn well the lessons being taught by their instructors. Marcus is a December 1970 graduate of the PHC apprentice program and has since returned to the school several times to upgrade his skills. A native of Baltimore, he currently sails from the Port of Jacksonville, Florida. “I initially returned to the school in order to remain current with the industry’s requirements and to maintain my eligibility to sail,” he said. “The ability to upgrade has always been a benefit and I encourage everyone to take advantage of it as often as possible.” Turning to his bosun recertification training experience, Marcus said it let him see what really goes on behind the scenes of the union’s daily operations. “It was very interesting to realize how all of these intricacies are woven together,” he said. “For example, through our political agenda, we protect existing laws and introduce new legislation in concert with other maritime and labor organizations. “The end result is keeping and creating jobs,” Marcus said. “This is all funded through SPAD, a most important voluntary contribution made through our membership.” Speaking of the PHC, Marcus told the audience: “Our school, with its state-of-the-art training, allows us to be the frontrunners in obtaining these jobs for our membership. It also allows our membership to go as far as they want in the industry – from unlicensed to licensed officers. This is just one example of how one aspect adheres to another…. I thank all the Recertified Bosun Walter Ritvalsky Recertified Bosun Rodney Roberson Sr. Recertified Bosun Marc Markus Walt Ritvalsky 12 Seafarers LOG Rodney Roberson Sr. instructors, the school’s administration and our union officials for all the progress we have made. I thank them all for a job well done.” In closing, Marcus urged his SIU brothers and sisters to stay informed. And while he and his classmates had just completed two weeks of intense training, he said that much of the information he received is also available through other easily accessible sources. Included in his list were the union’s website, the Seafarers LOG and the union’s approachable executives. “I encourage you to take advantage of all of them,” Marcus concluded. “An informed member can only result in a stronger union.” Roberto Flauta Flauta joined the union in 1992 in Honolulu. Born in the Philippines, he currently sails out of the port of Oakland, California. “The union has given me an opportunity to have a successful career,” he said. “It has also helped me to establish a far better life for myself and my family here in America.” Flauta said that thanks to his jobs with the SIU, his kids are making good on all of their ever-growing educational aspirations. “My children are excelling in their education because of my work,” he said. “Because of this job, my children will be taking their first cars to the stars and back.” Flauta said he was impressed with the entire bosun recertification curriculum, especially those portions that addressed member benefits and the contracting process. “The insights I gained on the [Seafarers Plans] and the contracting process were very valuable,” he said. “I can now provide information to my shipmates who have questions about these things.” Regarding SPAD, Flauta urged everyone present to continue making contributions to this very worthwhile fund. “To all members and trainees, I would like to ask you to continue to donate to SPAD,” he said. “Donations keep our jobs and the industry safe.” After advising the rank-and-file members to practice safety in every job-related task and to keep all mariner documents current, he told them to upgrade as often as possible. He closed by thanking union officials for keeping the union going strong. “The recertification class has given me an understanding of the history of the union, the different departments and [various programs] that affect members,” he said. “I now have the tools – including knowledge of contracts – to assist members with whatever they want to know. This has been a very informative experience for me.” Sasse launched his seafaring career when 16 years old. “I’ve been in this industry since 1975. I sailed under the Belgian flag, then with the U.S. Coast Guard, the National Maritime Union and now with the SIU,” he said. “I’ve been around the world several times and will probably do it several more times,” he continued. “I like different cultures and the history of languages…. I’d like to thank SIU President (Mike) Sacco and all those who were involved in making this happen.” Addressing the apprentices, Sasse said, “You young guys, you are our future. Go out there and learn, work hard and take pride in what you do. Be considerate of your shipmates and treat the ship as you would your own home; it is your home while you are there.” He then addressed rank-and-file members regarding the importance of political activity. “I ask you to help our officials by donating to SPAD,” he said, “so they can do their jobs to keep us strong and secure.” Sasse surrendered the podium with a final piece of advice for his brothers and sisters: “If you think you have a problem with alcohol or drugs, you probably do,” he said. “Jack Gallagher has a good program going on at the Addictions Rehabilitation Center (ARC). Let it be your decision to get help, not the Coast Guard’s.” Albert Konning Recertified Bosun Rodney Roberson Sr. (second from left) shares insights with Phase III apprentices aboard the PHC training vessel Freedom Star. Listening in and awaiting his turn to engage the trainees is Recertified Bosun Roberto Tremor Flauta (left.) Sasse is home-ported in Houston, the same location where he initially signed on with the union in 2001. Konning joined the SIU in Houston, his current home port. “I have been a part of this union since 2002,” he told his brothers and sisters. “I have been sailing for 30 years or more starting in 1978. I have sailed around the world … to the west, east, north, South Africa, Europe, the Far East and Asia.” Originally from Ghana, Konning said he is deeply indebted to the union because it “has helped me to become a citizen of the United States.” He then turned his attention to the PHC staff. “My thanks go to the union instructors and staff at the school for all of their hard work,” he said. “They did a great job during my recertification training and I learned a lot about leadership, union education, recruiting, manpower, U.S. Coast Guard regulations, claims, social responsibilities, drug and alcohol awareness, vacation records and SIU contracts. “The entire experience made me a better mariner by providing me a greater understanding of what I am doing,” he continued. “I can now explain things to my crew and answer any questions they put before me.” Turning to the apprentices, Konning advised them to study hard and learn from their instructors. “And Recertified Bosun Roberto Tremor Flauta Recertified Bosun Stig Sasse Jr. Recertified Bosun Albert Konning Jr. Stig Sasse Jr. September 2017 September 2017 when you get out to sea, work hard, carry your load and never be afraid to ask questions.” Before departing the podium, he encouraged all rank-and file members to upgrade their skills often and do their part to help protect union jobs by donating to SPAD. Vazquez Torres joined the SIU in 2001 in San Juan, Puerto Rico, his home port. He has upgraded his skills on four previous occasions at the PHC. “Being at the school (for bosun recertification training) has been an eye-opening experience for me,” Vazquez Torres said. “I learned a great deal about medical plans, pensions and the money purchase plan. These new insights will enable me to help keep my shipmates informed.” He then thanked “President Sacco, other union officials, staff members and everyone else involved in this great organization for making this day possible. I also want to thank (Port Agent) Amancio Crespo for his trust in me when I first shipped as a bosun a few years back,” he continued. “For that trust, I will always be grateful.” In similar fashion, he acknowledged union officials from the port of Houston for an extremely memorable role they played in his career. “They really came to my rescue a few years ago when shipping was really slow in Puerto Rico,” he said. “I flew to Houston to get work and those guys really treated me like I was family. I will never forget that.” Vazquez Torres then expressed his gratitude for the union’s new hall in Puerto Rico. “I again thank the leadership as well as others who were involved in the acquisition of our new union hall in Puerto Rico” he said. “It really does mean a lot to Recertified Bosun Abel Vazquez Torres Recertified Bosun Hussein Mohssen Mohamed Recertified Bosun LBJ Bliss Tanoa Abel Vazquez Torres Continued on next page Seafarers LOG 13 �Deck Department Members Realize Career Aspirations Continued from Page 13 all of us. There are still a few details to finalize but soon the new hall will be up and running.” Directing his attention to the apprentices, he said: “To all the young guys, let me tell you to work hard, always give 100 percent and don’t allow anyone to turn you around. There are no limits on how far you can go aside from those limits that you place on yourself.” In closing, Vazquez Torres stated, “Life for me as a mariner once was like a roller coaster: up and down. But thanks to the SIU, that has all changed. Everything now is moving forward. Once again, thanks to the SIU. You guys have made me more than just a sailor; you made me a professional.” Hussein Mohssen Mohamed Mohamed signed on with the union in 1999 in Honolulu. He currently sails out of Wilmington, Calif. “I found the bosun recertification course interesting and enjoyable,” he said. “The knowledge I gained will enable me to teach younger members how the union works.” Focusing on the positive impact that being a Seafarer has had on him, Mohamed said, “The SIU has afforded me the opportunity to have a good life for myself and my family. I have now been sailing for 17 years. I would also like to say thank you to our union leadership for all the hard work they do in keeping and protecting our jobs and this industry.” To the trainees, Mohammed offered: “My advice to you guys is to keep working hard, be responsible, keep a good attitude and upgrade your skills often.” In closing, he told the rank-and-file membership to keep their dues current and donate to SPAD as often as possible. LBJ Bliss Tanoa Tanoa was the final recertified bosun to speak. He started his career with the union in 1991 in Honolulu. He upgraded his skills in 1993 and 1998 at the PHC and in 2001 in Barbers Point, Hawaii. After extending his gratitude to the union’s executives and Seafarers Appeals Board for accepting his application to be a member of the recer- Recertified Bosuns Stig Sasse Jr. (second from right) and Abel Vazquez Torres (second from left) provide some hands-on training to Phase III apprentices aboard the PHC training vessel Freedom Star. tification class, he sent a shout-out to PHC officials. “I want to compliment the vice president, staff members and the Piney Point port agent for the awesome job they have done keeping our school top notch – the best in this country as well as overseas,” he said. “I made a promise and a commitment to my family and friends – past and present – who are now retired members of the deck, engine and steward departments aboard SIUcontacted vessels,” Tanoa continued. That promise, he added was that someday, he’d become an SIU recertified bosun. “Here I am today,” he said, “a member of the PHC recertified bosun class of 2017.” He then pointed out that he believes he is the first Samoan-born mariner from the Pacific Islands to earn bosun recertification status in the union’s history. As a result of being a member the union and achieving bosun recertification status, Tanoa said, “I have secured the American dream and a good future for my kids and family. And that’s why I want to thank SIU President Sacco and past presidents for the fair shake in life that I have had with the SIU during the past 26 years.” Turning to the trainees, he said, “My advice to our apprentice class is to take advantage of this opportunity to build a solid foundation and a better future for you and your family. Take advantage of the academic programs that we offer here and keep upgrading to better your skills for the challenges that lie ahead. “Our SIU motto is Strength in Unity,” he continued. “We are members of every race and religion. We speak every language; we’re every gender, sexual orientation and gender identity. And we were all born right here in the SIU, and we are one. Our diversity is our strength.” Addressing his fellow recertified bosuns, Tanoa suggested that each of them now knows the way forward and their collective responsibilities. “Our duty is to continue to be the eyes and ears for our union aboard ships,” he said. “We must advocate and protect the new and young union members and defend our collective bargaining rights.” In closing, he told all present that the devil never sleeps. “We have opponents out there who are bold, wellfunded and willing to fight,” he said. “I say bring it on. Brothers and sisters, we have the best executive board in SIU history to fight this battle all the time and we all must support them. “Remember, Strength in Unity and Unity is Our Strength.” At the conclusion of the meeting, union officials joined the nine recertified bosuns and members of the families for this photo. 14 Seafarers LOG September 2017 �September & October Membership Meetings Piney Point..........*Tuesday: September 5, Monday: October 2 Algonac....................................Friday: September 8, October 6 Baltimore.............................Thursday: September 7, October 5 Guam...............................Thursday: September 21, October 19 Honolulu...............................Friday: September 15, October 13 Houston.............Monday: September 11, *Tuesday: October 10 Jacksonville..........................Thursday: September 7, October 5 Joliet.................................Thursday: September 14, October 12 Mobile...........................Wednesday: September 13, October 11 New Orleans.......................Tuesday: September 12, October 10 Jersey City.............................Tuesday: September 5, October 3 Norfolk.................................Thursday: September 7, October 5 Oakland............................Thursday: September 14, October 12 Philadelphia......................Wednesday: September 6, October 4 Port Everglades................Thursday: September 14, October 12 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea July 16, 2017 - August 15, 2017 Tacoma.................................Friday: September 22, October 20 Wilmington...........................Monday: September 18, October 16 * Piney Point change due to Labor Day *Houston change created by Columbus Day observance. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m Personal Mark Lance Retired SIU member Mark Lance would like to hear from his old shipmates. He may be contacted at mtalance@sbcglobal.net or (530) 781-4639. Correction In the August LOG, the story about longtime SIU member Vern Poulsen listed an incorrect date of death. Brother Poulsen passed away May 30. ATTENTION SEAFARERS! Contribute To SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation) September 2017 Total Shipped All Groups A B Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 20 13 2 21 14 1 5 25 13 3 4 1 1 2 0 2 1 5 1 0 11 7 4 2 2 2 2 14 7 2 27 15 6 12 15 4 3 35 11 5 5 0 0 4 0 0 0 7 2 0 9 1 6 12 0 2 5 12 3 5 10 6 0 7 5 3 4 16 9 2 45 9 19 50 6 8 21 83 7 29 34 16 13 27 12 10 20 64 35 17 30 12 3 30 17 4 18 68 21 6 5 2 1 2 3 0 0 6 2 1 15 1 5 5 4 1 2 24 3 11 16 19 6 10 16 7 8 31 17 6 21 7 2 11 3 2 6 28 7 4 2 5 0 4 3 0 1 2 8 1 3 0 1 1 2 1 2 5 2 0 4 5 1 4 6 1 4 11 7 0 43 9 5 27 5 3 7 57 17 6 0 2 1 1 4 0 0 3 1 2 32 15 1 30 7 3 11 60 19 11 336 145 82 262 124 54 120 556 192 116 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 1 4 1 0 2 1 7 3 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 4 2 2 1 1 1 1 6 3 10 3 2 5 2 3 5 18 4 4 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 5 3 0 1 1 0 1 8 5 1 8 3 0 4 0 1 2 20 9 0 18 8 3 12 7 1 6 30 15 5 23 14 4 15 11 1 11 41 14 3 13 7 0 7 3 0 2 20 8 0 3 1 0 3 0 0 0 3 1 0 6 2 2 5 4 1 3 9 3 3 16 16 5 10 11 4 10 22 17 4 5 8 2 11 3 2 4 9 7 2 3 3 0 2 2 0 1 7 1 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 1 5 0 5 6 1 3 0 0 0 7 10 1 17 5 3 12 11 1 5 32 4 1 2 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 11 5 4 12 2 1 4 20 16 6 150 95 34 106 60 18 56 256 130 36 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 1 1 0 0 3 1 1 5 3 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 1 1 4 0 0 0 6 1 1 5 1 1 11 0 2 4 9 2 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 5 2 1 5 0 0 2 7 3 1 10 0 0 3 1 0 1 17 2 1 24 2 3 15 2 0 7 40 9 2 12 6 1 11 7 1 7 25 10 2 14 4 0 5 2 0 3 22 5 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 3 0 4 4 0 2 2 0 2 6 4 1 12 12 3 15 7 3 5 12 14 2 22 5 1 20 2 2 6 21 6 3 1 0 1 7 0 1 4 3 0 1 5 2 0 4 0 0 1 4 4 0 2 3 2 4 3 2 5 5 7 0 16 1 2 14 1 1 4 21 2 2 2 1 0 4 0 0 1 5 1 0 20 8 3 14 2 1 3 34 9 2 164 56 19 139 34 14 56 244 86 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 3 15 10 0 11 6 4 4 19 9 0 1 2 0 0 3 0 0 2 2 1 0 4 1 0 1 0 0 0 3 0 6 7 0 2 4 0 1 7 8 0 3 2 0 1 0 0 0 2 2 0 1 6 1 1 2 0 0 1 6 0 4 3 2 2 4 0 1 13 7 2 12 7 3 12 5 2 7 12 15 7 13 37 1 11 21 2 5 21 68 2 16 12 1 3 6 0 4 29 15 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 2 3 0 11 19 0 6 24 3 1 25 32 2 15 11 1 12 2 2 4 21 17 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 5 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 3 9 7 4 7 9 3 5 27 25 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 15 20 3 8 19 1 11 24 36 22 122 150 17 76 109 23 43 207 251 GRAND TOTAL: 672 418 285 524 294 195 255 1,099 615 422 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C San Juan..............................Thursday: September 7, October 5 St. Louis................................Friday: September 15, October 13 Total Registered A All Groups B C Seafarers LOG 15 �Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by SIU members at the union hall in New Orleans. Question: What are some things you enjoy doing in your free time? Lamar Parker QMED I’ve made enough money through my career with the SIU to invest and get involved in real estate. It’s my passion, and a great way to prepare for your retirement. Thanks to the cost-saving advantages of attending classes at the Paul Hall Center – and having my health care paid for by the union – I’ve been able to really plan ahead. John Hale Steward/Baker When I’m on a ship, it’s all work for me. We work long hours, so I don’t usually do much in my spare time. Off work, it’s taking care of my family, working around the house and cutting the grass. Santos Antonio AB In my free time, I’m at the gym. Whether I’m on board a vessel or at home, I’m constantly trying to stay in shape. It’s important to stay fit as a mariner. Walter Laux Wiper I’m busy all the time, but usually just chores like cutting the grass and that sort of thing. I do like to watch soccer on TV when I can, since I’m too old to play soccer anymore. Jeremie Brooks AB On the ship, I’m working out and lifting weights in my spare time. When I’m off, I’m riding my motorcycle. I take cross-country trips, meeting up with other riders everywhere I go. When you’re on a ship for four or five months, and then off for four or five months, you get opportunities to travel that most people don’t have. Stella Whitley GUDE I like to go to the gym, but mostly I play video games in my free time. When I’m on a ship, I’ll read books, and at home I like to go fishing, but it’s mostly Madden and a few first-person shooters for me. 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 According to the original caption, this snapshot was taken on Aug. 8, 1941. It’s a view looking north above what was described as a “small boat harbor” in Piney Point, Maryland. Piney Point, of course, would become the home of the SIU-affiliated Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in 1967. The overall campus (located to the east of where this photo was taken) in 1991 was renamed the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. 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 September 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 MOHAMED AHMED Brother Mohamed Ahmed, 60, began sailing with the SIU in 1981. He originally shipped on the Santa Mariana. The deck department member upgraded on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Ahmed’s last vessel was the Maersk Chicago. He lives in Ponchatoula, Louisiana. RYVER ALEXANDER Sister Ryver Alexander, 65, first donned the SIU colors in 2005, working on the Wa­ ters. A member of the steward department, she enhanced her skills often at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Sister Alexander last worked on the Ohio. She calls Sunrise, Florida, home. GARY BARTLETT Brother Gary Bartlett, 65, started shipping with the Seafarers in 2002. He first sailed as an engine department member on the Equality State. He most recently sailed aboard the De­ pendable. Brother Bartlett is a resident of Gig Harbor, Washington. GERALD BOLLINGER Brother Gerald Bollinger, 67, donned the union colors in 1969. He first sailed with Erie Navigation, and most recently shipped aboard the St John. Brother Bollinger worked in the engine department and resides in Erie, Pennsylvania. JAMES CHESHIRE Brother James Cheshire, 71, joined the union in 1995. He first sailed with OSG Ship Management, working as a deck department member. In 1997, Brother Cheshire attended classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He concluded his career on the Overseas Joyce and resides in Stuart, Florida. JOAN ELLIS Sister Joan Ellis, 65, became a Seafarer in 1989. The deck department member initially sailed on the LNG Leo. Sister Ellis upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1998. She last shipped aboard the LNG Capricorn and lives in Kingston, New York. September 2017 PHILIP FULMER VELLY MARQUEZ Brother Philip Fulmer, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1998. He originally worked on the Baldomero Lopez. Brother Fulmer took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Piney Point school and upgraded in 2010. He sailed in the deck department and his most recent ship was the Jack Lummus. Brother Fulmer resides in Marietta, Ohio. Brother Velly Marquez, 63, began shipping with the union in 2003, initially working on the Chesapeake Bay. He upgraded twice at the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Pont, Maryland. Brother Marquez worked in the deck department. He most recently shipped aboard the Alliance Norfolk and resides in Kissimmee, Florida. ANDREW GREENWOOD Brother Andrew Greenwood, 65, started sailing with the union in 1973. He first shipped aboard the John Tyler. Brother Greenwood attended classes on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. As a member of the engine department, he most recently worked aboard the Horizon Consumer. He now calls Sumner, Washington, home. JOHN HABIB Brother John Habib, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1978, as a deck department member. He first worked on the Philadelphia. Brother Habib upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 2004. He most recently sailed on the Horizon Reliance. Born in Syria, he is now settled in Wilmington, California. JOHNNY MORRIS Brother Johnny Morris, 61, started sailing with the SIU in 2001. He first shipped on the Overseas Wash­ ington, and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2010. A deck department member, Brother Morris last worked on the Mary Sears. He is a resident of Las Vegas. JAMES OLING Brother James Oling, 65, became a union member in 1999. He started his career working aboard the John Paul Bobo. Brother Oling sailed in the engine department. On several occasions, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Oling’s most recent trip was on the Burns Harbor. He settled in Oak Forest, Illinois. HECTOR PILGRIM Sister Janet Jourdan, 67, began sailing with the SIU in 2003. She first shipped with Marine Personnel and Provisioning, working in the steward department. Sister Jourdan took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point School and upgraded in 2004. Prior to her retirement, she shipped on the Cap­ tain David Lyon. The New Orleans native now resides in Katy, Texas. Brother Hector Pilgrim, 65, signed on with the SIU in 2003. He first sailed on the Maersk Maine in the deck department. Brother Pilgrim upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2002 before concluding his career on the Liberator. He resides in Brooklyn, New York. WALTER LOVELESS PETER POREE Brother Walter Loveless, 65, became a union member in 1969. He initially sailed on the Columbia Rose, working in the deck department. Brother Loveless upgraded at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, in 1999 and 2006. He most recently shipped on the Algol and lives in Destrehan, Louisiana. Brother Peter Poree, 67, joined the SIU in 1990. He initially sailed aboard the Silas Bent, working in the deck department. He took advantage of training opportunities at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, and upgraded in 2001. After his final trip on the Cal­ vin P. Titus, Brother Poree settled in Aitkin, Minnesota. JANET JOURDAN JESSE MANARD Brother Jesse Manard, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1976. A member of the engine department, he originally worked for CLM Enterprises. Brother Manard upgraded at the Piney Point School in 1984 and 2001. He last sailed on the Horizon Reli­ ance and now resides in Las Vegas. JIMMIE SCHECK Brother Jimmie Scheck, 60, signed on with the union in 1977. The St. Louis native initially worked aboard the Zapata Courier. He was a deck department member and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center in Maryland. Brother Engle upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1975 and 1978. He last sailed with Mariner Towing and is a resident of Egg Harbor, New Jersey. Scheck’s final vessel was the Ocean Freedom. He lives in Dickinson, Texas. ALLEN VAN BUREN Brother Allen Van Buren, 66, joined the SIU in 1976. He initially worked with the Empire Transport Company as a member of the steward department. On several occasions, Brother Van Buren took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center. He last sailed on the Alli­ ance Norfolk and calls Jacksonville, Florida, home. LAWRENCE ZEPEDA Brother Lawrence Zepeda, 64, signed on with the union in 1971. He first shipped aboard the Trans Idaho as a member of the deck department. Brother Zepeda upgraded often at the Piney Point School. His last vessel was the Overseas Houston and he makes his home in Galveston, Texas. LOUIS ZIZZO Brother Louis Zizzo, 66, donned the SIU colors in 1973. He started his career working on the Ohio as a deck department member. Brother Zizzo enhanced his skills on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Maryland. He calls Temecula, California, home. GREAT LAKES HERBERT SCHILLER Brother Herbert Schiller, 60, began his SIU career in 1988. He was originally employed on the EM Ford. Brother Schiller enhanced his skills at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, in 2007. He last worked aboard the Alpena and was a member of the deck department. Brother Schiller resides in Alpena, Michigan. INLAND PAUL DIMAURO Brother Paul DiMauro, 66, began his SIU career in 2008. He worked for Crowley Towing & Transportation throughout his career and was a member of the steward department. Brother DiMauro resides in Orange Park, Florida. THOMAS ENGLE Brother Thomas Engle, 62, joined the SIU ranks in 1975. He was initially employed with Steuart Transportation Company as a member of the engine department. Brother LAWRENCE ISENHART Brother Lawrence Isenhart, 63, joined the SIU in 1973. He first worked for Allied Transportation in the engine department. Brother Isenhart was last employed with Penn Maritime Inc. He lives in Stonewall, North Carolina. RANDOL ISLES Brother Randol Isles, 71, joined the union in 2001, working for Penn Maritime. Brother Isles was a deck department member and enhanced his skills in 2006 at the Piney Point school. After being employed with the same company during his entire seafaring career, he settled in Ingleside, Texas. STEPHEN JEAN Brother Stephen Jean, 62, started sailing with the union in 1991. He shipped with Tampa Bay Pilots as a steward department member for the duration of his SIU career. Brother Jean resides in St. Petersburg, Florida. LON PINER Brother Lon Piner, 63, joined the union in 2001. Initially working for Penn Maritime, he was a member of the engine department. Brother Piner upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center in Maryland. He concluded his career on the Re­ solve and now calls Smyrna, North Carolina, home. GREGORY ROCHELEAU Brother Gregory Rocheleau, 62, started shipping with the SIU in 1976. Initially, he sailed with Hvide Marine, working in the deck department. Brother Rocheleau last worked aboard the Detroit Princess and resides in Shelby Township, Michigan. BILLY WILLIAMS Brother Billy Williams, 63, signed on with the union in 1975. The Virginia native initially worked for McAllister Towing of Virginia. He was an engine department member and upgraded often at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Concluding his career with Moran Towing, Brother Williams settled in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA DENNIS BROWN Pensioner Dennis Brown, 74, passed away April 10. He became a union member in 1969. Brother Brown’s first trip was aboard the Maury. He finished his career working on the Tacoma. Brother Brown began collecting his pension in 2007. The deck department member called Redlands, California, home. MARCELINO BULANTE Pensioner Marcelino Bulante, 86, passed away May 24. Brother Bulante signed on with the SIU in 1977, working aboard the Long Lines. He sailed in the deck department and last shipped on the Pacer. Brother Bulante began collecting his pension in 1996 and settled in San Pablo, California. GENE BUTSON Pensioner Gene Butson, 66, died April 4. A member of the deck department, he first sailed on the Silas Bent in 1996. Born in Cleveland, Brother Butson last worked aboard the Alaskan Leg­ end before going on pension in 2016. He resided in Twentynine Palms, California. WALTER CAGLE Pensioner Walter Cagle, 74, passed away March 24. Born in Paris, he joined the SIU in 1997. Brother Cagle shipped as a member of the deck department. He first worked aboard the Kane. Before retiring in 2014, he shipped on the Westward Venture. Brother Cagle made his home in Kingman, Arizona. RAYMOND DEVINE Pensioner Raymond Devine, 92, died May 12. He became a Seafarer in 1951. Brother Devine was a member of the steward department, initially sailing aboard the Quartett. He last worked for Cove Shipping before collecting his pension beginning in 1982. WILLIAM HOLLAND Brother William Holland, 61, died July 14. He joined the union in 1997 and first sailed aboard the USNS Effective. The deck department member last worked on the Vindicator. Brother Holland was a resident of Sebring, Florida. 18 Seafarers LOG PAUL KING Pensioner Paul King, 86, passed away April 28. He signed on with the SIU in 1956; one of his first ships was operated by Waterman. A member of the deck department, Brother King last worked aboard the Charger before going on pension in 1992. He lived in Winona, Mississippi. JESSE LEWIS Pensioner Jesse Lewis, 87, died April 22. Brother Lewis signed on with the SIU in 1951, initially sailing aboard the John B. Water­ man. He worked in the deck department and was a native of North Carolina. Prior to Brother Lewis’ retirement in 1980, he sailed aboard the Santa Magdelena. He was a resident of Everett, Washington. GUILLERMO O’NEILL Pensioner Guillermo O’Neill, 80, died May 20. Brother Guillermo joined the union in 1958 and was a member of the deck department. His first ship was the Steel Artisan; his last, the Elizabeth. Brother Guillermo went on pension in 1995 and resided in Newark, New Jersey. WILLIAM PARKER Pensioner William Parker, 69, passed away April 24. He started shipping with the Seafarers in 1966. Brother Parker initially worked on the Steel Flyer. He sailed in the engine department, last sailing aboard the John Paul Bobo. He became a pensioner in 2012 and lived in Chesapeake, Virginia. ISABELO QUANICO Pensioner Isabelo Quanico, 94, died May 8. He joined the SIU in 1951. Born in the Philippines, Brother Quanico was a member of the steward department. He last worked on the Overseas Val­ dez before going on Pension in 1985. Brother Quanico made his home in Daly City, California. DIOGENES SANTOS Pensioner Diogenes Santos, 85, passed away May 23. Initially, he worked on the Producer, as a member of the engine department. He last sailed aboard the Green Island before retiring in 2002. Brother Santos was a resident of Metairie, Louisiana. JAMES TANNER Pensioner James Tanner, 89, died April 22. Brother Tanner joined the union in 1951, working on the Del Sud. He shipped as a member of the deck department. Before going on pension in 1987, Brother Tanner last sailed on the Producer. He settled in his home state of Alabama in the city of Evergreen. LOTHAR WICK Pensioner Lothar Wick, 66, died May 12. He became a member of the SIU in 1985, working aboard the Independence. Sailing in the engine department, Brother Wick last worked on the Global Sentinel. He went on pension in 2013 and resided in Piney Point, Maryland. PACIFIC MARINE MUNG HOW Pensioner Mung How, 92, passed away April 27. Born in Hawaii, he signed on with the union in 1978. Brother How was a member of the steward department and first worked with States Steamship Company. Before retiring in 1987, he last sailed aboard the Manukai. He lived in San Francisco. GLOUCESTER FISHERMAN SALVATORE AIELLO Pensioner Salvatore Aiello, 92, died April 6. Brother Aiello was born in Massachusetts and was a member of the steward department. He began collecting his pension in 1987 and continued to live in his home state in the city of Gloucester. INLAND CHARLES CRAFFORD Pensioner Charles Crafford, 89, passed away April 26. A member of the steward department, he first sailed with Delta Lines in 1953. Brother Crafford last worked aboard a Moran Towing of Virginia boat before becoming a pensioner in 1987. He lived in Suffolk, Virginia. WEBSTER DUBROC Pensioner Webster Dubroc, 78, died May 13. He became a member of the SIU in 1976. Brother Dubroc sailed in the steward department, and worked for Cres- cent Towing and Salvage his entire career before going on pension in 2002. He resided in Saucier, Mississippi. EDWARD FORTNER Pensioner Edward Fortner, 89, passed away April 14. He joined the union in 1962, sailing in the steward department for Dixie Carriers. Brother Fortner last worked for Sheridan Transportation before going on pension in 1995. He settled in Slidell, Louisiana. SHERWOOD LEWIS Brother Sherwood Lewis, 80, died April 21. He joined the SIU in 1975, working for Express Marine. Brother Lewis was a steward department member and last sailed with OSG Ship Management before going on pension in 2008. He resided in Beaufort, North Carolina. NOEL LOPEZ Brother Noel Lopez, 65, passed away April 8. A member of the deck department, he first sailed with Crowley Puerto Rico Services. Brother Lopez last worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation before going on pension in 2013. He was a resident of Aguada, Puerto Rico. NORTON WHITE Pensioner Norton White, 98, died April 5. He signed on with the SIU in 1977, working as a deck department member for Marine Contracting and Towing. Brother White continued to work for the same company for the entirety of his career before becoming a pensioner in 1983. He called Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, home. GREAT LAKES DAVID BARBER Pensioner David Barber, 65, passed away April 27. He joined the union in 1969, work- ing initially on the American Seaocean. Brother Barber, a member of the deck department, last sailed on the Buffalo before settling in Suttons Bay, Michigan. CLIFFORD TALLEY Pensioner Clifford Talley, 89, died April 17. He started sailing with the union in 1972. Brother Talley initially sailed on the JS Mor­ row as a member of the deck department. The Georgia native most recently worked aboard the William Roesch. He retired in 1993 and settled in Lakeland, Florida. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION WILLIAM DONOWA Pensioner William Donowa, 91, passed away May 2. He worked as a member of the deck department before retiring in 1968. He lived in Las Cruces, New Mexico. VICTOR RODRIGUEZ Pensioner Victor Rodriguez, 89, died April 14. He shipped as a member of the deck department and went on pension in 1987. Brother Rodriguez resided in Orlando, Florida. AURELIO TORRES Pensioner Aurelio Torres, 98, passed away May 15. He worked as a member of the deck department and retired in 1985. Brother Torres settled in his native Lares, Puerto Rico. Name Henry Beckford William Blake Thomas Balcom Gordon De Cambra Alex Fuller Amado Garcia Albert Green Michael Halpin Alexander Harrell Rudolph Johnson Nick Kalorin Norman Keating Leo Kratz Muriel Martin Rafael Pierluisse Raul Rodriguez Joseph Royals Vicente Sanquiche Ghaleb Saleh Jose Vieira Kenneth Westbrook Elbert Williams Age DOD 73 May 8 88 April 12 85 May 13 94 April 23 91 March 21 91 April 3 84 April 2 81 March 14 87 April 13 73 May 9 87 April 3 91 March 11 87 February 12 92 March 13 89 April 21 94 April 24 91 May 27 88 April 4 78 April 22 91 April 10 90 April 18 93 April 1 September 2017 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings USNS MENDONCA (AMSEA), May 2 – Chairman Roberto Flores Monge, Secretary Verleshia Robinson. Secretary reported resolution to old business regarding pension policies. Chairman discussed concern with hazard-pay issue. Anticipated resolution to follow per conversation with Houston port agent. Secretary encouraged crew to upgrade at the reconstructed Paul Hall School, noting new and improved living accommodations. She expressed gratitude for the union, mentioning the importance of SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation). Steward delegate mentioned ongoing effort to provide healthful menus. No beefs or disputed OT reported by department delegates. Members requested new mattresses via conference call to company. BENAVIDEZ (AMSEA), May 12 – Chairman John Mendez, Secretary Dorray Saberon, Educational Director Todd Williams, Deck Delegate Eddie Thomas, Steward Delegate Penny Taylor. Chairman reported good trip and expressed gratitude to steward department for a job well done. Secretary praised chief cook, declaring food was enjoyed by all. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade at the Piney Point school and stressed importance of keeping documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested timely relays, noting consequential fees otherwise. They asked about weekly overtime format and requested email access for all members. Crew responded quickly to a small fire during early morning hours mid-ocean. They quickly and professionally put out the fire, avoiding injury and damage to ship. Next Port: Seattle. AMERICAN FREEDOM (Intrepid), May 7 – Chairman Joshua Mensah, Secretary Stephen Avallone, Educational Director Felix Garcia, Deck Delegate Brandon Albro, Engine Delegate Benjamin Stanley, Steward Delegate David Dingman. Seafarers LOG report read by chairman. Educational director advised members to upgrade whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew suggested increasing pension benefits. Members requested power strips for rooms and enzyme-based cleaner for engine department. Vote of thanks given to steward department. OVERSEAS LOS ANGELES (OSG), May 14 – Chairman Teodulfo Alanano, Secretary Glenn Toledo, Educational Director Criseldo Espinosa. Chairman advised crew to check dates of documents and to contribute to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation). He reminded everyone to change linens before next crew arrives and thanked them for good housekeeping. Educational September 2017 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. With Seafarers Aboard Midnight Sun Chief Cook Sal Ahmed submitted these photos from the Independence Day cookout aboard Tote’s Midnight Sun. Vessel master Capt. Daniel Severino – also known as Captain Cook – “gave us a break for this holiday by stepping up in the galley,” Ahmed reported. “He did all the meats, from cutting and marinating and grilling, as he’s done on previous holidays. He did a great job as always; he has a love of cooking.” Ahmed also offered kudos to the rest of his fellow mariners and to SIU officials “for working to provide us a great opportunity to be here as merchant mariners. This is a happy ship!” A few additional photos from the cookout are posted on the Seafarers LOG Facebook page (facebook.com/siulog) Some of the deck gang SA Jonathan Borroto and Chief Steward Eric Manley director encouraged members to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members suggested additional day during 60-day relief in order to file for vacation. Steward department thanked for a job well done. Next Port: Los Angeles. ST LOUIS EXPRESS (Marine Personnel and Provisioning) June 5 – Chairman Matthew Sagay, Secretary Sean Richard, Educational Director Barry Knowles. Chairman reiterated importance of keeping documents current. Secretary reminded members taking medicine to make sure they have enough on hand for their trip. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed new contract, expressing interest in what they deem a more competitive vacation day count. Members would like pension plan to be examined. PHILADELPHIA EXPRESS (Crowley), June 14 – Chairman Jose Jimenea, Secretary Kenneth Whitfield, Deck Delegate James Armer, Engine Delegate Phillip Niles, Steward Delegate Bernard Butts. Chairman thanked crew for being safe. He urged members to stay up to date on documents and to go through proper channels should a problem arise. Chief Cook Sal Ahmed, AB John Coleman Discussions regarding payoff as well as pension requirement information planned to take place in Houston. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade their skills at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President Mike Sacco commended by crew for a great job keeping the union strong. Members requested updated TVs in their rooms. Steward department thanked for good food. Crew expressed desire for increase in vacation days, optional direct deposit for draws and lowering of required retirement age. Next Port: Houston. OVERSEAS CHINOOK (OSG), June 17 – Chairman Donaldo Clotter, Secretary Jack Hart, Educational Director Rickey Yancey, Engine Delegate Teodocio Ruiz. Members reviewed old minutes and the well-received new contract. Chairman thanked crew for being safe. He warned of dangers during hot weather, advising everyone to drink plenty of water and take breaks as needed. Members were thanked for good housekeeping. Educational director reminded crew to check documents and to upgrade at the school for better jobs and better pay. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Engine Proof that Red Sox fans and Tigers fans can coexist: That’s Capt. Severino on the left, with AB Gamal Muflahi. delegate gave thanks to the union and headquarters for new jobs and new contracts. Members requested union to look into payment procedures. USNS MENDONCA (AMSEA), June 20 – Chairman Stephen Roell, Secretary Verleshia Robinson. Bosun reminded members of proper chain of command on FOS trips and deadlines for submitting beef reports. Chairman to seek information about SIU jobs remaining on current vessel. Secretary reported new SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation) donations forwarded following encouraging meeting in May. No beefs or disputed OT reported. HORIZON KODIAK (Matson), June 25 – Chairman Christopher Pompel, Secretary Lovie Perez, Educational Director Donald Williams. Chairman touched base on 2017-2022 contract, noting no word as of yet for hard copy. He went over union member rights. Chairman encouraged members to contribute to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation), further strengthening the Jones Act. Secretary informed crew of newly available direct deposit option via online SIU portal. Educational director urged members to upgrade often at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clean ship and good food reported from first-time crew member. Requests made for medical cards to no longer use Social Security number as identification number. Members expressed interest for both shipping board and registration availability online. They also suggested times for job calls. Next Port: Tacoma, Washington. TEXAS (Crowley), June 26 – Chairman Burkley Cooper, Secretary Richard Jones, Educational Director Furman Watson, Deck Delegate Stones Cooper, Engine Delegate Flavio Suazo, Steward Delegate Jermaine Robinson. Chairman discussed upcoming contract changes. He announced payoff date, scheduled July 1 in Tampa, Florida. Steward department thanked for great food. Members were advised to keep rooms clean. Secretary thanked crew for keeping mess hall orderly. Educational director reminded members to make sure documents were current and to upgrade at the school as often as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested clarification for job duties and job titles. Next Port: Tampa. Seafarers LOG 19 �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Gap Closing Courses Engineroom Resource Management November 27 December 1 Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Welding September 30 October 20 October 21 November 10 November 25 December 15 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops October 7 November 3 November 18 December 15 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start September 11. Chief Steward September 23 November 17 Leadership and Managerial Skills December 2 December 8 Galley Operations September 9 October 6 Deck Department Upgrading Courses November 4 December 1 Able Seafarer Deck October 7 November 3 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Stu- dents will be advised of dates once accepted. ARPA September 30 October 6 December 9 December 15 Crane Familiarization October 21 October 27 ECDIS October 14 October 20 Fast Rescue Boat September 16 September 22 Lifeboat September 23 October 6 October 21 November 3 November 18 December 1 December 16 December 29 Radar Observer September 16 September 29 November 25 December 8 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW November 4 December 1 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers December 2 Galley Assessment Program (GAP) October 7 November 3 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training w/16hr FF October 14 October 20 November 25 December 1 December 2 December 8 Basic Training Revalidation September 22 September 22 October 6 October 6 October 13 October 13 November 10 November 10 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation September 16 September 22 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting October 21 October 27 Government Vessels September 30 October 6 December 9 December 15 Medical Care Provider October 28 November 3 December 2 December 8 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL November 18 November 24 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG November 11 November 17 December 2 December 8 December 15 BAPO November 4 December 1 FOWT October 7 November 3 Junior Engineer October 7 December 1 Machinist November 11 December 1 Marine Refer Tech September 30 November 10 Pumpman September 30 October 6 December 2 December 8 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name_________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth___________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #__________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # and dates attended___________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this applica­ tion, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG COURSE ____________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION ________________________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits stu­ dents, who are otherwise qualified, or any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 9/17 September 2017 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #826 – The following Phase I apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 14: Mason Cook, Carlos Omar DiazTorres, John Hafner, Luzern Hawkins, Alphonso Johnson Jr., Sherman Kennon Jr., Justin Krainis, Montel MacKey, Dante Moyer, Camonte Terrell, Chauncey Wilkerson, Kevin Willis and Philip Zulueta. Tank Ship Familiarization DL/LG – The following Phase III apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 7: Dalrick Fleming, Joseph Franta, Tyler Gardner, Raymond Green, Dustin Harrison, Abby Lacombe, Joseph Reilly and Jerald Welcome. Each plans to work in the deck department aboard American-flag vessels once they fulfill all of their training requirements. UA to AS-D – Nine individuals completed this course July 14. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Alexander Ayers, Todd Colabella, Benjamin Dorries, Kevin Hampton, Ian Jervi Juanillo, Nicholas Kragh, Andrew Mendoza, Phillip Nichols and Alicia Plunkett. Class instructor Welton Grooms is at the far left in the back row. Tank Ship Familiarization DL/LG – Eleven Phase III apprentices completed this course July 7. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: George Beaufils, David Bussey, Charles Collins III, David Cornelius, Marsalis Dawson, Jeffrey Hamer, Deidra Hunter, Bryan Moreira, Thomas Nelson Jr., Samuel Parkinson and Benjamin Thuringer. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the engine department aboard American-flag vessels. Government Vessels – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course June 30: Johnathan Brown Jr., Keith Carswell, Maurice Hyde, Marques Johnson, Mike Kifle, Jared Latta, Joseph Lebeau, Mustafa Abdul Malik, Robert Ott, Sean Outlaw, Jayson Ray and Trevor Walker. Leadership & Management Skills – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course June 16: James Copeland, William Dodd, Edward Mateo Galbis, Oscar Emilio Garcia, Clive Steward, Daniel Tapley, Alexandra Tittsworth, Cody Walthall and Richard Wright. (Note: Not all are pictured.) September 2017 Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Six upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course July 21. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Chris Badouin, Richard Jones, Ronaldo Jose Quinones Perez, Andre Robinson Sr., George Emanuel Santiago and Martin Warren. Engine Room Resource Management – Six upgraders completed this course June 9. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: William Dodd, Edward Mateo Galbis, Oscar Emilio Garcia, Clive Steward, Alexandra Tittsworth and Richard Wright. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Medical Care Provider – The following upgraders improved their skills by completing this course June 23. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Joel Bell Jr., Anjwar Brooks, Keith Carswell, Eric Dukett, Ann Mensch, Steven Miller and Lawrence Todd Jr. Class instructor Mike Roberts is at the far left. Tank Ship Familiarization DL/LG – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course June 16: Rasheen Malik Breathwaite, Johnathan Brown Jr., Marcus Brown, Troy Davis, Tyrone Ellis, Marvin Fabrizius, Mark Fitzgerald, Antonio Miguel Gutierrez, Rene Gregorio Hallasgo, Joseph Lebeau, Johnnie Owens Jr., Ricky Rivera-Martinez, John Telles and Kennard Young. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Small Arms (M-14) – Four Seafarers enhanced their skills by completing this course June 22. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: David James, Mustafa Abdul Malik, Eric Mose and Wallace William. Class instructors Matthew Rogers and John Thomas are at the far left and far right, respectively. Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Seventeen upgraders finished this course June 23. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Xavier Mercado Alfaro, Jose Calixto Canales, Oscar Agustin Cordero, Allen Davis, Michael Eaton, Braulio Auguis Ente Jr., Oliver Luc Especa, Scott Fuller, Joel Harris, Josue Luis Iglesia Jr., Enchantress Charmaine Johnson, Marques Johnson, Demarkus Antoine McNabb, Starling Jerydie Priester, La’sonia Randolph, Jayson Ray and Terrance Shinn. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Basic Training Upgraders (Basic Firefighting) – The following upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course June 16. Graduating (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: Efren Panganiban Aguirre, Gertrudis Flores Arzu, Abraham Andres Dominguez, Braulio Auguis Ente Jr., Scott Fuller, Robert Greenwood, Calvin Griffith, Josue Luis Iglesia Jr., Marques Johnson, Lorraine Keelen, Daniel Lind, Mustafa Abdul Malik, Abdelhak Moutmir, Constance Mullings, Tadeo O’Brien, Amanda Fedelina Suncin, Joselito Madriaga Vicente and Wilbert Wood Jr. Class instructor Mike Roberts is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 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. Combined Basic & Advanced Firefighting – Fourteen individuals finished this course June 16. Graduating (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: Joel Bell Jr., Anjwar Brooks, Dominique Calvy, Keith Carswell, Allen Davis, David Garrett, Michael Hunnicutt, Enchantress Johnson, Ann Mensch, Jayson Ray, Charles Searfass, Terrance Shinn, Lawrence Todd Jr. and Sean Wilson. 22 Seafarers LOG September 2017 �Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Training Upgraders (Basic Firefighting) – The following Seafarers (photo at left, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course June 23: Christopher Baker, Elizabeth Byrd, Paul Conway, Christian Cruz, Mark Fitzgerald, Rene Fuentes Jr., Jeromy Furnas, Marco Tulio Guevara, Matthew Jesmer, Gizelle Jones, Alan Squier and Robert Wright Jr. Class instructors Gary Joy and Mark Cates are at the far left and far right, respectively. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Basic Training (Advanced Firefighting Revalidation) – Ten upgraders finished this course June 30. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ahmed Ibrahim Abolela, Xavier Mercado Alfaro, Timothy Dorn, Patrick Dowling, Eric Dukett, Christopher Farmer, Alonzo Griswell, Scott Hanson, Walter Ritvalsky and Robert Shaver. Their instructor, John Thomas, is at the far right. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Upgrader William Sculley III (above, left) graduated from this course June 30. Joining him during the celebration of his accomplishment is Mike Roberts, his instructor. Seward Department Courses – Three members of the steward department recently improved their skills by completing courses. Tania Ramirez-Diego (above, left) and Martin Warren (center) graduated from modules in the Certified Chief Cook course June 16 and June 30, respectively, while Delmis David (right) on June 16 graduated from the galley ops course. Galley Operations – The following steward department upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course June 16: Edgardo Astua, Elijah Boson, Jorge Luis Camacho-Borrero, Zoe Felton, Jowaiian Kaeo Cruz Labrador, Laura McBroom, Steven Miller, John Panuelos and Brittany Steward. September 2017 Basic Firefighting (Upgrader) – Seafarer Ouida Fields (above, right) completed the enhancement of her skills in this course when she graduated June 9. Joining Fields to celebrate the achievement is her instructor, Joe Zienda. Serve Safe (Management Level) – Three upgraders completed their requirements in this course June 9. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Constance Mullings, Troy Smith and Amanda Fedelina Suncin. Seafarers LOG 23 �SEPTEMBER F E B R U A R Y 2017 2014 o VOLUME VOLU M E 7 6 79 NNO. O . 92 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 SIU-Crewed Ships Go ‘Skin-to-Skin’ Exercises Help Hone Skills for Military Support Operations The expeditionary transfer dock USNS Montford Point (T-ESD 1, in the foreground) approaches large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off ship USNS Soderman (T-AKR 317) during a sea basing exercise near Saipan. (Photo courtesy U.S. Navy) T he SIU-crewed USNS Montford Point, in conjunction with three other Seafarers-crewed ships, recently performed a series of “skin-to-skin” operations near Saipan, in support of the U.S. Navy’s Maritime Prepositioning Squadron Three (MPSRON-3). The Montford Point, an expeditionary transfer dock operated by Ocean Shipholdings Inc., rehearsed the transfer of equipment and cargo with the USNS Soderman, USNS Red Cloud, and USNS Stockham. The Soderman and Red Cloud are operated by Patriot, and the Stockham is operated by Crowley. “Skin-to-skin operations are game-changers when it comes to supporting the Marine Corps and other expeditionary forces with greater flexibility at sea,” said Paul Grgas, deputy director of operations for the Military Sealift Command Far East. “Expeditionary transfer docks like Montford Point can operate off shore and augment ship to shore movements during amphibious operations.” The operation, which included other positioning drills with the vessels of MPSRON-3, took place over 17 days in June. Skin-to-skin operations occur when two ships connect at sea allowing specialized vessels like the Montford Point to operate as a floating pier for simulated offload operations. In recapping the exercise, the Navy noted that skin-to-skin drills build proficiency for ships like the Montford Point to operate at sea for a sustained period and transfer large cargo from prepositioning ships for use by forces ashore and afloat. MPSRON 3, operating in the western Pacific, maintains tactical control of the 12 ships (including other SIU-crewed vessels) carrying afloat prepositioned U.S. military cargo for the U.S. Marine Corps, the U.S. Army, and the U.S. Air Force. According to the Navy, the squadron’s mission is to enable force from the sea by providing swift and effective transportation of vital equipment and supplies for designated operations. The USNS Red Cloud (lighter hull) and the USNS Montford Point (above and in two photos below) conduct skin-to-skin operations off the coast of Saipan, Mariana Islands. (Photos courtesy U.S. Navy) � 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 September 2017 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU JOBS RETAINED IN T-AGS AWARD OCEAN SHIPHOLDINGS TO OPERATE SEVEN VESSELS PAUL HALL CENTER FEATURED IN VIDEO LOG SPECIAL ADDITION SALUTES SCHOOL’S ANNIVERSARY PHILLY SHIPYARD DELIVERS JONES ACT TANKER UNION-BUILT AMERICAN LIBERTY WILL CARRY SIU CREW OVERSEAS TEXAS CITY RESCUES 5 MSP ON TRACK FOR FULL FUNDING THROUGH 2018 SEAFARERS TURN OUT FOR BENEFITS CONFERENCES MEETINGS OFFER REVIEWS, DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS TO MEMBERS AND STAFF MEMBER PORTAL OFFERS OPTION FOR SCHEDULING CLINIC EXAMS BROADMEADOW BECOMES TRANSCOM DEPUTY; BUZBY ASSUMES MARITIME ADMINISTRATOR POST MV RENA FAILS TO PAY MARINERS, GETS BANNED DETERMINED TO SUCCEED PAUL HALL CENTER APPRENTICE UNDAUNTED BY CHALLENGE OF PROSTHESIS SEAFARERS MOBILIZE FOR ‘PACER GOOSE’ SIU-CREWED PREPOSITIONING SHIPS TAKE ACTION IN GROUP SAIL NINE BOSUNS ASCEND LADDER TO RECERTIFIED STATUS SIU-CREWED SHIPS GO ‘SKIN-TO-SKIN’ 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 09/01/2017 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. 9 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/1d7c3dd0d802f1b85d144b5220aa45e5.pdf 9b727fdbc89d28b4905f149eed66d836 PDF Text Text SEPTEMBER 2018 VOLUME 80, NO. 9 New Jones Act ConRo El Coqui Boosts Jobs, Puerto Rico Service The LNG-powered El Coqui (above) has joined the SIU-crewed Jones Act fleet, following its delivery to Crowley Maritime in July. The vessel, a combination container/roll-on roll-off ship, has started a regular run between Jacksonville, Florida, and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Page 3. (Photo courtesy Crowley Maritime) Seafarers Commend Union, School Recertified Bosuns Share Insights During Graduation The SIU’s newest class of recertified bosuns on Aug. 6 gave a rousing series of graduation speeches that offered keen insights into the union and its affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland (where the photo below was taken). The 11 members completed the top deck department curriculum available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Pages 12-14. SIU-Crewed Vessels Help Ensure Success Of Multinational Drill Eight SIU-crewed ships recently supported the multinational exercise Rim of the Pacific 2018 (RIMPAC), which took place from June 27 to August 2. In the photo above, the Seafarers-crewed USNS Carl Brashear participates in a group sail during the exercise off the coast of Hawaii, July 26. Page 24. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Arthurgwain L. Marquez) Jones Act Support Page 2 Big Win in Missouri Page 4 Lyons Leads USTRANSCOM Page 5 �President’s Report Big Win – And More Work Ahead The labor movement’s victory last month in Missouri against the state’s right-to-work (for less) law is a triumph for all working families, not just for unions. We dive into the details elsewhere in this edition, but the most important takeaway is that American workers still have a voice, and we still have clout when we join together. Leading up to the statewide vote on August 7, union members, officials and staff (including Seafarers) led a grassroots effort to educate fellow citizens about the ugly truth behind so-called right-to-work (RTW) provisions. For starters, the name is intentionally misleading. No one, after all, could possibly be opposed to the literal right to work. But we know that’s not even remotely what RTW is about. It’s actually about driving down wages, weakening workplace protections, and giving an unhealthy amount of power to management. It’s about trying to divide working women and men who’ve come together to form or join a union. Fortunately, the people of Missouri saw through Michael Sacco the big lie of RTW and overturned it in a landslide. This didn’t happen by accident – our movement worked for the win. We’ve got no shortage of other battles ahead, but our decisive victory in the Show Me State demonstrates that reports of labor’s demise have indeed been greatly exaggerated. Heartwarming Speeches Be sure to read this month’s article about the SIU’s newest class of recertified bosuns. And, if you know someone who’s considering joining our union, or just wants to know what we’re all about, give them a copy of that article or send them the link. The Seafarers who complete recertification aren’t the only members who know us extremely well, but they’re among the most familiar with how we operate. I am always energized when I hear class after class describe how the SIU and our affiliated school gave them a career opportunity, enabled them to make a good living and perhaps raise a family, and do a job they enjoy. Many members have talked about how they were able to put kids through college thanks to their maritime career, which is no small financial feat nowadays. Not every individual story is identical, of course, but there are usually common threads. In many cases, including with the new class of bosuns, those stories involve multi-generation SIU families. There’s no greater compliment to our organization and our way of life than for a parent to encourage a son or daughter to join up. And you have my word that we will continue doing everything possible to earn that confidence and trust. Register and Vote As mentioned above, when working families join together for grassroots activism, we get things done. And on that note, you know it’s an election year when I’m constantly tossing out reminders to make sure you’re registered, and to either head to the polls on November 6 or vote absentee if you’ll be on a ship at that time. Brothers and sisters, I cannot over-emphasize that our union does not care about political party! We care about the maritime industry and about workers’ rights. And we will work with anyone who supports the U.S. Merchant Marine and the American labor movement, regardless of whether they’re a Republican, a Democrat or an Independent. Check with your port agent if you’re not sure where the union stands on a particular candidate or issue. But meanwhile, the first step is to make sure you’re registered. It’s really easy to do online – visit vote.org or usa. gov/register-to-vote to get started. Our industry’s survival depends on political support. The best way forward – so that American-flag shipping doesn’t merely survive, but grows – is to elect people at every level of government who agree that the U.S. Merchant Marine is vital to national, economic and homeland security. Volume 80 Number 9 September 2018 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org Source: American Maritime Partnership Jones Act Has No Effect on Prices in Puerto Rico New Report Thoroughly Examines Cabotage Law, U.S. Territory Economists from Boston-based Reeve & Associates and San Juanbased Estudios Técnicos, Inc. on July 18 released a joint report, “The Impact of the Jones Act on Puerto Rico,” that concluded the Jones Act has no impact on either retail prices or the cost of living in Puerto Rico. In addition, the report found that the state-of-the-art maritime technology, Puerto-Rico focused investments, and dedicated closed-loop service offered by Jones Act carriers provide a significant positive economic impact to the island, at freight rates lower or comparable to similar services to other Caribbean Islands. In the first comprehensive report on the impact of the Jones Act in Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria, the authors analyzed the economic impact of the Jones Act – a critical economic and national security law that ensures goods transported from U.S. port to U.S. port be carried on vessels that are Americancrewed, American-built, Americanowned and American-flagged. The report analyzed the impact on consumers by evaluating the competitiveness of freight rates in the United States/Puerto Rico market, the qual- ity of service provided by the Jones Act carriers, and the impact of the carriers’ freight rates on the prices of goods shipped between the United States mainland and Puerto Rico. “There has been much debate about the impact of the Jones Act on Puerto Rico, particularly following Hurricane Maria,” said John Reeve, the principal in Reeve & Associates and the lead economist on the study. “The findings of our analysis show that reliable, efficient, and regular Jones Act services benefit consumers and businesses on the island, and no evidence suggests that exempting Puerto Rico from the Jones Act would reduce consumer prices in Puerto Rico. On the contrary, such an action may well increase prices.” “The results were overwhelmingly conclusive regarding the economic contributions of the Jones Act to Puerto Rico. Their detailed, fact-based analysis found that Puerto Rico received very similar or lower shipping freight rates when compared to neighboring islands and that the transportation costs have no impact on retail prices on the island,” said Matt Woodruff, chairman of the American Maritime Partner- Members of Congress, Economists, U.S. Maritime Industry Leaders Underscore Importance of Jones Act The U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation conducted a roundtable discussion July 26 titled “The Impact of the Jones Act on Consumer Prices in Puerto Rico.” The bipartisan group of congressional members, economists and maritime leaders – including SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez – discussed the findings of a new fact-based, comprehensive study on the economic importance of the nation’s freight cabotage law to Puerto Rico and highlighted its significant economic and national security contributions to the island and nation. In addition to Tellez, other guest panelists included John Reeve, economist and principal, Reeve & Associates; Michael G. Roberts, senior vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary for Crowley Maritime; and Jonathan Kaskin, national vice president for legislative affairs, Navy League of the United States. In the newly released report, “The Impact of the U.S. Jones Act on Puerto Rico,” economists from Boston-based Reeve & Associates and San Juan-based Estudios Tecnicos, Inc., concluded that the Jones Act has no impact on either retail ship, a coalition to which the SIU is affiliated. “Moreover, the study found that prior claims and press reports that questioned the value of the Jones Act to Puerto Rico were erroneous and their validity completely undermined when compared to the economic facts at hand.” In summary, the findings include: Q� The Jones Act has no impact on either retail prices or the cost of living in Puerto Rico. The report found that shipping costs between the mainland and Puerto Rico make up only a small percentage of the retail price. For example, ocean shipping accounts for just three cents (or two percent) in the retail price of $1.58 for a can of chicken soup in San Juan. It found that, “[e]ssentially, transportation costs for Puerto Rico are not materially different than those on the mainland.” Q� A market basket analysis of an assortment of consumer goods at Walmart Stores in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Jacksonville, Florida, found there was “no significant difference in the prices of either grocery items or durable goods between See Report, Page 7 prices or the cost of living in Puerto Rico (see related story, this page). In his opening remarks, U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-California), chairman of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Marine Transportation, reminded attendees about the importance of the Jones Act to the nation and the need to explain the facts about the law. “The bottom line is that the Jones Act was designed to maintain domestic U.S. shipbuilding capacity and to create employment opportunities for American mariners – American jobs, serving American commerce,” Hunter said. “These shipyards, welders, and mariners are the same individuals we would rely on to provide our country the maritime capacity required in times of conflict. There have been a lot See House, Page 7 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. SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (third from right at table in foreground) and other panelists discuss the Jones Act with members of Congress. 2 Seafarers LOG September 2018 �El Coqui, a ConRo, Joins SIU-Crewed Fleet SIU members are sailing aboard a new addition to the Seafarers-contracted fleet. Crowley Maritime in late July took delivery of the El Coqui, one of the world’s first combination container/roll-on roll-off (ConRo) ships powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). Less than two weeks later, an SIU crew helped complete the vessel’s successful maiden voyage as the ship delivered cargo from Jacksonville, Florida, to Crowley’s modernized Isla Grande Terminal in San Juan, Puerto Rico. “The SIU is excited about this brand-new ship, which will sail in the Jones Act trade,” stated SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “I’m confident that the SIU crew will continue to demonstrate their usual outstanding professionalism. It’s also worth pointing out that new ships like the El Coqui help boost America’s national, economic and homeland security.” Among the Seafarers comprising the El Coqui’s first crew were Recertified Bosun Abel Vazquez Torres, ABs Victor Cortes Maldonado, Julio Perez, Kemer Rojas, Richard Scales, John Telles and Manuel Rodriguez Maldonado, Electrician Rodney PassaperaBarbosa, QMEDs Hector Ginel and Christian Rosado, Oiler Edwin Velez, Recertified Steward Kimberly Strate, Chief Cook Bryan Alvarez, and SA La’sonia Randolph. Built at VT Halter Marine Inc., the El Coqui is the first of two Commitment Class ships being constructed for Crowley’s shipping and logistics services between Jacksonville and San Juan. Construction of sister ship Taino is well underway at VT Halter Marine’s facility in Pascagoula, Mississippi; that vessel is scheduled to enter service later this year. The new vessels are 720 feet in length, 26,500 deadweight tons (DWT), and will be able to transport up to 2,400 twenty-foot-equivalent container units (TEUs) at a cruising speed of 22 knots. According to Crowley, “A wide range of container sizes and types will be accommodated, including 53-foot by 102-inch-wide, high-capacity containers, up to 300 refrigerated containers, and a mix of about 400 cars and larger vehicles in the enclosed, ventilated and weather-tight Ro/ Ro decks. This type of shipboard garage is offered exclusively by Crowley in the trade.” Following the acquisition of the El Coqui (named for the popular indigenous frog in Puerto Rico), Crowley Maritime Chairman and CEO Tom Crowley stated, “This delivery represents another milestone in our unwavering commitment to Puerto Rico and the Jones Act. We have dedicated significant time, effort and more than $550 million, which includes these new ships, to transform our Puerto Rico shipping and logistics services to world-class standards. We thank the men and women at Crowley, VT Halter Marine and other partners, who have dedicated themselves to bringing this magnificent new ship to life.” Matthew Paxton, president of the Shipbuild- ers Council of America, added, “This is a thrilling time for the U.S. shipbuilding industry, as evolutions in LNG technology are providing a historic opportunity for American yards and the supporting industrial base to design, build and outfit some of the most technically advanced and environmentally friendly vessels that are the envy of the world. American skill and ingenuity, as well as critical laws like the Jones Act, serve as the backbone of our industry and embolden innovation and investment in domestic shipbuilding. El Coqui is a shining example of the work being done each day in our industry, and we are proud to support her, her crew and those who built her….” The Jones Act is a federal law that regulates maritime commerce in the United States. The Jones Act requires goods shipped between U.S. ports to be transported on vessels that are crewed, built, owned and operated by United States citizens or permanent residents. Also known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, the law is vitally important to maintaining a strong U.S. maritime capability. Besides full loads of dry containers, the El Coqui’s inaugural cargo also included various equipment and automobiles, trucks and SUVs, as well as refrigerated containers for produce. “We have eagerly anticipated this initial port call for some time now, and very much look forward to the added speed and efficiency that this high-performing ship will add to our customers’ supply chains,” said Frank Larkin, Crowley’s senior vice president and general manager, logistics and commercial services. “The ship’s reduced transit time complements major investments in technology and other infrastructure upgrades to our terminals that make it easier and quicker for our trucking partners to access our terminals for cargo moves. We’ve also evolved our warehouse operations to bring greater efficiencies all the way through to final mile deliveries. We’ve created greater speed to market all the way around.” “This momentous occasion marks yet another milestone in our historic Commitment Class project, which ultimately offers shippers faster and more efficient logistics services that will match the needs of consumers and businesses in Puerto Rico,” said Jose “Pache” Ayala, vice president, Crowley Puerto Rico services, in San Juan. The company reported that fueling the ships with LNG “will reduce emissions significantly, including a 100-percent reduction in sulphur oxide (SOx) and particulate matter (PM); a 92-percent reduction in nitrogen oxide (NOx); and a reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) of more than 35 percent per container, compared with current fossil fuels. Working with Eagle LNG Partners, the ships will be bunkered from a shoreside fuel depot at JAXPORT.” These snapshots, courtesy of Crowley, show the El Coqui during its maiden voyage. The ship made its first delivery July 30 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. OSG Orders Two Tankers, One Barge Seafarers-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG) made two big announcements in July, and the results will mean more jobs for SIU members. On July 16, OSG reported that it has signed contracts with a Korean shipyard to build two product chemical tankers September 2018 that will sail under the Stars and Stripes. Two weeks later, on July 31, OSG announced an agreement for construction of a 204,000-barrel oil and chemical tank barge for dual-mode integrated tug-barge (ITB) service. The two tankers, slated for delivery during the second half of 2019, will be built at Hyundai Mipo Dockyard Company’s Ulsan, Korea, facilities. In a news release, OSG said the vessels “will be built to comply with MARPOL Annex VI Regulation 13 Tier III standards regarding nitrogen oxide emissions within emission control areas. In addition, each vessel will have installed exhaust gas cleaning systems, often referred to as scrubbers, to meet the standards of MAR- POL Annex VI Regulation 14 standards regarding sulphur oxide emissions.” Sam Norton, president and CEO of OSG, stated, “OSG is committed to maintaining a leading presence in the U.S.-flag petroleum transportation sector. Our initiative to pursue construction of modern, efficient and environmentally responsible vessels sends a strong signal to our customers, our stockholders and our employees that we are confident in achieving our commitment and that we have the resources and unique skill sets to enable us to do so. We look forward to the contribution that these vessels will make to our long-term success once delivered.” Meanwhile, the 581-foot barge will be built by Gunderson Marine, a subsid- iary of The Greenbrier Companies. It’s scheduled for delivery during the second quarter of 2020; the agreement includes an option to build a second barge, which would have a slated delivery date during the fourth-quarter of 2020. OSG plans to pair the barge with existing tugs from its SIU-crewed fleet. It will be utilized in the Jones Act trade. “The Gunderson Marine contract for construction of a new barge is an exciting development for OSG,” said Norton. “This transaction represents the first significant new capital investment into our Jones Act businesses in nearly a decade and is an affirmation of our commitment to operate ATBs, as well as tankers, within this market.” Seafarers LOG 3 �Missouri Defeats Right-to-Work (for less) Law Missouri voters on Aug. 7 provided the state’s working families – and the labor movement nationwide – with a tremendous victory by rejecting the state’s so-called right-to-work law. Senate Bill 19, which appeared on the ballot as Proposition A during the state primary, afforded voters the opportunity to strike down a measure the state legislature passed in early 2017. If allowed to stand, Prop A would prohibit employees from being required to join a union (even though a majority of employees would have voted for representation) or to otherwise pay “fair share” fees to a given workplace’s union. In dramatic fashion, the electorate made its feelings crystal clear: There would be no right-to -work (for less) during their watch. By better than a 2 to 1 ratio (67 percent to 33 percent), voters in the Show Me State smashed the measure. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, in a prepared statement released in the wake of the primary’s result, said, “Missouri is the latest sign of a true groundswell, and working people are just getting started. The defeat of this poisonous antiworker legislation is a victory for all workers across the country. The message sent by every single person who worked to defeat Prop A is clear: When we see an opportunity to use our political voice to give workers a more level playing field, we will seize it with overwhelming passion and determination. Tonight is the latest act of working people changing a rigged system that for decades has been favoring corporations, the mega-wealthy and the privileged few. “The victory in Missouri follows a national wave of inspiring activism that is leading to life-changing collective bargaining agreements and electoral triumphs that remind America the path to power runs through the labor movement,” he continued. “From statehouses and city councils to the halls of Congress, working people are fighting back, and this November, we will elect our allies and retire our enemies. Working people across Missouri made this transformational moment possible, and we are following their lead to changing the world.” Mike Louis, president of the Missouri AFL-CIO, was equally pleased with the primary’s outcome, offering “Working people made our voices heard at the ballot box today and overturned ‘right to work.’ It’s a truly historic moment. Thousands of hard-working men and women in Missouri talked to their neighbors, friends and co-workers. We owe them this victory. Promoting Maritime in Virginia SIU Port Agent Georg Kenny (right in both photos) delivered a pro-maritime message last month at the Virginia AFL-CIO Convention in Williamsburg. He’s pictured Aug. 9 with (respectively) U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine (D) (photo above) and U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (D) – both longtime backers of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Kenny was unanimously re-elected for a third five-year term on the state AFL-CIO’s executive board, where he represents the Eastern Virginia Labor Federation. Richard Trumka (left) and Mike Louis were among the guest speakers who addressed delegates and guests during the Maritime Trades Department’s October 19-20, 2017 Convention in St. Louis. Trumka is president of the AFL-CIO and Louis is president of the Missouri AFL-CIO. “Together, we knocked on more than 800,000 doors, made more than 1 million phone calls and talked to working people on more than 1,000 different job sites across the state,” Louis added. “Tonight, we celebrate, but tomorrow we’re getting back to work. We’re going to take this energy and momentum and build more power for working people in Missouri.” The Missouri vote marked a major victory for unions during an era saturated with anti-worker attacks at different levels of government and from extremists. For instance, as reported earlier in the Seafarers LOG, the U.S. Supreme Court on June 27 issued its opinion in the much-anticipated Janus v. AFSCME Council 31 case, which overturned 40 years of public-sector collective bargaining policy. The 5-4 decision bars states from requiring non-members from paying what are known as agency or fairshare fees to unions who collectively bargain on behalf of an entire unit in a public-sector workplace. The Supreme Court held in 1977 that unions could charge non-members fees for benefits they received from certain representational activities. But the lateJune decision overturned that ruling on First Amendment grounds, and it is expected to weaken workers’ rights. Right-to-Work Laws Hurt Everyone By many measures, quality of life is worse in states with right-to-work laws. Wages are lower, people are less likely to have health insurance and the necessary resources for a quality education, poverty levels are higher, and so are workplace fatality rates. States with Right-to-Work Laws Have Lower Wages and Incomes On average, workers in states with right-to-work laws make $6,109 a year (12.1%) less annually than workers in other states ($44,401, compared with $50,511). Median household income in states with these laws is $8,174 (13.9%) less than in other states ($50,712 vs. $58,886). 29.6 percent of jobs in right-to-work states were in low-wage occupations, compared with 22.8% of jobs in other states. States with Right-to-Work Laws Have Lower Rates of Health Insurance Coverage People under the age of 65 in states with right-to-work laws are more likely to be uninsured (13.0%, compared with 9.4% in free-bargaining states). Only 47% of private-sector employers in states with these laws offer insurance coverage to their employees, compared 4 Seafarers LOG A little more than a month earlier on May 25 in the late afternoon right before the start of Memorial Day weekend, the administration issued three executive orders (numbered 13836, 13837 and 13839) that aggressively restricted collective bargaining in federal organizations and constrained the ability of labor leaders to represent not just their members but all employees in a bargaining unit, regardless of whether they pay dues. The foregoing setbacks and others notwithstanding, the Missouri vote came on the heels of a string of successful red-state protests about teachers’ wages. Teachers strikes and demonstrations in West Virginia, Oklahoma, Kentucky and Arizona were successful as educators rallied and demanded fair wages and improved working conditions for the betterment of students. As a result, many union members around the country now are viewing the win in Missouri as a watershed moment and a sign of victories to come. If polls offer any indications as to where organized labor stands, then union members’ optimism could be well-founded. According to Gallup, Americans’ views on unions hit a 14-year high last year, reaching 61 percent approval, just above its historical average in recent decades. with 52.2% in other states. That difference is even more pronounced among employers with fewer than 50 workers: only 30.1% offer health insurance compared with 38.1% of small employers in other states. Workers in right-to-work states also pay a larger share of their health insurance premiums, on average, than those in free-bargaining states (28.5% of the premium compared with 25.4% in freebargaining states). States with Right-to-Work Laws Have Higher Poverty and Infant Mortality Rates Poverty rates are higher in states with right-to-work laws (15.3% overall and 21.4% for children), compared with poverty rates of 12.8% overall and 18.0% for children in states without these laws. The infant mortality rate is 12.4% higher in states with right to work laws. States with Right-to-Work Laws Invest Less in Education States with right-to-work laws spend 32.5% less per pupil on elementary and secondary education than other states. States with Right-to-Work Laws Have Higher Workplace Fatality Rates The rate of workplace deaths is 49% higher in states with right-to-work laws, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. September 2018 �Lyons Takes Helm at Transportation Command U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Stephen R. Lyons is the new commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) at Scott AFB, Illinois. Lyons, who was confirmed for the post August 1 by the U.S. Senate, replaced U.S. Air Force Gen. Darren McDew. McDew, who had been at the command’s helm since August 2015, retired August 24 following a change of command ceremony. “Lt. Gen. Lyons is a rare soldier, officer, and leader,” said McDew of his successor. “He will be the command’s first Army commander, as well as the Army’s first Logistician Combatant Commander. “As our joint warfighting enterprise continues to evolve in today’s unique environment, Lyons’ expertise will surely enable the continued advancement of our command,” he continued. “Having commanded at every level from company to major subordinate command, and previously serving as USTRANSCOM’s deputy commander, he is up to the crucial task of leading the 144,000-strong USTRANSCOM team. Everyone across the command and the joint deployment and distribution enterprise will benefit from his direction and leadership.” A strong supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine, the American maritime industry and key programs that help keep the industry alive – including the Jones Act, Maritime Security Program (MSP) and cargo preference – Lyons is keenly aware of the crucial role that each plays in U.S. national security and continued economic prosperity. In testimony before the U.S. House of Representatives in May 2016 wherein the size of the country’s maritime security fleet was at issue, Lyons joined a host of congressmen and senior maritime transportation officials who defended and stood behind a strong and robust Americanflag capability. He testified that “the case for a U.S.-flag fleet is compelling” and that several mobility capability studies done by Transportation Command have repeatedly reaffirmed the need for at least a 60-ship MSP fleet. Lyons again spoke out for maritime in June 2017 dur- ing a naming ceremony for the SIU-crewed MV Liberty, an American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier (ARC)-owned vessel that earlier in the year reflagged under the Stars and Stripes and entered the U.S. registry. “ARC plays a significant role in our nation’s commitment to the security of our nation and our NATO allies,” Lyons said to attendees at the ceremony in Charleston, South Carolina. “We can’t underestimate the strategic impact of global images depicting the arrival of an armored brigade combat team on ARC’s Resolve, Endurance, and Freedom, or the arrival of a combat air brigade on Endurance and Honor. And now we are happy to welcome Liberty to the fleet.” A native of Rensselaer, New York, the general graduated from the Rochester Institute of Technology and was commissioned in 1983. He received a master’s degree in logistics management from the Naval Postgraduate School in 1993, and national resource strategy master’s degree from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces in 2005. Lyons previously served as the USTRANSCOM deputy commander. He also served as commanding general of the 8th Theater Sustainment Command in Fort Shafter, Hawaii. Prior to serving as commanding general he served as the director for logistics, operations, readiness, force integration, and strategy, office the deputy chief of staff of the Army, in Washington, D.C. The general has also served in a variety of assignments providing him with extensive logistics and management expertise. He began his career in Germany during the Cold War and subsequently held a wide range of operational assignments to include command at company, battalion, brigade, and major command levels. Since 2003, Lyons has spent more than 40 months deployed to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. USTRANSCOM is a global combatant command and the transportation provider for the Department of Defense. Lt. Gen. Stephen R. Lyons Commander, USTRANSCOM Maritime Administrator Cites Importance of RRF Buzby Credits Mariners, Says Ships are ‘Critical Assets to National Defense’ In a recent blog post, U.S. Maritime Administrator Mark “Buzz” Buzby confirmed what many SIU members already knew from experience: 2017 was a busy year for mariners sailing on vessels in the Ready Reserve Force. “Merchant mariner numbers may be at a low in the U.S., but the men and women of the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) have increased their operating days by 245 percent from Fiscal Year (FY) 2016 to FY 2017,” Buzby wrote. He briefly described some of the various missions these vessels participated in, before continu- Mark Buzby U.S. Maritime Administrator September 2018 ing, “To sum up – in FY 2017 there were about 345 were deployed to support the global effort to end the operating days (days away from layberth) for RRF ves- Ebola virus disease outbreak in West Africa.” sels on cargo missions, exercises, and FEMA mission In his own words, Buzby succinctly explained the assignments. In 2016 there were around 100 operating RRF: “The RRF program was initiated in 1976 as a days for RRF vessels on missions and exercises. 2018 subset of the Maritime Administration’s (MARAD) is on track to match, if not surpass, 2017.” National Defense Reserve Fleet (NDRF) to support the He then provided some historical context for those rapid worldwide deployment of U.S. military forces. numbers: “From 2002 to June of 2008, 118 ship acti- The NDRF consists primarily of RO/RO vessels with vations were called some tankers and for in support of Opmilitary auxiliaries erations Enduring set aside for national “While our crews work hard to keep the RRF defense and national Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. In that fleet ready, that task is becoming increasingly emergencies. Of the period, there were nearly 100 vessels in 13,575 ship operat- challenging and costly for ships with an av- the NDRF, 46 ships ing days with a re- erage age of 43 years – well past the prime are assigned to the liability rate of 99 for most commercial vessels. MARAD is work- RRF and kept in an percent. Almost 25 increased readiness percent of the initial ing closely with the Navy, U.S. Transportation state with a small equipment needed Command, and Congress to recapitalize and crew to be activated to support the U.S. in short order.” Armed Forces op- replace these critical assets to our national He went on to erations in Iraq was defense.” - Mark Buzby, U.S. Maritime Administrator characterize the vesmoved by the RRF. sels operating within By comparison, Milithe RRF, saying, tary Sealift Command’s combined sealift fleet of Large, “Generally, RRF ships must be ready to load military Medium-Speed Roll-on/Roll-off (RO/RO) and Fast cargo for transport to areas of operation within five days Sealift Ships carried 29 percent of the cargo required of activation. Operated under contract by commercial for the invasion.” U.S. ship managers, these vessels form three-quarters of The administrator continued, citing more examples the Government’s surge sealift capacity, and are crewed of the value and utility of the RRF fleet. “The RRF by volunteer, contract, U.S. mariners. The majority of provides significant cost savings to the Department of the RRF ships are RO/RO vessels that are uniquely built Defense by maintaining shipping capacity in a reduced for the movement of vehicles, tanks and rolling stock. operating status until needed,” he pointed out. “These The RRF also boasts six auxiliary craneships, and two vessels also provide maximum flexibility to an already aviation repair vessels. These ocean-going ships prothinly stretched Navy. In 2014, the RRF vessel Cape vide the initial surge of military capability that rapidly Ray was converted into a floating incinerator for the delivers military equipment and supplies during major safe destruction of the most dangerous chemical war- contingencies.” fare materials in Syria’s declared chemical weapons Looking towards the future of the RRF, he conarsenal. The historic mission supported the Defense cluded, “While our crews work hard to keep the RRF Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) in neutralizing al- fleet ready, that task is becoming increasingly chalmost 600 tons of declared chemical weapons, and that lenging and costly for ships with an average age of 43 same vessel is still active today, carrying military cargo years – well past the prime for most commercial vesand supporting a U.S. Army Logistics-Over-the-Shore sels. MARAD is working closely with the Navy, U.S. (LOTS) exercise overseas. In the same year as Cape Transportation Command, and Congress to recapitalize Ray’s DTRA mission, the Cape Rise and Cape Wrath and replace these critical assets to our national defense.” Seafarers LOG 5 �TWIC Cards Get New Look The Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) has been redesigned for the first time in more than a decade. On July 10, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) began issuing TWIC cards sporting the new look, for both new applicants and renewals, officially dubbed TWIC NexGen. TWICs issued before July 10 remain valid until their respective expiration dates. As outlined in documents released by the TSA, “The NexGen effort is focused on enhanced card functionality, new physical security features, and changes to the Technology Infrastructure Modernization system to realize a NexGen card. Where TWIC is used often as a ‘flash pass’ physical updates to deter counterfeiting were a priority of TSA.” The updated design includes, according to the TSA: enhanced card substrates; covert, overt and forensic features; color-coded expiration field; and optically variable devices. In addition, the laminate itself has been enhanced with a variety of security and tactile features. This redesign is part of a larger series of policy changes and enhanced security measures the TSA has been introducing in recent years. The previous design of the TWIC will remain valid until 2023. For additional information, contact the TSA at twic.issue@ tsa.dhs.gov or visit www.tsa. The TSA issued this image of a sample card showing the new TWIC design. gov/twic. Federal Laws Still Regard CBD Oil as Controlled Substance Regardless of the specific laws concerning cannabidiol (CBD) in a mariner’s home state, there’s no ambiguity in the eyes of the government: CBD is a Schedule I controlled substance, and illegal under federal law. As explained in a recent article by Consumer Reports, “Cannabidiol, commonly called CBD, holds the promise of relieving a long list of ailments, from pain to epilepsy to multiple sclerosis. While this chemical compound comes from marijuana or its close relative hemp, CBD does not get users high, unlike another compound from the marijuana plant, tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC.” While it’s true that some CBD oils are made with hemp instead of marijuana, and therefore contain a much lower level of THC, the vast majority of CBD products are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, and the aforementioned claims have not been verified. As CBD is still illegal at the federal level, any positive test for either THC or CBD would cause a mariner to fail that drug screening. With Seafarers Aboard Tanker California Earlier this year, Seafarers-contracted Crowley acquired three tankers from SeaRiver Maritime, signaling new jobs for SIU members. Recertified Bosun John Cedeno submitted these photos from one of those vessels, the California. He reports smooth sailing with the SIU crew and AMO officers. Additionally, even if a mariner legally purchased a product that contains CBD in their home state, they would not be allowed to possess it while aboard a vessel. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “CBD is chemically distinguishable from THC and will not cause a positive drug test result under the current drug testing panel but is a Schedule I drug. However, CBD products may contain other cannabinoids such as THC, therefore, use of CBD oils and marijuanaderived products may result in a positive urine drug test for THCA…. There have been no changes to the drug testing panel regarding marijuana, under the federal Drug-Free Workplace Program (DFWP). The DFWP (as established under Executive Order 12564, Public Law 100-71 and the Mandatory Guidelines) will continue to operate in accordance with federal law, which identifies marijuana and marijuana extracts (e.g. CBD) as a Schedule I controlled substance.” Notice/Reminder Reduced Operating Status, Vacation Pay It has come to the attention of union officialsthat some members may be unaware they can file for vacation benefits for reduced operating status (ROS) time. All time filed must still meet the usual requirements for Seafarers Vacation Plan benefits. Per the current contracts, the following vessels are eligible for ROS vacation pay through the Seafarers Vacation Plan: Q�Sgt. Matej Kocak Q�Stephen W. Pless Q�Eugene A. Obregon Q�Dewayne T. Williams Q�John Paul Bobo Q�William R. Button Q�Baldomero Lopez Q�Jack Lummus Q�USNS Bob Hope Q�USNS Brittin Q�USNS Fisher Q�USNS Pililaau Q�USNS Mendonca Q�USNS Benavidez Q�USNS Gilliland Q�USNS Gordon Q�USNS Seay Q�USNS Yano Q�Shughart The USNS Bob Hope (T-AKR-300) prepares to load an improved Navy lighterage system during exercise Brilliant Tern. Brilliant Tern was conducted by Military Sealift Command ships using real world scenarios. (U.S. Navy photo by MCSA Jasmine Sheard) 6 Seafarers LOG September 2018 �Member Portal Offers Scheduling Clinic Exams Option SIU members are reminded that they have an online option for placing orders for clinic exam services in addition to services offered at the hiring halls. As previously reported, those services may be ordered through the members-only portal on the union’s website, www.seafarers.org. The members-only area itself has been available since June 2011 and is free of charge. It can be directly accessed at https://members.seafarers.org/ Seafarers Health and Benefits Plans (SHBP) Administrator Maggie Bowen stated, “You can order exams within 60 days of your current expiration dates, so don’t wait until the last minute. This site also allows ineligible participants to order exams and pay using PayPal.” She added, “If you do not see the exam that you are trying to order, please email shbpmedical@seafarers.org and if you have any other questions please email map@seafarers.org or call 1-800-2524674.” The SHBP started using a new health clinic system, Comprehensive Health Services (CHSi), in early 2013. CHSi features more than 2,000 participating facilities in the contiguous United States, which has made it much easier for Seafarers to find clinics that are closer to home, whether they’re taking annual exams, functional capacity evaluations or interval exams. Using the member portal allows mariners to order the exams they need as follows: Automated Exams Q� Annual/MSC Physical Examination – Required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date of the previous exam. prior to registration. Q�U.S. Coast Guard Exam – Required once every two years unless the mariner is upgrading. Q�Interval Exam – Needed once every 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. ception expires. Q� Benzene Clearance – Mandatory (for mariners sailing on tankers) no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date of previous clearance. Q� Food Handler Certification – Required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date of the mariner’s certification. Q� Unlicensed Apprentice Physical Exam – This exam is required for those participating in the UA program. Once the admissions department notifies you of acceptance into the UA program, you must work with a local port office. Q� TB Screening only – Required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to expiration of existing clearance. The TB screening is included in every Annual/MSC exam, UA exam and New Member exam. Q� MSC Shots only – Required by job order and approved as necessary by the SHBP Medical Department. Q� Commercial Non-MSC Shots only – Approved as necessary by the SHBP Medical Department. six months for deep sea members and under several inland contracts. Q� DOT/U.S. Coast Guard Drug Test (Pre-Employment or Periodic) – Required when renewing documents, returning to work, or when random ex- Approval Required Exams Q� Return to Duty Exam – (repatriation, interval illness or injury, etc.) Required upon demand by SHBP Medical Department. Q� ARC Exam – Approval required by Addictions Rehabilitation Center (ARC) and SHBP Medical Department. Ready to Ship Out? Make sure your documents and paperwork are current: Merchant mariner credential (MMC) with security endorsements (maritime security awareness and/or vessel personnel with designated security duties, abbreviated as VPDSD, vessel security officer/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) Q� Functional Capacity Evaluation – Required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to expiration date of previous annual exam. Q�New Member Physical Exam – This is a one-time requirement and is necessary Report Says Jones Act Has No Impact On Product Retail Prices in Puerto Rico Continued from Page 2 the two locations.” In fact, retail prices of goods in Puerto Rico are essentially the same as on the mainland. Q� Foreign vessels can deliver directly to Puerto Rico from foreign countries. Finding that 57 percent of San Juan’s port traffic in 2016 was carried on foreign vessels, the report noted that there is “nothing in the Jones Act that precludes foreign-flag vessels from serving Puerto Rico directly from foreign countries.” It concluded that there was strong competition between carriers serving the island, stating that “if cargo owners in Puerto Rico believed that the Jones Act shipping services were adding costs that negatively impacted their business, you would expect to see [an increase in foreign flag shipping].” Q�There is no Jones Act freight rate premium for ocean transport. The report found that freight rates for shipments between the mainland and Puerto Rico are very similar to or lower than rates for shipping between the mainland and neighboring islands, including the U.S. Virgin Islands, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic. Q� The report flatly refuted assertions in other studies that the negative impact of the Jones Act is $850 million per year, noting that total annual gross revenues for Jones Act shipping services “was substantially below” that level. In other words, “[t]he Jones Act carriers could have provided shipping services for free and … there still would have been a negative economic impact,” according to these studies – which defies logic. Moreover, the report found that since 2000, the carriers’ ocean freight rates in real terms have not increased. Q� Southbound service is vital to Puerto Rico consumers, while the northbound service is a key contributor to economic development on the island. As highlighted in the report, the fact that the vessels operating in the Puerto Rico trade are dedicated to that route “gives shippers very fast transit times directly between the mainland and Puerto Rico without stops in intermediate ports as typically occurs in international shipping markets.” Q� The Puerto Rico-continental U.S. trade operates in a “closed-loop” route. Goods vital for the welfare of the people are delivered promptly from the mainland, while high-value goods are shipped directly to the mainland from Puerto Rico, providing a high-speed and very economical supply chain to Puerto Rican exporters. Q� The dedicated Jones Act vessels’ cargo ca- September 2018 pacity is highly underutilized in the northbound service. As a result, producers in Puerto Rico obtain shipping services at a very attractive rate. Q� Carriers provide highly effective logistics systems, including economical and environmentally friendly vessels, that ensure a high level of supply chain efficiency. Q� According to the report, “The fact that the Jones Act carriers operate dedicated services for Puerto Rico with vessels and intermodal equipment that are uniquely designed to closely integrate the commonwealth with the advanced logistics systems of the mainland provides cargo owners with major economic and service advantages.” Q� The report noted that the “size of equipment has a major impact on the cost of moving cargo ‘intermodally’ in containers.” For example, a 53-foot container that is widely used in Puerto Rican service has 43 percent more cubic capacity than the standard international 40-foot unit – this differential provides an estimated $92 million of cost savings annually through greater efficiency. Q� The report highlighted that the carriers in Puerto Rico offer shippers options that are “designed to meet the requirements of the range of cargoes moving in the trade,” including fleets of thousands of containers and trailers capable of carrying either dry or refrigerated cargoes, as well as vessels and barges designed to carry vehicles in roll-on/roll-off mode and carry breakbulk cargo that is too large to be accommodated in a standard container. Some carriers have also invested in state-of-the-art containerships powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), which is significantly more economical and environmentally friendly than standard bunker fuels used by virtually all other similar vessels. In announcing the results of the study, the American Maritime Partnership noted, “After Hurricane Maria struck Puerto Rico with devastating force on September 20, 2017, a number of news reports claimed that the Jones Act had severely damaged the Puerto Rican economy both over time and in the immediate aftermath of the storm. Following a comprehensive analysis of the facts, this new report sets the record straight on the important role of the Jones Act shipping industry before the hurricane, in the immediate aftermath, and in the months that followed. The Jones Act fleet delivers a dedicated and reliable flow of essential goods to the people of Puerto Rico and provides significant economic benefits for the island.” House Members Express Support for Cabotage Law Continued from Page 2 of unsubstantiated claims regarding the Jones Act, including the claim that the law negatively impacts Puerto Rico…. We are here to discuss a report from a new team of economists to provide actual data on real consumer prices to determine the Jones Act’s impact in Puerto Rico.” U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California), ranking member of the subcommittee, reinforced that the Jones Act does not drive up the cost of consumer goods in Puerto Rico. “This study is extremely important,” he said. “By all accounts and by my reading of it, it is accurate, and it covers the issues that needed to be covered.… The comparative market analysis of consumer prices for common household goods found that there is virtually no difference at all between what you would pay at the Walmart in Jacksonville, Florida, and what you pay in San Juan, Puerto Rico.” Speaking specifically to the cost of automobiles in Puerto Rico compared to the United States, Tellez highlighted a Puerto Rico-specific tax, rather than the Jones Act, as the dominant contributing cause of the higher cost of vehicles in Puerto Rico. “There is a tremendous difference in the cost of cars in the Puerto Rico as compared to the United States,” he explained. “The difference in price comes from the hacienda. They tack on a figure on every car, from 16 to 35 percent. It does not matter whether that car is coming from the mainland or from a foreign country. It is not because of the Jones Act; it is this arbitrary tax imposed by the government.” Reeve stated, “Freight rates between the U.S. mainland and Puerto Rico are very comparable to those between the U.S. and Puerto Rico’s neighbors such as the Dominican Republic, Haiti and the U.S. Virgin Islands… If you apply a freight rate to ship a can of chicken noodle soup, three cents of that $1.58 soup can would be the actual price of port-toport shipping. That is just two percent…. Therefore, there is essentially no cost.” Roberts discussed the benefits of customized shipping and logistics services and the investments made by American carriers in Puerto Rico. “Direct freight service instead of onestop or two-stop freight service gives Puerto Rico’s suppliers and consumers an extremely efficient and reliable supply chain,” he said. “It also gives Puerto Rico’s producers reliable and inexpensive access to their customers on the mainland…. The carriers in the market have invested around $1 billion in ships, infrastructure and equipment to renew their fleets and enhance their services in the Puerto Rico market.” Kaskin highlighted the underlying importance of the Jones Act to maintaining fully qualified, active, certified U.S. mariners for national security. “Now that this report shows that the Jones Act is not responsible for retail prices in Puerto Rico, Congress should be even more committed to this legislation, since any reduction to the Jones Act fleet would be detrimental to our national security,” he said. In later remarks, Hunter reinforced the important role of the Jones Act in ensuring national security, specifically the necessity to have a readied force and shipbuilding capacity in times of crisis: “We need every single commercial yard that we can (have) involved in American trade, so that when the stuff hits the fan, we have the people and the ships and the ability to make more ships quickly if we needed to have it…. In the end, it’s national security.” Garamendi also highlighted how the Jones Act helps maintain state-of-the-art shipbuilding capabilities, which are essential in times of conflict: “Not only does the Jones Act provide tens of thousands of jobs with all kinds of vessels being made in about every place there is water, but it has created advanced shipbuilding in the United States…. Because of the Jones Act, American shipbuilding can and is leading in [the use of LNG] technology.” Reinforcing comments by his colleagues, U.S. Rep. Peter A. DeFazio (DOregon) added to the discussion his view on the indispensable nature of the law. “The Jones Act is not a relic,” he said. “The Jones Act is vibrant and the Jones Act is absolutely essential for the economic and the maritime security of this country.” Seafarers LOG 7 �In Case You Missed it In Last Month’s Edition Hiring Halls Closing on Saturdays Change takes Effect September 1, 2018 As previously reported, during the July membership meetings the union announced that – effective September 1, 2018 – the hiring halls no longer will be open on Saturdays. The corresponding Seafarers Appeals Board action is printed below. The only amendment is the removal of a sentence indicating Saturday hours for the halls. However, please note that in accordance with the union’s constitution, the halls will be open on Saturdays for individual ballot pickup during the next SIU election period, which is scheduled for the final two months of the year 2020. (Ballots also may be obtained at the halls Monday through Friday, or by mail, during the election period.) Seafarers Appeals Board Action 478 Effective: September 1, 2018 The Board has been provided information by the Union supporting the need to adjust prescribed business hours for hiring halls via closure on Saturdays. The Board in its determination to make such amendment considered: a majority of contracted employers are closed on Saturdays, non-peak member utilization of the hiring hall and the continued ability to have on-call persons available to assist in pier-head jump situations. With the aforementioned in mind the Seafarers Appeals Board takes the following action to close union hiring halls for business on Saturdays. AMEND Shipping Rule 4. Business Hours and Job Calls, Paragraphs A. & B. as follows. “A. Except as otherwise provided herein, all Union hiring halls shall be open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The hiring halls shall be closed on July 4, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Labor Day, and such other holidays as are determined by the port agents. Notice of such additional closings shall be posted on the hiring halls’ bulletin boards on the day preceding the Holiday.” Spotlight on Mariner Health Give Foot Problems the Boot Editor’s note: The following article was provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. A significant number of people suffer from foot problems. Most, however, do not pay attention to their feet until something is wrong. A common occurrence is soreness. Sore feet often are symptomatic of underlying conditions or disorders. Depending on the cause of the discomfort, those affected should closely monitor the following indicators that may occur in their feet: redness, tenderness to the touch, inflammation, aching and/or dull pain. Difficulty walking, problems wearing shoes, sores or ulcers, and swelling/edema also should be scrutinized. Soreness in the feet can be caused by various culprits including: the use of improper or ill-fitting shoes, age, obesity, pregnancy, muscle strain, sports injuries, flat feet/arches, poor circulation, diabetes, heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, arch problems, bunions and callouses. Some who suffer from foot pain may need to visit a pediatrist to pinpoint the causes of their problems. Others may require over-the-coun- 8 Seafarers LOG ter medications to treat the pain or use orthotic devices such as inserts and additional padding to increase arch support. Massage, stretching exercises, weight loss, icing, wearing compressions devices (such as ace wraps), support hose, cortisone injections and multivitamin supplements are alternatives that also may be taken. To help prevent the foregoing conditions from occurring, people are encouraged to: Q� Wear quality footwear that will support your feet and provide comfort even if they are worn all day. Q�Keep feet clean and dry. Wear breathable socks. Wash them daily and use powder if you sweat excessively. Q� Use antifungal ointment/ creams if you have athlete’s foot. Also, apply lotion to the feet often and change socks frequently. Q� For avid runners or walkers, be aware of any stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, or pain in the heel and leg areas. If insoles are used in shoes, make sure that they are of high quality. Q� Elevate feet as often as possible, keep toenails trimmed and visit the pediatrist when needed. Q� Be sure to properly break in your shoes or boots by wearing them a few hours each day. Healthful Recipe Chicken Piccata 25 Servings Ingredients 10 pounds chicken breast half without skin, defrosted ½ cup garlic, chopped fine 1/3 cup lemon juice 1 tablespoon granulated garlic 1 ½ tablespoons kosher salt 1 tablespoon garlic pepper 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 ¾ tablespoons olive oil, to drizzle on chicken ½ cup white wine ½ cup capers 1/3 lemon juice Lemon, twists ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped Preparation Q In a large container add the chicken, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and seasonings. Mari- nate for 2 hrs. Q Grill the chicken over med-high heat until half way done. Place in 2” hotel pans. Q Drizzle olive oil and white wine over the top of the chicken to keep moist. Add the capers to the pans evenly. Bake the chicken uncovered in a 325 degree F oven for 15-20 min until internal temp of 165 is reached and browned on top. Q Place one cut lemon on each piece of chicken, drizzle lemon juice over the chicken. Cover and serve. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Nutrition Information: Per serving (excluding unknown items): 193 calories; 4g fat (21.7% calories from fat); 34g protein, 2g carbohydrate; trace dietary fiber; 84mg cholesterol; 459 mg sodium. Exchanges: 0 grain (starch); 4 ½ lean meat; 0 vegetable; 0 fruit; ½ fat; 0 other carbohydrates. Provided by the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship September 2018 �Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby (left) visits the ship and takes a snapshot with Recertified Steward Mike Ingram. ACU Julio Ciliezar, Chief Cook Derrick Williams, ACU Pauline Crespo Former astronaut Michael Fossum (left), who now serves as chief operating officer of Texas A&M University at Galveston, is pictured with Recertified Steward Mike Ingram. SIU Galley Gang Rises to Special Occasion When a unique assignment recently popped up for a dozen steward-department Seafarers, they handled it with smooth, enthusiastic professionalism. That’s the description provided by Recertified Steward Mike Ingram, who teamed up with his fellow SIU members for a two-month voyage aboard the training vessel Kennedy. The ship belongs to the Massachusetts Maritime Academy and was chartered by the Texas A&M Maritime Academy. Seafarers worked with a similar number of employees from a separately contracted food-service provider to make the mission successful. “It was unique because it was more like restaurant service,” Ingram said. “We spent two months on the ship; the cadet training requires two months at sea. We started May 24 in Massachusetts, went to Cape Canaveral (Florida), then New Orleans, Corpus Christi, Tampa and Massachusetts again. We spent three or four days in each port.” Ingram said the vessel master initially admitted he didn’t know what to expect from the combined, larger-than-usual steward department. “But he said it went seamlessly,” Ingram recalled. “My staff was very professional and we are used to being self- Seafarers helped ensure fellow mariners were well-fed aboard the Kennedy. motivated. We don’t need to talk about our job; we just do it. “We learned a lot from each other and [the non-SIU personnel] said they wouldn’t mind working with us in the future,” Ingram added. The trip included a visit from U.S. Mari- time Administrator Mark Buzby, a longtime friend of the SIU and tireless advocate for the U.S. Merchant Marine. Ingram concluded, “Everybody did their jobs. Sometimes you have to think outside the box. We made it work.” SIU members aboard the Kennedy Photo by Glenn L. Fontaine included Ingram, Steward/Baker John Stephens, Chief Cook Derrick Williams, ACUs Ines Castillo Flores, Julio Ciliezar, Pauline Crespo, David Simon and Annie Walker, and SAs Valentin Arzu, Nahun Bernardez, Fernando Castillo and Ariel Lopez. SIU members gather near the vessel. September 2018 Seafarers LOG 9 �TALKING MARITIME WITH CONGRESSMAN – SIU Patrolman Ray Henderson (right) meets with U.S. Rep. Donald Payne (D-New Jersey) during a job fair for military veterans – an event hosted by the congressman. PORT COUNCIL EVENT – SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso recently helped host a Hawaii Ports Maritime Council gathering. She is the executive secretary-treasurer for the port council, which is part of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO. Pictured from left in photo directly above are Port Council President Randy Swindell, U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii) and Galbiso. In the photo at right, the port agent is standing with Hawaii State Sen. Brickwood Galuteria (D). At Sea and Ashore with the SIU WELCOME ASHORE (TIMES 2) IN PHILLY – Two longtime Seafarers recently picked up their first respective pension checks. Recertified Steward Hazel Johnson is at left in photo at left, with his wife, Doretha (center) and Port Agent Joe Baselice. Member John Chapin is at right in the other photo, with Safety Director Andre MacCray. Chapin worked for Crowley at Petty’s Island. WELCOME ASHORE IN JAX – Recertified Bosun Thomas Grosskurth (right) receives his first pension check, at the hall in Jacksonville, Florida. Congratulating him is Safety Director Joseph Koncul. A-BOOK IN OAKLAND – AB Walid Nasser (left) receives his A-seniority union book at the hall in Oakland, California. Congratulating him is Port Agent Nick Marrone II. 10 Seafarers LOG B-BOOK IN HAWAII – OMU Ferdinand Cabanlit obtains his full B-book at the hall in Honolulu, Hawaii. Congratulating him is Shureen Yatchmenoff, administrative assistant. WELCOME ASHORE IN LAUDERDALE – Recertified Bosun Joe Caruso (left) displays his first pension check at the hall in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. At right is SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins. B-BOOK IN BALTIMORE – QMED Vernon Humbles (left) receives his full B-book from Patrolman DeCarlo Harris at the hiring hall. ACTIVE IN LABOR MOVEMENT – SIU Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli (center) is sworn in as a delegate of the Alameda Labor Council, AFL-CIO. September 2018 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD SHIPS IN GUAM – Port Agent Fred Sanchez Jr. submitted these snapshots from the Matson-operated Maunalei (photo at left) and the Crowley-operated Lummus (directly above). Pictured from left to right on the Maunalei are ACU Walter Harris, Sanchez, Chief Steward Steven Bowmer and Chief Cook Mario Ferrer. Pictured from left on the Lummus are SA Patrick Lara, SA Chester Catunao, Chief Cook Christopher Lanier, SA Musa Quraish, Chief Steward Richard Gray and Sanchez. FUTURE SEAFARER – Jaxon Snow, son of Seafarer Curtis Snow, is all smiles at the hiring hall in Mobile, Alabama. (Editor’s note: This photo was a hit on our Facebook page, @SeafarersInternational. Check out the Aug. 1 post, which drew many fun comments.) WITH STARLIGHT MARINE BOATMEN – SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (third from right) meets with Seafarers on the West Coast. ABOARD USNS BOB HOPE – These photos were submitted by AB George Owen, and depict the newly upgraded guard shack aboard the U.S. Marine Management-operated vessel. The shack was redecorated by AB Christopher Jensen, and features tributes to the vessel’s namesake, legendary comedian Bob Hope – who was an ardent supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine. (Check out a transcript of Hope’s 1944 broadcast to mariners online at http://www. usmm.org/hope.html) September 2018 Seafarers LOG 11 �Bosuns Utilize Union, School too Chart Successful Career Paths The union’s newest class of recertified bosuns has plenty of positive experiences to share, as described in their respective graduation speeches Aug. 6 in Piney Point, Maryland. Completing the top deck department curriculum available at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) were Adel Ahmed, John D. Cedeno Jr., Thomas Moore, Victor R. Nunez, Eugene Perez Jr., Amin Quraish, Modesto Y. Rabena Jr., Nicholas Smithling, Sanyboy Whiting, Artis Williams and Josephus Willis. The two-week class includes a mix of refresher and practical training, classroom work, meetings with representatives from different union offices, gatherings with personnel from the Seafarers Plans, a day trip to AFL-CIO headquarters (also home to the Maritime Trades Department), and more. The following are highlights from the graduation speeches (delivered during the monthly membership meeting), supplemented by written statements submitted by the Seafarers. Thomas Moore Recertified Bosun Port of Baltimore Thomas Moore Moore took to the stage first. He joined the union in 1989, and sails from the port of Baltimore. He spoke about his personal journey to becoming a Seafarer: “Before I joined the SIU in August of 1989, I worked for three years in a paper mill, and lived in a school bus. I was searching for a better way, and I told my father I would like to join the U.S. Merchant Marine. A few days later, he gave me a phone number to call, and said, ‘It’s the SIU.’ Soon after, I was here at Piney Point.” He continued, describing his first job aboard a research vessel in Singapore, saying, “It was a good job. I learned to complete jobs, earn my transportation home, and ship back out. I also learned what it meant to me when an SIU bosun said, ‘You can make another trip.’ I never had a bad job; they have all been good.” He concluded, “Since I have been an SIU member, I have seen nothing but improvement, both at the school and in my life. Thanks to President Michael Sacco and our other union leaders for all you do to keep the SIU great. I thank my SIU brothers for a class I will never forget.” Sanyboy Whiting Whiting, who sails from the port of Honolulu, took the podium next. “I have been a part of the SIU since I was 28 years old, and I have been sailing for 28 years,” he began. “I have sailed around the world, and now I work on AT&T and Tyco cable ships, a job that takes me all over the world.” He reflected on the personal significance of the SIU: “The union has been important in my life, because it taught me the value of life, respect, dignity, pride and the importance of absorbing all the experiences of life. Those are the things I treasure the most about my time in the union.” After thanking the union leadership, he turned to another topic that would become a theme of the day’s speeches: the importance of the Seafarers Political Activities Donation (SPAD). “The union leadership needs our help to protect our industry and jobs,” he said. “We need to always do our best on the job, and we need to upgrade our skills, but we need to donate to SPAD so that the union officials have the resources they need to go to work for us on Capitol Hill. And, of course, we need to always vote in elections.” Nicholas Smithling Recertified Bosun Port of Houston Adel Saleh Ahmed Recertified Bosun Port of Tacoma 12 Seafarers LOG Nicholas Smithling Sailing from the Port of Houston, Smithling offered a look Artis Williams Recertified Bosun Port of Oakland into his reasons for graduating from the class, saying, “I have enjoyed continuing my grandfather’s legacy as a recertified bosun. I hope in death that he looks upon me and can see what I’ve done to preserve what he and the union have fought so hard for. I came in at the age of 18, and was given every opportunity to persevere in my maritime career. I received a Maryland State diploma (via the certified program at the Paul Hall Center), after taking a vast array of educational courses. I had dropped out of school as a kid, so that means a lot to me.” He continued, “This industry has afforded me many experiences. I am truly proud of where I have arrived in life. I feel I’ve come a long way from my beginning as a small-town hardhead. And I’ve picked up knowledge from all four corners of the Earth along the way.” Smithling also thanked the staff and instructors at the PHC: “I truly admire your hard work and dedication to the school. I furthermore would like to recognize the union leadership for the daunting tasks of keeping this union and the U.S.-flag fleet so very strong. But it cannot be done without our SPAD contributions.” Modesto Y. Rabena Jr. Rabena was next to receive his diploma. He sails from the Port of Tacoma, Washington. “I’m so blessed, fortunate and lucky enough to be here today,” he said. “I joined the SIU back in 2000 at age 37, and I’ve been sailing for the past 18 years.... This union has been important in my life because it allows me to support the needs of myself and my family.” A frequent upgrader, Rabena said the school continues to improve. “I’m truly in love with the school,” he stated. “I’ve enjoyed my latest stay, and I’m amazed how beautiful and wonderful it is. My overall experience at Piney Point is very precious to me, and I will remember fondly my time here. The training here has challenged me to become who I am today, and has given me a sense of power to be my best self. I will take the methods that I have learned here – with the finest crewmates in the entire SIU – and apply them on whichever ship I sail on next.” He finished his graduation speech by saying, “I would like to thank our teachers and the staff at the school for all that they do, and I’d like to thank the union leadership for all their hard work protecting our jobs. During my visit to headquarters and the Maritime Trades Department, I saw firsthand the kind of work they have to do to protect our jobs and keep our union strong, for this generation and the next.” Josephus O. Willis Willis, a member for 18 years who sails from the Port of Norfolk, Virginia, summarized his thoughts on his most recent experience at the PHC in a single word: “Professional.” He expanded on that thought during his graduation speech, saying, “I would like to thank President Sacco, Mr. (Augie) Tellez (the union’s executive vice president) and all the SIU instructors and staff for a job well done. They’ve showed professionalism at its best. On our trips to Camp Springs and Washington D.C., I saw firsthand their hard work negotiating contracts – and it’s not an easy job. Thank you for what you do for us, and for the whole SIU.” He also outlined some of the specific knowledge he gained from the recertification course, including leadership responsibilities, information on the Seafarers Pension Plan and Sea- Eugene Perez Jr. Recertified Bosun Port of Jacksonville September 2018 farers Health and Benefits Plan, the contracts process and the importance of SPAD. Being armed with this information, he said, “helps me be a better leader for my shipmates, and give them advice on problems or questions they have to the best of my ability.” Adel Ahmed Ahmed, a proud member of 2001’s Class 619, took the stage next. He sails out of the Port of Tacoma. “It’s good to be here. It took me 17 years of hard work and dedication to stand in front of you all today,” he began. “It all started back in 2001 when I was 20 years old. That’s when I decided to follow in my dad’s footsteps. I was travelling from state to state, searching for work that I’d enjoy doing, as my father had spent the past two years trying to convince me to join the SIU. Dad, I’m sorry for not following your advice earlier.” He then reflected on a few memories: “I remember the day I arrived at Piney Point for my first phase. I remember losing my long, silky hair in the barbershop chair – the same chair that is still used today. I remember hearing third-phase students laughing and making jokes about how ugly my head looked without hair…. I remember waking up at 4 a.m. to make my bed and start a long day, from working in the galley to marching to class. I remember asking myself, ‘Why am I here?’ But that answer became clear during my time as a union member.... All the sacrifices we endure, the sleepless nights we go through, it all pays off in the end.” He then thanked the union officials, as well as his father and wife, before specifically thanking some staff members at the PHC. “Special thanks to the academic department, the transportation department and the color guard who raise our flags during morning colors,” Ahmed stated. “I also want to thank to the Port of Tacoma reps: Joe, Ben, Warren and Brenda” (Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, Safety Director Ben Anderson, Patrolman Warren Asp and Administrative Assistant Brenda Flesner). “As a kid coming from the Red Hook projects in Brooklyn, to this beautiful school here in Piney Point, I knew my life was going to change for the better,” he said. “This union has helped me provide very well for my family. I am so proud to be a member of the SIU.” Perez also took a moment to acknowledge the SIU executives, saying, “I would like to thank the leadership for all the hard work they do protecting our jobs. I cannot stress how important it is to donate to SPAD, as those funds give the leadership the resources to help protect the Jones Act and our jobs.” “It has been an awesome experience, one that I will never forget,” he concluded about the recertification class. Amin Quraish Quraish, a member since 2001, offered up his story next. He sails from the Port of Algonac, Michigan. “I started back in 2001 on the Great Lakes. I worked my way up the ladder, working hard every day, and sacrificed a lot of time away from my family to provide for them,” he said. “It’s an honor for me to be here, to celebrate this special day in my life. “I would like to thank our union leaders, instructors and union reps for getting me to where I am today,” he continued. “I would also like to thank our leaders for standing up for us, and what they’ve accomplished behind the scenes to protect and fight for our jobs. An easier way to say it is, they are not just here at Piney Point, brothers and sisters, they are our Continued on Page 14 Sanyboy Saramosing Whiting Recertified Bosun Port of Honolulu Artis Williams Hailing from the Port of Oakland, California, Williams kept his speech short and direct. He first sailed with the SIU from 1980 to 1986, taking some time off before returning to the union in 1993. “I come from a union family. My dad was a local union president,” he said. “The union has been important to me because it keeps me working, and helps me sustain my way of life.” He later spoke on how the union influenced him. “Everything I have today comes from this job,” Williams said. “Being a mariner will show you things that will help you in other parts of your life. I have learned that if I take care of the SIU and take care in my job, then the union will take care of me.” He also recounted his experiences in and out of the classroom, specifically mentioning his trip to the union’s headquarters, saying the trip “helped me get a better understanding of the political side of the SIU, and gave me more insight into the inner workings of contracts and union leadership as a whole.” Eugene Perez Jr. Perez, an SIU mariner since 1984, joined the union at the New York hall, which has since moved to New Jersey. He currently sails out of Jacksonville, Florida. Amin Ali Quraish Recertified Bosun Port of Algonac September 2018 Modesto Yepes Rabena Jr. Recertified Bosun Port of Tacoma John Cedeno Jr. Recertified Bosun Port of Jacksonville Josephus Willis Recertified Bosun Port of Norfolk Victor Nunez Recertified Bosun Port of Baltimore Seafarers LOG 13 �At the conclusion of the union’s August membership meeting in Piney Point, Maryland, SIU President Michael Sacco (wearing white and black shirt in front row) and other union officials joined the eleven recertified bosuns and two family members for this photo. Deck Department Members Realize Career Aspirations Continued from Page 13 backbone that makes us thrive forward.” He had previously talked about his experience at the PHC, saying, “My experience in Piney Point has been very educational. I was very impressed by our instructors; they were very knowledgeable about our jobs.... During the course, I improved my leadership skills, how to coach new members, and learned in greater detail all of my responsibilities as a bosun, and how to keep a professional workplace.” John D. Cedeno, Jr. Sailing from Jacksonville, Cedeno reflected on his 27year career with the SIU during his speech. He said, “As a Seafarer, I’ve traveled to many countries, like India, Singapore, Panama, Costa Rica, Venezuela ... the list goes on and on. But one thing’s for certain, I’ve created a lot of memories. Good ones, for sure. For 27 years now, the union has been a very important part of my life.” He added, “I’m pleased to have been able to attend many programs and courses to help me further my skills and increase my knowledge of all aspects of my career. I enjoy upgrading, as it gives me a chance to meet more of Bosuns Offer Apprentices Advice During their speeches, the newly recertified bosuns offered words of wisdom to the Paul Hall Center apprentices in attendance at the ceremony. Following are excerpts from the bosuns’ respective presentations. “Brothers and sisters, your SPAD contributions are vitally important for the growth of the SIU and this membership, and for you trainees, if you haven’t felt it yet, I believe you will soon know: The SIU is, truly, the Brotherhood of the Sea.” Thomas Moore “Aloha! Study hard while you’re here. Learn from your instructors, and learn to work together with your classmates. When you get out to sea, work hard, carry your load, and never be afraid to ask questions. Be safe and be true to the course in which you are already steering towards.” Sanyboy Whiting “Trainees, please go back to the fleet with an open mind and a strong back. Remember, you are portraying 14 Seafarers LOG my sea brothers and sisters, as well as spending time talking to and mentoring new trainees.” After listing the numerous reasons he’s stayed a union mariner, Cedeno offered up his sincere thanks: “I have much gratitude for all the hard work and dedication our union leadership has demonstrated in protecting our jobs. They’ve also provided us with elite maritime training and education, which leads me into thanking the instructors and staff here at the school. Thank you for all your commitment and hard work. Muchas Gracias!” He closed by offering some words of encouragement, which he attributed as quotes from Manpower Director Bart Rogers, who also serves as PHC assistant vice president. Victor R. Nunez Nunez was the last to speak, and handled the task masterfully. He joined the SIU in 1991 in Puerto Rico, though he now sails out of Baltimore. He said, “I would like to begin by thanking those that made this opportunity possible, and helped me to stand here today. At the age of 21, I joined the SIU through the trainee program in Class 467 here at Piney Point. In the past 28 years, I’ve been able to perform in various capacities, from ordinary seaman to AB, as a the port agent in Puerto Rico, to finally sailing as a bosun.” an image much larger than your own. This union is your future and you are the future of the union.” Nicholas Smithling “Study hard while you’re here. This is it; you are already in. Learn as much as you can from your teachers. Learn to work together with your classmates, and stayfocused. When you get out to sea, challenge yourself, and have faith in yourself. Believe me, if I can do it, I know you can do it as well. Be a good worker, carry your load, never give up, and never be afraid to ask questions.” Modesto Y. Rabena Jr. “Study hard, learn, work together, and when you get on a ship and go to sea, work hard and climb the ladder. This is a great start for your future.” Josephus O. Willis “You have made the right choice in choosing this career, and to be a part of this great union. Not everyone gets to build their career from an early age, and earn all the benefits the union provides for us and our families. Work hard and make the right choices, whether you’re on a ship or on vacation. You are the future of this union.” Adel Ahmed He then spoke briefly about the struggle of growing up in Puerto Rico, before coming to the SIU with literal holes in his shoes: “Joining the SIU changed my life completely. The union not only put shoes on my feet, but made me who I am today: a better man, a better father and a better human being. With the opportunities afforded to me by the union, I was able to raise three beautiful children, and accomplish many of my lifelong dreams and goals.” Nunez continued, “The past two weeks have been a great experience for me, returning here to Piney Point. I couldn’t have asked for better classsmates. This is the biggest accomplishment in my career. We’ve made it to the top!” He then thanked the union officials, saying, “Brothers and sisters, they make the magic happen. They make these jobs that we see on the boards every day, and enable us to be able to provide for our families and enjoy all the benefits we have. But, as they have the responsibility to protect our jobs by fighting the constant political battles, we also have the responsibility to play our role by exercising our right to vote, by getting involved in elections, and continuing to donate to SPAD.” He concluded with an appropriate inspirational quote: “Shoot for the moon, because if you fail, you will land among the stars.” “An old wise man – well, he wasn’t old at the time – once told me, ‘Kid, keep your nose clean, do what you’re told, stay out of trouble, and you will go far in this business.’ For 30 years, I have not forgotten that piece of advice.” Eugene Perez Jr. “I encourage you to have the will to succeed. Learn from your instructors, and when you get out to sea, never be afraid to ask questions.” Amin Quraish “Trust me when I say, we are the greatest union ever! You are the future of the SIU, and together we need to help our union leadership protect our industry and our jobs. So, how do we make this happen? Simple: do your part. Upgrade your skills, put in the hard work and help support what we all believe in.” John D. Cedeno Jr. “You are the future of the SIU. You should feel special for sitting here today, and having this opportunity in your hands. Feel proud, represent the union, and when you get out there, work hard and stand tall. Do what you love, and love what you do, and you will never work.” Victor R. Nunez “Study hard while you’re here. This is your job, and you’ve got to make it last.” Artis Williams September 2018 �TWIC Payment Note According to a communication from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), starting September 1, when an individual applies for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), all money orders, company checks, and certified/cashier’s checks used during enrollment must be made payable to “IDEMIA.” (Personal checks and cash are not accepted.) Payment must be made during in-person enrollment; credit cards are the preferred method of payment. Enrollment centers accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover credit cards. Money orders, company checks, and certified/ cashier’s checks are accepted if made payable to “IDEMIA” and for the exact transaction amount. Questions may be emailed to TWIC.Issue@tsa.dhs.gov. University Services Relocates University Services, the medical review office utilized by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department for drug screens, has a new address. As of August 1, 2018, the correct address for University Services is: 2800 Black Lake Place Suite A Philadelphia, PA 19154 All other contact information is unchanged, including phone numbers, fax numbers, and email addresses. September & October 2018 Membership Meetings Piney Point...........*Tuesday: September 4, *Tuesday: October 9 Algonac...................................Friday: September 7, October 12 Baltimore............................Thursday: September 6, October 11 Guam................................Thursday: September 20, October 25 Honolulu................................Friday: September 14, October 19 Houston................................Monday: September 10, October 15 Jacksonville.........................Thursday: September 6, October 11 Joliet.................................Thursday: September 13, October 18 Mobile...........................Wednesday: September 12, October 17 New Orleans........................Tuesday: September 11, October 16 Jersey City.............................Tuesday: September 4, October 9 Norfolk...............................Thursday: September 6, October 11 Oakland............................Thursday: September 13, October 18 Philadelphia....................Wednesday: September 5, October 10 Port Everglades.................Thursday: September 13, October 18 San Juan.............................Thursday: September 6, October 11 St. Louis.................................Friday: September 14, October 19 Tacoma.................................Friday: September 21, October 26 Wilmington.............................Monday: September 17, October 22 * Piney Point changes due to Labor Day and Columbus Day holiday observances, respectively. 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 September 2018 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea July 16, 2018 - August 15, 2018 Total Registered Port A All Groups B Total Shipped Registered on Beach C All Groups A B C Trip Reliefs A All Groups B C 0 0 0 5 0 1 0 9 9 3 0 4 6 2 0 1 2 4 0 6 52 5 2 1 12 0 10 2 21 20 18 0 3 12 7 0 0 3 14 0 14 144 26 4 5 31 4 17 14 113 63 71 8 19 33 20 9 6 9 55 4 46 557 20 2 3 21 2 4 5 23 22 29 4 7 14 2 5 8 17 22 3 16 229 3 4 2 8 0 7 2 27 12 5 1 4 13 6 1 0 3 15 3 7 123 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 15 4 4 15 6 13 8 54 37 48 7 11 19 21 4 5 5 25 5 39 345 18 4 2 18 0 5 6 15 22 17 1 8 6 2 3 5 4 16 2 9 163 2 1 0 5 0 6 2 20 9 4 0 4 8 1 0 0 0 12 2 7 83 Deck Department 16 5 1 5 3 0 27 11 5 1 16 3 5 4 38 12 27 14 33 4 0 2 9 3 15 11 11 2 2 0 3 1 6 4 23 5 2 0 30 8 272 95 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 1 2 13 0 6 10 16 15 12 1 4 16 10 1 5 1 13 1 12 140 0 0 2 5 1 2 2 10 17 12 3 4 8 6 3 6 3 4 1 6 95 1 0 0 1 0 2 0 2 1 2 0 1 8 0 0 0 0 4 1 2 25 Engine Department 6 1 0 0 3 1 9 5 0 1 2 3 10 3 12 6 22 10 13 5 3 2 3 1 6 5 4 5 1 3 1 2 0 1 5 4 0 0 10 4 110 62 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 1 0 1 4 1 0 0 0 2 1 5 21 3 0 3 5 1 1 1 6 11 8 0 2 5 4 3 0 1 2 0 4 60 4 2 3 18 2 8 12 32 28 19 3 8 21 11 1 4 4 27 1 28 236 2 0 7 6 0 2 5 18 31 14 3 7 19 6 3 5 7 12 5 11 163 1 0 0 3 0 3 0 1 1 2 0 1 9 0 0 0 1 5 1 3 31 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 7 1 1 12 2 4 12 20 13 11 3 3 12 16 6 1 4 14 3 20 165 2 0 0 3 0 4 0 6 11 3 1 2 16 6 0 3 3 2 1 11 74 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 2 0 1 1 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 11 Steward Department 5 0 0 0 2 0 9 2 0 1 6 1 8 1 17 4 13 6 9 2 2 1 2 3 9 7 9 1 6 0 3 2 1 2 7 1 0 0 13 6 121 40 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 3 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 10 1 0 0 4 0 1 2 8 9 5 0 1 5 3 1 0 0 5 0 9 54 5 1 0 19 3 8 12 37 26 18 2 7 17 33 5 3 7 27 5 35 270 3 0 0 11 0 3 0 11 13 3 1 2 14 9 0 2 3 3 1 12 91 0 0 0 2 0 2 0 2 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 10 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 0 1 0 0 1 4 5 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 6 0 3 25 9 1 1 6 4 0 5 15 21 12 0 0 17 10 1 2 2 9 1 11 127 10 1 6 7 1 0 5 14 37 13 0 2 35 11 0 1 2 5 1 19 170 Entry Department 2 9 0 3 0 3 1 1 0 1 1 2 1 1 2 3 0 12 1 6 0 1 0 0 2 8 1 4 0 1 0 1 0 0 4 10 0 1 1 13 16 80 3 0 3 2 2 0 3 6 22 2 1 1 19 4 0 0 1 3 0 17 89 5 1 4 2 0 0 0 5 4 1 0 0 5 2 0 0 0 3 0 3 35 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 15 7 2 0 0 0 4 3 0 1 6 0 11 54 10 1 0 12 3 0 6 24 27 24 3 0 26 18 1 4 0 17 0 35 211 15 4 3 8 1 2 12 30 67 22 1 3 41 23 3 2 1 18 1 44 301 GRAND TOTAL: 675 459 289 172 293 1,117 694 465 519 277 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 Seafarers attending classes at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Question: What are some good things about being in a union? Mario P. Standberry QMED I love the union. It gives me a chance to do a lot of things I’d never be able to do otherwise. The greatest part is that it allows me to take care of my family, and the time off allows me to be home with my family when I need to be. Home is where the heart is, after all. Darrell Bell Chief Cook The union has helped me a lot. I don’t think you can get this level of job training anywhere else. I can’t wait to use what I’ve learned here and use that knowledge to get better and better jobs in this industry. James Rodweller QMED The solid pay, great benefits and job security all helped make me financially sound and able to take care of my daughter. Couldn’t have done that without the union. As an aside, the quality of training and instruction here at the Paul Hall Center has been really great. Rodriques Carson Pumpman It was a good foundation for me to take care of my family over the years, and it has allowed me to spend a lot of time with my family. The job security has also allowed me to start my own business. Cole Briggs Chief Cook Because of the union, I have a good, steady job, and one that allows me to take vacations when I want. Good benefits, good insurance, and a job that allows me to travel the world while still getting my free time. Tonya Johnson Chief Cook As long as I’ve been sailing, life in the union has been pretty good. Good insurance, good benefits, and the travelling is hard to get at other jobs. I’d advise any young person to join the SIU, get your training at the Paul Hall Center, and get to work. 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 P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Stop 16 1/2 Santurce, PR 00907-4601 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 The original caption from the September 1973 LOG: “The ultra-modern Delta Sud hits the waters of the Mississippi for the first time as she is launched from Avondale Shipyards, Inc., Main Yard Division in New Orleans, La.” The vessel was the third LASH ship built at Avondale for Delta Steamship Lines. 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 September 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 ABDO ASHARIKI Brother Abdo Ashariki, 65, became a union member in 1991, first sailing aboard the Harkness. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded on multiple occasions. Brother Ashariki’s last vessel was the Watson. He calls Brooklyn, New York, home. EDWARD AYRES Brother Edward Ayres, 66, joined the Seafarers in 1998, initially sailing on the Fidelio. A member of the deck department, he upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 2001. Brother Ayres most recently sailed on the Freedom and settled in Somerdale, New Jersey. JOHN BODDEN Brother John Bodden, 69, donned the SIU colors in 1996 when he worked for Moran Towing of Texas. An engine department member, he switched to the deep sea division, and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Bodden most recently sailed on the Seakay Spirit and resides in New Orleans. GARY CARTER Brother Gary Carter, 65, started his career with the Seafarers in 1971, initially sailing on the Steel Rover. He was an engine department member and enhanced his skills on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Carter last worked on the Balboa and makes his home in Clarksburg, West Virginia. JOSEPH CARUSO Brother Joseph Caruso, 60, became a member of the SIU in 1980, first working on the Del Sol. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Caruso most recently sailed on the Oregon before settling in Deerfield Beach, Florida. DENCIO CAYAN Brother Dencio Cayan, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1992 when he sailed on the Spirit. He was an engine department member and last sailed aboard the USNS John Glenn. Brother Cayan calls Carson, California, home. JEREMIAS CEPEDA Brother Jeremias Cepeda, 65, started his seafaring career in 2004. He initially worked on the Tonsina and sailed in the engine department. Brother Cepeda took September 2018 advantage of the upgrading opportunities at the union-affiliated Piney Point school on several occasions. He most recently shipped on the Alaskan Legend and resides in Buena Park, California. CHRISTEN CHRISTENSEN Brother Christen Christensen, 67, signed on with the union in 2004. He first worked aboard the LNG Virgo and was a member of the deck department. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center before concluding his career aboard the Horizon Kodiak. AUSBERTO LASPINAS Brother Ausberto Laspinas, 68, signed on with the union in 2002, initially sailing on the Green Mountain State. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Laspinas last sailed aboard the Midnight Sun and makes his home in Gladstone, Oregon. CLIFFORD McCOY Brother Clifford McCoy, 65, joined the SIU in 1988, initially working aboard the USNS Wilkes. He was a member of the engine department and last sailed on the Global Sentinel. Brother McCoy settled in Colville, Washington. JAY DILLON CHRISTOPHER MOSLEY Brother Jay Dillon, 62, joined the SIU in 1979. He first sailed aboard the Capricorn. Brother Dillon sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills often at the Piney Point school. He last worked on the Horizon Pacific before settling in Brookesville, Florida. Brother Christopher Mosley, 63, joined the SIU in 1980, first sailing aboard the El Paso Savannah. He was a member of the steward department and upgraded his skills often at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. Brother Mosley concluded his career on the Ocean Globe before settling in Reading, Pennsylvania. THOMAS GROSSKURTH Brother Thomas Grosskurth, 60, joined the SIU in 1990, initially sailing aboard the Anders. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Grosskurth most recently sailed on the Independence II. He calls Jacksonville, Florida, home. MARK HAYES Brother Mark Hayes, 65, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1991, first shipping on the Paul Buck. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Hayes’ last vessel was the LNG Virgo. He resides in Bradenton, Florida. PAUL ISHERWOOD Brother Paul Isherwood, 65, donned the SIU colors in 2003 as a steward department member aboard the Maersk Vermont. He enhanced his skills regularly at the maritime training center located in Piney Point. Brother Isherwood’s last vessel was the Maersk Iowa. He resides in Westford, Massachusetts. EARL KENDRICK Brother Earl Kendrick, 69, became an SIU member in 1999 when he sailed on the USNS Altair. The deck department member upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Kendrick most recently worked on the Betty Wood and calls Picayune, Mississippi, home. GREGORY SCOTT Brother Gregory Scott, 66, joined the ranks of the SIU in 1991 when he sailed on the Gopher State. A member of the deck department, he enhanced his skills on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Scott last sailed on the Jacksonville and lives in Forestdale, Massachusetts. MAURICE WHITE Brother Maurice White, 65, began his career with the union in 1978, initially sailing on the Mount Explorer. He was an engine department member and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1985. Brother White last sailed aboard the Equality State and makes his home in Norfolk, Virginia. GREAT LAKES CARLTON DORRANCE Brother Carlton Dorrance, 65, joined the SIU in 1979, first sailing on the Southdown Challenger. A member of the deck department, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Dorrance last sailed on the John Boland before settling in Conway, Michigan. LEO NOLDE Brother Leo Nolde, 65, started his SIU career in 2005 when he sailed aboard the Paul H. Townsend. He worked in the deck department and last sailed on the Steel T. Crapo. Brother Nolde calls Escanaba, Michigan, home. BILL THOMEN Brother Bill Thomen, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1972 when he worked on the JB Ford. He was a deck department member and most recently sailed aboard the Alpena. Brother Thomen resides in Alpena, Michigan. INLAND MICHAEL BRADY Brother Michael Brady, 65, joined the SIU in 2003, initially working aboard the Northerly Island. He was an engine department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2015. Brother Brady last sailed aboard the Dodge Island and calls Rhinelander, Wisconsin, home. EDWARD BURDORF Brother Edward Burdorf, 62, began his SIU career in 1978 when he worked with Crowley Towing. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Burdorf remained with the same company for the duration of his career and resides in Jacksonville, Florida. ANGEL CHARRIEZ Brother Angel Charriez, 62, joined the SIU in 1976. He was a deck department member and worked for Crowley Puerto Rico Services. Brother Charriez remained with the same company for his entire career before settling in San Juan, Puerto Rico. JAMES HEBERT Brother James Hebert, 54, became a Seafarer in 1985, initially working for Hvide Marine. The deck department member upgraded often at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Hebert concluded his career sailing aboard the Titan and lives in Brookeland, Texas. MARK HOWELL Brother Mark Howell, 62, began his career with the Seafarers in 1979. He was a deck department member and first worked for Inland Tugs. Brother Howell last sailed with OSG Ship Management and calls Atlantic Beach, Florida, home. EDDIE MOORE Brother Eddie Moore, 62, signed on with the SIU in 1991 when he worked for Red Circle Transport Company. A deck department member, he concluded his career aboard the Anders. Brother Moore resides in Racine, Wisconsin. DANTE MUNGIOLI Brother Dante Mungioli, 60, began his career with the union in 1996 when he worked for Crowley. He was a member of the deck department and remained with the same company for his entire career. Brother Mungioli lives in Berlin, New Jersey. SEAN O’CALLAGHAN Brother Sean O’Callaghan, 55, joined the SIU in 1990, after working as a member of the Seafarers-affiliated United Industrial Workers. He was employed by Crowley Liner Services, Inc. for the remainder of his SIU career. Brother O’Callaghan settled in Norwood, Pennsylvania. EDWARD OLIVER Brother Edward Oliver, 63, became a member of the SIU in 1973, when he worked for Dixie Carriers. He was a deck department member and most recently worked with Moran Towing of Texas. Brother Oliver makes his home in Alpine, Tennessee. THEODORE SCHENDEL Brother Theodore Schendel, 62, joined the SIU in 1981. He was a deck department member and worked for Crowley for his entire SIU career. Brother Schendel lives in Portland, Oregon. BRUCE SWANSON Brother Bruce Swanson, 64, signed on with the SIU in 1996. He was a member of the deck department and worked for Crowley for the duration of his career. Brother Swanson resides in Sicklerville, New Jersey. ERNEST WALSH Brother Earnest Walsh, 64, joined the SIU in 1981, first working for Bulkfleet Marine. A member of the deck department, he upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Walsh concluded his career working for Penn Maritime. He calls Forestdale, Massachusetts, home. NMU ROBERT MARTIN Brother Robert Martin, 65, was an NMU member before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. He worked as a deck department member. Brother Martin resides in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA chester, Connecticut. KLAUS AHMELS Pensioner Klaus Ahmels, 78, passed away May 22. He joined the union in 1965 when he sailed on the Maiden Creek. Brother Ahmels was a deck department member and last worked aboard the Jacksonville. He retired in 2006 and was a resident of Neihart, Montana. CLARENCE EVANS Pensioner Clarence Evans, 83, passed away June 8. He joined the union in 1978 and first sailed on the Overseas Joyce. Brother Evans was a member of the steward department and last worked aboard the Guayama. He retired in 2001 and called Mobile, Alabama, home. FRANK JOHN BIGORNIA Brother Frank John Bigornia, 30, passed away April 20. He joined the union in 2016 and first sailed on the Buffalo. Brother Bigornia was a member of the engine department and last worked aboard the Charleston Express. He called Kahului, Hawaii, home. WALTER HANTUSCH Pensioner Walter Hantusch, 89, died July 11. He joined the SIU in 1951, initially working with Waterman Steamship Corporation. Brother Hantusch was a deck department member and last sailed aboard the Defender. He went on pension in 1983 and made his home in Houston. MIRIAM CHACON Pensioner Miriam Chacon, 73, died July 23. She joined the SIU in 1995, initially working with Delta Queen Steamboat. Sister Chacon was a steward department member and last sailed aboard the USNS Bob Hope. She went on pension in 2012 and made her home in Kenner, Louisiana. JAMES COLEMAN Pensioner James Coleman, 68, died July 20. He was born in Honduras and joined the union in 2001 when he sailed on the Chelsea. A deck department member, he last worked aboard the Maersk Chicago. Brother Coleman retired in 2016 and lived in Brooklyn, New York. JOSE CONSTANTINO Pensioner Jose Constantino, 72, passed away May 14. He signed on with the SIU in 1996, initially sailing on the USNS Capella. A member of the steward department, Brother Constantino last sailed on the Intrepid. He became a pensioner in 2013 and was a resident of Affton, Missouri. JOSE ESPANOL Pensioner Jose Espanol, 92, died July 16. He signed on with the union in 1959 and first sailed on the Sampan Hitch. Brother Espanol was an engine department member and last sailed on the San Juan. He began collecting his pension in 1990 and lived in Man- 18 Seafarers LOG CLYDE KREISS Pensioner Clyde Kreiss, 90, died July 23. He joined the union in 1951 when he sailed with Waterman Steamship Corporation. A steward department member, he last worked aboard the Missouri. Brother Kreiss retired in 1995 and lived in Houston. SAMUEL MCKNIGHT Pensioner Samuel McKnight, 73, passed away March 27. He signed on with the SIU in 1978, initially sailing on the Westward Venture. A member of the deck department, Brother McKnight last sailed on the Lightning. He became a pensioner in 2009 and was a resident of Bothell, Washington. TONY MOHAMMED-GONZALEZ Pensioner Tony MohammedGonzalez, 59, passed away July 17. He joined the union in 1980 and first sailed on the El Paso Consolidated. Brother Mohammed-Gonzalez was a member of the engine department and last worked for Horizon Lines of Puerto Rico. He became a pensioner in 2006 and called Gainesville, Florida, home. ALI MOSAD Pensioner Ali Mosad, 67, died April 11. He joined the SIU in 1980, initially sailing on the Thompson Pass. Brother Mosad was a deck department member and last sailed aboard the Alaskan Frontier. He went on pension in 2016 and made his home in Detroit. HENRY PETERSON Pensioner Henry Peterson, 76, died June 29. He joined the union in 1983, first working for Dixie Carriers. A deck department member, he last worked aboard the Honor. Brother Peterson retired in 2013 and lived in Little Rock, Arkansas. ANTHONY PITURA Pensioner Anthony Pitura, 90, passed away July 17. He signed on with the SIU in 1953, initially sailing with Seatrade Corporation. A member of the engine department, Brother Pitura last sailed with Steamship Services Corp. He became a pensioner in 1984 and was a resident of Joppa, Maryland. GREAT LAKES FRANKLIN KOSIBOSKI Pensioner Franklin Kosiboski, 77, passed away July 20. He became a member of the SIU in 1977 and first worked for Michigan Interstate Railway. A member of the deck department, Brother Kosiboski last sailed aboard the St. Mary’s Challenger. He became a pensioner in 2011 and called Mount Plymouth, Florida, home. ALI YEHIA Pensioner Ali Yehia, 90, died May 10. He signed on with the union in 1969 when he worked for Great Lakes Associates. Sailing in the steward department, he last shipped aboard the Paul H. Townsend. He began collecting his pension in 1993 before settling in Dearborn, Michigan. INLAND EMETERIO HOOI Pensioner Emeterio Hooi, 86, died July 29. He embarked on his SIU career in 1981, working for Crowley Puerto Rico. The engine department member sailed with the same company for his entire career. Brother Hooi retired in 1997 and resided in San Juan, Puerto Rico. JOHN LACKEY Pensioner John Lackey, 89, passed away July 15. He signed on with the SIU in 1961 when he worked for Bethlehem Steel Company. Brother lackey last worked for Dunbar and Sullivan before retiring in 1987. He made his home in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. STEPHEN LATOCHA Pensioner Stephen Latocha, 78, passed away July 13. He joined the union in 1973 and first worked with Interstate Oil. Brother Latocha sailed in the deck department and worked with the same company for the majority of his SIU career. He became a pensioner in 2002 and was a resident of Felton, Delaware. died June 18. He donned the union colors in 1980, initially working for Hvide Marine. A member of the deck department, brother Welsh most recently sailed with Crowley Towing and Transportation. He went on pension in 2015 and called Danbury, New Hampshire, home. JOHN WINT Pensioner John Wint, 72, passed away July 7. He joined the SIU in 1994. Working in the engine department, Brother Wint sailed with Crescent Towing and Salvage for his entire career. He became a pensioner in 2011 and settled in Chickasaw, Alabama. NMU LUCIUS LEONARD Pensioner Lucius Leonard, 74, died July 2. He began his SIU career in 1967 when he worked for Crescent Towing and Salvage. A member of the deck department, Brother Leonard continued to sail with the same company until his retirement in 2006. He was a resident of Luling, Louisiana. JOSEPH LUQUETTE Pensioner Joseph Luquette, 76, passed away January 25. He joined the SIU in 1968, working for Dixie Carriers. Brother Luquette sailed in the deck department and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He began collecting his pension in 2006 and lived in Kaplan, Louisiana. PATRICK ROGERS Brother Patrick Rogers, 48, died April 14. A Texas native, he began his career with the SIU in 2003, sailing aboard the USNS Yano. Brother Rogers was a steward department member and most recently shipped on the Resolve. He was a resident of Houston. DONALD VANCE Pensioner Donald Vance, 69, passed away June 27. He signed on with the union in 1966, initially sailing aboard the Northern Lights. A deck department member, Brother Vance last worked for Allied Transportation. He retired in 1988 and resided in Poplar Beach, North Carolina. PATRICK WELSH Pensioner Patrick Welsh, 62, ERIC GAYNOR Pensioner Eric Gaynor, 91, passed away July 14. Brother Gaynor was native to Kingston, Jamaica, and became a pensioner in in 1986. He lived in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. CHARLES PLEASANT Pensioner Charles Pleasant, 73, died July 17. An engine department member, Brother Pleasant’s last vessel was the Cape Horn. He went on pension in 2004 and settled in Bronx, New York. BERLIN SIMMONS Pensioner Berlin Simmons, 72, passed away July 11. Brother Simmons was born in South Carolina and became a pensioner in 2002. He continued to reside in his home state in the city of Charleston. 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 Allen, Charles 89 Bodden, Winston 77 Burrow, James 81 Dawson, Allen 89 Hinson, James 78 Isaac, Roberto 93 Johnson, Darol 68 Johnson, Roosevelt 77 Goff, Leroy 91 McCall, Junious 90 McLaughlin, Carlos 92 McQuade, Bernard 88 Moore, Donald 94 O’Brien, Allan 83 Prevost, Aaron 79 Quinones, Robert 94 Sauvageau, Joseph 91 Schwerzler, Kenneth 90 Sosa, Carin 88 Williams, Christopher 84 Williams, James 89 DOD 07/09/2018 05/28/2018 06/28/2018 05/22/2018 08/05/2018 05/03/2018 08/07/2018 08/04/2018 07/06/2018 08/11/2018 07/19/2018 05/11/2018 06/05/2018 07/10/2018 08/11/2018 05/19/2018 07/18/2018 07/10/2018 05/21/2018 07/10/2018 07/07/2018 September 2018 �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. Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAERSK CHICAGO (Maersk Line, Limited), May 12 – Chairman Roy Madrio, Secretary Gregory Johnson, Educational Director Mbarek Nouhairi, Deck Delegate Carlton Banks, Engine Delegate Gregorio Blanco, Steward Delegate Marquisha Simmons. Members requested installation of Wi-Fi to communicate with loved ones. Crew expressed concern over lack of privacy on SAT phone. Chairman noted smooth voyage and thanked crew for their hard work getting ship in order. He commended steward department for a job well done and advised members to keep medical certifications up to date. Relief members were made aware of new linen and linen bags provided outside their doors. Educational director advised members to upgrade at Paull Hall Center to help achieve better pay. Overtime dispute reported and to be handled at the hall. Crew discussed frequency requirements for physicals and would like an increase in vacation days per trip. Members requested new chairs, mattresses for state rooms, refrigerator in crew lounge, new grill and satellite TV service. Next port: Newark, New Jersey. MAERSK SELETAR (Maersk Line, Limited), May 16 – Chairman Cleofe Bernardez-Castro, Secretary Steven Dickson, Educational Director Steven Miller, Deck Delegate Reynaldo Nuqui, Engine Delegate Gregorio Clotter, Steward Delegate Marilou Toledo. Chairman announced payoff in Newark. Secretary reminded crew to keep documents updated and renewed. Members were advised to vote for candidates that support the Jones Act. Educational director recommended members upgrade whenever possible and enroll in Seafarers 401K plan. Crew encouraged to donate to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New refrigerator received in dining room along with new TV in crew lounge. SAT phone available for emergencies. Crew discussed pension benefits and requirements. Members were reminded to keep common areas clean for arriving crew and to carefully check pockets of clothing before loading washing machine. Next port: Newark. SAFMARINE NGAMI (Maersk Line, Limited), May 19 – Chairman Mathew Bevak, Secretary Cleto Lindong, Educational Director Allan Bombita, Deck Delegate Pablo Rochez, Engine Delegate Reynaldo Lacayo, Steward Delegate Noel Segovia. Crew still trying to secure carpet replacement in cabins. Chairman reiterated importance of safety and thanked steward department for great food. He urged members to pay dues on time and support political activities. Chairman commended crew for hard work and professionalism. Secretary gave thanks to members for good housekeeping and reminded them to keep up with their time. Educational director advised crew to take every opportunity possible and upgrade at the Piney Point school. Members requested large dryer for ship linens, new DVD player in crew lounge and water fountain in office. MAERSK PITTSBURGH (Maersk Line, Limited), May 20 – Chairman Domingo Leon, Secretary Jerome Jordan, Educational Director Shawn Pantschyschak, Engine Delegate Roger Nesbeth, Steward Delegate Angel Corchado. Chairman thanked crew for safe voyage. Ship in need of commercial carpet cleaning machine for crew rooms. Secretary gave vote of thanks to all departments and reminded members to leave clean rooms for oncoming crew. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade their skills at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Members were provided instructions for sea time inquiries and using website. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members request improvement to Wi-Fi and upgraded computer. Crew desires cost-of-living raises as well as raises in pension and vacation pay. Next port: Newark, New Jersey. CALIFORNIA (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), May 27 – Chairman John Cedeno, Secretary Benjamin Ines, Educational Director Mark Canada, Deck Delegate Anthony Newbill, Engine Delegate Tyesha Boyd, Steward Delegate Quentin Hood. Chairman explained importance of member contributions and SPAD donations. He advised members to keep track of credentials and reiterated importance of safety. Members were reminded to empty all drawers and lockers and leave clean linens for oncoming crew. Secretary instructed members to gather dirty linen in sacks provided in linen locker. Educational director urged members to attend upgrading courses at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman asked for safety ideas from members. Crew discussed increase of vacation days and matching 401K. They request flat screen TVs and refrigerators be available in each room. Congrats to Bosun Cedeno for receiving company safety award. Next port: Long Beach, California. ENDURANCE (TOTE Services), May 27 – Chairman Yamira Colon, Secretary Robert Wright. Chairman read email from Eric Mark, port engineer, expressing his gratitude for improvements to ship. Secretary said new linens located in officers’ linen room. Educational director reminded members to upgrade. Member reportedly doing trash for three days without extra compensation. Steward assistant due extra hour of OT for washing linen. Captain was notified of issue and agreed to pay. Members discussed new information regarding DOT drug testing. Crew requests new printer for lounge. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great barbeque. Deck department commended for hard work. Next port: Beaumont, Texas. ALASKAN EXPLORER (Alaska Tanker Company), May 27 – Chairman Robert Pagan, Secretary John Huyett, Educational Director Winfred Opare, Deck Delegate Francisco Hernandez Davila, Engine Delegate Eric Garcia, Steward Delegate Roberto Martinez. Chairman announced upcoming audit at next port and asked members to keep house clean in preparation for inspection. Crowley now operating three new tankers. Members were reminded to put all trash in cage located in trash room. Steward department thanked for good service and great food. Members read new information concerning health coverage for hearing aids, infertility treatments and sterilization. Educational director discussed free college benefit and encouraged members to take opportunity to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew urged to be sure clothing is fully dried before removing from dryer. Next port: Long Beach, California. MAERSK IDAHO (Maersk Line, Limited), June 3 – Chairman Ronald Mena, Secretary Zein Achmad, Educational Director Fidel Blanco, Deck Delegate Kevin Combs, En- gine Delegate Samuel Addo. Crew revisited requests for TV antennas. Chairman reported zero injuries and thanked everyone for a job well done. He reminded members to shut off TVs after each use and to check paperwork before joining ship. Secretary asked members to return silverware to the galley. Educational director advised crew to take advantage of upgrading opportunities at Piney Point. Members request chairs for bridge and extra heaters in rooms. They discussed interest in increased benefits and vacation time. Next port: Charleston, South Carolina. LIBERTY PEACE (North Star Shipping), June 10 – Chairman Nathaniel Sherrill, Secretary Gordon Major, Deck Delegate Jairo Rochez, Steward Delegate Shawn Mitchell. Chairman reminded members to keep up with documents and recommended the new LNG class. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed pension benefits and motioned to reduce days required to retire. Members asked that company stop requesting Anderson Kelly physicals. Concerns with mattresses and overtime wages discussed. Calling card system not working. LOS ANGELES (Overseas Ship Management), June 17 – Chairman Teodulfo Alanano, Secretary Louis Johnson, Educational Director Edgardo Barrios, Deck Delegate Charles Herrera, Engine Delegate Nestor Montano, Steward Delegate Carmelo Dela Cruz. Chairman thanked crew for job well done and reminded everyone to look out for one another. Educational director recommended upgrading as often as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested that both flavored and regular water be ordered. 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 September 2018 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Seafarers LOG 19 �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Marine Refer Tech October 6 November 16 Pumpman September 22 September 28 Welding September 22 October 27 October 12 November 16 Steward Department Courses Gap Closing Courses Engineroom Resource Management October 6 Leadership & Managerial Skills October 13 October 12 October 19 Advanced Galley Ops November 10 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start September 3. Chief Steward September 22 November 9 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 September 29 October 27 December 1 October 5 November 2 December 7 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 September 15 September 22 October 13 October 20 November 3 November 24 December 8 September 21 September 28 October 19 October 26 November 9 November 30 December 14 ServSafe September 22 September 28 Storekeeper Courses MSC Storekeeper Basic September 29 October 19 MSC Supply Configuration Management October 20 November 16 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck October 20 November 16 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Students will be advised of dates once accepted. ARPA October 20 October 26 100 Ton Master October 13 November 2 ECDIS October 20 October 26 Fast Rescue Boat September 8 September 14 GMDSS September 22 October 5 Lifeboat September 22 October 20 November 17 December 15 October 5 November 2 November 30 December 28 Radar Observer October 6 October 19 Radar Renewal (one day) RFPNW Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training/Basic FF September 22 October 6 November 3 September 28 October 12 November 9 Basic Training Revalidation September 28 November 9 November 30 December 7 December 14 September 28 November 9 November 30 December 7 December 14 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation October 13 October 19 Contact the PHC Admissions Office Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting September 15 September 21 September 22 November 17 Government Vessels September 8 September 28 October 27 November 10 December 1 September 14 October 5 November 2 November 16 December 7 Medical Care Provider September 8 September 14 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL October 13 October 19 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG October 20 December 8 October 26 December 14 October 19 December 14 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers December 1 December 14 BAPO September 22 November 17 October 19 December 14 FOWT October 20 November 16 Junior Engineer October 27 December 21 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 If yes, class # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? †Yes †�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 December 7 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. 9/18 September 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class # 838 – Graduated June 4 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Elizabeth Ashworth, Christopher Collins, Michael Day Jr., Jada Gay, Jack Lanier, Johnathan Lebeaux, Nakia Miller, Aaliyah Richardson, Samuel Schwimmer, Shayne Searle and Daniel Villarruel. Also graduating were upgraders (photo below, from left) Felsher Beasley Jr., Raymond Fernandez and Shantel Reid. Fast Rescue Boat – Graduated June 18 (above, in alphabetical order): Annie Bivens, Joshua Gonzales, David Kendrick, Bud Sok Khuth, Nicholas Selle, George Steube III and Dexter Madrona Turija. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Welding – Graduated June 11 (above, in alphabetical order): John Abernathy, Manolito Gener Garcia, Antonio Griffin, Patrick Spark, Robert Thomas and Bryan Velazquez. Instructor Chris Raley is at the far right. BAPO (Phase III Apprentices) – Graduated June 4 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Samuel Ayers, Reco Bennefield, Nicholas Brailsford, Devon David, Eshrak El Sami Dewan, Desmon Graham, Daryl Hicks, Joshua Irvine, Jorge Laboriel Lalin, Kevin Lueddeke, Tresten Porter, Anthony Williams Jr. and Thomas Zamora. Christopher Morgan, their instructor, is at the far left. Upon the completion of their training, each apprentice plans to work in the engine department of SIU-contracted vessels. Government Vessels – Graduated May 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Leo De Los Reyes Bierneza, Henry Callahan, Oscar Tabarejos Catabay, Laura Davies, Rufinio Sacdalan Gonzales Jr., Kaamil Ibn Salam Gray, Carlos Louis Guzman, Rodante Golimlim Niebres, Mohammed Obad, Frederick Fra’quann Radford, Donte Sawyer, Jacqueline Sivels, Rolando Dejarme Torres, Douglas Vaughn, Edward Echague Villanda, De’vine Washington and Antjuan Webb. September 2018 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels – Graduated May 28 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Frederic Salazar Agsalud, Arthur Bailey, Ashley Carmichael, Shawn Cox, Paul Diesner, Rocky Dupraw, Aaron Ellis, Michael Elmore Jr., Benito Figueroa, Alonzo Griswell, Srawut Petchsaitip, Alex Reyes, Mario Standberry, James Stimage and Nicholas Turano. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Graduated April 30 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Monasser Mohamed Ali, Warren Armstead Jr., Mark Baclayon, John Brantly, Alvin Cabahit, David Dingman, Emily Glavan, Derrick Martin, Saif Obad, Zarko Vrbljanac and William Young. 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. Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting – Graduated June 1 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Robert Brady, Henry Callahan, Tom Dary, Kelly Krick Jr., Reisa Marie Martinez-Serrano, Mason Con Melland, Malek Mohamed Hassan Muhsen, Charles Ortiz Quinones, John Schmanski, Gavin Scott, Nicholas Selle, Marcus Smith, Glen Williams and Joshua Zelinsky. Class instructor Joe Zienda is at the far right. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting Upgraders) – Graduated May 25 (above, in alphabetical order): Warren Armstead Jr., Alan Artman, Scott Branson, Jermaine Colon-Mendez, Michael Elmore Jr., Frederick Gathers, Robert Lupton, Rashaad Mangram, Donald Mann Jr., Brian Peralta, Emma Porter, Yuriy Prytchak, James Stimage and Michael Tiderman. Joe Zienda, their instructor, is at the far right. 22 Seafarers LOG September 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes RFPNW (Phase III Apprentices) – Graduated June 29 (right, in alphabetical order): Erik Andersen, Brandon Caruthers, Jamil Andre Centeno-Rosario, Jeffery Gullett Jr., Thomas Howarth, Da’vonte Junies and Lucas Vasiliades. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the deck department of union-contracted vessels. Upgrader Antony Chapman (photo below) graduated from this course May 4. Certified Chief Cook (Module 1) – Steward Department Upgrader Van Nessa Curd (above) graduated from this module May 18. Certified Chief Cook (Module 2) – Graduated June 1 (above, from left): Alexander Marcelino Dominguez, Christina Leboeuf and Michael Musgrave. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated May 18 (photo above, from left) Gary Loftin and David Dingman. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated May 25 (above, in alphabetical order): Ruti Demont, Rocky Dupraw, Josue Luis Iglesia Jr., Amanda Fedelina Suncin and Stephen Valencia. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated May 4 (photo above, from left): John Stephens and William Grow. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated May 11 (above, from left): Robert Mensching and Joseph Gallo Jr. Galley Ops – Graduated May 18 (right, in alphabetical order): Rowena Melo Daguio, Tomeka Frederick, Hazza Ahmed Hussein, Edilberto Montano Medallo Jr., Dante Moyer, Munasar Ali Abdulla Muthana, Brian Peralta, Nathaniel Paqueo Rana, Tamara Russ, Annie Walker, Michael Wees and Philip Zulueta. Instructor Hillary Dyson is at the far right. September 2018 Seafarers LOG 23 �SEPTEMBER 2018 VOLUME 80, NO. 9 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 In photo above, a U.S. helicopter flies over the Seafarers-crewed USNS Mercy July 2 at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam during the Rim of the Pacific exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jason Isaacs) Sailors assigned to guidedmissile destroyer USS Sterett (foreground of photo at right) stand by for the firing of the shot line during a replenishment-at-sea with the Seafarers-crewed fleet replenishment oiler USNS Henry J. Kaiser during the RIMPAC exercise, July 20. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Alexander C. Kubitza) SIU-Crewed MSC Ships Pitch in During RIMPAC 2018 Seafarers serving aboard eight Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessels participated in the multinational exercise Rim of the Pacific 2018 (RIMPAC), which took place from June 27 to August 2. According to the U.S. Navy, as the world’s largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity designed to foster and sustain cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety and security of the seas. RIMPAC 2018 is the 26th exercise in the series, which began in 1971. Twenty-five nations, 46 surface ships, five submarines, 18 national land forces, more than 200 aircraft, and 25,000 personnel participated in the biennial RIMPAC exercise. During the operation, SIU Government Services Division members sailed aboard the USNS Rappahannock, USNS Charles Drew, USNS Henry J. Kaiser, USNS Carl Brashear, USNS Sioux, USNS Yukon and USNS Mercy. Additionally, cargo for the operation was loaded onto the Brashear by the SIU-crewed USNS Bob Hope in a skin-to-skin operation just prior to the start of the exercise. (The Bob Hope is operated by U.S. Marine Management for MSC.) This year’s exercise included forces from Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Colombia, France, Germany, India, Indone- sia, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Peru, the Republic of Korea, the Republic of the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tonga, the United Kingdom, the United States and Vietnam. According to the Military Sealift Command Pacific Logistics and Operations departments, over the course of the exercise, MSC delivered more than eight million gallons of diesel ship fuel, four million gallons of JP5 aviation fuel and 1,130 pallets of food and supplies during 101 resupply evolutions at sea. “By providing underway replenishment at sea, we enable the combatant ship to stay on station at sea longer without having to pull into port for resupply,” explained Capt. Stephen Scott, one of two civil service masters who commanded the Brashear during RIMPAC. “During our first evolution we provided replenishment services to seven different ships at once. Five of the ships were U.S. Navy ships and two of the ships were international partners. The partner ships leapfrogged into the formation, came alongside USNS Carl Brashear, thus demonstrating their ability to maintain the position required to perform underway replenishments at sea.” One of the distinctive aspects of RIMPAC is the number of countries participating, and the interaction between them and the U.S. Navy. MSC ships provided logistics services to for- eign navy ships 61 times during the exercise. The logistics aspect of MSC’s task during RIMPAC isn’t limited to just vessels. On the ground, the MSCPAC Combat Logistic Office (CLO) coordinated the acquisition and movement of all the cargo needs for the entire exercise. According to the Navy, “Working in concert with directly with Commander Third Fleet and Commander Task Force (CTF) 173, the MSCPAC CLO coordinated not only the delivery of food and stores, but also the pier-side time at the correct pier for the loadouts of cargo to the specific ships scheduled for later RAS. Six MSC ships, as well as MSC reservists from Military Sealift Command Pacific’s Headquarters Unit, MSCPAC’s Hawaii Detachment, and Expeditionary Port Unit 114, are supporting RIMPAC 2018.” “RIMPAC has continued to grow – more participants, more ships, more evolutions – all requiring logistics support in order to remain at sea and maximize opportunities to train and operate together,” said Capt. Brett Hershman, commander, Military Sealift Command Pacific and CTF 173. “Increased exercise tempo means a greater customer demand signal on MSC. Our CTF 173 operations are more complex this year than ever, with over 100 RAS events providing fuel, food, repair parts and ammunition to everyone out there.” The guided missile destroyer USS Preble (right) pulls alongside the SIU-crewed dry cargo ammunition ship USNS Carl Brashear to conduct an underway replenishment at sea, July 17. (U.S. Navy photo by Bill Mesta) Sailors assigned to the amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry (foreground) receive a pallet of stores from the Seafarers-crewed USNS Yukon July 14. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Logan C. Kellums) The Seafarers-crewed Military Sealift Command ships USNS Carl Brashear (right) and USNS Bob Hope moor feet apart while conducting ship-to-ship transfer operations at Naval Base Everett, Washington. (Photo released by Sarah Burford) � 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 September 2018 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES: NEW JONES ACT CONRO EL COQUI BOOSTS JOBS, PUERTO RICO SERVICE SEAFARERS COMMEND UNION, SCHOOL RECERTIFIED BOSUNS SHARE INSIGHTS DURING GRADUATION SIU-CREWED VESSELS HELP ENSURE SUCCESS OF MULTINATIONAL DRILL JONES ACT HAS NO EFFECT ON PRICES IN PUERTO RICO NEW REPORT THOROUGHLY EXAMINES CABOTAGE LAW, U.S. TERRITORY MEMBERS OF CONGRESS, ECONOMISTS, U.S. MARITIME INDUSTRY LEADERS UNDERSCORE IMPORTANCE OF JONES ACT EL COQUI, A CONRO, JOINS SIU-CREWED FLEET OSG ORDERS TWO TANKERS, ONE BARGE MISSOURI DEFEATS RIGHT-TO-WORK (FOR LESS) LAW RIGHT-TO-WORK LAWS HURT EVERYONE LYONS TAKES HELM AT TRANSPORTATION COMMAND MARITIME ADMINISTRATOR CITES IMPORTANCE OF RRF BUZBY CREDITS MARINERS, SAYS SHIPS ARE ‘CRITICAL ASSETS TO NATIONAL DEFENSE’ TWIC CARDS GET NEW LOOK FEDERAL LAWS STILL REGARD CBD OIL AS CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE NOTICE/REMINDER REDUCED OPERATING STATUS, VACATION PAY MEMBER PORTAL OFFERS SCHEDULING CLINIC EXAMS OPTION SIU GALLEY GANG RISES TO SPECIAL OCCASION BOSUNS UTILIZE UNION, SCHOOL TO CHART SUCCESSFUL CAREER PATHS BOSUNS OFFER APPRENTICES ADVICE SIU-CREWED MSC SHIPS PITCH IN DURING RIMPAC 2018 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 09/01/2018 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. 9 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/941524042ad0e852214cc1bea85df7c9.pdf 5e975b13dd1c2506cd6976d05b4f16d6 PDF Text Text SEPTEMBER 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 9 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 Tacoma Tradition: SIU Members Again Give Back to Community Community outreach is a staple for Seafarers in the Pacific Northwest, including the yearly project Paint Tacoma-Pierce Beautiful. SIU personnel recently teamed up for the 2019 iteration; they spent a few days painting and repairing the home of a local family. Pictured from left in the group photo at right are some of the SIU participants: Henry Egaran, Joni Bradley, Sonny Lawson, Ben Anderson, Robert Anderson and Warren Asp. Bosun Derik Rye is shown painting in the photo below. Page 8. Great Lakes Towing Co. Celebrates Milestone, Christens Tug Michigan Attendees had more than one reason to celebrate when they gathered in Cleveland on July 22. SIU-contracted Great Lakes Towing Company marked its 120th anniversary, and also christened the new tugboat Michigan. SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez and VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski were among those on hand for the event. The Michigan was christened by vessel sponsor Carolyn Watkins (left), an official with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. Page 24. NY Waterway Christens Ferry Page 3 Piney Point Completes Major Upgrades Pages 12-13 �President’s Report Big Win, and More Progress Our industry scored an important victory in late July, when United States Senators from both sides of the aisle stood up for the Jones Act. Specifically, they turned back two ill-conceived amendments in the Coast Guard Authorization Act that would have weakened America’s freight cabotage law. The resounding, bipartisan votes in favor of fully maintaining the century-old law that remains vital to U.S. national, economic and homeland security must not be taken for granted. This is a constant battle, which is one reason why it’s also a regular topic of my columns. In a case of coincidental timing, during that same stretch in July, the SIU’s most recent class of recertified bosuns made separate trips to SIU headquarters and then to the nation’s capital. They learned about the behind-the-scenes work our union constantly puts forth to protect SIU Michael Sacco jobs and the industry as a whole. They also saw the results, in real time. The following week, during their graduation speeches, the bosuns all mentioned how their eyes had been opened to the sheer, unrelenting grassroots effort it takes to promote and protect the U.S. Merchant Marine. While our industry does indeed enjoy strong support from many in the military, in the administration and in Congress, we also have enemies. Some are foreign-flag interests, others are merely misinformed, but all of them threaten American maritime. The bosuns also, without exception, urged fellow members to donate to SPAD, our union’s voluntary political action fund. SPAD isn’t our only tool, but it’s important. We have a great rate of participation but there’s always room for improvement. If you’re already on board, I thank you. If you’re not, there’s never a bad time to join the battle. As the saying goes, the job you save may be your own. Successfully defending the Jones Act wasn’t the only recent positive development. As reported in this edition of the LOG, our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, recently completed a massive upgrade of its engine-department training facilities. This should be a big boost for both entry-level students and upgraders. And, it’s consistent with the school’s mission of producing the world’s besttrained mariners. We also joined with two of our contracted companies in celebrating new-tonnage additions, plus an anniversary. The Great Lakes Towing Company christened a new tug while commemorating 120 years of business, and NY Waterway christened a fully refurbished boat that has been added to its flourishing fleet of passenger ferries. Such growth is a credit not only to the companies but also to the reliable SIU manpower that keeps those vessels running smoothly. I also call your attention to our yearly feature on Paint Tacoma, a very worthwhile project that the SIU has supported for many years. For as long as I can remember, SIU members often have had tough exteriors but hearts of gold. Our volunteers for Paint Tacoma symbolize the membership’s generosity quite well. Brothers and sisters, I’m confident we’ll continue to have plenty of good news to report for many years to come. But, as with anything in life, nothing will be given to us. You have to continue with your outstanding professionalism aboard ship. The union must maintain our political activism as well as working closely with our contracted operators and all of the agencies that affect maritime. And our school must provide the best possible training for every student, whether an apprentice or an upgrader. Our future is bright. 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 9 September 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 Pro-Maritime Bill Reintroduced Bipartisan Legislation Promotes U.S. Shipbuilding, Crews U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) and U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) in July reintroduced the Energizing American Shipbuilding Act in their respective halls of Congress. The legislation, strongly backed by the SIU, would support U.S. shipbuilding by stipulating that a portion of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and crude oil exports be transported on U.S.-built, U.S.-crewed vessels. Specifically, the measure would require that vessels built in the U.S. transport 15 percent of total seaborne LNG exports by 2041 and 10 percent of total seaborne crude oil exports by 2033. If enacted, the bill is expected to induce the construction of dozens of ships, support thousands of jobs in U.S. shipyards, as well as in the domestic vessel component manufacturing and maritime industries. According to an estimate from the Shipbuilders Council of America, the bill would result in the construction of more than 40 ships: approximately 28 LNG carriers by 2041 and 12 oil tankers by 2033. Wicker and Garamendi on March 26 sent a letter to the Trump Administration encouraging it to secure export opportunities for American mariners and shipyards as part of any trade agreement negotiated between the United States and the Peoples Republic of China. In that correspondence, Garamendi said: “America is on U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) pace to be the third largest producer of LNG exports by 2020. If we don’t use these trade negotiations to require our LNG exports to ship on U.S. vessels, the United States will continue exporting its LNG on foreignflagged ships manned by foreign crews.” He continued, “The U.S.-flag international fleet has declined 60 percent since 1991 to just 80 vessels. These negotiations give us the opportunity to reenergize American shipyards and rebuild our nation’s dwindling merchant fleet, which provides a vital economic stimulus and critical sealift capacity for our military. I look forward to establishing a dialogue with the administration on this matter, and I thank Senator Wicker for leading the effort in the Senate to grow the U.S.flag fleet.” “The United States should seize every opportunity to bolster our domestic maritime industry,” Wicker said. “As we pursue stronger trade agreements with China and other nations, I urge the administration to consider supporting the American merchant marine fleet by requiring liquid natural gas and crude oil exports be transported by U.S.-flagged and crewed vessels.” Garamendi and Wicker initially introduced the legislation in December 2018 during the 115th Congress. ‘Jones Act is About Protecting America’ A former U.S. congressman recently wrote a powerful defense of America’s freight cabotage law. Ernest Istook, a former Republican member of the United States House of Representatives from Oklahoma’s 5th Congressional District, posted an op-ed headlined “The Jones Act is About Protecting America.” Currently a political science professor, Istook plainly spelled out how the century-old law remains vital to U.S. national, economic and homeland security. “In recent weeks, opinion writers in a number of leading agriculture industry publications have been encouraging American farmers to ship their products in foreign vessels, arguing that it’s cheaper,” he began in his article, which first went online in mid-July. “They have also been urging repeal of the American law that is the last thin lifeline of the once-robust shipbuilding industry in the United States. Unfortunately, this line of thinking reflects the blindly globalist agenda that has been the bane of America’s economy for the last 50-years.” Istook specifically pointed to a piece attacking the Jones Act “in favor of this globalist agenda.” That author, according to Istook, “starts by ignoring the economies of scale to ship grain. It will always cost more per unit-mile to ship any product on shorter routes and on smaller vessels between domestic ports compared to shipping the same thing to Asia. After the mislead- ing number on shipping cost, [the writer] then recites libertarian globalist talking points for undoing the Jones Act.” The former congressman continued, “The biggest beneficiaries of repeal would not be American farmers but the anti-American policies of other countries. Ships built and crewed by foreign powers can undercut other prices due to massive subsidies to their maritime industry, trying to monopolize the market. Cornering that market is enormous since 90% of the world’s cargo goes by ship.” Not to be overlooked are the massive investments made by other countries in their respective maritime industries. As Istook noted, “For some years now, foreign countries have been giving mega-billion-dollar subsidies to win a monopoly over the maritime industry. That allows companies to offer sometimeslower prices for shipping grain and other commodities, because overseas governments are paying the difference. In China, for example, these subsidies are estimated to provide a 15-20-% advantage. “South Korea is being sued by Japan and the European Union, whose own subsidies can’t keep up with bigger ones in South Korea,” he continued. “So the World Trade Organization (WTO) is being asked to adjudicate. This would be similar to the WTO ruling this spring that Europe’s subsidies for Airbus harmed the U.S. aviation industry, leading to approval for $21-billion a year in retaliatory American tariffs on European goods. It took the WTO 14.5 years to reach that decision. Hoping for a similar ruling against foreign shipbuilding subsidies would take who knows how long? This is why the United States must have its own policies to protect our jobs and security.” He described the Jones Act’s impact as “far too small to overcome other countries’ massive incentives to shipbuilders, yet it benefits our homeland security. Only the need to construct our military ships has kept America’s shipbuilding industry afloat.” For instance, he wrote, the law’s “requirements are limited to cargo shipped from one U.S. port to another U.S. port, and not the far-more-massive trade between the U.S. and foreign ports. In other words, only purely domestic shipping is affected, which is a homeland security issue. Similar laws in other countries are used to protect their internal waterways as well.” Istook concluded, “Those who would subvert the Jones Act are part of the never-ending effort to discourage incentives to Buy American. The debate is as old as the United States. Our very first Congress adopted laws to promote both a strong presence at sea and to protect domestic waters. The economist Adam Smith argued that a strong merchant fleet was vital to national interests. Other countries may offer us financial incentives to weaken our shipping industry. But we should tell them, ‘No.’” September 2019 �New Jersey Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver (photo above) christens the NY Waterway ferry Susan B. Anthony. She is flanked by State Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg and NY Waterway President Arthur E. Imperatore. (Photo courtesy Joe Sharp Photography) In photo at right, Deckhand Steven Matos (left) and Capt. Frank Virginia are pictured aboard the Susan B. Anthony. Union-Contracted NY Waterway Christens Ferry Fully Restored Susan B. Anthony is Newest Addition SIU-contracted NY Waterway has added to its fleet of safe, reliable passenger ferries. The company on July 24 hosted a ceremony in Weehawken, New Jersey, where Lt. Gov. Sheila Y. Oliver christened the Susan B. Anthony. The boat joins NY Waterway’s fleet of three-dozen vessels. SIU Patrolman Ray Henderson attended the gathering, which he described as small but upbeat. “It was a great ceremony – a sunny day on the river,” Henderson said. “The lieutenant governor gave a wonderful speech, as did (NY Waterway President) Arthur Imperatore. The members are happy.” Capt. Frank Virginia and Deckhand Steven Matos, assigned to the new addition, also were there for the christening, which took place at the Port Imperial Ferry Terminal. “It is with great honor that I join NY Waterway to dedicate this boat to one of the most consequential heroes in U.S. history, Susan B. Anthony,” Oliver said. “She was often seen as an outlier and a fighter, which are the traits of every transformative figure that I admire. The roots of her activism started at a very young age and continue to inspire me and so many others in our contemporary pursuit for social equity in New Jersey and beyond.” “It is fitting that Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver, who has dedicated her life to serving the people of New Jersey, is here to christen the Susan B. Anthony,” said Imperatore, founder of the company. “Sheila Oliver is a living testament to the wisdom, power and passion of women in politics made possible by Susan B. Anthony and the suffragettes…. Like all our ferries, and the dedicated men and women who keep them running, this boat will honor the example of Susan B. Anthony and Sheila Oliver, serving New Jersey commuters for years to come.” “I am honored to participate in NY Waterway’s boat dedication to one of my heroines, Susan B. Anthony, who relentlessly crusaded for the woman’s right to vote,” said New Jersey Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg. “She was a true social reformer, activist and fighter for social equality, which are many of the same issues we continue to fight for today. Her spirit will be a guiding light to this vessel and I know somewhere she is looking down on this dedication with pride and satisfaction as we welcome her namesake into the ferry fleet.” The Susan B. Anthony was built in 2002 by Yank Marine in Tuckahoe, New Jersey, where the NY Waterway ferries Molly Pitcher and Betsy Ross also were built. These are the first ferry boats built in New Jersey in memory. NY Waterway has three other boats under construction at Yank Marine. Originally named the Suzie Girl, the Susan B. Anthony was used as a party fishing boat on the Jersey Shore. NY Waterway has completely restored it, returning her to as-new condition, with a luxury interior that’s standard on all NY Waterway ferries. She is 65 feet long and 20 feet wide, capable of carrying 130 passengers at 24 knots, and powered by two American-made Caterpillar engines. The new addition to the fleet can carry 130 passengers. In announcing the christening, the company noted that the Susan B. Anthony “will be used on Hudson River crossings between New Jersey and Manhattan. She also will join NY Waterway’s proud tradition of providing emergency service when other transit systems are disrupted by weather or road and track repairs. Since 1986, NY Waterway ferries also have conducted emergency evacuations, bringing hundreds of thousands of New Jersey residents home safely after 9/11, the 2003 blackout and other disasters. These ferries also have rescued more than 300 people from various accidents including 143 people rescued from Flight 1549 in the Miracle on the Hudson, the most suc- cessful rescue in aviation history.” Moreover, NY Waterway ferries carried 11,000 to 12,000 extra riders home to New Jersey when PATH service was disrupted on June 27 and carried more than 10,000 extra passengers home when the Lincoln Tunnel and Port Authority Bus Terminal were closed July 3. SIU-crewed NY Waterway ferries are considered by many as the most reliable transit system in the New York metro area. They carry upwards of 32,000 or more passengers daily and maintain an on-time performance rate greater than 99 percent. The boats serve 20-plus routes between New Jersey and Manhattan. SIU-Crewed Vessel Marks U.S. Customs Anniversary The Maersk Kinloss, operated by SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited, approaches the Port of New York on its way to a historic inspection. (U.S. Customs and Border Protection photo by Anthony Durak) September 2019 The U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) recently celebrated 230 years of service with a ceremony conducted at APM’s Port Elizabeth terminal in Newark, New Jersey – and SIU members helped with the commemoration. The SIU-crewed M/V Maersk Kinloss served as a symbol of the first vessel to arrive after the creation of the CBP on August 5, 1789: the two-masted sailing ship Persis. During the Aug. 5, 2019 ceremony, the captain of the Maersk Kinloss, Christopher Murray, presented the Application for Unlading (CBP Form #3171) for the vessel to CBP Director of Field Operations Troy Miller, and acting Port Director Dylan DeFrancisci. Before a group of senior port executives, CBP executives, Coast Guard officers, media and other invited guests, the Customs document was duly signed and stamped, formally executing the permit in accordance with the procedures of the late 18th century. In that era, this process would also have included the payment of the tonnage taxes due to the Customs collector. Maersk Americas Head of Corporate Security and Regulatory Mark Tierney spoke at the event, saying, “As we commemorate the very first vessel cleared by U.S. Customs at the Port of New York two centuries and three decades ago, we must also recognize that each year, this port alone receives and processes approximately 17,000 commercial vessel calls – and the CBP is doing an outstanding job in meeting the challenges of expanding global trade volumes and increasing vessel size and cargo capacities.” A Customs duty fee of $774.71 was collected based upon the assessed values of the goods entering the port 230 years ago aboard the Persis. In 2018, the total value of U.S. merchandise imports exceeded $2.6 trillion. CBP is the second-largest source of revenue in the federal government, collecting approximately $52 billion in duties, taxes, and other fees in Fiscal Year 2018. Seafarers LOG 3 �Tanker Saga Spotlights Runaway-Flag Shipping When Iranian military forces seized a commercial tanker in the Strait of Hormuz in late July, the incident made worldwide headlines. Most of the stories focused on the escalating tensions in the Middle East, but some also spotlighted what CNN described as “the murky world of international shipping, where shipowners can register and re-register their vessels within minutes, turning their crews into pawns in a game of diplomatic chess.” The vessel in question is a flag-of-convenience (FOC) or runway-flag tanker, the Stena Impero. It is owned by a Swedish company, flies a British flag, and carries a multinational crew of 23. The mariners are from India, Latvia, the Philippines and Russia. An FOC ship is one that flies the flag of a country other than the country of ownership. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel is quoted in an online CNN piece about the Stena Impero. The article by Ivana Kottasová was most recently updated July 29. It takes a detailed look at FOCs and their many pitfalls. Heindel also serves as chair of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) Seafarers’ Section. He told CNN, “On flag-of-convenience vessels, non-national seafarers simply don’t have the same rights that national seafarers would have if they were employed.” He also told the news outlet that mariners may have trouble getting assistance from their ship’s flag state if they’re not its citizens. “That is especially true when the flag belongs to a developing country with little diplomatic power and no real labor protections,” CNN said in summarizing his comments. “At the same time, Heindel said, the diplomatic missions of the seafarers’ own countries may not be able to help either. It may be their citizens who are involved, but they have no power over the vessels. To make the matters even more complicated, ships are allowed to switch flags and re-register as they please, even mid-journey.” Another maritime expert quoted in the article – Michael Roe, professor of maritime and logistics policy at the University of Plymouth – said, “If you’ve got a credit card, and you’ve got 15 minutes, you can re-register your ship under any flag you want.” Some of the data cited in the article likely didn’t surprise those already familiar with the maritime industry, but for others, the statistics may have been jolting. For instance, the reporter pointed out that approximately 40 percent of the world’s fleet is registered either in Panama, the Marshall Islands, or Liberia (whose registry is headquartered in Virginia). Yet those three countries combined own fewer than 170 ships. Moreover, landlocked Mongolia has 265 vessels sailing under its flag. The ITF has engaged in a decades-long campaign against runaway-flag shipping, and the SIU has been part of the effort. The federation has brought thousands of FOC ships under ITF contract while striving to promote a genuine link between flag states and vessels. As pointed out by the ITF, for workers, runaway-flag shipping can mean “very low wages, poor on-board conditions, inadequate food and clean drinking water, and long periods of work without proper rest, leading to stress and fatigue.” The federation further notes that by “flagging out, shipowners can take advantage of minimal regulation, cheap registration fees, low or no taxes, and freedom to employ cheap labor from the global labor market.” The ITF believes there should be a genuine link between the real owner of a vessel and the flag the vessel flies, in accordance with the United Nations Con- vention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). According to the federation, FOC registries make it more difficult to hold shipowners accountable; in many cases, the registries themselves are not even run from the country of the flag. Solidarity in Lone Star State The SIU had a strong presence at this year’s Texas AFL-CIO convention in San Antonio. Pictured from left are Rick Levy, president of the state fed; SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, who was re-elected as a district VP; Shwe Aung, ITF inspector, who was elected president of the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance of Texas (thereby also making him a VP of the state labor federation); and Montserrat Garibay, secretary-treasurer of the state fed. SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo and Port Agent Joe Zavala also attended. School Hosts IBF Officials The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education recently hosted top officials from the International Bargaining Forum (IBF) for meetings in Piney Point, Maryland. The IBF brings together representatives from the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and the international maritime employers that make up the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG). IBF agreements are only available to shipping companies that are members of the JNG and can only be signed by ITF-affiliated unions. (Visit the ITF website for comprehensive information on the IBF.) Pictured here are meeting participants touring the Paul Hall Center in mid-July. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who chairs the ITF Seafarers’ Section, is at far left in photo immediately below. 4 Seafarers LOG September 2019 �Sen. Portman Named Lakes Legislator of 2019 A United States senator recently garnered a prestigious maritime award. U.S. Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio) early last month was named the 2019 Great Lakes Legislator of the Year by the largest labor/management coalition representing shipping on America’s fourth sea coast. The award is presented annually by the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force (GLMTF) to a legislator who has helped advance waterborne commerce on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway. The SIU is a member of the GLMTF. Portman received the award Aug. 9 in Cleveland, immediately after touring SIUcontracted Great Lakes Towing Company facilities. “Senator Portman understands the importance of marine transportation to our national and regional economies,” said John Baker, president of the coalition. “As co-chair of the Great Lakes Congressional Task Force, Senator Portman often works in a bipartisan way on the complex issues confronting the region.” Baker, president emeritus of the International Longshoremen Association’s Great Lakes District Council, added, “GLTMF is especially grateful that Sen. Portman played a key role in passing the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act as part of the Coast Guard Authorization Bill. While preserving a role for the states and the Environmental Protection Agency, it charged the Coast Guard with primary responsibility for implementing and enforcing vessel regulations. Senator Portman negotiated language that overwhelmingly passed the House and Senate.” “Senator Portman’s commitment to workforce development and interest in U.S. shipbuilding are other reasons for his selection,” said Richard Hammer, first vice president of the GLMTF and assistant general manager of Donjon Shipbuilding and Repair. “Presenting the award at the Great Lakes Shipyard on the Cuyahoga River is an appropriate venue.” John Clemons, a GLMTF vice president and national vice president for the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers, stressed that Portman’s support for a strong U.S. Merchant Marine played a role in his selection. “As a member of the Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee, Sen. Portman understands that the economic security, homeland security and national security interests of the United States are best served by vessels crewed, built and owned by Americans,” Clemons said. Jim Weakley, GLMTF vice president and president of the Lake Carriers’ Association, noted that Portman’s support for the many jobs along the waterfront and the roles they play in the economy are unquestioned. “Senator Portman continues to work on environmental and economic issues that benefit Lake Erie and the entire Great Lakes region,” Weakley stated. “His bipartisan nature is a true testament to Midwest values Communications Workers President Emeritus Bahr Passes Away at 93 The last member of the AFL-CIO Execu- had become American Cable & Radio. By tive Council to have served during World 1954, he was elected president of his New York local. War II passed away July 30. In 1957, he joined the CWA staff and Morton Bahr, president emeritus of the Communications Workers of America was the lead organizer for the campaign (CWA), was a shipboard radio operator dur- that brought 24,000 plant workers of the ing the war before he came ashore to begin a New York Telephone Company into the career that culminated in heading the union union. Four years later, he was appointed the that dealt with telecommunications workers. union’s New York director. Bahr was elected District 1 vice president “Morty was a great friend and a true union man,” stated SIU President Michael Sacco. in 1963. His jurisdiction included New York, “He was proud of the fact that he served in New Jersey and New England. In 1985, Bahr the merchant marine became the third during World War II. president in CWA’s He was a man who history. He took embodied all the old over just after the virtues, most notably breakup of the loyalty and commitAT&T Bell Sysment. Yet, he martem, which had ried those qualities to employed a halfbuild a new vision of million union memthe future.” bers. He served Sacco said Bahr until his retirement loved telling him in 2005. He also why he stopped was a member of being a mariner. Bahr the Maritime Trades had married his girlDepartment Execufriend, Florence, durtive Board during ing a shore leave in those 20 years. 1945. Both of them Bahr and Florence were teenagers. He remained together, returned to sailing and they raised two and received a meschildren. sage at sea that he C WA Presihad become a father. dent Chris Shelton Bahr wasn’t able to stated, “Not only see his son for six CWA members, weeks. When he did CWA President Emeritus but the entire labor get home, he told Morton Bahr movement, lost a giant. Florence he was going to Morty was comfortmake one more voyage. able whether he was in Her response (taken from his autobiography “From the Telegraph to the company of presidents of the United the Internet”): “Go ahead. But the baby and States, in the halls of Congress, or on a picket line. He was not only a great presiI won’t be here when you return.” Bahr found a land-based job with McKay dent but he was a members’ president. Radio and stayed with the American Com- Morty loved fighting alongside members munications Association, which he joined in organizing drives and on the picket line upon sailing. Following a 1948 strike that almost more than anything that he did as crippled the union, Bahr joined the CWA president of this union. He will be sorely and became an organizer at McKay, which missed.” September 2019 and Ohio’s tradition of statesmanship.” “I’m honored to be named the 2019 Great Lakes Legislator of the Year by the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force,” said Portman. “As co-chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, I will continue to lead the fight to protect our Great Lakes while ensuring our shipping industry in Ohio and across the region remains competitive. Lake Erie is an Ohio treasure that provides drinking water for three million Ohioans, supports hundreds of thousands of jobs, and draws millions of visitors each year. I will continue to fight to help preserve this treasure for future generations.” With his selection as Great Lakes Legislator of the Year, Portman becomes the eleventh Ohio legislator to receive the award since its inception in 1998. Previous recipients are Sen. John D. Glenn (D); Rep. Louis B. Stokes (D); Rep. Steve LaTourette (R); Sen. Mike DeWine (R); Sen. George Voinovich (R); Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D); Rep. Stephanie Tubbs Jones (D); Rep. Betty Sutton (D); Rep. Bob Gibbs (R) and Rep. David Joyce (R). Founded in 1992, the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force promotes domestic and international shipping on the Great Lakes. With 78 affiliated organizations, it is the largest U.S. coalition to ever speak for the Great Lakes shipping community and draws its membership from both labor and management representing U.S.-flag vessel operators, shipboard and longshore unions, port authorities, cargo shippers, terminal operators, shipyards and other Great Lakes interests. Its goals include ensuring Lakes dredging is adequately funded, construction U.S. Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio) of a second Poe-sized lock at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, bolstering the Coast Guard’s icebreaking resources, protecting the Jones Act and other U.S. maritime cabotage laws and regulations, maximizing the Lakes overseas trade via the St. Lawrence Seaway, opposing exports and/ or increased diversions of Great Lakes water, and expanding short sea shipping on the Lakes. Congrats to New Commanding Officer SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (left) attended the change-of-command ceremony for the 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Division. He’s pictured with the new commanding officer, Col. Ross A. Parrish. The division is based in San Bruno, California. Seafarers LOG 5 �Class members join SIU officials for a photo immediately following the meeting in Piney Point, Maryland. Pictured from left are Port Agent Victor Nunez, VP Joseph Soresi, VP Tom Orzechowski, Recertified Bosuns Shawn Strand, Donley Johnson, Foaad Saleh, Antjuan Webb and Lovell Smith, SIU President Michael Sacco, Executive VP Augie Tellez, Recertified Bosun Christopher Rosado, VP George Tricker, Recertified Bosuns Raymond Johnson, Ronald Webb, John O’Shaughnessy and William Lima, and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. Bosuns Find a Home with SIU Recertified Seafarers Underscore Career Opportunities Members of the union’s newest class of recertified bosuns have diverse backgrounds, but they share a strongly held belief in the attractive career opportunities available with the SIU. That message came through time after time, often poignantly, when 10 Seafarers graduated from the recertification course Aug. 5 in Piney Point, Maryland. In keeping with tradition, they gave speeches near the end of the monthly membership meeting; their remarks were well-received by fellow upgraders, Paul Hall Center apprentices, family members and union officials. Graduating from the twoweek class were Donley Johnson, Raymond Johnson, John O’Shaughnessy, Christopher Rosado, Lovell Smith, Shawn Strand, Antjuan Webb, Ronald Webb, William Lima and Foaad Saleh. They completed a two-week course that’s considered the top curriculum for deck department mariners at the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC). The class includes reviews of U.S. Coast Guard regulations, updates on the latest PHC training, hands-on exercises with simulators, and briefings on the collective bargaining process. It also features a town hall-style session with apprentices, meetings with representatives from various union and Seafarers Plans departments, and a trip to AFLCIO headquarters in Washington, D.C., among other subjects. Following are some highlights Recertified Bosun Shawn Strand Recertified Bosun Donley Johnson 6 Seafarers LOG of the graduation speeches, in chronological order. Shawn Strand A 20-year Seafarer, Strand kicked off his remarks by thanking SIU officials “for all their hard work protecting our jobs. Because of you, I am able to have a successful career to support my family.” He also praised the PHC instructors and staff. “The leadership skills and union education I have learned in these last couple weeks was top notch,” said Strand, who sails from Tacoma, Washington. “These skills will be carried over to every ship I sail on.” Like his classmates, he urged fellow members to promote the Jones Act and donate to SPAD, the union’s voluntary political ac- Recertified Bosun Foaad Saleh tion fund. “This is what keeps our jobs safe,” he stated. Strand added, “I would not be where I am today if it wasn’t for the old-timers passing their seamanship down to me. All that knowledge has made me a better sailor, and I thank you.” Donley Johnson When he signed on with the SIU 24 years ago, Johnson had a five-year plan: “get in, make some money, buy a house and then get a ‘normal’ job,” he said. “Well, I’m in the twenty-fourth year of my five-year plan. I keep sailing because this is my normal. It’s a great career; I’ve been able to provide for my wife and two boys. I’ve seen a lot of really interesting places and really cool things.” Recertified Bosun Ronald Webb Johnson encouraged all Seafarers to take advantage of the PHC. He also called the recertification class “a real eye-opening experience. We met a lot of individuals who are dedicated to keeping the American flag flying on ships. We learned about their everyday struggle to defend the Jones Act. It is truly an endless battle. It was good to see our SPAD money hard at work. So please, contribute to SPAD, because our jobs depend on it,” said Johnson, who sails from Jacksonville, Florida. Foaad Saleh There’s no mystery as where Saleh found his influence for joining the union. Continued on next page Recertified Bosun John O’Shaughnessy September 2019 �Recertified Bosun Lovell Smith Recertified Bosun Raymond Johnson “I joined when I was 19 years old, after I graduated from high school in 1994,” he recalled. “The reason I joined the SIU is because my father is an SIU member.” Saleh, who sails from Algonac, Michigan, doesn’t regret the decision. “The SIU provides great contracts, and they also fight for us for better wages, reasonable hours and safer working conditions,” he said. “The union ensures benefits for me and my family.” He said that the class trips to SIU headquarters and to D.C. provided valuable insights about how the union, the Seafarers Plans, and the Maritime Trades Department (MTD) operate. In that vein, he encouraged all members to donate to SPAD and support the Jones Act. Saleh concluded with “special thanks” to SIU President Michael Sacco and other officials “for the effort they put in to keep the SIU strong. This has been a wonderful experience.” Ronald Webb Another longtime member, Webb joined the union in 1986 in New Orleans (he now sails from Fort Lauderdale, Florida). “I didn’t know what I wanted to do (for a career), and the union gave me direction,” Webb said. “The union pretty much saved my life.” He said the recertification course will help him do an even better job aboard ship, and stressed that the officials “need our help to protect our industry and jobs. We need to always do our best job, we need to upgrade our skills, and we need to donate to SPAD.” John O’Shaughnessy “I’ve been part of the SIU since 1983 when I was a trainee here in class 384,” O’Shaughnessy began. “I’ve always tried to do a good job, and that’s why I’ve lasted this long.” Currently sailing from Jersey City, New Jersey, O’Shaughnessy said the SIU “has Recertified Bosun William Lima been important in my life. It has given me stable income, time to enjoy myself, and benefits. I have enough (sea) time to receive a pension, and let me tell you, that’s a good feeling.” He thanked the PHC instructors and SIU officials for their work, and underscored the union’s “commitment to protecting our jobs. During my visits to Camp Springs and Washington, I saw firsthand their dedication to the union and its members, and how hard the battle is for survival. We as members need to donate to SPAD so our union officials who represent us have the support they need for their continuous battle on Capitol Hill – and so we in turn can support ourselves and our families.” O’Shaughnessy added, “My time here has been enjoyable. This is a beautiful school, and I was treated with respect for all my years of service.” Lovell Smith The other class member who sails from Jersey City, Smith noted, “Twenty-four years ago, I walked through these doors as a trainee – a boy from New York with no direction. Now, I stand here as a man that gives direction.” He said he first applied for the recertification class 15 years ago, but things worked out for the best. “Looking back, I was not ready then,” Smith stated. “Now, I stand here humble, with more understanding, more knowledge and more patience.” He said the class was worthwhile and summarized the work of a bosun as “not about knowing how to tie every knot in the book. It’s about people management, conflict resolution, promoting safety and morale-boosting.” Smith thanked his family for their unwavering support “and being so understanding of my absences through holidays, birthdays and all the special events that I could not attend.” Some of those family members traveled hundreds of miles to Recertified Bosun Antjuan Webb attend the graduation ceremony; his first bosun, Brian Isenstadt, and other old shipmates also attended. Raymond Johnson Describing the union as “a well-oiled machine,” Johnson said one thing that stood out in the class was “learning how hard the leadership works to provide jobs, protect the Jones Act and protect the livelihoods of so many people. They are at the forefront of the maritime industry to ensure that we continue to have jobs and a strong union with a good pension plan and a good health benefits plan.” He thanked the school’s instructors and said the facility has “a good atmosphere and great people.” Johnson, who sails from Mobile, Alabama, noted that he has been a mariner for 33 years, the last 29 with the SIU. He has sailed around the world twice. William Lima Before becoming a Seafarer, Lima started sailing with the National Maritime Union’s (NMU) division for civil-service mariners in 1987. “When we merged with the SIU (in 2001), things got better,” he recalled. Lima has sailed from Boston, Brooklyn and Jersey City, but currently calls Piney Point his home port. “This union has always supplied me and many others with good-paying jobs throughout the years,” he said. Lima said the leadership course in particular will help him “be a little more tactful without yelling so much.” He concluded by expressing confidence in the union’s officials. “There’s a lot of people out there who would like to see this union fail and the Jones Act disappear, for their own selfish gain and greed,” Lima said. “Luckily, we have a whole slew of dedicated men and women that work hard for us to keep this union strong and proud for many, many Recertified Bosun Christopher Rosado years to come.” Antjuan Webb “The union has played a very important role in my life,” said Webb, who joined the SIU in 1989 and who sails from Oakland, California. “It took me off the streets and kept me away from the people I’d been hanging out with. They either went to jail or were murdered. I believe God protected me through the trainee program here at Piney Point.” Webb said the initial training “taught me how to become a man – responsible, disciplined, and a professional U.S. Merchant Mariner.” He thanked Sacco and SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez “for being concerned and passionate about our wellbeing. I also thank the instructors and staff at the school for their hard work.” Webb said the class helped him realize the vital importance of grassroots political action, including SPAD. Christopher Rosado Another part of the graduation tradition is enduring the playful suspense about who’ll be the last speaker – and in this case, Rosado had the honors. “I’ve had the pleasure of travelling the world, meeting all kinds of people and cultures and seeing things people pay good money to see on cruise ships. The difference is, I got paid to see those places,” said Rosado, whose home port is Santurce, Puerto Rico. He continued, “Being part of this SIU family has made me the man I am today. Because of the SIU, I’ve been able to provide for my family and to have the lifestyle I have today – and I have a pretty good one.” Rosado thanked the officials and school personnel, and encouraged fellow Seafarers to support SPAD. “It’s hard work, what these people do,” he stated. “Our leaders need the resources to make it happen.” Apprentices Receive Advice From Those ‘In The Know’ The newly recertified bosuns wrapped up their respective speeches with advice for Paul Hall Center apprentices. Here’s a sampling: questions, and keep all of your mariner documents up to date.” --- Foaad Saleh “You are part of a great tradition! Work hard, ask questions, and learn as much as you can. Take pride in what you do. You are the future of the SIU.” --- Shawn Strand “Study hard while you are here. Learn from your instructors. Learn to work together with your classmates. When you go out to sea, work hard, carry your load and never be afraid to ask questions.” --- Ronald Webb “Have an open mind as to which department you want to join. There is something great and rewarding in all of them…. Don’t be surprised to find out that this is your ‘normal,’ too!” --- Donley Johnson “It’s all about learning how to get along with others and how safety is one of the biggest issues. Ask questions – it’s very rare that someone isn’t willing to help.” --- John O’Shaughnessy “Take advantage of this great school and look to the future. Study hard, ask “Join the ship with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Work safe and listen September 2019 to your department heads. While overseas, practice the buddy system and try not to travel alone. Save your money.” --- Lovell Smith “To be a good trainee and shipmate, you need to have a good attitude and good work ethic. Listen to your instructors, department heads and even your peers. No one knows it all.” --- Raymond Johnson “The sky is the limit for all of you. Where else can you start out cleaning pots and pans, then end up being master of your vessel? Be positive and, most of all, be safe out there.” --- William Lima everything you need out of this program. Take advantage, work hard, get along with others and pay attention to these great leaders here at the school. Whenever you get on ships, always be respectful and professional and work hard. Not only do you represent yourselves, you also represent the Seafarers International Union.” --- Antjuan Webb “You are the future. Study hard, learn from your instructors, and be a team player. When you go out there, represent. Work hard, ask questions. Be neat, be early, be respectful. That will take you a long way.” --- Christopher Rosado “You have a great opportunity to get Seafarers LOG 7 �AB Robert Anderson Oiler Luke Coffelt GUDE Henry Egaran SA Robert Seals (front) and AB Morgan Hayes ‘A Tacoma Staple’ Seafarers Participate in Annual Philanthropic Project SIU members in the Pacific Northwest show no signs of letting up in their efforts to give back to the community. Most recently, SIU personnel teamed up for the union’s annual participation in Paint Tacoma-Pierce Beautiful, a regional philanthropic project that began in 1985. The union has been active with the program (typically referred to as Paint Tacoma) for 13 straight years. The summertime outreach normally consists of painting the exteriors of houses of lowincome, elderly and disabled homeowners within Tacoma, Washington, city limits. SIU Port Agent Warren Asp headed the union’s involvement this year, and he came away impressed by the attitude, effort and skills of the Seafarers team. Collectively, they spent three days (80 man-hours) at a local home, where they deftly gave it a facelift. “We could not have asked for better crews this year,” the port agent said. Joining him were AB Abdulhak Ahmed, AB Morgan Hayes, SA Robert Seals, AB Robert Anderson, GUDE Henry Egaran, AB Sonny Lawson, Bosun Derik Rye, Oiler Luke Coffelt, Recertified Bosun Richard Barnes, Recertified Bosun Richard Barnes 8 Seafarers LOG Safety Director Ben Anderson and Administrative Assistant Joni Bradley. “The volunteers were a generational mixture of SIU veterans and rookies working side-by-side,” Asp said. “This was also an introduction to the program for our new Administrative Assistant Joni Bradley. Joni has had big shoes to fill in the port this year following Brenda Flesner’s retirement, and she was up for the challenge.” Alberto Ortiz, a son of the homeowners, was the SIU’s main contact for the project. “The SIU people did a very wonderful job,” Ortiz said. “The house really needed it, and I know my parents are very happy and grateful. Thank you very much, on behalf of all of us.” Recertified Bosun Barnes has participated in Paint Tacoma several times. He said this year’s iteration was worthwhile, as usual. “I enjoy giving back to Tacoma, putting the SIU’s name out there and showing we care,” Barnes stated. “The homeowners really appreciated our work.” AB Lawson was a Paint Tacoma newcomer and was no less pleased with the AB Abdulhak Ahmed group effort. “I think it went really well,” Lawson said. “Everything was organized and we had lots of volunteers. You could tell that everybody was chipping in and having a good time. It’s a good program.” GUDE Egaran has participated in prior years. “I like to volunteer and help,” he said. “This was definitely worthwhile. At the end, I told Warren, ‘Maybe next summer we’ll do it again’” Based on the SIU’s reliability, participation seems like a given, though not one that’s taken for granted. Meanwhile, Asp noted that Egaran “was instrumental in stepping up and volunteering every day that we had a team working. From pressure washing to the final touches, he was our Johnny on the spot, so to speak. “Also worth mentioning is our apprentice program graduate AB Morgan Hayes,” he continued. When we first got to the house, there were shrubs and tree branches that needed to be cleared so we could work. Brother Hayes had the proper tools in his truck to do a first-class pruning job of all interfering foliage.” Port Agent Warren Asp Asp also credited the homeowners for being “a delightful family that couldn’t have been more pleased to have their home getting a refreshed look. In sticking with the generational theme that seemed to be prevalent this year, the home comprised of grandparents to grandchildren spanning close to 70 years. The family brought out cold refreshments to make sure the team wasn’t overheating, showing their genuine delight with the job and wanting to show their appreciation.” He reserved his highest praise for the Seafarers who turn out year after year. “We always get members asking, ‘So, when are we painting a house this year?’” Asp said. “It has become a Tacoma staple, and it brings this hiring hall great joy to be involved with the community. “Aside from generational diversity, we also get a cultural diversity of volunteers,” he concluded. “From our Muslim brothers to Filipino to African American, Tacoma gets it all from all walks of life. It speaks to a genuine desire for our membership to want to work side-by-side for the betterment of something that is bigger than themselves. We couldn’t be more thankful for our membership here.” Safety Director Ben Anderson September 2019 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU PRESIDENTIAL GREETING – From left: SIU President Michael Sacco, future Seafarer Kemer Gennady Rojas and current AB Kemer Rojas are pictured at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. CONGRESSWOMAN BACKS MARITIME – In early August, U.S. Rep. Elaine Luria (D-Virginia) (left) noticed coverage of the SIU-crewed USNS Seay in the Seafarers LOG and pointed out she once sailed aboard the vessel during her U.S. Navy career. (She served two decades in the Navy, retiring at the rank of Commander.) She’s pictured holding a copy of the LOG at a Maritime Trades Department port council event in Norfolk, with MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan (a former editor of the LOG). Luria reiterated her support of the U.S. Merchant Marine. ABOARD DANIEL K. INOUYE – Pictured aboard the Matson ship in Oakland, California, are (from left) Recertified Steward Edvaldo Viana, ACU Moosa Mohamed and Chief Cook John Bennett. ABOARD OVERSEAS KEY WEST – These snapshots were taken when the OSG vessel made a stop in Port Everglades, Florida, earlier this year. SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins is third from left in the larger group photo in the center. SBX CREWS RECOGNIZED – Vessel operator TOTE Services earlier this year treated SBX crew members to a dinner in their honor, and also presented certificates of appreciation for nearly 600 continuous days at sea. Some of the attendees are pictured here. In photo at left are SA Billie Kawelo (left) and SA Apalogie Cruz-Labrador. Displaying certificates in photo at center are (from left) QDW Timothy Van Pelt, Recertified Steward Cesar Dela Cruz, Storekeeper Connie Tarplin, Bosun James Reynolds, OS Ayesh Ahmed and SA Laura Davies. The photo at right includes company executives, union officials, crew members and officers. MEETING WITH MARINES – SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (second from right in photo at immediate right) meets with U.S. Marine Corps officers on the West Coast to discuss national security and the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine carrying materiel for our troops. Pictured from left are Lt. Col. Thomas Chockly, Maj. Michael Becker, Celona and Col. Steven White. September 2019 STARLIGHT CONTRACT APPROVED – Starlight Marine crews on the West Coast recently approved a three-year contract featuring wage gains and other improvements. Celebrating the occasion are (from left) SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II, crew members Paul Gonzalez, Joe Corey, Victor Gonzalez, Chris Wooten and Marty Russo and SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona. Seafarers LOG 9 �MATSON THANKS CAPE HUDSON CREW – When the Seafarers-crewed Cape Hudson returned to San Francisco in late June following a seven-month mission, vessel operator Matson hosted a celebration at a local restaurant. They thanked the crew for a job well done and for making the mission successful. Pictured at the gathering are (from left) SIU Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli, SA Mohamed Shahbain, MEBA Patrolman Max Alper, Matson Crewing Coordinator Julie Sarrico, Chief Steward Dorray Saberon, Maritime Administration RRF Program Director Danny Defanti, Matson VP Jack Sullivan and SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II. ABOARD CAPE MOHICAN – Pictured aboard the Ocean Duchess vessel in late July in Oakland, California, are (from left) Bosun Anthony Pace, Electrician Boleslaw Szatkowski, Steward/Baker Salah Omar, GUDE Zaid Said, GVA Mohamed Omar and SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU BOOKS GALORE IN HOUSTON AB Dwayne Harris (right) takes the oath before receiving his full B-book. ITF Inspector Shwe Aung is at left. STEWARDS CONFER – Two recertified stewards are pictured in Jacksonville, Florida. That’s Juan Vallejo (from the El Coqui) on the left and Kim Strate (from the Taino) on the right. Crowley operates the LNG-powered ConRos. QEE Jimmie Williams (left) receives his A-book from Patrolman Kelly Krick. AB Kervin Guevara (left) gets his B-book from Port Agent Joe Zavala. AB Dixon Omar Guity Bonilla (left) gets his full book from Safety Director Kevin Sykes. ABOARD OVERSEAS LOS ANGELES – These photos were taken on the OSG ship in Martinez, California. Pictured from left in the photo at left are Chief Cook Keith Hall, Steward/Baker Clifton Medley and SA Jessie Espiritu. Shown from left in the other photo are Bosun Lionel Hall, Oakland Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli, OSM Mykel Potter, GUDE Reynaldo Mambulao, QEP Fernando Ortega and GUDE Gil Lawrence. AB Francisco Martinez (left) proudly displays his full book. He’s pictured with Patrolman J.B. Niday. ABOARD LIBERTY GRACE – Pictured from left are SIU Patrolman Kelly Krick, ABM Nieves Guerrero, AMO 2nd Mate Lauren Johnson, ABM Dixon Guity, and Patrolman J.B. Niday. The Liberty Maritime vessel was at Houston’s City Docks, not far from the hiring hall. WITH SIU CIVMARS – These were taken aboard the USNS William McLean. Steward department members (photo at left, from left) include James Frasier, Elfatesha Carter, Luis A. Ramos Jr., Antionette White, Celeste Bracey and Laura Thomas. In the photo at right, the deck crew (and one engine department member) includes Bosun Travis Laws, Bosun Mate Robert Melendez, AB Omary Ally, OS Jereau Scruggs, AB Virgilio Abadam, Pumpman John Mejia and Bosun Mate Joseph Teshara. Thanks to SIU Government Services Division Representative Sam Spain for the photos. 10 Seafarers LOG September 2019 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU AT THE HALL IN SAN JUAN – Chief Steward Jesus Ortiz (left in photo at left) donates a new grill for the hall. He’s pictured with Port Agent Amancio Crespo, who’s also at right in the remaining photos. In photo at center is second-generation Seafarer FOWT Marcelino Santos Bermeo, displaying his first registration since completing upgrading training at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center. The remaining photo at right includes STOS Carlos Omar Diaz, showing his first Maritime Defense League receipt. B-BOOK IN CHARM CITY – OS Abraham Tunguia (right) receives his B-book from Safety Director DeCarlo Harris at the hiring hall in Baltimore. B-BOOK IN JERSEY – OS George Arthur (right) receives his full B-book from Patrolman Ray Henderson at the hiring hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. WITH G&H BOATMEN – Pictured aboard the G&H Towing boat Andrew K are Patrolman J.B. Niday (far left) and AB Jason Shaw, Master Travis Shaw, Asst. Engineer Jesse Sendejas and Mate Nicholas Ellis. The photo was taken in Galveston, Texas. B-BOOK IN PHILLY – SA Ismail Saleh (right) displays his newly acquired full B-book at the hiring hall. He’s pictured with Port Agent Joe Baselice. ABOARD TUG KIOWA – Pictured aboard the Material Services boat are (from left) SIU Deckhands Matthew McGinnis, Dustin Ferguson, Nathan Rossiter and Chad Hogan. Thanks to Patrolman Tyson Little for the photo, which was taken in Romeoville, Illinois. September 2019 ABOARD DECISIVE – Pictured from left on the Transoceanic cable ship in Baltimore are Chief Cook Aaron Helton-Cox, SIU Piney Point Port Agent Victor Nunez, Chief Steward Ben Piker and Steward Assistant Anthony Parks. ALGONAC SNAPSHOT – The SIU-crewed Great Republic (Key Lakes) passes the hiring hall in Algonac, Michigan. Seafarers LOG 11 �SIU President Michael Sacco (left) and Acting Paul Hall Center Vice President Tom Orzechowski tour the new facility. A steam boiler trainer The Electrical/PLC Lab Major Upgrades Completed in Piney Point PHC Opens State-of-the-Art Engine Department Shop The Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) recently completed yet another major upgrade to the school’s facilities. The newly upgraded engineering shop features state-of-the-art trainer systems, real-world equipment and new lab environments that will give students the best opportunity for learning the various aspect of the engine department in a safe, controlled scenario. PHC Acting Vice President Tom Orzechowski said, “The shop is completely retooled and set for the next level of training. The building itself went through a complete renovation, and we added new classroom space adjacent to the new electricians’ lab. New trainers encompassing every aspect needed for upgrading and basic training are now available and at the ready. This brings our vocational shop up to date and prepares us for the future.” PHC Instructor Bill Dodd said, “The engineering community is ever-evolving with the introduction of newer electrical and electronic equipment, more advanced mechanical applications and environmental concerns on board ships. It is the responsibility of the HLSS (Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship) Marine Training Department to incorporate the most up-to-date equipment to train mariners in their perspective vocations.” The new equipment includes: - A Pumps Trainer System, for teaching students how various types of pumps operate and function with the multiple piping systems on board ships - A Mechanical Trainer System, for teaching how couplings, bearings, chain drives and gear drives are incorporated in a mechanical system, as well as how alignments are performed - A Hydraulics Trainer System, for teaching about hydraulics and what types of components are in a hydraulic system for lifting, pushing, extending and retracting pieces of equipment that are far too heavy to move by hand - A Pneumatics Trainer System, to provide students with understanding how air can accomplish many tasks - A Steam Boiler Trainer System, to allow students to better understand the steam cycle - An Oily Water Trainer System, to provide students an understanding of how to clean and get rid of oily water waste aboard ships in accordance with applicable laws and regulations - A Lube Oil Purifier System, to help develop a better understanding of how important clean lube oil and fuel oil are to the effective running of the ship’s engines - Centrifugal Pumps and Motor Assemblies, which allows hands-on training for students when having to replace components or rebuild The new pump lab is one of many recent upgrades at the Paul Hall Center. 12 Seafarers LOG centrifugal pumps onboard ships. Another new addition, the Electrical Training Lab, allows students to train for troubleshooting, testing and repairing various types of electrical issues that may arise aboard vessels. Each student has access to their own group of electrical components for testing, troubleshooting and repair training. Additionally, the Programmable Logic Controller Units Lab allows students to develop and implement sensor inputs/output logic for multiple mechanical, pneumatic and electrical systems aboard ships. Finally, as previously reported, the engineering shop houses the up-to-date reefer containers – donated by SIU-contracted ship operators – which allow mariners to train on the actual equipment they will encounter on a vessel or offshore work site. Longtime mariner and electrician Mike Fay offered his thoughts on the completed shop, saying, “I think most would agree the reefer container training is the top rung of the engine department ladder. That is where all the other courses are combined: electrician, refrigeration, high pressure silver brazing, etc. The reefer units we train on are the actual units from vessels; they are not models or simulators as some other labs use.” “Many of our trainers that we have taught with were more than 20 years old, and have seen The refrigerated container lab better days,” said Dodd. “While static trainers are useful, they do not represent the full level of comprehension students need to demonstrate their competency requirements for certification and graduation.... It was decided that new training equipment needed to be acquired, so we may continue to provide the very best training to the new and seasoned mariner for years to come.” The Hydraulic/Pneumatic Lab with trainers Electrician Mike Fay (left) describes aspects of the shop to SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona during a recent tour. September 2019 September 2019 The industrial refrigeration training system Seafarers LOG 13 �Everyday Savings Save every day with union member-only discounts on everything from fashion and beauty to electronics and everyday household items. And whether it’s date night or a fun family night out, enjoy delicious, union family discounts at select restaurants. Find out more about this and other great Union Plus programs by visiting unionplus.org. Learn more at unionplus.org 14 Seafarers LOG FREE COLLEGE CREDIT CARDS FLOWERS & GIFTS WIRELESS DISCOUNTS 9/19 September 2019 �Culinary 2.0 Available at PHC 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. Personal Anyone who sailed with Norman R. Currie Sr. (between 1961 and 1968) is asked to contact Thomas P. Kelly at (410) 649-2049. Currie’s vessels during that time included, but were not limited to, ones operated by Cities Service, A.H. Bull & Co., Waterman, Alcoa, Moore-McCormack, Calmar, and U.S. Steel, respectively. September & October 2019 Membership Meetings Piney Point...........*Tuesday: September 3, Monday: October 7 Algonac.......................................Friday: September 6, October 11 Baltimore................................Thursday: September 5, October 10 Guam...................................Thursday: September 19, October 24 Honolulu..................................Friday: September 13, October 18 Houston..................Monday: September 9,**Tuesday: October 15 Jacksonville..........................Thursday: September 5, October 10 Joliet.................................Thursday: September 12, October 17 Mobile.........................Wednesday: September 11, October 16 New Orleans........................Tuesday: September 10, October 15 Jersey City..........................Tuesday: September 3, October 8 Norfolk................................Thursday: September 5, October 10 Oakland...........................Thursday: September 12, October 17 Philadelphia........................Wednesday: September 4, October 9 Port Everglades..................Thursday: September 12, October 17 San Juan................................Thursday: September 5, October 10 St. Louis..................................Friday: September 13, October 18 Tacoma..................................Friday: September 20, October 25 Wilmington..............................Monday: September 16, October 21 *Piney Point change due to Labor Day Holiday **Houston change due to Columbus Day Holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m ATTENTION SEAFARERS Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD SPAD Works For You. September 2019 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” Data is cumulative from July 16-Aug. 15. “Registered on the Beach” Data is as of Aug. 16. Total Registered All Groups B Total Shipped Trip Reliefs 2 0 0 9 0 3 0 6 6 7 2 0 4 1 1 0 1 6 4 2 54 Deck Department 12 5 2 1 4 4 22 11 3 1 13 3 8 6 44 23 29 18 27 11 2 1 4 2 19 11 8 2 6 0 0 4 4 5 20 5 1 0 25 10 253 123 C 0 1 1 5 0 1 1 3 3 3 1 4 6 1 1 0 2 3 2 3 41 2 0 5 12 1 2 1 10 16 9 1 2 11 2 1 5 7 5 1 5 98 1 0 0 3 0 1 0 4 2 2 1 0 5 2 0 0 0 0 1 4 26 Engine Department 4 0 1 0 4 0 10 6 2 0 3 1 4 3 15 3 22 8 11 5 3 0 4 2 12 9 6 4 0 0 2 2 4 2 12 5 2 1 9 4 130 55 3 0 2 12 0 6 11 14 21 11 0 1 18 21 3 2 1 9 1 24 160 1 0 1 5 3 2 1 2 12 9 1 6 7 3 0 4 6 5 1 12 81 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 3 2 0 1 3 1 0 0 1 2 1 1 18 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 0 2 3 1 4 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 1 17 6 1 4 8 1 4 4 13 26 14 2 0 16 12 3 1 2 11 1 16 145 10 2 2 2 0 1 3 4 19 6 3 0 25 6 1 6 1 5 1 8 105 GRAND TOTAL: 631 488 203 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 18 1 4 19 6 9 13 55 36 39 2 11 31 13 5 3 2 26 4 24 321 8 6 3 11 1 5 4 23 28 17 1 6 14 3 0 3 10 10 0 11 164 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 6 0 5 9 3 7 4 16 13 12 4 3 10 9 0 2 3 11 2 14 133 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 C A All Groups B C 4 3 4 10 0 6 4 26 27 12 0 5 17 5 2 0 4 11 3 6 149 29 3 4 27 3 14 14 87 63 75 3 15 44 26 3 4 9 50 8 60 541 16 5 1 15 0 6 6 25 40 16 5 10 19 8 1 5 8 16 0 18 220 2 0 0 8 0 4 0 11 12 6 1 5 6 8 1 0 3 7 3 8 85 2 0 1 1 0 0 0 3 2 0 1 0 4 2 0 0 0 2 0 2 20 1 0 0 3 1 1 1 13 9 9 0 3 7 6 0 1 1 6 1 1 64 7 0 3 11 1 5 9 26 27 20 1 3 23 11 5 2 7 22 3 25 211 3 0 5 11 1 5 2 23 28 10 1 4 26 6 1 7 7 8 1 13 162 1 0 0 3 0 1 0 7 2 6 1 1 11 1 1 0 1 6 2 10 54 Steward Department 1 1 0 1 1 1 10 3 0 1 6 1 6 0 17 2 17 10 6 2 0 1 1 4 17 2 17 2 4 0 2 6 4 4 8 2 1 0 16 10 134 53 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 2 2 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 1 2 1 15 1 0 1 4 0 1 2 5 10 2 0 4 10 6 1 6 2 4 1 11 71 6 0 2 17 1 6 22 33 36 16 0 5 25 29 3 3 3 19 2 32 260 2 1 1 5 3 2 2 3 16 9 1 3 11 8 0 2 6 6 1 10 92 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 1 2 3 0 0 2 2 0 0 1 2 0 2 18 Entry Department 0 5 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 1 4 1 3 1 11 1 13 1 11 0 0 0 0 0 11 0 7 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 8 0 1 1 11 8 89 8 0 0 0 0 1 2 1 10 6 0 1 13 6 0 4 0 6 0 2 60 8 0 1 0 0 2 1 4 6 3 0 0 5 0 0 6 0 2 1 0 39 2 0 0 0 0 1 5 8 3 4 0 1 0 2 0 0 1 7 0 1 35 16 3 1 9 1 1 9 23 32 21 3 1 29 26 2 2 1 19 0 36 235 20 2 1 3 0 1 5 11 84 13 3 0 31 8 1 3 1 21 1 27 236 136 323 1,047 709 393 A 525 All Groups B Registered on Beach 320 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 answered by Seafarers at the Houston hiring hall. Question: Why did you start sailing and what has kept you sailing? Charles Hill Recertified Bosun I started sailing as a youngster, about 21 years old, and I was an NMU member. I started sailing because friends of my parents were seamen, and they would tell me stories about their trips. I enjoy the camaraderie, the sea. It’s relaxing; it’s therapy for me. I’m a sea lover, and it has enhanced my life, made my life better across the board. Now I’m the one telling sea stories, to my grandchildren. Being in the union has really helped me achieve so much in life. John Mbelwa AB I started sailing because I love it. Joining the SIU allowed me to become financially stable, and allowed me to send my daughter to college, and I’ll be able to send my son starting next year. I appreciate everything the SIU has done for me, in helping me get a good-paying job to provide for my family. Emanuel Gazzier Recertified Bosun I started sailing because I grew up in a commercial shrimping family. I’ve been on boats since I was 5 years old, down in Mobile, Alabama. I’ve just got so much involved in it, it’s a good life. I appreciate everything the union has done for us, and a special thanks to the negotiating committees for getting these good contracts for us. Abel Reyna ACU I always loved to sail, and I loved seeing the world. I joined the union to be able to provide for my family, while also travelling around the world and exploring all new places. The SIU has allowed me to do all of that, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity that being in the union has provided. John Leahey GUDE I started sailing as a bartender on the Independence (American Hawaii Cruises). I’ve kept sailing because I like to travel, and sailing is a great way to do that. The Philippines, Thailand, all of southeast Asia. I’m 63 now, and looking forward to my retirement benefits that being in the union has secured for me. John Gunning Tugboat Master Initially, I had finished my career as a newspaper reporter, and I was looking for a new career. As soon as I stepped foot on a tugboat, I knew it was where I wanted to be. I’ve kept at it because it’s such a unique job, and I still am amazed at the size of the vessels we move around every day. The union has allowed me to support my family, and I’m grateful for all the opportunities I’ve been afforded as a part of the SIU. 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) 549-400 SIU members currently sail aboard LNG-powered ships, and they also have a rich history of working aboard LNG carriers. One such vessel, the LNG Gemini, is pictured during the early 1990s. The ship was built in 1978 and was one of eight such vessels in the old ETC fleet.. 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 September 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 ABDULAZIZ AHMED Brother Abdulaziz Ahmed, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1979, initially sailing on the Overseas Vivian. He sailed in all three departments and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Ahmed last shipped on the Jean Anne and makes his home in Detroit. ANDREW ANDRINI Brother Andrew Andrini, 68, donned the SIU colors in 2007 when he sailed on the Wilson. He was a steward department member and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Andrini’s final vessel was the Moku Pahu. He lives in Altoona, Iowa. GLENN BARNES Brother Glenn Barnes, 65, became a member of the union in 2001. He first shipped on the John Chapman and worked in the engine department. Brother Barnes upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. He concluded his career on the Texas and resides in Aliceville, Alabama. MARC BROMBERG Brother Marc Bromberg, 65, joined the SIU in 1977, initially sailing with Inland Tugs. A deck department member, Brother Bromberg upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. He concluded his career on the Tacoma and lives in Keyport, Washington. NOEL CUNANAN Brother Noel Cunanan, 68, began sailing with the SIU in 2000, first sailing on the Little Hales. He upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2001 and sailed in the steward department. Brother Cunanan most recently shipped aboard the USNS Bowditch. He makes his home in Houston. HENRY DANIELS Brother Henry Daniels, 65, embarked on his SIU career in 1979 when he sailed on the Del Sol. He upgraded on September 2019 several occasions at the Paul Hall Center and was a member of the steward department. Brother Daniels concluded his career on the Virgo in 1994. He resides in Jacksonville, Florida. JIM DAWSON Brother Jim Dawson, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1974. A deck department member, he was first employed with G&H Towing in the inland division. Brother Dawson upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. He concluded his career on the Leader and settled in Houston. CLIFTON FAVORITE Brother Clifton Favorite, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 2001, first sailing on the Diamond State. A deck department member, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2001. Brother Favorite most recently shipped on the Ocean Jazz. He is a Houston resident. ROLANDO GUMANAS Brother Rolando Gumanas, 65, became an SIU member in 1984 when he shipped on the Santa Mariana. He sailed in the engine department and last shipped on the USNS Capella. Brother Gumanas lives in Mather, California. STANLEY GURNEY Brother Stanley Gurney, 57, joined the union in 1979. He first sailed on the Philadelphia. Brother Gurney primarily sailed in the deck department, and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He last sailed on the Horizon Tacoma and makes his home in Montesano, Washington. JAMES HEINCY Brother James Heincy, 65, began his career with the union in 2001, initially sailing on the Bernard F. Fisher. Shipping in the deck department, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Heincy’s final vessel was the Captain David Lyon. He is a resident of Summerfield, Florida. DANA HENRY Brother Dana Henry, 71, donned the SIU colors in 2003 when he shipped on the Beaver State. He was a steward department member and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Henry’s last vessel was the John McDonnell. He resides in Tonasket, Washington. DONALD IRVINE Brother Donald Irvine, 66, signed on with the SIU in 1981. He first sailed on the Independence and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. A steward department member, Brother Irvine most recently sailed aboard the Horizon Pacific. He lives in the Philippines. JAMES MANN Brother James Mann, 65, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1972 when he sailed on the Platte. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the unionaffiliated Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Mann was last employed by Sealand. He lives in Vallejo, California. NAZIRUDDIN PATANKAR Brother Naziruddin Patankar, 65, became a member of the union in 2002, initially sailing aboard the Franklin J. Phillips. A steward department member, he last sailed on the Cape Ray in 2014. Brother Patankar makes his home in Jackson Heights, New York. ROY PAYNE Brother Roy Payne, 72, signed on with the union in 1990 when he shipped on the Long Lines. A member of the deck department, he upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Payne most recently sailed aboard the Alliance Norfolk. He settled in Brooklyn, New York. RAUL QUIOTO Brother Raul Quioto, 67, began sailing with the SIU in 2004 when he shipped out aboard the Overseas New Orleans. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments and concluded his career on the Overseas Tampa. Brother Quioto resides in Katy, Texas. ADRIAN REED Brother Adrian Reed, 65 joined the Seafarers in 2001 during the NMU/SIU merger. He first sailed on the Liberator and was a steward department member. Brother Reed concluded his career on the Energy Enterprise. He resides in Rockport, Maine. FRANK REVETTE Brother Frank Revette, 66, signed on with the SIU in 1978, initially sailing on the Overseas Vivian. He worked in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Revette most recently sailed aboard the Delta Mariner. He resides in Honoraville, Alabama. ALI SHAIBI Brother Ali Shaibi, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1978 when he sailed on the TransColorado. A member of the deck department, he upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1981. Brother Shaibi concluded his career on the Philadelphia in 1996. He makes his home in Brooklyn, New York. ROBERT TORGERSEN Brother Robert Torgersen, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1974, initially sailing on the Bradford Island. A member of the engine department, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Torgersen last worked for the union in Elizabeth, New Jersey. He lives in Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey. KENNETH WELLS Brother Kenneth Wells, 57, became a member of the union in 1991 when he shipped on the Eugene Obregon. He primarily sailed in the engine department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Wells most recently sailed on the American Liberty. He resides in Jacksonville, North Carolina. GREAT LAKES LEE MACARTHUR Brother Lee MacArthur, 65, joined the union in 1974. He first sailed on the JB Ford and primarily worked in the engine department. Brother MacArthur’s last vessel was the JAW Iglehart. He lives in Alpena, Michigan. upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He was most recently employed by Penn Maritime and lives in West Palm Beach, Florida. DAVID FERACE Brother David Ferace, 66, began sailing with the SIU in 2011 when he shipped with Harley Marine New York. He was a member of the deck department and continued to work for the same company for the duration of his career. He calls Waterford, Connecticut, home. KERRY O’CALLAGHAN Brother Kerry O’Callaghan, 55, became a member of the union in 1990, when he sailed on the AMSEA vessel Lake. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2008 and shipped in the deck department. Brother O’Callaghan was most recently employed with Crowley and settled in Norwood, Pennsylvania. ROBERT STEINMANN Brother Robert Steinmann, 64, donned the SIU colors in 1975, initially sailing with G&H Towing. He sailed in the deck department and was last employed by Moran Towing of Texas. Brother Steinmann resides in Las Cruces, New Mexico. DAVID SUMNER Brother David Sumner, 62, donned the SIU colors in 1982 when he sailed on the Santa Elena. He primarily sailed in the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Sumner most recently worked for OSG Ship Management and resides in Lutz, Florida. INLAND ALBERT BODDEN Brother Albert Bodden, 62, signed on with the union in 1998. A deck department member, his first vessel was the Wilson. Brother Bodden Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA HENRY BOON Brother Henry Boon, 92, died February 24. He joined the SIU in 1979, sailing first on the President Truman. A steward department member, Brother Boon last sailed aboard the President Tyler in 1992. He lived in Oakland, California. JOSE FELICIANO Pensioner Jose Feliciano, 72, passed away July 23. He became an SIU member in 1987 when he sailed aboard the USNS Hess. A deck department member, Brother Feliciano last sailed on the Maersk Arkansas. He went on pension in 2012 and lived in Penuelas, Puerto Rico. EARL GRAY Pensioner Earl Gray, 87, died July 13. He joined the union in 1971 and first sailed on the Columbia. Brother Gray was a steward department member and last sailed aboard the Horizon Challenger. He became a pensioner in 1998 and was a resident of Gretna, Louisiana. JUAN GUARIS Pensioner Juan Guaris, 78, passed away July 2. He embarked on his SIU career in 1967, initially sailing on the Chatham. Brother Guaris primarily sailed in the engine department, most recently aboard the Consumer. He became a pensioner in 1997 and settled in Carolina, Puerto Rico. JOHNNY HAMMOCK Pensioner Johnny Hammock, 64, died July 13. Signing on with the Seafarers in 1973, he first shipped on the Van Horizon. Brother Hammock was a member of the deck department and last sailed aboard the John Page. He retired in 2010 and called Cantonment, Florida, home. PATRICIA JOHANSEN Pensioner Patricia Johansen, 69, passed away August 4. She joined the union in 1998, initially sailing aboard the USNS Invincible. Sister Johansen worked in both 18 Seafarers LOG the deck and steward departments. She last sailed on the Cape Orlando and retired in 2015. Sister Johansen lived in Belfair, Washington. SANFORD KLAVANO Pensioner Sanford Klavano, 74, died July 20. He started sailing with the SIU in 1969 when he shipped on the Columbia Beaver. A deck department member, Brother Klavano last sailed aboard the William Baugh. He went on pension in 2008 and lived in East Wenatchee, Washington. GUY POLLARD LOWSLEY Pensioner Guy Pollard Lowsley, 82, passed away June 25. He donned the SIU colors in 1967 when he sailed on the Santa Maria. Brother Pollard Lowsley shipped in the engine department. He last sailed on the Explorer before becoming a pensioner in 1998. Brother Pollard Lowsley was a resident of San Francisco. CRAIG LUNDBERG Brother Craig Lundberg, 59, died June 26. He signed on with the union in 2001, during the NMU/SIU merger. Brother Lundberg was a member of the steward department. His first SIU vessel was the Overseas New York; his last, the American Freedom. He made his home in San Diego. on pension 2010. Brother Ortiz lived in Turlock, California. ENDEL PAPPEL Pensioner Endel Pappel, 93, passed away June 11. He became an SIU member in 1985 when he worked for Waterman Steamship. Brother Pappel shipped in the deck department and last shipped on the Bayamon. He retired in 1985 and resided in Baltimore. MICHAEL PITERIS Pensioner Michael Piteris, 97, died May 25. He joined the SIU in 1967 when he shipped on the Northern Lights. Brother Piteris was an engine department member and sailed last on the Robert E. Lee. He retired in 1986 and made his home in Greece. EDWARD SMIGIELSKI Brother Edward Smigielski, 47, passed away July 21. He was born in Pennsylvania and joined the SIU in 2012. Brother Smigielski’s first vessel was the Resolve. The steward department member most recently shipped on the Maersk Ohio. He called Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, home. FRANCIS TOTH Brother Francis Toth, 62, died June 10. Born in Pennsylvania, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1978. Brother Toth first sailed on the Mount Explorer and shipped in the steward department. He most recently worked on the Evergreen State and made his home in Hollywood, Maryland. INLAND MICHAEL HUFANA Brother Michael Hufana, 63, passed away April 19. He became a member of the SIU in 2007 when he worked for OSG Ship Management. A deck department member, Brother Hufana remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He lived in Town Bank, New Jersey. CLIFFORD JAMES Pensioner Clifford James, 65, died July 14. He embarked on his SIU career in 1973, working for Dravo Basic Materials. Brother James was a deck department member and continued to ship with the same company for his entire career, which ended in 1992. He called Jackson, Alabama, home. JEREMIAH NICASTRO Pensioner Jeremiah Nicastro, 91, passed away July 11. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1970, initially sailing with Michigan Tankers. A deck department member, Brother Nicastro last sailed with Boat St Mary’s Inc. He resided in Gloucester, Massachusetts, his birthplace. NMU FRANK BENNETT Pensioner Frank Bennett, 92, died July 15. He joined the union during the 2001 SIU/ NMU merger; his first SIU vessel was the St. Louis Express. Brother Bennett was a member of the deck department and concluded his career aboard the Cape Victory. He resided in Port Arthur, Texas. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. NAME AGE Arroyo, Jose Bollard, Joseph Caballer, Carmen Dodd, Thomas Duarte, John Green, Albert Iguina, Francisco McAllister, Andrew Rosario, Felix Sanchez, Emilio Thompson, Georgie Vieira, Joseph 94 96 93 90 82 94 96 92 94 89 91 94 DOD 07/17/2019 06/13/2019 06/28/2019 07/13/2019 07/31/2019 07/22/2019 07/19/2019 08/04/2019 08/10/2019 06/22/2019 07/04/2019 06/27/2019 SIU CIVMARS Support Our Troops NEIL NAPOLITANO Pensioner Neil Napolitano, 88, passed away May 27. He joined the SIU in 1979, initially sailing aboard the Boston. Brother Napolitano shipped in the deck department and last sailed on the Consumer in 1994. He started collecting his pension in 1996 and resided in Forksville, Pennsylvania. GREGORIO ORTIZ Pensioner Gregorio Ortiz, 72, died July 15. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, he began his SIU career in 1967. Brother Ortiz first sailed on the Trans Hudson and was a member of the deck department. He last shipped on the USNS Dahl before going The USNS Richard E. Byrd (right), crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division, prepares for a replenishment-at-sea operation with the U.S. Navy’s forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan. Photo was taken Aug. 14 in the Philippine Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tyra M. Campbell) September 2019 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings PATRIOT (TOTE), April 14 – Chairman Yamira Colon, Secretary Matthew Carroll, Deck Delegate Kevin Moore, Engine Delegate Thomas Leroy, Steward Delegate Velicia Williams. Parts needed in order to repair work clothes dryer. Members to use drying room for work clothes in the meantime. Secretary discussed policies aboard ship. All unlicensed members are considered “all-purpose crew.” Secretary noted drug and alcohol policy. OSs to be notified of duties on watch and on deck. Steward department was thanked for providing great meals. Crew was thanked for keeping the house clean. OS Jewel Lamb was praised for taking important steps to maintain shipboard safety. Next Port: Constanta, Romania. HORIZON KODIAK (Matson), April 21 – Chairman Gary Walker, Secretary Antoinette Amato, Educational Director Kevin McCagh, Deck Delegate Mott Arnold, Engine Delegate Jeffrey Murray, Steward Delegate Patrick Durnin. Chairman reminded members to keep dues current and encouraged them to contribute to SPAD. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade at the Piney Point school. He suggested registering for the Culinary 2.0 to remain competitive with other members in 2020. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested a new paid holiday in the next Standard Freight Ship Agreement. The new holiday requested would be designated as Maritime Day and would not come at the expense of an existing paid holiday. Crew thanked steward department for a 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. job well done. Deck department was thanked for their commitment to SAHFOS plankton collection, which contributes to the ship’s fund. Crew discussed situation with standby reliefs and Tacoma hall, including standby wages. Members asked that headquarters provide wage incentives and also negotiate an increase with the Matson shore gang. Next Port: Tacoma, Washington. OREGON (Crowley), April 27 – Chairman Charles Hill, Secretary Tina Knox, Educational Director Frank Harris, Deck Delegate Saleh Almatari, Engine Delegate Waverly Moore. SIU Assistant Vice President Kris Hopkins came aboard ship and discussed transition to SIU, shipping rules and contracts. Chairman welcomed new members to the union and advised them to keep documents current. He encouraged crew to contact headquarters for more information. Educational director recommended members upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Good food on ship. HOUSTON (USS Transport), May 5 – Chairman Reny Arzu , Secretary Fausto Aranda, Educational Director Jorge Lawrence, Engine Delegate Charlie Wescott. Chairman went over new ship procedures and encouraged members to work together. Secretary gave thanks to the SIU. Crew thanked bosun for doing a good job and the deck department for clean housekeeping. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members expressed appreciation for new chairs and sofa covers. Crew requested 40inch TV. Steward department was thanked for good food. Chairman advised members to read the Know Your Rights section in the LOG. USNS WILLIAM R. BUTTON (Crowley), May 10 – Chairman Gregory Jackson, Secretary Edwin Bonefont, Educational Director Braden Horne, Deck Delegate Abdoulla Alssoudi, Engine Delegate Deralle Watson. Crew washing machine installed. Chairman went over beneficiary information and reminded members to check and update documents. Secretary discussed differences between the medical plan levels. Educational director reiterated importance of upgrading at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested change to vacation accrual policy. Members are unable to communicate with family without email access. Crew would like to have movies on ship. Members plan on having an anchor pool to put more money into ship’s fund. HOUSTON (USS Transport), May 19 – Chairman Reny Arzu, Secretary Fausto Aranda, Educational Director Jorge Lawrence, Engine Delegate Charlie Wescott. Chairman put together new chairs for the mess hall and lunch room. He addressed questions regarding travel pay. Crew commended for keeping vessel clean. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman encouraged crew to read LOG. Members discussed complaints about Anderson Kelly clinics and asked the SIU to discontinue sending seamen there. Members requested new TVs as well as recliners for each room. Crew gave thanks to the steward department for good food. Members expressed appreciation for bosun’s help with the steward department. PATRIOT (TOTE), May 21 – Chairman Yamira Colon, Secretary Mathew Carroll, Deck Delegate Kevin Moore, Engine Delegate Thomas Leroy, Steward Delegate Velicia Williams. Crew went over old business. Clothes dryer still in need of repair. Educational director advised members to check their documents for expiration dates. Beef reported from deck delegate. Crew requests ability to pay union dues through online portal. Members asked for clarification of penalty pay for engine department. Crew thanked steward department for good meals and for keeping house and decks clean. Next port: Baltimore. MARJORIE C (Pasha), May 25 – Chairman Daniel Davenport, Secretary Jatniel Aguilera Santiago, Educational Director Michael Papaioannou, Deck Delegate Billy Cooley, Engine Delegate Oscar Cesena, Steward Delegate Reno Duque. Members addressed ideas for ship fund spending. Chairman thanked crew for working hard and working safely. He commended Chief Steward Aguilera and Chief Cook Duque for working together and creating excellent menus. Secretary gave thanks to crew for cleaning up after night lunches. Educational director advised members to check the Seafarers LOG or SIU webstie for upgrading courses offered at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate reminded crew to leave clean rooms when signing off ship. Members would like to see room inspections prior to signoff. Crew requested new mattresses for staterooms and would like to keep weekly slop chest on board. INDEPENDENCE (Eco-Tankers Crew Management), May 25 – Chairman Dave Coleman, Secretary Arlene Thomas, Educational Director Jeremy Jendrusiak, Deck Delegate Albert Washington, Engine Delegate Terren Fields, Steward Delegate Antonio Holmes. Crew received memory foam mattress toppers as requested. Payoff scheduled at Port of Houston. Chairman recommended taking USCG physical simultaneously with regular physicals in order to keep ahead of expiration dates. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade as often as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for a job well done and entire crew was praised for working together safely. Next port: Houston. OVERSEAS KEY WEST (OSG), May 30 – Chairman Wayne Ricard, Secretary Breon Lucas, Educational Director Michael Blue. Crew went over old business, including requests for reimbursement for work shoes. Chairman thanked members for working safely in the shipyard. Educational director reminded members to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested extended vacation time and changes in pension plan benefits. Special thanks given to steward department members Lucas, Dustin Laney and Hyeyoung Forrer for their excellent work. 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 September 2019 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Seafarers LOG 19 �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Advanced Galley Operations September 21 Title of Course Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start September 16. Chief Steward October 19 December 6 Galley Operations September 14 November 9 October 11 December 6 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 September 14 September 28 October 19 November 2 December 7 September 20 October 4 October 25 November 8 December 13 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 September 21 October 5 October 26 November 16 November 30 September 27 October 11 November 1 November 22 June 6 Start Date Date of Completion Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck October 12 November 8 AB to Mate Modules Modules must be taken in order. Those who are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. ARPA September 28 October 4 Crane Familiarization October 5 October 11 ECDIS September 21 November 16 September 27 November 22 Lifeboat September 21 October 19 November 16 December 14 October 4 November 1 November 29 December 27 Radar Observer September 14 September 27 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW September 14 November 9 October 11 December 6 100 Ton Master October 19 November 8 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion Steward Department Courses October 18 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training/Basic FF September 21 October 19 November 2 November 16 December 7 September 27 October 25 November 8 November 22 December 13 Basic Training Revalidation September 13 October 18 October 25 November 15 December 6 September 13 October 18 October 25 November 15 December 6 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation September 14 September 20 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting September 21 September 27 Government Vessels September 28 October 12 October 26 November 16 December 7 December 14 October 4 October 18 November 1 November 22 December 13 December 20 BAPO September 14 November 9 October 11 December 6 FOWT October 12 November 8 Junior Engineer September 28 November 22 Machinist October 19 November 8 Marine Electrician October 12 November 15 Medical Care Provider September 28 October 4 Pumpman November 9 November 15 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL September 21 September 27 Welding September 14 October 19 October 4 November 8 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG September 14 November 9 December 7 September 20 November 15 December 13 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #_________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 20 Seafarers LOG COURSE ____________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION ________________________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, or any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 9/19 September 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #850 – Graduated May 17 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Diquan Adamson, Quinson Blueford Jr., Kaleb Bogan, Zaid Cooper, D’Angelo Dickson, Nicholas Kai Fortunato, Solomon Foster Jr., Allen Gilmore, Jemell Jones, Zeke Pasquarelli, Jahmiah Peets, Yohanes Pribadi, Marcell Santos-Pascual, Jonathan Silva and Kenneth Smith Jr. Important Paul Hall Center Classes Paul Hall Center Classes 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 Moore, Eugenia Porter, Noah Susumu SantiagoStephens, Lareesa Warren, Jessica Williams, Kendra Williams and Jarid 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. SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated November 2 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Reginald Howard, Billie Mahealani Kawelo, Alize Lassiter, Christian Louis, Gerardo Kaindoy Melano, Wilfredo Ramos Silva, James Scott, Tahn Stuart, Nicholas Tacy, Jalisa Williams and Derek Wilson. SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated October 5 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Alexandra Erickson, Paisami Gay, Daniel Howard, Lamarai Jones, Shadonna Jones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia Porter, Noah Susumu SantiagoStephens, Lareesa Warren, Jessica Williams, Kendra Williams and Jarid Wilson. SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated November 2 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Reginald Howard, Billie Mahealani Kawelo, Alize Lassiter, Christian Louis, Gerardo Kaindoy Melano, Wilfredo Ramos Silva, James Scott, Tahn Stuart, Nicholas Tacy, Jalisa Williams and Derek Wilson. Paul Hall Center Classes RFPNW (Phase III) – Graduated April 26 (above, in alphabetical order): Robert Coleman III, Norman Comeaux Jr., Jovanni Capistrano Garcenila, Nicholas Holt, Anthonie Nichols and Mervin Zamora. Each plans to work in the deck departments of SIU-contracted vessels upon the completion of their training. SUA (Galley Operations) – GradOctober 5 (photo atCruz left,Corin BAPO (Phase III) – Graduated April 26 (above, in alphabeticaluated order): Reny Arzu, Michael David dova, Carlos Marcos Gutierrez, Deandre Henry, Roman Hutson,alphabetical Julian Jordan, Jack Lanier, Zion Lyons, Billy order): Alexandra ErSawyer III, Nicholas Sweeney, Justin Turner and Daniel Villarruel. Upon the completion of their training, each ickson, Paisami Gay, Daniel Howplans to work in the engine departments of union-contracted vessels. ard, Lamarai Jones, Shadonna Jones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia Marine Refrigeration – Graduated April 19 Porter, Susumu Santiago(photo atNoah left, in alphabetical order): Rudy Stephens, Lareesa Jessica Cesar, Edgar Dequito Warren, Dionio, Jesus Manuel Martinez Ortiz, Melody Mitchell, Williams, Kendra Williams and Lamar Jarid Pinckney, Cesar Arnaldo Rivera-Polanco, Wilson. Marvin Sacaza and Sutthipong Ticer. Class Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated October 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Tommy BelChief Steward Galley Operations 2.0 – Graduated – Graduated OctoberOctober 19 (above, 5 (above, in alphabetical from left):order): StevonTommy Taylor,BelPorciaGalley John- Operations – Graduated October 5 (above, from left): Stevon Taylor, Porcia Johnvin, Karl Meyer, Mark Salvador Scardino and Velicia Williams. vin, Karl son Meyer, and Tuliga Mark Salvador Fuega. Scardino and Velicia Williams. son and Tuliga Fuega. instructor William Dodd is at the far right. Chief Steward – Graduated November 9: (above, from left), Merly Ford, real Coronel and Delia Miral Peters. April 2019 54924_APRI 2K1LOG.indd 27 Certified Chief Chief Steward Cook (Module – Graduated 3) – Graduated November November 9: (above, 30 from (above, left), Merly from left): Ford,John Certified Billington, Chief Alvinmar Cook (Module 3) – Graduated November 30 (above, from left): John Billington, Alvinmar Iremedio real Aldana, Coronel Dindo and Prellagera Delia MiralReforsado Peters. and Norma Painitan Baucan. Iremedio Aldana, Dindo Prellagera Reforsado and Norma Painitan Baucan. April 2019 54924_APRI 2K1LOG.indd 27 BAPO (Upgraders) – Graduated April 26 (above, from left): Andrew Blacker, Donte Sawyer and Torina Brooks. September 2019 Seafarers LOG 27 3/19/2019 3:49:09 PM Seafarers LOG 27 3/19/2019 3:49:09 PM Marine Electrician – Graduated March 8 (above, in alphabetical order): Edgar Dequito Dionio, Jesus Manuel Martinez Ortiz, Melody Mitchell, Cesar Arnaldo Rivera-Polanco, Marvin Sacaza and Sutthipong Ticer. William Dodd, their instructor, is at the far left. Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes MSC Supply Configuration Management – Graduated March 22 (right, in alphabetical order): Jason SUA (Galley Operations) – GradBentz, Carlos Enrique uated October 5 (photo at Gibleft, in bons, Stephanie Granger,Eralphabetical order): Alexandra Enchantress Charmaine ickson, Paisami Gay, Daniel Howard, LamaraiPaul Jones, Shadonna Johnson, Klear, DeJones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia markus Antoine McNabb, Porter, Noah Susumu SantiagoRobert Resurreccion, DougStephens, Lareesa las Vaughn and Warren, BeverlyJessica WilWilliams, Kendra Williams and Jarid liams. Matthew Rogers, their Wilson. instructor, is at the far right. UA to Able Seaman – Graduated March 29 (above, in alphabetical order): Erik Andersen, Brandon Caruthers, Da’vonte Junies and Lucas Vasiliades. Junior Engineer (Basic Electricity) – Graduated March 8 (above, in alphabetical order): Patrick Dean, Vincent Freeman, Deondre Gardner, Arvin Tarroza Heras and Yves Mbuiti Nsaumi. Instructor Christopher Morgan is at the far right. er 5 (above, from left): Stevon Taylor, Porcia John- Government Vessels – Graduated April 12 (above, in alphabetical order): Valerie Bowman, Ernest Boyd, Ferdinand Malicay Cabanlit, Van Dixon, Leopoldo Estrada Martinez, Ryan Marquez Gallano, James Gerry, Mohammed Alam Gir, John Hays, Hussein Kareem Howe, Cecil Husted, Ruby Jones, Joshua Kraynak, John Lewis, Radu Viorel Marinescu, Melaethon Deshenda Silas, Shayla Stafford, Arkala Williams and Kipp Worthy. Keith Adamson, their instructor, is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) mber 30 (above, from left): John Billington, Alvinmar rma Painitan Baucan. Seafarers LOG 27 Combined Basic & Advanced Firefighting – Graduated April 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Yahya Abdulaziz Ahmed, Husein Mohsin Alrayyashi, William Born, Evan Bradley, Corey Covington, Charles Drumm, Michael Iverson, Benny Antonio Orosco and Glenn Snow. Their instructor, Mike Roberts, is at the far left. 22 Seafarers LOG 3/19/2019 3:49:09 PM Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated April 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Mohaned Kaid Algalham, Joso Buterin and Joshus Kraynak. (Note: Not all are pictured.) September 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Paul Hall Center Classes SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated October 5 (photo at left, in alphabetical Alexandra ErBasic Training order): (Basic Firefighting Upickson, Paisami Gay,April Daniel How-in graders) – Graduated 12 (left, alphabetical order):Jones, Mohamed Kaid Algalard, Lamarai Shadonna ham, Ronald Burris, Keith Carswell, Eric Jones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia Ivan-Ray Castle, Susumu Duane Evans, Dennis Porter, Noah SantiagoFitzpatrick, Harold Gerber II, Kassim GhaStephens, Lareesa Warren, Jessica leb Ghaleb, Twawang M Gyurme, Doyle Williams, Kendra Williams and Jarid Ling, Larry Skowronek, Glenn Snow, Marc Wilson. Tantre, Alexander Young Jr., and Antonio Duhaylungsod Zorrilla. Operauated Noo at right, l order): ard, Billie elo, Alize an Louis, y Melano, os Silva, hn Stuart, Jalisa Wilk Wilson. Basic & Advanced Firefighting Revalidation – Graduated April 5 (above, in alphabetical order): Jason Boyer, Michael Condron, Nicholas Conway, Matthew Coogan, Van Dixon, Maxwell Fleischfresser, Paul Howard, Bud Sok Khuth, Robert Lapointe, Niels Lund, Wade Poor, Michael Washburn, Foster Watts Jr., and Alan Willliams. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated April 5 (above, in alphabetical order): Peter Crum, Ismael Armando Garayua, Benjamin Ines, William Kane and Troy Smith. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 2.0 – Graduated October 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Tommy BelMark Salvador Scardino and Velicia Williams. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated April 19 (above, from left): Richard Sanderson, Juan Luis Guanill and Kimberly Strate. September 2019 Advanced Galley Ops – Graduated April 26 (above, from left): Sharray Turner, Jeffery Toliver Jr., and Luis Jose Perez Acosta. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated April 12 (above, from left): David Simon, Andy Campollo and Rae Williams. Galley Operations – Graduated October 5 (above, from left): Stevon Taylor, Porcia Johnson and Tuliga Fuega. Certified Chief Cook (Module 6) – Graduated April 6 (above, in alphabetical order): Erwin Raphael Saludares Asinas, Andres Brown, Gilma David, James Gerry, Dominique Villanueva-Kaaiahua and Deja Watson. Seafarers LOG 23 �VOLUME 81, NO. 9 SEPTEMBER 2019 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 Pictured from left to right in photo at left are SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak, SIU VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski, Great Lakes Towing Company President Joseph Starck, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez and SIU Patrolman Gerret Jarman. Pictured from left in photo above are Exec. VP Tellez, Great Lakes Group President Emeritus Ron Rasmus and VP Great Lakes Orzechowski. (Rasmus is still a board member for the company.) Great Lakes Towing Celebrates 120 Years Ceremony Includes Christening of Tugboat Michigan Seafarers and SIU officials recently helped celebrate two milestones with a longtime employer of union boatmen. The Great Lakes Towing Company on July 22 hosted a dual celebration in Cleveland – recognizing the organization’s 120th anniversary and also christening the new tugboat Michigan. Crew members didn’t stay long, but that was for a good reason: They had to get back to work, a reflection of the company’s full schedule. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski, Port Agent Todd Brdak and Patrolman Gerret Jarman attended the gathering at Merwin’s Wharf on the Cuyahoga River. Daniel Duncan, executive secretary-treasurer of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO, also attended. Great Lakes Towing boasts the largest American-flag tugboat fleet on the Lakes, and provides harbor assist and towing services to ships in more than 40 U.S. Great Lakes ports. “Through decades of changes, experiencing both the highs and lows, the company has endured, and remained a critical link in the Great Lakes transportation system,” said Joe Starck, company president. “We have always tried to be an outstanding corporate citizen. We are proud to be cel- ebrating 120 years, and we look forward to many more.” The Michigan was christened by vessel sponsor Carolyn Watkins, an official with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. According to Great Lakes Towing, she “was instrumental in helping the company secure funding assistance through the EPA’s Diesel Emissions Reduction Grant program for the fleet’s new construction program.” The Michigan is the third in a series of five, 64-foot harbor tugs that Great Lakes Shipyard is building for Great Lakes Towing’s operation. It is powered by two diesel engines and generates more than 30 tons of bollard pull, but it also features a hybrid system that will allow it to operate on electricity while at idle, underway at low speeds, or when under low loads. “The tug’s compact size and high maneuverability make it ideal for the narrow waterways and low bridges that characterize harbor towing on the Great Lakes,” the company noted. The tugs Cleveland and Ohio were the first new ones built in the series as part of the company’s fleet renewal program. The fourth tug, Pennsylvania, is slated for completion later this year. The fifth, not yet named, is scheduled for a Spring 2020 completion. Attendees gather at Merwin’s Wharf in Cleveland for the ceremony. The newest addition to the company’s fleet (photos immediately above and below) signals job security for SIU boatmen. The commemorative cake at left was served following the christening ceremony � 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 September 2019 Description An account of the resource Headlines: PRO-MARITIME BILL REINTRODUCED 'JONES ACT IS ABOUT PROTECTING AMERICA' UNION-CONTRACTED NY WATERWAY CHRISTENS FERRY SIU-CREWED VESSEL MARKS U.S. CUSTOMS ANNIVERSARY TANKER SAGA SPOTLIGHTS RUNAWAY-FLAG SHIPPING SEN. PORTMAN NAMED LAKES LEGISLATOR OF 2019 COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS PRESIDENT EMERITUS BAHR PASSES AWAY AT 93 BOSUNS FIND A HOME WITH SIU APPRENTICES RECEIVE ADVICE FROM THOSE 'IN THE KNOW' SEAFARERS PARTICIPATE IN ANNUAL PHILANTHROPIC PROJECT MAJOR UPGRADES COMPLETED IN PINEY POINT GREAT LAKES TOWING CELEBRATES 120 YEARS 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 9/1/2019 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. 9